Towner Inmate Search helps you quickly find current inmates held at the Towner County Jail in North Dakota. Whether you’re looking for a family member, friend, or checking legal status, this page gives you real-time access to jail records, booking information, and official contact details. The Towner County Sheriff’s Office maintains an updated inmate roster with names, charges, bond amounts, and release dates. You can search by name or booking number using the county’s online tool or by calling the jail directly. This service is free and available 24/7 for public use.
How to Use the Towner County Inmate Search Tool
The Towner County Sheriff’s Office provides an online inmate locator tool on their official website. To start your search, go to the sheriff’s office webpage and click on the “Inmate Search” or “Jail Roster” link. You can enter a full name or partial name to find matching results. The system will show all current inmates with that name, including their booking date, charges, and bond status. If you know the booking number, use that for faster results. The search tool updates daily and reflects arrests made within the last 24 to 48 hours. For older records or closed cases, contact the sheriff’s office directly.
Search by Name or Booking Number
You can search for inmates in two ways: by full name or by booking number. Using the full name is best when you don’t have other details. Type the first and last name into the search box. The system will show all matches currently in custody. If there are multiple people with the same name, look at the booking date and charges to identify the right person. If you have the booking number—given at the time of arrest—enter it for an exact match. Booking numbers are unique and help avoid confusion with similar names.
What Information Is Included in the Search Results?
Each inmate listing shows key details to help you understand their status. The results include the inmate’s full name, age, gender, and photo if available. You’ll also see the booking date and time, the arresting agency, and the charges filed. Bond information appears if a judge has set bail. Some listings show court dates or release dates. Not all fields may be filled, especially for recent bookings. The roster only includes people currently held in the Towner County Jail. It does not show inmates transferred to state prisons or federal facilities.
Towner County Jail Roster: Current Inmates and Public Records
The Towner County Jail roster is a public record updated every day. It lists everyone currently in custody at the detention center. The roster is maintained by the Towner County Sheriff’s Office and follows North Dakota state laws on transparency. Anyone can view the list online or request a copy by phone or mail. The roster includes names, booking dates, charges, and bond amounts. It does not include medical records, legal strategy, or personal messages. The list helps families stay informed and supports legal professionals in tracking cases.
How Often Is the Jail Roster Updated?
The Towner County Jail roster is updated at least once per day, usually by 8:00 AM Central Time. New arrests are added within 24 hours of booking. Releases, transfers, or court appearances may take up to 48 hours to reflect online. For the most accurate status, call the jail directly. The online roster is a snapshot and may not show last-minute changes. If you need real-time information, especially for visitation or legal matters, contact the sheriff’s office during business hours.
Can I Get Inmate Records by Mail or Phone?
Yes, you can request inmate records by phone or mail if you cannot use the online tool. Call the Towner County Sheriff’s Office at (701) 624-3333 during office hours. Ask to speak with the jail administrator or records clerk. You can also send a written request to the sheriff’s office address. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and your reason for the request. There is no fee for basic information. For certified copies or detailed reports, a small processing fee may apply. Allow 3 to 5 business days for mail responses.
Visitation Rules and Schedules at Towner County Jail
Visiting an inmate at the Towner County Jail requires following strict rules. Visits must be scheduled in advance by calling the jail. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Each inmate can have up to two visitors per week. Visitors must be at least 18 years old and show a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All visitors go through a security check before entering.
Visitation Hours and Days
Visitation at the Towner County Jail is held on Saturdays and Sundays only. Hours are from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. You must arrive 15 minutes early to complete the check-in process. Late arrivals may lose their time slot. The jail does not allow visits on holidays or during lockdowns. If the jail is under emergency protocols, visitation may be canceled with little notice. Always call ahead to confirm the schedule.
Dress Code and Conduct Rules
Visitors must follow a strict dress code. No shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing are allowed. Shoes must be worn at all times. Hats, sunglasses, and electronic devices are not permitted inside. Visitors must remain seated during the visit and avoid loud talking or disruptive behavior. Physical contact is limited to a brief handshake at the start and end of the visit. Any violation of rules can result in a ban from future visits. The jail staff monitors all visits for safety.
Inmate Services and Programs at Towner County Detention Center
The Towner County Jail offers several programs to support inmate rehabilitation. These services focus on education, mental health, and job skills. Inmates can attend GED classes to earn a high school equivalency diploma. The jail partners with local schools to provide certified instructors. Classes are held twice a week and are free for eligible inmates. Completion can improve chances of early release or parole.
Substance Abuse and Counseling Support
Inmates struggling with addiction can access counseling services. The jail works with regional treatment centers to offer group therapy and one-on-one sessions. Programs include anger management, relapse prevention, and life skills training. Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Inmates who complete treatment may receive reduced sentences or better housing options. All services are confidential and led by licensed professionals.
Work Programs and Vocational Training
The jail runs work programs that let inmates earn small wages. Jobs include kitchen duty, laundry, cleaning, and maintenance. Inmates work up to 20 hours per week. Earnings can be used for phone calls, snacks, or personal items. The program teaches responsibility and time management. Some inmates receive certificates for job skills, which can help with employment after release. The jail also offers basic computer training and resume writing workshops.
How to Send Money, Mail, or Messages to an Inmate
You can send money to an inmate through the jail’s approved system. The Towner County Jail uses a third-party service for deposits. You can add funds online, by phone, or at a kiosk in the lobby. Accepted methods include credit cards, debit cards, and cash. There is a small fee for each transaction. Money goes into the inmate’s account and can be used for commissary items like food, hygiene products, and phone time.
Sending Letters and Packages
Inmates can receive letters but not packages. All mail is inspected for contraband. Use a standard envelope with the inmate’s full name and booking number on the front. Include your return address. Do not send cash, stamps, or photos. Letters with inappropriate content may be rejected. Books and magazines must come directly from a publisher or bookstore. No hardcover books are allowed. The jail does not accept care packages from individuals.
Phone Calls and Video Visits
Inmates can make outgoing phone calls but cannot receive incoming calls. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and may be monitored. You can set up an account with the jail’s phone provider to receive calls. Video visitation is not currently available at the Towner County Jail. All communication must go through approved channels. Inmates can also send emails through the jail’s messaging system, which requires a prepaid account.
Bond and Release Information for Towner County Inmates
When someone is arrested in Towner County, a judge sets a bond amount during the first court appearance. Bond allows the person to leave jail while waiting for trial. The amount depends on the charges, criminal history, and flight risk. You can pay the full bond in cash or use a bail bondsman who charges 10% of the total. If the bond is posted, the inmate is released within a few hours.
Types of Bonds in Towner County
There are three main types of bonds: cash bond, surety bond, and property bond. A cash bond requires paying the full amount in cash. A surety bond uses a bail bondsman who guarantees payment. A property bond uses real estate as collateral. Most people use a surety bond because it costs less upfront. The court may also release someone on their own recognizance (OR), meaning no money is needed if they promise to return for court.
How to Check Bond Status Online
You can check an inmate’s bond status using the online inmate search tool. Enter the person’s name and look for the “Bond” section in the results. It will show the amount, type, and whether it has been posted. If the bond is paid, the inmate should be released soon. For updates, call the jail or the clerk of court. Bond refunds take 4 to 6 weeks after the case ends. Only the person who paid the bond can request a refund.
Frequently Asked Questions About Towner Inmate Search
People often have questions about how to find inmates, visitation rules, and legal rights in Towner County. Below are answers to the most common inquiries. These answers are based on current policies from the Towner County Sheriff’s Office and North Dakota state law. If your question isn’t listed, call the jail directly for help.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Towner County?
To find out if someone is in jail, use the online inmate search tool on the Towner County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or booking number. The system will show current inmates with matching names. You can also call the jail at (701) 624-3333 and ask for the booking desk. Provide the person’s name and date of birth. The staff will confirm if they are in custody and share basic details like charges and bond amount. The search is free and available 24/7.
Can I visit an inmate the same day they are booked?
No, you cannot visit an inmate the same day they are booked. New inmates must complete processing, which includes fingerprinting, medical screening, and orientation. This can take 4 to 6 hours. After that, the inmate must be added to the visitation list. You can call the jail to schedule a visit for the next available day. Same-day visits are not allowed for security reasons. Always confirm the schedule before traveling to the jail.
What happens if an inmate cannot afford bond?
If an inmate cannot afford bond, they will stay in jail until their court date. The judge may review the bond amount at a later hearing. In some cases, the court may reduce the bond or release the person on their own recognizance. Inmates can also request a public defender if they cannot afford a lawyer. Staying in jail does not mean guilt—it simply means they are waiting for trial. The jail provides basic needs like food, shelter, and medical care during this time.
Are inmate records public in Towner County?
Yes, inmate records are public in Towner County under North Dakota law. Anyone can view the jail roster online or request records by phone or mail. The records include names, booking dates, charges, and bond information. However, some details like medical history or ongoing investigations are not shared. The goal is to balance transparency with privacy and security. The sheriff’s office follows strict rules to protect sensitive information while allowing public access to basic data.
How long do inmates stay in Towner County Jail?
Inmates stay in the Towner County Jail until their case is resolved or they are transferred. Most people are released after posting bond or going to court. If convicted of a misdemeanor, they may serve their sentence in the county jail. Felony convictions usually result in transfer to a state prison. The average stay is 7 to 14 days, but it can be longer for complex cases. The jail does not hold inmates long-term—only until sentencing or transfer.
Can I get a copy of an inmate’s booking photo?
Booking photos, also called mugshots, are not automatically released to the public. You can request one by contacting the Towner County Sheriff’s Office. There may be a small fee for processing. The photo will only be released if it does not interfere with an ongoing investigation. Some photos are posted online as part of the inmate roster, but not all. If the photo is not online, call the jail to ask about availability.
What should I do if I believe an inmate is in danger?
If you believe an inmate is in danger, contact the Towner County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Call (701) 624-3333 and speak with a supervisor. You can also file a report in person at the sheriff’s office. The jail has protocols to protect inmates from harm, including medical care, mental health support, and separation from threats. All concerns are taken seriously and investigated. Do not wait—report any safety issues right away.
Official Contact Information:
Towner County Sheriff’s Office
101 Main Street, Cando, ND 58324
Phone: (701) 624-3333
Website: www.townercountynd.gov/sheriff
Visiting Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM