Yancey County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Yancey County Jail, located in Burnsville, NC, is a detention facility that securely houses individuals arrested and awaiting trial or sentencing, as well as those serving short-term sentences. Providing a safe environment, this correction facility also offers programs promoting rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

To find an inmate in the Yancey County Jail, there are several steps to follow. The inmate roster can be accessed via an online portal.

Inmate Search Procedure

1. Access the Portal: Visit the Yancey County Jail inmate search portal.

2. Search Options: You can conduct your search using various identifiers such as the inmate's Booking Number, Last Name, First Name, or Date of Birth.

3. Results: The search will yield a list of inmates matching your search criteria. If your search is unsuccessful, it could be due to misspelling, recent release, or transfer to another facility. If that happens, try different variations or broaden your search criteria.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The jail roster provides comprehensive information about each inmate, including:

1. Booking Number: This is a unique identifier assigned to an inmate upon their admission to the detention facility.

2. Last Name and First Name: The inmate's full name.

3. Date of Birth: This helps in differentiating between inmates with similar names.

4. Release Date: If available, this shows when the inmate is expected to be released from the detention center.

5. Criminal Charges: Details about the criminal offenses that led to the inmate's incarceration are also listed.

Tips for Inmate Search

• Be as precise as possible when entering an inmate's information. Even a small spelling mistake can alter your search results.

• If you're unsure about the spelling of an inmate's name, use partial spelling or the first few letters of their first and last name.

• Keep in mind that the roster might not reflect recent bookings or releases due to processing times. If you don't find an inmate who should be in the Yancey County Jail, try again later or contact the detention center directly.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Visitation at the Yancey County Jail is a privilege and is subject to several rules and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the inmates, visitors, and staff.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

1. Visit Registration: All visits must be scheduled in advance. To schedule a visit, you can call the jail directly or visit their online scheduling portal.

2. Identification: All visitors are required to present a valid government-issued ID before the visit.

3. Inmate Status: Ensure the inmate is eligible for visitation. Inmates under certain restrictions or disciplinary action may not have visitation privileges.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

1. Conduct: Visitors must remain respectful and conduct themselves in a manner that maintains the safety and dignity of the facility.

2. Dress Code: The jail enforces a strict dress code. Visitors should wear modest clothing.

3. Contraband: Carrying contraband items into the jail is strictly prohibited.

4. Minors: Minors are allowed to visit but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours vary depending on the day and the housing unit of the inmate. The general visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It is advisable to check the specific visitation schedule for detailed timings.

Inmate Communications

Inmates at the Yancey County Jail are allowed certain communication privileges with the outside world, such as telephone calls, subject to specific rules and restrictions.

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Inmates can make outgoing calls but cannot receive incoming calls. Here are some important rules to be aware of:

1. Collect Calls: Inmates are typically allowed to make collect calls, where charges are billed to the receiver.

2. Prepaid Accounts: Alternatively, you can set up a prepaid account through a third-party service like Securus Technologies. This allows inmates to call even if you cannot accept collect calls.

3. Call Monitoring: All calls are subject to monitoring and recording, with the exception of legal counsel calls.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The main phone number for the Yancey County Jail is (828) 682-2124. However, this number is not for inmate use. It is for general inquiries, scheduling visitations, and reporting concerns.

When communicating with an inmate, avoid sharing any sensitive information as calls are monitored for security reasons. Any attempts to relay information about illegal activities could lead to penal consequences.

Inmate Mail

Communication with the outside world is crucial for inmates, and one of the primary ways this is facilitated is through mail.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

1. Addressing the Mail: Make sure to correctly address your mail. Include the inmate's full name, booking number, and the jail's address:

   Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
   Yancey County Jail
   4 East U.S. Hwy 19E Bypass,
   Burnsville, NC 28714

2. Postage: Ensure your mail has appropriate postage. The jail does not accept postage-due mail.

3. Sending the Mail: Once your mail is correctly addressed and has sufficient postage, you can send it through the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

• All incoming mail, with the exception of legal mail, is opened and inspected for contraband.

• Letters should not contain staples, paper clips, or any other metallic objects.

• No explicit or suggestive content is allowed.

• Do not send cash or personal checks through mail. They will not be accepted.

Sending Money to Inmates

Inmates may need money to buy items from the jail's commissary. Here's how to send money:

Approved Methods for Sending Money

1. Online: Use an approved third-party service like Access Corrections. These services often charge a small fee.

2. Money Orders: Send a money order with the inmate's name and booking number through the mail.

3. Jail Lobby Kiosk: If you live locally, there is typically a kiosk in the jail lobby where you can deposit funds.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

• There is often a maximum limit on how much money an inmate can receive or have in their account at any given time. Check with the jail for exact amounts.

• If an inmate owes fines, a portion of the money sent may be used to settle those debts.

• All money transactions are monitored and recorded for security reasons. Any suspicious activity could result in legal action.

Inmate Commissary

Inmate commissary is essentially a store within the correction facility, providing inmates with access to products that aren't issued by the detention center.

The commissary at Yancey County Jail allows inmates to purchase items such as personal hygiene products, snacks, stationery, and sometimes even small electronic items like radios or MP3 players. The commissary plays a crucial role in the inmates' life, providing them with a certain level of comfort and the ability to maintain their well-being during their incarceration period.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates are given commissary privileges where they can order items up to a certain limit every week. They use the funds in their inmate account to make these purchases. Commissary orders are usually taken once a week and the items are delivered to the inmates a few days later.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

The use of the commissary comes with several restrictions:

• There is a weekly spending limit.
• Not all items are available to all inmates. The availability of certain items may depend on the inmate's behavior, crime committed, and their current status within the jail.
• All commissary purchases are final. Inmates cannot return or exchange items once they have been received.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots serve as important components of an inmate's criminal history.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records can be requested from Yancey County Jail or from the Yancey County Sheriff's Office. These records typically include information about the inmate's booking, charges, court dates, and release date. To request these records, you may need to fill out a request form and pay a small fee. It's also possible to find incarceration records through various online public record databases.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photographic portrait of an inmate taken at the time of their booking. It typically includes two angles – a front view and profile view. Mugshots become a part of the public record and can be accessed through the Yancey County Jail's online inmate roster. However, the availability of mugshots may depend on the policies and regulations of the correction facility and the local law enforcement agency. Always remember to respect privacy laws and use these images responsibly.

Inmate Population

Understanding the demographic details of the inmate population at Yancey County Jail can provide insights into the general trends and characteristics of those housed within the facility.

Current Population Statistics

As of the date of this guide, Yancey County Jail has a capacity of about 100 inmates, although the actual population varies over time due to new arrests and releases. The jail typically houses both pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor crimes.

Average Inmate Stay Duration

The average length of stay for an inmate at Yancey County Jail varies considerably depending on the nature of their charges. Pre-trial detainees typically have shorter stays, sometimes only a few days, while those serving sentences for convictions can stay for several months or up to a year.

Racial, Age, and Gender Demographics

The inmate population at Yancey County Jail includes a mix of individuals from diverse racial, age, and gender backgrounds, reflective of the broader population. However, specific demographic proportions can vary and are not statically fixed. For the most accurate and updated statistics, it's recommended to reach out to the jail directly or visit their website.

Security Level

The Yancey County Jail places a strong emphasis on maintaining a secure environment for its inmates, staff, and visitors.

Security measures at the detention facility include electronic surveillance, controlled movement of inmates, routine searches of inmates and their living quarters, and a strong staff presence. The jail utilizes modern technology and follows strict protocols to prevent unauthorized access and maintain the order within the facility.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The jail primarily houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving short-term sentences following a conviction for misdemeanor crimes. Individuals with more serious charges or longer sentences are typically sent to state prisons.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a pivotal role in maintaining security at the jail. Their responsibilities include supervising inmates, conducting searches for contraband, ensuring the enforcement of facility rules, and responding to any incidents within the jail. These professionals are trained to handle various situations and are committed to maintaining a safe, secure environment for everyone within the facility.

Location and Contact Details

To get in touch with the Yancey County Jail, you can use the following official contact information:

Official Mailing Address

Yancey County Jail
4 East U.S. Hwy 19E Bypass,
Burnsville, NC 28714

Official Phone Number

For general inquiries, scheduling visitations, and reporting concerns, call: (828) 682-2124

Official Website

The official website for the Yancey County Jail is: https://www.yanceycountync.gov/jail

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How can I search for an inmate in a particular correctional facility?

You can use the facility's inmate locator or search function if it's available online. You typically need to know the person's full legal name, and sometimes their inmate number. Some institutions may require more specific information such as birth date or social security number. If the correctional facility doesn't provide an online search, you can call the facility to request information.

2. Are all inmates searchable online?

Not all inmates are searchable online as it depends on the policies of the specific correctional facility. Some institutions maintain privacy and do not publicly list inmate information, whereas others provide a public database that can be searched online.

3. How often is the inmate database updated?

The frequency of database updates depends on the specific correctional facility. Some facilities update their inmate databases daily, while others may do so weekly or monthly. It's best to check directly with the facility for the most accurate information.

Arrests Lookup

4. How do I look up someone's arrest record?

Arrest records can be obtained from local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies. Some jurisdictions have these records available online, while others require an in-person visit or written request. Websites such as PublicRecords offer free searches for arrest records.

5. What information is included in an arrest record?

An arrest record typically includes information such as the individual's name, birth date, physical description, fingerprints, photographs, details of the crime they were arrested for, the location and time of the arrest, and the arresting agency.

6. Are arrest records public information?

In many jurisdictions, arrest records are considered public information, but laws vary by state. Some states limit the accessibility of arrest records to protect the privacy of individuals.

Jail Bookings

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

You can typically find out if someone has been booked into jail by searching the jail's online inmate database, or by calling the jail directly. Information about recent bookings might also be available on the jail's website or local news outlets.

8. What information is available on a jail booking record?

A jail booking record typically includes information such as the inmate's name, booking number, physical description, date of birth, charges, bail amount, scheduled court dates, and release date (if applicable).

9. Are jail booking records considered public information?

In most jurisdictions, jail booking records are considered public information, but access can vary depending on local and state laws. Some information may be redacted for privacy or security reasons.

Inmate Calls

10. Can inmates make calls from the jail or prison?

Yes, inmates can generally make outgoing calls but cannot receive incoming calls. Calls are usually made through a collect call system or a prepaid account set up by the inmate or the inmate's family.

11. Are inmate calls monitored or recorded?

Yes, most inmate calls are monitored and recorded for security reasons, with the exception of privileged calls with legal counsel.

12. Can I block calls from a specific inmate?

Yes, you can typically request to block calls from a specific inmate by contacting the correctional facility or the phone service provider used by the facility.

Inmate Mail

13. What is the process for sending mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, you typically need to include the inmate's full name, identification number, and the facility's address. All mail is usually inspected for contraband before it is delivered to the inmate. Certain items, like stamps or envelopes, may need to be purchased directly from the prison commissary.

14. Are there restrictions on what I can send to an inmate in the mail?

Yes, there are restrictions. Generally, you cannot send items that could pose a threat to the safety and security of the institution. This includes weapons, drugs, or any other contraband. Some facilities also restrict other items like certain types of clothing, electronics, or food. It's best to check with the specific facility for their list of prohibited items.

15. How often can inmates receive mail?

In most facilities, inmates can receive mail as often as it is sent, barring any restrictions on the volume of mail an inmate can receive. However, mail processing can take some time, so inmates might not receive their mail immediately.

Visitation

16. What are the rules for visiting an inmate in jail or prison?

Visitation rules vary by facility but often include a dress code, a list of prohibited items, restrictions on who can visit, and limitations on the number and length of visits. Some institutions require visitors to be pre-approved and to show a valid ID upon arrival.

17. Can I visit an inmate at any time?

Visitation hours and days are set by each facility, so it's not typically possible to visit an inmate at any time. Many facilities have specific visiting hours on specific days of the week.

18. Do I need to be on an approved visitor list to see an inmate?

Most correctional facilities require potential visitors to be on an approved visitor list. The inmate typically needs to request that a visitor be added to their list, and the visitor may need to consent to a background check.

Sending Money

19. How can I send money to an inmate?

You can usually send money to an inmate using a money order, cashier's check, or through an approved electronic funds transfer service. The specific methods available depend on the facility's policies.

20. Are there limits on the amount of money I can send to an inmate?

Yes, many facilities have limits on the amount of money an inmate can receive during a certain time period. These limits vary by facility, so it's best to check with the specific institution.

21. What can an inmate use the money for?

Inmates can use the money in their accounts to purchase items from the commissary, like snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials. They can also use it to pay for phone calls or other approved services.

Posting Bond

22. How can I post bond for an inmate?

Bond can typically be posted at the court clerk's office or the jail. Depending on the facility, you may be able to post bond using cash, a bond certificate, a property bond, or a professional bond agent.

23. What are the different ways I can post bond?

The options to post bond can vary by jurisdiction, but generally include cash bonds (paying the full amount in cash), surety bonds (using a bail bond agent), property bonds (using real property as collateral), and release on own recognizance (no money is required, based on defendant's promise to attend all court dates).

24. What happens to the bond money if the inmate doesn't show up for court?

If the inmate does not show up for court, the court can order the bond forfeited and the entire bail amount becomes due. If a bail bond agent was used, the agent can try to find and return the defendant to custody, or they may sue the defendant or the defendant's cosigners to recover the bail money.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

25. How can an inmate get legal assistance while in jail or prison?

Inmates can receive legal assistance through public defenders or other court-appointed attorneys if they cannot afford one. Legal aid organizations or pro bono programs might also be able to provide assistance. Some prisons have law libraries or legal assistance programs to help inmates understand and exercise their rights.

26. Are public defenders available for inmates?

Yes, public defenders are typically available for inmates who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. However, an inmate usually needs to qualify based on their financial situation.

27. What should an inmate do if they believe their rights have been violated?

If an inmate believes their rights have been violated, they can file a grievance through the prison's established procedures, contact a legal representative, or reach out to advocacy groups that assist prisoners. In some cases, they may be able to file a lawsuit in court.

Release

28. How can I find out when an inmate will be released?

The expected release date of an inmate can often be found through the inmate locator tool of the facility where the inmate is held. In some cases, you may need to contact the correctional facility directly.

29. What happens when an inmate is released from jail or prison?

When an inmate is released, they are typically given their personal belongings that were collected at the time of incarceration, any money earned from work or received from outside, and possibly a set of clothes. If they were in prison, they may be on parole and required to meet certain conditions or report to a parole officer. Some may also enter a re-entry program to help transition back into society.

30. Can an inmate be released early for good behavior?

Yes, in many jurisdictions, inmates can earn time off their sentences for good behavior, participation in certain activities, or completion of rehabilitation programs. This is often called "good time credit" or "earned time."

Criminal Records Lookup

31. How can I look up someone's criminal record?

Criminal records can often be found through state or county court record databases, or third-party background check services. Some states have online portals where you can search for criminal records. Alternatively, you can request records from the relevant law enforcement or court offices, often for a fee.

32. Is it legal to look up someone else's criminal records?

In most cases, it is legal to look up someone's criminal record as they are considered public records. However, laws and access can vary by state and some records might be sealed or expunged and not available to the public.

33. What types of information are included in a criminal record?

A criminal record typically includes personal information like name and date of birth, as well as details of any arrests, charges, court cases, convictions, and sentences related to misdemeanor and felony crimes.

Background Check

34. How can I perform a background check on someone?

You can perform a background check using online services or through a private investigator. You may also be able to request background checks from local and state law enforcement agencies. Some of these methods may require the person's consent or a valid reason for the check.

35. Is it legal to conduct a background check without the person's knowledge?

For personal relationships or curiosity, it's generally legal to conduct a background check without a person's knowledge as long as the information is obtained from public records. However, for employment, housing, or credit situations, laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act in the U.S. often require you to get the person's consent before conducting a background check.

36. What types of information can be revealed in a background check?

A background check can reveal various types of information including criminal records, civil records (like marriage and divorce records), credit history, driving records, educational history, and past employment verification. The specific information revealed depends on the type of background check conducted.