Montana Inmate Search

Fergus County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Fergus County Jail, MT, serves as a key correctional facility within the region. This detention center provides secure incarceration services, contributing significantly to the maintenance of public safety in Fergus County. The facility houses both pre-trial detainees and inmates serving short-term sentences, ensuring that they are kept in a controlled environment while respecting their constitutional rights.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

How to Search for an Inmate

To locate an inmate within the Fergus County Jail, one should follow the steps below:

  1. Navigate to the Fergus County Jail Inmate Roster webpage. Please note, this page is typically updated every day to provide accurate information.

  2. Use the 'Search' field located at the top of the page. Here you can input either the inmate's full name or booking number.

  3. After entering the required details, click on 'Search'. The system will then retrieve and display information related to the inmate.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The Fergus County Jail roster provides comprehensive information on current inmates. The roster typically includes the following details:

  • Booking Number: This is a unique identifier assigned to each inmate at the time of their booking into the facility.

  • Last Name and First Name: The roster lists the inmate's full legal name. This can be useful when multiple inmates have the same booking number or if you're unsure of the exact booking number.

  • Date of Birth: The inmate's date of birth is also provided, which can be particularly helpful when different inmates have the same name.

  • Release Date: If applicable, the expected date of release for the inmate will be provided.

  • Criminal Charges: The charges against the inmate are listed. This can include both the charges for which the inmate has been convicted and any additional charges pending trial.

Tips for Inmate Search

Here are a few tips to help make your inmate search in the Fergus County Jail more successful:

  • Spelling: Ensure that you have spelled the inmate's name correctly. Even a minor error can affect the search results.

  • Variations of the Name: If you're unsure of the inmate's full legal name, try variations or abbreviations that might be used.

  • Use the Booking Number: If you know it, the booking number is the most efficient way to search for an inmate. This number is unique to each inmate, reducing the chances of mix-ups.

  • Frequency: If you don't find the inmate's information immediately, try again later. The roster is updated daily, and the inmate's information might not have been updated at the time of your search.

By using the detailed inmate search, the Fergus County Jail ensures transparency and accessibility, providing crucial information to friends, family, legal representatives, and interested parties of inmates housed in this correctional facility.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

To arrange a visit at the Fergus County Jail, follow these steps:

  1. Contact the jail's visitation office directly through their official website or by calling their dedicated visitation line.

  2. Provide the full legal name and the booking number of the inmate you wish to visit.

  3. Schedule an appointment for your visit. Note that the jail may have specific visitation days and hours based on the inmate's housing location and the last name of the inmate.

  4. Arrive at the jail on time with a valid form of photo identification.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

The Fergus County Jail has several rules in place to ensure the safety and security of its inmates, staff, and visitors:

  • All visitors must provide a valid photo ID.
  • All visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility.
  • No personal items are allowed in the visitation area. Lockers may be provided for storage of personal items during the visit.
  • Appropriate attire is required. Clothing that is too revealing or could be considered offensive is not allowed.
  • Visitors must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • No food or drink is allowed in the visitation area.
  • Physical contact with inmates is usually limited or not allowed.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours for the Fergus County Jail vary depending on the day of the week and the housing location of the inmate. The specific hours for visitation can typically be found on the jail's website. Visitors are encouraged to confirm the visitation schedule prior to their visit.

Inmate Communications

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Inmates at the Fergus County Jail are allowed to make outgoing calls, but they cannot receive incoming calls. The facility uses a specific inmate call system for this purpose. Here are a few key regulations associated with this system:

  • Inmates are generally allowed to make calls during specific hours of the day, typically during daytime and evening hours.

  • Calls may be monitored or recorded, with the exception of legal calls.

  • Inmates must have enough funds in their account to make a call. Friends and family can typically add funds to an inmate's phone account through a service provided by the jail.

  • Call duration may be limited to ensure all inmates have access to the phone.

  • Violent or abusive behavior during a call can lead to a loss of phone privileges.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The main phone number for the Fergus County Jail is typically listed on their official website. This number can be used for general inquiries, but not for contacting inmates directly. Instead, family and friends can add funds to an inmate's phone account, enabling the inmate to call out. It's important to note that all regulations regarding monitored and recorded calls also apply to these outgoing calls.

Inmate Mail

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

Sending mail to an inmate at the Fergus County Jail involves the following steps:

  1. Address the envelope with the inmate's full legal name and booking number along with the jail's mailing address. The typical format is:

    [Inmate's Full Name]

    [Inmate's Booking Number]

    Fergus County Jail

    [Jail's Full Address]

  2. Do not send any items that are not paper-based in the envelope, such as plastic, metal or any other non-paper items.

  3. Place your return address on the envelope.

  4. Seal the envelope and affix appropriate postage.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

When sending mail to an inmate at the Fergus County Jail, keep these guidelines in mind:

  • All mail is opened and inspected for contraband. This does not include legal mail, which may be opened in the presence of the inmate.

  • Do not send any items that are not allowed, such as tobacco, drugs, weapons, or explicit materials.

  • Only send paper-based items. Non-paper items will be returned or discarded.

  • The jail is not responsible for lost or damaged mail.

Sending Money to Inmates

Approved Methods for Sending Money

Money can be added to an inmate's account at the Fergus County Jail in several ways:

  • Online: Money can be sent online through an approved third-party service. Visit the jail's official website for more information.

  • Mail: Money orders can be mailed to the jail, addressed to the inmate.

  • In-Person: Some facilities allow money to be deposited to an inmate's account in person.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

When sending money to an inmate, there are several regulations and limitations:

  • The jail may have a limit on the amount of money that can be added to an inmate's account per day or per week.

  • Inmates are typically not allowed to possess physical currency.

  • The sender's name must be clearly written on money orders.

  • Any attempt to send money in a way that is not approved may result in disciplinary action for the inmate, including loss of money deposit privileges.

Always check with the Fergus County Jail to confirm their current rules and regulations regarding mail and money transfers to inmates.

Inmate Commissary

A commissary in a correctional facility like the Fergus County Jail is a store within the jail where inmates can purchase items that are not provided by the facility, such as snacks, toiletries, stationery, and sometimes electronics or clothing items. The purpose of the commissary is to allow inmates to purchase additional comfort items, thus improving their quality of life while incarcerated.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can use the commissary by using the funds from their inmate account. These funds can come from outside sources (like friends and family) or be earned through jail jobs. Once the funds are in their account, inmates can order items from the commissary. These items are then delivered directly to the inmate at designated times.

Restrictions on Commissary Use

There are several restrictions on commissary use in the Fergus County Jail:

  • There may be spending limits to prevent inmates from hoarding items or creating an imbalance of resources.
  • Some items may be restricted based on the inmate's behavior or security level.
  • Not all items available in the commissary can be purchased by all inmates; availability may depend on factors such as the inmate's current health, security level, or disciplinary status.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records, or criminal records, provide a history of an individual's past arrests and convictions. These can be obtained by contacting the Fergus County Clerk of Courts or by accessing the Montana Department of Corrections website. Depending on the nature of the record and who is requesting it, there may be certain restrictions or fees associated.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photograph taken of an individual when they are booked into the jail. It is used for identification purposes, both within the jail and in public records. Mugshots typically include a frontal and profile view of the individual.

Mugshots are usually made available to the public and can often be found online. In Fergus County, mugshots can usually be found on the Fergus County Jail inmate roster or the Montana Department of Corrections website. However, access may vary depending on the age of the mugshot, the nature of the crime, and other privacy considerations. Always check with the relevant agency to ensure you are obtaining records and mugshots in a legal and respectful manner.

Security Level

The Fergus County Jail employs robust security measures to maintain order within the facility and ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors. These measures include surveillance cameras, controlled access points, regular cell checks, and searches of inmates and their living quarters. The facility also uses a classification system to separate inmates based on their behavior, crime severity, and risk level, housing them in different units accordingly.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The detention facility houses a range of offenders, including those awaiting trial, those serving sentences for misdemeanors, and some inmates serving shorter sentences for less severe felony convictions.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a vital role in maintaining the security of the Fergus County Jail. They are responsible for supervising inmates, enforcing rules and regulations, conducting searches for contraband, and preventing disturbances. They also play a key role in crisis intervention and are trained to respond to emergencies that may arise within the jail. Furthermore, correctional officers help facilitate programs for inmates, such as educational courses and rehabilitation programs, contributing to the goal of reducing recidivism.

Location and Contact Details

Official Mailing Address

In order to send mail or any official correspondence to the Fergus County Jail, use the following address:

Fergus County Jail

121 8th Ave. South

Lewistown, MT 59457

Official Phone Number

The official phone number for general inquiries to the Fergus County Jail is (406) 535-3415. Please be advised that this number is not to be used for contacting inmates directly.

Official Website

For more information, visit the Fergus County Jail's official website at http://www.co.fergus.mt.us/detention-center-roster. This site can provide you with comprehensive information about the facility and its procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

How can I search for an inmate in a specific facility?

You can search for an inmate in a specific facility by visiting the facility's official website or a public inmate locator site. Usually, these websites will have an "Inmate Search" feature where you can input the inmate's name or ID number. For federal facilities, you can use the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator.

What kind of information is provided in an inmate search?

In an inmate search, you typically find the following information:

  • Inmate's full name and aliases
  • Inmate ID or booking number
  • Current facility
  • Sentence duration
  • Offense details
  • Projected release date

Are all inmates searchable in the database?

Most inmates in federal, state, and county facilities are searchable in the database. However, the availability may depend on the specific rules of each facility. Some facilities may not display inmates who are under certain age, have been released, or are in protective custody.

Why can't I find the inmate I'm searching for?

Several reasons might explain why you can't find an inmate:

  • The inmate is in a facility that doesn't share its records online.
  • The inmate has been recently transferred, and the database hasn't been updated yet.
  • The inmate has been released.
  • You are not entering the correct or complete information.

Arrests Lookup

How can I look up someone's arrest records?

Arrest records can be found on state, county, or city law enforcement websites. However, some websites, like Public Records Online Directory, offer a compilation of these resources. Be aware that availability varies by location due to different regulations on privacy and public records.

What information is available in an arrest lookup?

Arrest records typically provide the following information:

  • Full name and aliases
  • Date and location of the arrest
  • Offense details
  • Booking agency
  • Mugshot (in some cases)

Are all arrest records public?

Most arrest records are public unless the record has been sealed or expunged due to state laws or court orders.

Jail Bookings

How can I find out about someone's jail booking?

You can find out about someone's jail booking by searching through the online database of the specific jail or prison where they are housed. This could be on the jail's official website or on public record sites.

What information is typically included in a jail booking record?

A jail booking record usually includes:

  • The individual's full name and aliases
  • Booking number
  • Booking date and time
  • Charges or offenses
  • Bail amount, if applicable
  • Inmate's photo or mugshot

Inmate Calls

How can inmates make calls from jail?

Inmates can make calls from jail through a system provided by the facility, typically a payphone system. Inmates cannot receive calls directly but can make outgoing calls to approved numbers, often with a limit on call duration and frequency.

What are the restrictions on inmate calls?

Restrictions can vary by facility but often include:

  • Calls may only be made during designated hours.
  • Call duration is often limited to 15-30 minutes.
  • Calls are usually recorded and monitored for security reasons.
  • Inmates can only call numbers approved by the facility.

Can I call an inmate directly?

No, you can't call an inmate directly. Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers, but they cannot receive incoming calls. However, they can typically make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts funded by their commissary account or by family and friends.

Inmate Mail

How can I send mail to an inmate?

You can send mail to an inmate by addressing it to the inmate's full name, ID number, and the facility's address. Be sure to follow all facility rules regarding content and items allowed in mail. Some facilities also use third-party services for electronic messaging, like JPay.

Are there any restrictions on what can be sent to an inmate?

Yes, each facility has specific rules about what can be sent to inmates. Generally, you cannot send items like electronics, food, drugs, or weapons. Some facilities also restrict personal items, books, or magazines from outside sources. Always check the facility's mail policy before sending anything.

What happens if I send prohibited items in the mail?

If you send prohibited items in the mail, the mail will be returned or confiscated, and the inmate might not receive it. Depending on the item, it could lead to disciplinary action for the inmate or even legal action against the sender.

Visitation

How do I arrange a visit to an inmate?

To arrange a visit to an inmate, first check the facility's visitation policy, which should be available on their website. You may need to be on the inmate's approved visitor list, which requires an application process. Once approved, you will need to schedule your visit during designated visitation hours.

What are the rules and regulations for inmate visitations?

Rules for visitations vary by facility but generally include:

  • Visitors must be on the inmate's approved list.
  • Visitors must present valid ID.
  • There may be dress code requirements.
  • Visitors may be searched before entering.
  • Visits are often limited in duration and frequency.
  • Some facilities allow contact visits, while others only allow non-contact visits.

Can children visit inmates?

Yes, children can typically visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and may need special permission or supervision during the visit. The rules can vary by facility, so check the specific guidelines beforehand.

Sending Money

How can I send money to an inmate?

You can send money to an inmate through various methods, such as postal money orders, cashier's checks, or through third-party services like JPay or Access Corrections. Check the specific facility's policy on sending funds.

Is there a limit on how much money I can send?

Yes, most facilities limit the amount of money an inmate can receive within a certain period. These limits can vary by facility and the inmate's custody level. Check with the facility for specific details.

Posting Bond

How can I post bond for an inmate?

Posting bond for an inmate typically involves paying the full bail amount to the court or using a bail bond service, which usually requires a non-refundable fee. The procedure can vary depending on the jurisdiction, so it's best to consult with a legal professional.

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