Grand Forks County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Grand Forks County Correctional Center is a medium-security level county jail located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. It is managed by the Grand Forks County Sheriff's Department, under the leadership of Sheriff Andy Schneider. The facility primarily houses male inmates who are convicted for crimes under North Dakota state and federal laws. The center is dedicated to maintaining public safety through custody and control of inmates, while also treating them with fairness and respect. It strives to create a safe, humane, and secure environment for both inmates and staff, and supports former inmates in reintegrating into the community.

CLICK HERE to Search for Incarcerated Friends or Family Members

Opened in 1873, the Grand Forks County Correctional Center has a capacity of 245 inmates. This long-standing facility provides a range of services including work release security, health services, booking, and transportation. The center emphasizes on maintaining a secure environment and facilitating positive behavior changes and attitudes among inmates. It plays a significant role in the Grand Forks community by ensuring the safe and respectful treatment of those incarcerated, as well as aiding in their eventual reintegration into society.

Inmate Search 

Inmate search is a crucial process for individuals trying to locate friends, family members, or other acquaintances who are incarcerated. This procedure is not only important for maintaining personal connections but also plays a key role in legal and professional contexts. Knowing an inmate's location, status, and available information can be essential for various purposes, including legal representation, sending mail, or scheduling visits.

The Process of Inmate Search

The inmate search process is designed to be straightforward but requires specific information about the inmate. It is conducted through online databases or direct contact with the correctional facility. This process helps in locating an inmate's specific location within the prison system, understanding their status, and planning for any necessary interactions:

1. Gathering Necessary Information: Before initiating the search, gather all relevant information about the inmate, including their full legal name, date of birth, and, if possible, the inmate ID number. This information will help in accurately identifying the inmate in the database. In some cases, knowing the specific offense or the date of incarceration can also be useful.
2. Using Online Inmate Locator Tools: Most correctional facilities, including the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, provide online inmate locator tools on their websites. Visit the Grand Forks County Correctional Center website or use state-level resources for North Dakota. Enter the gathered information into the search fields. These tools are typically user-friendly and provide prompt results.
3. Understanding the Search Results: The search results will provide key details about the inmate, including their current location, inmate ID, and possibly information about their sentence or projected release date. It's important to understand that some information might not be publicly available due to privacy laws and may only be disclosed to immediate family members or legal representatives.
4. Contacting the Facility for Further Information: If the online search does not yield the required information, or if more detailed information is needed, contact the Grand Forks County Correctional Center directly at 701-780-8224. Be prepared to provide the inmate's full name and other identifying information to the facility staff. They can offer more specific details about the inmate's location, status, and how to engage with them, whether through visits, mail, or phone calls.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The jail roster is a public record that lists inmates currently housed in a correctional facility. This document is essential for law enforcement, legal professionals, and individuals seeking information about inmates. The jail roster typically includes a range of information that helps in identifying and understanding the status of each inmate.

Inmate Identification: The roster includes basic identification details of the inmate, such as their name, inmate ID number, and sometimes a photograph. These details are crucial for distinguishing between individuals, especially those with common names.

Incarceration Details: Information about the inmate’s booking, including the date and time of their arrest, the agency responsible for the incarceration, and the location where they were taken into custody. This information is useful for understanding the context of their current situation.

Charges and Bail Information: Details of the charges against the inmate, including the nature of the offense and any applicable bail or bond amount. This is particularly important for legal representatives and family members in planning for legal proceedings or potential bail payments.

Sentence and Release Information: For sentenced inmates, the roster may include details about their sentence length, projected release date, and any parole eligibility. This information helps in planning for post-release support and understanding the duration of their incarceration.

Custody Status: The current status of the inmate within the facility, such as whether they are in general population, solitary confinement, or a medical unit. This information indicates the level of security and the type of care the inmate is receiving.

Tips for Inmate Search

Effective inmate search requires a strategic approach, especially when dealing with large correctional systems. These tips can guide individuals in conducting more efficient and successful searches, ensuring they locate the correct inmate and obtain the necessary information:

Double-Check Inmate Information: Before initiating the search, verify the accuracy of the inmate’s name, date of birth, and other identifying details. Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to unsuccessful searches or confusion with another inmate.

Utilize Multiple Search Tools: Don’t rely solely on one search method. Use various tools, including online databases, direct calls to the correctional facility, and even third-party services, if necessary. This broad approach increases the chances of locating the right inmate.

Understand Facility Transfer Possibilities: Inmates can be transferred between facilities for various reasons, including security needs, medical care, or court appearances. Be aware of this possibility and check both current and previous facilities if an inmate is not found initially.

Regularly Update and Monitor: Inmate statuses can change, and facilities may update their records periodically. Regularly check back for any changes or updates in the inmate’s status, location, or other relevant details.

Respect Privacy and Legal Restrictions: Be mindful of privacy laws and facility regulations regarding inmate information. Some details may not be publicly available, and facility staff can only provide certain information to authorized individuals.

Seek Assistance When Needed: If you encounter difficulties in your search, don’t hesitate to seek help. Correctional facility staff, legal representatives, and even support groups can offer guidance and assistance in navigating the inmate search process.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours 

Visitation is a vital aspect of life in correctional facilities, providing inmates with much-needed contact with the outside world. It helps maintain family ties and supports the mental well-being of both inmates and their loved ones. Understanding and following the visitation guidelines and hours is crucial for a smooth and successful visitation experience.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

To arrange a visit at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, one must follow a specific procedure:

Registration: Prospective visitors must register and be approved before they can visit an inmate. This often involves an online application or a form provided by the jail.

Scheduling a Visit: After approval, a visit can be scheduled according to the inmate's availability and the facility's rules. This might be done online or by calling the facility.

For detailed information on arranging a visit, you can refer to the facility's official guidelines.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

When visiting an inmate at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, it is important to adhere to the following rules and regulations:

1. Identification: Visitors must bring valid government-issued identification on the day of the visit.
2. Dress Code: The facility typically enforces a dress code, which usually prohibits revealing or offensive clothing.
3. Behavior: Visitors are expected to maintain respectful and appropriate behavior throughout the visit.
4. Contraband: It is prohibited to bring contraband or any unauthorized items into the facility.
5. Minors: Children visiting must usually be accompanied by a legal guardian.
6. Compliance with Facility Policies: Visitors must adhere to all facility-specific policies, which may include additional guidelines regarding conduct, items allowed, and security procedures.

Visitation Hours

The visitation hours at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center vary and are subject to change. Generally, visitation occurs on specific weekdays and weekends. It is crucial to confirm the current visitation schedule with the facility directly before planning a visit. The facility might also offer video visitation as an alternative or supplementary option to in-person visits.

Inmate Calls 

Communication through phone calls is a vital lifeline for inmates, providing them with a crucial connection to their family and friends outside the correctional facility. This system is not only important for maintaining relationships but also plays a significant role in the mental and emotional well-being of inmates.

Overview of the Inmate Call System

Grand Forks County Correctional Center uses a service called HomeWAV for voice calls. This system allows for easy communication between inmates and their loved ones. To use this service, friends and family need to sign up, complete the registration process, and add funds to their account using a credit or debit card. For more detailed instructions on how to use HomeWAV, please visit www.homewav.com.

Rules and Regulations for Inmate Calls

Pre-Approved Numbers: Inmates can only make calls to pre-approved numbers. It's important for family and friends to ensure their numbers are registered and approved.

Phone Cards and Collect Calls: Grand Forks County Jail & Detention Center provides phone cards in various denominations for purchase by friends and family. These cards can be used across jails in the Reliance Telephone network. Collect calls are also an option, allowing inmates to call directly to cell phones and landlines after the recipients have set up prepayment.

Call Duration and Limits: The facility may impose limits on the duration and frequency of calls to manage the demand on the system. It’s crucial to be aware of these restrictions to ensure time is used effectively during each call.

Recorded Conversations: All phone conversations are recorded and can be monitored. It’s important to avoid discussing sensitive or case-related information during these calls.

Costs and Funding: The cost of calls ranges depending on the service used (phone card or collect calls), with prices varying per minute. Funding the inmate's account for phone calls can be done through the jail's commissary service.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The Grand Forks County Jail's phone number is intended primarily for general inquiries. It is not typically used for direct communication with inmates. Incoming calls for inmates are not allowed; however, in emergency situations, messages may be relayed to the inmate.

For all inquiries, the jail can be reached at 701-780-8224. Always respect the guidelines for use to maintain efficient operations and ensure all parties' rights and privacy.

Inmate Mail 

Sending mail to inmates is a crucial aspect of maintaining connections with those who are incarcerated. It provides a tangible form of communication and support, allowing inmates to stay in touch with the outside world. Letters, cards, and photographs can significantly boost the morale and mental health of inmates.

Process for Sending Mail to Inmates

To send mail to an inmate at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, follow these steps:

Address the Mail Correctly: Use the inmate's full name and inmate ID number, followed by the facility's address. For example:

[Inmate Full Name, Inmate ID]

Grand Forks County Correctional Center

PO Box 5244

Grand Forks, ND 58206-5244

Include a Return Address: Always include your full return address on the envelope. Mail without a return address may not be delivered to the inmate.

Send Appropriate Content: Ensure that the content of your letter or card is appropriate and adheres to the facility’s guidelines.

Guidelines and Rules for Sending Mail

Content Restrictions: When sending mail, it's important to consider the content carefully. Any form of content that could be interpreted as a security risk is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, explicit or suggestive material, any form of communication that might suggest or plan criminal activities, escape plans, or content that promotes gang affiliations. The primary concern is to maintain the safety and security of the facility, its staff, and the inmates.

Physical Mail Items: Generally, letters, cards, and photographs are acceptable. However, items like cash, checks, money orders, jewelry, or any form of electronics are not allowed. In many facilities, funds for inmates need to be deposited through specific, approved channels. Sending prohibited items can result in the mail being returned or discarded.

Inspection of Mail: All incoming mail is subject to inspection. This means that the facility's staff may open and read letters and examine other items to ensure there is no contraband. The inspection process is necessary to prevent the entry of items that could compromise the safety and order of the facility.

Prohibited Items: Items that are not paper-based, such as stickers, glitter, or other decorative elements, are typically not allowed. These materials can be used to conceal contraband or may create issues during the mail inspection process. Therefore, it's advisable to stick to simple paper letters or cards.

Envelope Restrictions: Use standard, plain envelopes for sending mail. Decorated envelopes with drawings, messages, or excessive markings may be rejected. The aim is to ensure that the mail is easily inspectable and does not contain hidden contraband or messages.

Legal Mail: Legal mail, such as correspondence with attorneys, might be subjected to different protocols to maintain confidentiality. Typically, these items are opened in the presence of the inmate. It is important to clearly mark such correspondence as legal mail to ensure it is handled appropriately.

For more detailed information on inmate mail policies at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center, it's recommended to visit their official website or contact the facility directly.

Sending Money to Inmates

Financial support for inmates at the Grand Forks County Correctional Center is an important way to ensure they can purchase necessary items and stay connected with family and friends. The detention facility offers options for depositing money into an inmate's account.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

• Online Deposits: You can deposit money online through the jail's approved money transfer service. Check the jail's website for the most current provider.
• Mail a Money Order: Money orders can be mailed to the jail directly. They should be made payable to the inmate's full name and include the inmate's booking number for proper allocation.
• Jail Lobby Kiosk: For local residents, a kiosk is typically available in the jail lobby where cash or cards can be used to deposit money.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

Limits on Amounts: The facility may impose limits on the total amount an inmate can receive or hold in their account. These limits ensure fair access to resources for all inmates and manage the financial operations within the jail.

Service Fees: Transactions made online or via lobby kiosks for depositing money typically involve service fees. These fees cover the administrative costs of processing the transactions.

Non-Refundability: Once funds are sent to an inmate, they are generally non-refundable. It is crucial to be certain about the amount being sent, as mistakes in the amount cannot be easily rectified.

Non-Transferability Between Inmates: Funds sent to a specific inmate cannot be transferred to another inmate. This rule is in place to prevent potential issues related to the exchange of money within the facility.

Inmate Commissary

The inmate commissary at Grand Forks County Jail is essentially a store within the correction facility where inmates can purchase items using funds from their jail account.

A jail commissary provides inmates access to products not issued by the correctional facility, such as extra food items, personal hygiene products, stationery, and more. The commissary serves to enhance the living conditions of inmates and allows them a degree of personal autonomy during their incarceration.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can make purchases from the commissary using the funds in their jail account. The facility typically has a schedule dictating when inmates can place orders. Once an order is processed, the items are delivered directly to the inmate.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use
The commissary use this jail is subject to specific restrictions to ensure fair and secure operations:

1. Spending Limits: The facility may set weekly or monthly spending caps to manage inmates' expenditures and ensure equitable access to commissary items for all inmates.
2. Item Restrictions: Based on an inmate's behavior, health condition, or security level, certain commissary items may be restricted. This is to maintain safety and order within the facility and to cater to specific health or security needs of inmates.
3. Account Balance Requirements: Inmates can only purchase items if they have enough funds in their accounts. This rule helps in managing financial transactions within the jail and ensures that inmates are only buying what they can afford.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots are part of an inmate's criminal record, which is generally considered public information under the North Dakota Open Records Law.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records can typically be obtained by making a request to the agency maintaining the records. This might be the Grand Forks County Jail or another department within the North Dakota criminal justice system. Each agency has its own procedures for making a request, which can usually be found on their respective websites.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photographic portrait taken after a person is arrested. The photo includes a front-view and side-view of the person. These are used by law enforcement agencies for identification purposes.

Mugshots are generally considered public records and are often made available online by the respective law enforcement agency. However, the availability may vary based on the agency's policy and the nature of the charges. Always check with the Grand Forks County Jail or the appropriate law enforcement agency for the most accurate and current information.

Inmate Population

The Grand Forks County Jail houses a diverse group of inmates, each serving time for various offenses.

Current Population Statistics

The inmate population in the detention facility fluctuates due to factors such as arrests, releases, and transfers. For the most up-to-date statistics, it is recommended to check the Grand Forks County Jail's official website.

Average Inmate Stay Duration

The average duration of an inmate's stay varies depending on factors such as the severity of the charges, court proceedings, and sentencing. Some inmates may be released within a day, while others may stay for months or even years.

Racial, Age, and Gender Demographics

The jail's inmate population comprises individuals from various racial, age, and gender backgrounds. Detailed demographic information may not be publicly available due to privacy laws and regulations. However, it can generally be said that the facility houses a cross-section of the county's demographic profile.

Security Level

The Grand Forks County Jail is designed to uphold the highest standards of security to ensure the safety of both the inmates and staff.

The detention center employs several security measures such as perimeter fencing, controlled access points, constant video surveillance, inmate monitoring, and random searches. These measures are designed to prevent escapes, contraband smuggling, and inmate disturbances.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The jail houses both male and female offenders, including those awaiting trial, those serving short sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state prison for longer sentences. This can range from individuals with minor misdemeanor charges to those with serious felony charges.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining the security of the jail. They are responsible for monitoring inmate behavior, enforcing rules, conducting searches for contraband, and intervening in any conflicts or issues. Additionally, they play a role in facilitating various jail operations such as inmate intake and release, visitation, meals, medical services, and more.

Location and Contact Details

Keeping in touch with the Grand Forks County Jail is essential for families, friends, and legal representatives of inmates. The following are the contact details:

Official Mailing Address

You can send mail to the detention facility at the following address:

Grand Forks County Jail

1701 North Washington

P.O. Box 5244

Grand Forks, ND 58206-5244

Official Phone Number

The official phone number for the Grand Forks County Jail is:

• 701-780-8224

This number can be used for general inquiries and concerns.

Official Website

You can visit the Grand Forks County Jail's official website for additional information about the jail, such as inmate services, jail regulations, visiting hours, and more.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search and Arrests Lookup

1. How can I find out if someone is currently incarcerated?

You can find out if someone is currently incarcerated by using the online inmate locator or search tool provided by many city, county, state, and federal correctional facilities. For example, the Federal Bureau of Prisons in the United States provides an inmate locator tool where you can search for a federal inmate who was incarcerated from 1982 to the present. For local jurisdictions, you will have to visit the appropriate city or county jail website.

2. Can I search for an inmate using their name?

Yes, most inmate search tools allow you to search for inmates using their full name. Some systems may also allow you to search using other identifying information such as an inmate number, date of birth, or Social Security number.

3. Is there a way to look up recent arrests?

Yes, recent arrests can usually be found on local law enforcement websites. Many police and sheriff departments maintain an online database or bulletin of recent arrests. You may also check local newspaper websites, as they often publish police logs and arrest reports.

4. How accurate is the online inmate search tool?

The accuracy of online inmate search tools can vary. They rely on the data inputted by law enforcement and corrections staff, which can sometimes be delayed or contain errors. However, in general, these systems are kept as up-to-date as possible and can be considered relatively reliable.

5. Can I find information about where an inmate is housed?

Yes, online inmate search tools typically provide information about where an inmate is housed. This may include the specific correctional facility and the housing unit within that facility. The level of detail may vary depending on the system and the jurisdiction.

Jail Bookings

6. What does it mean when someone is booked into jail?

When someone is booked into jail, it means they have been processed into the jail system following an arrest. This process typically includes taking the person’s photograph (mugshot), collecting personal details, recording the alleged crime, fingerprinting, and storing personal property.

7. How can I find out if someone has been booked into jail recently?

To find out if someone has been booked into jail recently, you can use the same online inmate search tools mentioned earlier. Alternatively, you can call the jail directly and ask if the person in question has been booked recently.

8. How long does it take for booking information to appear online?

The time it takes for booking information to appear online can vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the specific system being used. It may appear within a few hours of the booking, or it may take up to 24 hours or more.

Inmate Calls and Mail

9. How can an inmate make a call to the outside?

Inmates can usually make calls to the outside using a jail-provided phone service. This service typically requires the inmate to pay for the call, either through a collect call system or by using funds from their commissary account. All calls are generally monitored and recorded for security purposes.

10. What are the rules for sending mail to an inmate?

The rules for sending mail to an inmate can vary by facility, but generally, you must include the inmate’s name and inmate number, along with the correct facility address. There may be restrictions on the type of content that can be included, and all mail is typically searched for contraband before being delivered to the inmate.

11. Can inmates receive emails?

In some facilities, inmates may have access to a limited form of email or electronic messaging service. These services are typically monitored and may require the inmate to pay a fee per message. However, not all facilities offer this service, and those that do may have varying rules and restrictions.

12. Are inmate phone calls and mail monitored or recorded?

Yes, for security reasons, inmate phone calls are typically monitored and recorded, and all mail is typically inspected for contraband and inappropriate content. There are exceptions for legal communications which are typically confidential and are not monitored.

13. What should I do if I haven't heard from an inmate?

If you haven't heard from an inmate, you can try reaching out through the approved communication channels, such as mail, phone, or email (if available). If you still don't receive a response, you can contact the inmate's counselor or the prison's administration for assistance.

Visitation

14. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?

To schedule a visit with an inmate, you will typically need to contact the correctional facility where they are housed. Some facilities require visitors to be on an approved list, which may require a background check. Other facilities may use an online scheduling system.

15. What are the rules for inmate visitation?

Visitation rules vary by facility but generally include specific visitation hours, a limit to the number of visitors per visit, a dress code, and rules about what items can be brought into the facility. It's important to check the specific rules of the facility before your visit.

16. Can children visit inmates?

Children can typically visit inmates, but the rules can vary by facility. Some facilities may require the child to be accompanied by an adult, and some may require proof of guardianship or parental permission. It's best to check the specific rules of the facility.

17. Are there special visitation rules due to COVID-19?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many correctional facilities have implemented special rules for visitation to prevent the spread of the virus. This could include limiting the number of visitors, requiring health screenings or masks, or temporarily suspending visitation. It's essential to check with the facility for their current rules.

Sending Money and Posting Bond

18. How can I send money to an inmate?

To send money to an inmate, you can usually use a service like JPay, Western Union, or MoneyGram. You'll need to know the inmate's identification number and the correct facility information. Some facilities also accept money orders or cashier's checks by mail.

19. What can inmates use the money for?

Inmates can use the money in their commissary account to purchase items like snacks, personal hygiene items, stationery, and phone credits. The exact items available for purchase can vary by facility.

20. How can I post bond for an inmate?

To post bond for an inmate, you can typically pay the full bail amount directly to the court or jail, or you can use a bail bond agent. A bail bond agent will charge a fee (usually a percentage of the total bail amount) and may require collateral.

21. What happens to the bond money after the inmate's court date?

If the full bail amount was paid directly to the court, it will be returned (minus any fees or fines) as long as the defendant appears at all required court dates. If a bail bond agent was used, the fee paid to the agent is non-refundable.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

22. How can an inmate access legal resources?

Inmates typically have access to a law library where they can research legal issues. They also have the right to legal counsel, and if they can't afford a lawyer, one will be provided for them.