Frequently Asked Questions
Comprehensive answers to common questions about Yellowstone County Detention Center
Search FAQ
Inmate Search
How can I search for an inmate at Yellowstone County Jail?
You can search for inmates using our search form on the home page. Enter the inmate's first and last name. Our system will search the current jail roster and provide available information about the inmate's status and charges.
What information is available in the inmate search?
The inmate search typically provides booking number, full name, date of birth, booking date, charges, bond amount, and expected release date. Some information may be restricted based on the case status.
How often is the inmate roster updated?
The inmate roster is typically updated several times daily to reflect new bookings, releases, and transfers. However, there may be a slight delay between when an event occurs and when it appears in the system.
Can I search for inmates nationwide?
Our search system only covers Yellowstone County Jail. For nationwide searches, you would need to use federal bureau databases or third-party services that aggregate multiple jail systems.
What if I can't find the inmate I'm looking for?
If you cannot locate an inmate, they may have been released, transferred to another facility, or the booking may not yet be updated in the system. Contact the jail directly at (406) 256-6881 for assistance.
Visitation
How do I get approved for visitation?
The inmate must add you to their approved visitor list. You'll need to provide your full name, date of birth, and relationship to the inmate. A background check will be conducted, and approval may take 24-48 hours.
Can I bring children to visit an inmate?
Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All children count toward the 2-visitor limit per visit. Children must also follow dress code requirements.
What happens if I arrive late for my scheduled visit?
Late arrivals may result in a shortened visit or cancelled visit depending on how late you are. Visits typically cannot be extended beyond the scheduled time due to facility operations.
Are video visits available?
Video visitation may be available in certain circumstances. Contact the facility at (406) 256-6881 to inquire about video visit options and scheduling procedures.
Can I visit if the inmate is in medical isolation?
Visitation for inmates in medical isolation is restricted and handled on a case-by-case basis. Contact the facility to discuss available options for special circumstances.
What if I violate visitation rules?
Rule violations may result in immediate termination of the visit and potential suspension of visitation privileges. Serious violations may result in permanent ban from the facility.
Can attorneys visit outside regular hours?
Yes, attorneys can typically arrange visits outside regular visitation hours for legal consultations. Attorney visits are confidential and not subject to the same restrictions as general visitation.
Inmate Communications
How much money can I send to an inmate?
There is typically no limit on how much money you can deposit into an inmate's account, but there are weekly spending limits for commissary purchases. Contact the facility for specific limits and policies.
What happens to an inmate's money when they are released?
Any remaining funds in an inmate's account are returned to them upon release. Funds may be provided as cash, check, or debit card depending on facility policies.
Can inmates receive packages from outside?
Generally, inmates cannot receive packages from outside sources. All items must be purchased through the commissary or approved vendors. Books may be allowed if sent directly from publishers or bookstores.
How long does mail take to reach an inmate?
Mail delivery typically takes 1-3 business days depending on postal service and the mail inspection process. Legal mail is processed more quickly to ensure timely attorney-client communication.
Can inmates email or use the internet?
Inmates do not have access to email or internet. All electronic communication is through the monitored phone system. Some facilities may offer limited electronic messaging through specific vendors.
What if an inmate has special dietary needs?
Inmates with medical dietary restrictions can receive special meals with proper medical documentation. Religious dietary accommodations are also available through the proper request process.
Can inmates receive magazines or newspapers?
Yes, inmates can receive magazines and newspapers if sent directly from the publisher or bookstore. Personal subscriptions can be arranged, and some reading materials are available in the facility library.
Bail and Bonds
How do I post bail for someone at Yellowstone County Jail?
Bail can be posted at the jail or through a licensed bail bondsman. Our bail bond calculator can help estimate costs. Contact the jail at (406) 256-6881 for specific bail information and procedures.
What is the difference between bail and bond?
Bail is the full amount set by the court. A bond is when you pay a bail bondsman a fee (typically 10-15% of bail amount) and they post the full bail amount for you.
What happens if someone doesn't appear in court after posting bond?
If the defendant fails to appear in court, a warrant will be issued for their arrest and the full bail amount will be forfeited. The bail bondsman may also pursue collection of the full amount from co-signers.
How long does it take to get someone released on bond?
The release process typically takes 2-8 hours after the bond is posted, depending on jail processing times and paperwork completion. Processing may take longer during busy periods or weekends.
Can bail be posted at any time?
Bail can typically be posted 24/7, but release processing may be delayed during overnight hours or weekends when fewer staff are available. Contact the facility for current processing schedules.
General Information
Who operates Yellowstone County Jail?
The Yellowstone County Detention Center is operated by the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office under the authority of the elected Sheriff. The facility follows all state and federal guidelines for correctional operations.
What types of inmates are housed at the facility?
The facility houses both pre-trial detainees (those awaiting court proceedings) and sentenced individuals serving terms of one year or less. Inmates are classified by security level and housed accordingly.
Are inmate phone calls monitored?
Yes, all inmate phone calls are recorded and monitored except for privileged calls to attorneys. Inmates can only make outgoing collect calls to approved phone numbers during designated hours.
Does the jail offer rehabilitation programs?
Yes, the facility offers various programs including substance abuse treatment, GED preparation, vocational training, religious services, and counseling programs designed to help inmates successfully reintegrate into the community.
How is the facility funded?
The Yellowstone County Detention Center is funded through county tax revenues, state funding, and various fees. The facility operates under an annual budget approved by the Yellowstone County Commissioners.
Are there job opportunities at the jail?
The Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office regularly hires correctional officers and support staff. Job postings are available on the county website and applications are accepted through the county human resources department.
Can the public tour the facility?
Public tours are not routinely available due to security concerns. However, special tours may be arranged for educational groups, community organizations, or official purposes by contacting the facility administration.
How does the jail ensure inmate safety?
The facility maintains strict security protocols including 24/7 supervision, security cameras, controlled access, regular safety inspections, and trained medical staff. Inmates are classified and housed according to their security level and risk factors.
Arrests and Bookings
How can I find information about a recent arrest?
Information about recent arrests can often be found by using our inmate search or by calling the facility directly at (406) 256-6881. Very recent arrests may not appear in the system immediately due to processing time.
What information is included in a booking record?
A booking record typically includes the individual's name, mugshot, charges, date and time of booking, booking location, and may include bail/bond information depending on the case status.
How soon after an arrest is a booking record available?
Booking records are typically available within a few hours of the arrest, but may take longer during busy periods or if additional processing is required. The booking process itself can take 2-4 hours.
Are booking photos (mugshots) publicly accessible?
Booking photos may be publicly accessible as part of the booking record, but policies vary. Some information may be restricted until court proceedings are complete to protect the individual's privacy rights.
Court and Legal
How do I find out when someone's court date is?
Court dates are typically provided during the booking process and may be available through the inmate search system. You can also contact the Yellowstone County Clerk of Court or the facility directly for court scheduling information.
Can I get copies of arrest or court records?
Official copies of arrest and court records can be requested from the Yellowstone County Clerk of Court. There may be fees associated with obtaining these documents, and processing time varies.
How do I contact an inmate's attorney?
Attorney contact information may be available through the court system or by asking the inmate during a visit or phone call. If the person is represented by a public defender, contact the Public Defender's Office.
Medical and Emergency
What medical services are available to inmates?
The facility provides basic medical care, prescription medications, emergency treatment, and mental health services. Serious medical conditions requiring specialized care may result in transport to local hospitals.
How do I report a medical emergency for an inmate?
For immediate medical emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency medical concerns, contact the facility at (406) 256-6881. All medical emergencies are taken seriously and responded to promptly.
Can inmates receive prescription medications?
Yes, inmates can receive necessary prescription medications after evaluation by medical staff. All medications must be prescribed by licensed medical personnel and dispensed through the facility's medical program.
Bail Bond Calculator
Still Have Questions?
Contact the Facility
Yellowstone County Detention Center
Phone: (406) 256-6881
Address: 3165 King Ave E, Billings, MT 59101
Business Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Limited weekend services available
Website Support
Email: info@yellowstonecountyjailroster.com
For technical issues with this website or questions about using our search features.
Response Time:
We typically respond to emails within 24-48 hours during business days.
Important: For immediate assistance with inmate-related matters, always call the facility directly at (406) 256-6881. This website provides informational services only.