Mississippi-County-Jails

Mississippi County Jails

County jails in Mississippi are local detention centers managed by elected county sheriffs, not the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). These facilities mainly hold people awaiting trial or serving short sentences, making them different from long-term state prisons. County jails provide essential custody services while ensuring public safety at the local level. Each county has its own jail, and rules for visitation, mail, and daily routines can vary. In total, Mississippi has 82 county jails, offering accessible local supervision for law enforcement and the courts.

County jails in Mississippi also differ in how they manage inmates compared with MDOC facilities. Short-term incarceration, pre-trial detention, and minor felony sentences are handled locally, while serious offenders may be sent to state prisons. Juvenile offenders are usually placed in separate facilities with different rules to protect safety and provide education. By operating under sheriff custody, these local facilities ensure communities stay secure and inmates are managed efficiently. County jails remain a critical part of the state’s correctional system.

State vs County Jail Differences in Mississippi

County jails in Mississippi operate under local authority, while Mississippi Prison facilities follow uniform rules set by the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). These differences affect daily operations, inmate services, and policies for visitation, mail, and programs.

State Prisons: Consistent Rules Across Mississippi

Mississippi state prisons are managed by the MDOC, which enforces statewide policies for all facilities. This includes inmate mail rules, visitation schedules, and programming such as education and work assignments. The uniform approach ensures all inmates are treated according to the same correctional standards, regardless of the prison location.

Key characteristics of MDOC prisons:

  • Standardized inmate services: Access to medical care, educational programs, and work assignments is consistent across state facilities.
  • Uniform mail and visitation rules: All state prisons follow strict policies to ensure safety and security.
  • Centralized administration: MDOC oversees staffing, security, and facility operations.

County Jails: Local Control and Flexibility

County jails in Mississippi are managed by sheriffs rather than the state. Each jail sets policies that reflect the local correctional jurisdiction, and facilities such as Forrest County Jail follow county-specific rules, which means regulations for mail, visitation, and inmate programs can vary widely. This flexibility allows counties to address specific needs but can create differences in services compared to state prisons.

Features of county jails:

  • Variable rules: Mail restrictions, visitation hours, and program availability can differ between counties.
  • Short-term focus: County jails often house inmates awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to state facilities.
  • Local administration: Sheriffs oversee staffing, security, and facility maintenance.

Mississippi County Jail Directory

Below is a Mississippi county jail list with real contact information, inmate lookup tools, and basic visiting/mailing guidelines. This directory covers many of the local jails and detention centers in Mississippi, so families, attorneys, and community members can find needed details quickly. For counties without an online inmate search link, calling the facility directly is often the best way to check on an individual in sheriff custody.

Adams County – Adams County Jail

Address: 306 State St, Natchez, MS 39120
Phone: (601) 442‑2752
Sheriff Contact: Adams County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult male & female

Inmate Search:

  • Online inmate roster available at local county site or via statewide lookup at InmateFinder.org
  • Call the jail for real‑time status.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting times usually evenings and weekends; schedules change periodically.
  • All visitors must register, present current photo ID, and be on an approved list.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Incoming mail must clearly include inmate full name and ID.
  • All mail is scanned or opened for security screening.
  • Commissary orders for snacks and hygiene items accepted weekly through approved vendors.

Bolivar County – Bolivar County Regional Correctional Facility

Address: 2792 Hwy 8 W, Cleveland, MS 38732
Phone: (662) 843‑7478
Sheriff Contact: Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult male & female

Inmate Search:

  • No direct public online roster; call the facility to confirm inmate status.
  • Third‑party statewide search sites can assist.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting requires advance phone confirmation.
  • Photo ID required; dress code applies (no revealing or gang‑related clothing).
  • Visits may be remote video based on schedule.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail must be addressed with inmate’s full name.
  • Commissary purchases can be made by family deposits to inmate account.

Calhoun County – Calhoun County Jail

Address: 178 S Murphree St, Pittsboro, MS 38951
Phone: (662) 412‑3149
Sheriff Contact: Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult detention

Inmate Search:

  • No online roster; call for booking or release status.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting arranged by phone.
  • All visitors must be pre‑approved.
  • Visits are typically non‑contact booths.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail accepted with screening; include inmate name.
  • Commissary available through jail vendor; check weekly schedule.

Chickasaw County – Chickasaw County Regional Correctional Facility

Address: 130 Lancaster Cir, Houston, MS 38851
Phone: (662) 456‑3319
Sheriff Contact: Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Call for the most recent inmate list; online search may be limited.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Confirm visiting days by phone.
  • Visitors must obey facility rules and pass a background check.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Incoming mail is reviewed before delivery.
  • Commissary orders run on fixed days; funds must be deposited ahead.

Coahoma County – Coahoma County Jail

Address: 63 Sunflower Ave, Clarksdale, MS 38614
Phone: (662) 624‑3085
Sheriff Contact: Coahoma County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Verify by calling facility; statewide inmate search tools may assist.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting hours vary; check by phone prior to arriving.
  • Visitors must have valid ID; minors need adult supervision.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail allowed if addressed correctly.
  • Commissary lists and order forms available at booking.

Forrest County – Forrest County Jail

Address: Hattiesburg, MS (call for specific location)
Phone: (601) 544‑9770
Sheriff Contact: Forrest County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult male & female

Inmate Search:

  • Online inmate lookup is available via county or statewide tools.
  • Phone verification recommended if online results are unclear.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Scheduled visits depend on inmate housing unit.
  • Visitors must appear on approved list; dress code enforced.

Mail & Commissary:

  • All mail is screened; include inmate name and ID.
  • Commissary funded by family deposits or funds transfer services.

Hancock County – Hancock County Jail

Address: Bay St Louis, MS (call for exact)
Phone: (228) 466‑6900
Sheriff Contact: Hancock County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Inmate status available by phone or online through statewide directories.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting days and times posted at booking; call ahead.
  • Visitors must be approved and show photo ID.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail must meet facility standards.
  • Commissary permitted through approved vendor.

Harrison County – Harrison County Jail

Address: Gulfport, MS
Phone: (228) 265‑9118
Sheriff Contact: Harrison County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Online inmate list available via sheriff’s website.
  • Phone lookup also supported.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Multiple weekly sessions; schedule posted online and at facility.
  • Visitors must adhere to dress and conduct expectations.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail screened for prohibited items.
  • Commissary ordered weekly; family deposits accepted online or in person.

Hinds County – Raymond Detention Center

Address: Raymond, MS
Phone: (601) 974‑2939
Sheriff Contact: Hinds County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult male & female

Inmate Search:

  • Online roster available via county site and statewide search tools.
  • Call to confirm details.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting schedule has fixed days each week; hours posted online.
  • Approved visitors only; photo ID required.
  • Non‑contact visitation pods used.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail must follow strict addressing rules; all mail screened.
  • Commissary via approved program; funds deposited online or via kiosk.

Jackson County – Jackson County Detention Center

Address: Pascagoula, MS
Phone: (228) 769‑3211
Sheriff Contact: Jackson County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Online inmate search available through sheriff’s website.
  • Phone verification recommended.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting schedule published online and updated quarterly.
  • Visitors must be on approved list; ID required.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail allowed with proper addressing.
  • Commissary available; order days posted in inmate handbook.

Kemper County – Kemper County Jail

Address: De Kalb, MS
Phone: (601) 743‑5767
Sheriff Contact: Kemper County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Call facility to check inmate status.
  • Some statewide tools may list county inmates.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting times available by request.
  • Visitors need valid ID and must be on the approved list.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail must be addressed carefully.
  • Commissary items offered through approved distribution.

Lamar County – Lamar County Jail

Address: Purvis, MS
Phone: (601) 794‑1088
Sheriff Contact: Lamar County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Phone lookup is main method.
  • Third‑party search sites sometimes list inmate details.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visits held on designated days; contact by phone first.
  • Visitors must follow ID and behavior rules.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail will be screened.
  • Commissary available via vendor list.

Lee County – Lee County Detention Center

Address: Tupelo, MS
Phone: (662) 841‑9739
Sheriff Contact: Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Online inmate lookup via county site.
  • Direct phone inquiries supported.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting sessions offered weekly; check posted schedule.
  • Photo ID required; dress code applies.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail accepted with inmate name and ID.
  • Commissary ordered on fixed days.

Lincoln County – Lincoln County Jail

Address: Brookhaven, MS
Phone: (601) 833‑5231
Sheriff Contact: Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Verify status by phone.
  • Statewide inmate lookup tools may assist.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Contact the jail for current schedule and requirements.
  • Visitors must show valid ID.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail allowed; screened.
  • Commissary offered based on county policy.

Madison County – Madison County Jail

Address: Canton, MS
Phone: (601) 855‑0739
Sheriff Contact: Madison County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Online search via county website.
  • Phone lookup available.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting hours published on official site and at booking.
  • Must be on visitor list; photo ID required.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail is screened.
  • Commissary orders placed weekly.

Oktibbeha County – Oktibbeha County Jail

Address: Starkville, MS
Phone: (662) 323‑2421
Sheriff Contact: Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Call facility for inmate info; some statewide search sites include county inmates.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting scheduled by phone; require ID and approval.
  • No inappropriate clothing allowed.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail screened; commissary available through approved vendor.

Pearl River County – Pearl River County Jail

Address: Picayune, MS
Phone: (601) 403‑2513
Sheriff Contact: Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Call the jail; online roster may be limited.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting by appointment; check ID rules.
  • Visitors must be approved.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail accepted with screening.
  • Commissary offered.

Pike County – Pike County Jail

Address: McComb, MS
Phone: (601) 783‑2324
Sheriff Contact: Pike County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Confirm status by phone or third‑party statewide search.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting times posted at facility; call first.
  • ID and approved list required.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail screened; commissary available.

Tunica County – Tunica County Jail

Address: Tunica, MS
Phone: (662) 363‑1411
Sheriff Contact: Tunica County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Call for inmate information or use statewide lookup.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting scheduled; verify before arriving.
  • Visitors must show photo ID.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail accepted and screened.
  • Commissary available.

Wayne County – Wayne County Adult Detention Center

Address: Waynesboro, MS
Phone: (601) 735‑2323
Sheriff Contact: Wayne County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Phone lookup; consult statewide search sites.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting rules vary; call ahead.
  • Visitors need valid ID.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail screened; commissary offered.

Yazoo County – Yazoo County Regional Correctional Facility

Address: Yazoo City, MS
Phone: (662) 751‑8484
Sheriff Contact: Yazoo County Sheriff’s Office
Facility Type: Adult

Inmate Search:

  • Call for updates; some online tools may list inmates.

Visiting Hours & Rules:

  • Visiting times set by facility; verify in advance.
  • ID required for all visitors.

Mail & Commissary:

  • Mail accepted; screened.
  • Commissary offered through approved vendor.

Inmate Services & Rules in Mississippi County Jails

County jails in Mississippi provide inmates with basic services, including mail, visitation, phone access, and commissary. Policies vary by facility since each local jail is managed by the county sheriff. Knowing the rules helps families and friends communicate effectively while staying compliant with jail regulations.

Mail Rules and Inspection Policies

Inmates can receive letters and packages, but all mail is screened carefully to prevent contraband. Each county jail sets rules about what types of mail and packages are allowed. Understanding these restrictions ensures messages reach inmates without delays.

  • Addressing: Include the inmate’s full name and ID or booking number.
  • Restricted Items: Cash, stamps, Polaroids, or explicit materials are usually prohibited.
  • Inspection: All incoming mail is opened and checked by jail staff.
  • Outgoing Mail: Letters sent by inmates are also reviewed and must follow facility rules.

Visitation Rules and Schedules

Visiting an inmate requires planning since schedules and policies differ by county. Visitors must be pre-approved and follow dress codes and other facility rules. Knowing visiting hours and requirements prevents confusion or denied entry.

  • Approval: Only authorized visitors are allowed.
  • ID Requirement: All visitors must present valid government-issued identification.
  • Visiting Hours: Most jails provide weekday and weekend visiting slots; non-contact booths are commonly used.
  • Special Notes: Children must be accompanied by an adult; schedules may differ for juveniles or special units.

Phone Calls & Communication

Inmates usually have limited phone access, with calls scheduled at specific times. Phone services are monitored for security, but legal calls remain confidential. Understanding communication rules helps maintain contact without violating jail policies.

  • Call Type: Calls are generally collect or prepaid via approved vendors.
  • Monitoring: All calls are recorded except attorney calls.
  • Limits: Duration and frequency are restricted based on facility rules.
  • Scheduling: Inmates’ units often have set call times.

Commissary and Property Rules

Most county jails offer commissary services, allowing inmates to purchase items for personal use. These services are subject to rules regarding the type of items and how funds are added to inmate accounts. Proper use of commissary ensures safety and fairness.

  • Funding Accounts: Families can deposit money for purchases.
  • Approved Items: Only certain hygiene products, snacks, and stationery are allowed.
  • Limits: Quantities and item types may be restricted.
  • Personal Property: Inmates may keep a limited set of personal items, all subject to inspection.

How to Find & Contact Inmates in Mississippi County Jails

Finding and contacting inmates in county jails in Mississippi requires knowing the right tools and procedures. Families, friends, and legal representatives often need inmate search options, phone contacts, and visitation scheduling to maintain communication safely and efficiently.

Online Inmate Search by County

Most counties provide an online inmate roster or links to statewide directories. These tools allow users to search by inmate name, booking number, or housing facility. Online searches save time and provide up-to-date information without having to call each jail individually.

  • County Lookup: Some local jails post their full roster on sheriff websites.
  • Statewide Tools: Websites like https://www.ms.gov/mdoc/inmate/Search/Index cover multiple counties.
  • Search Tips: Include full name and county for accurate results; verify inmate ID and facility location before contacting.

Phone & Email Contacts

Direct communication with county jails is crucial when online tools are unavailable or unclear. Most facilities have a central phone line for inmate inquiries and some accept emails to public information addresses.

  • Sheriff’s Office Phone: Call the specific county sheriff’s office for inmate status, mail policies, or visitation approval.
  • Email Contacts: Some counties provide official email addresses for general inquiries, though response times may vary.
  • Booking Verification: Phone confirmation ensures you have the correct inmate details, especially for smaller jails without updated online rosters.

Visiting Scheduling

Before visiting, you must confirm approved hours and policies with the facility. Each local jail sets its own visitation schedule, which may include non-contact booths or video visits.

  • Pre-Approval: Most jails require visitors to be on an authorized list.
  • Scheduling: Call the jail to confirm days, times, and any special rules.
  • Documentation: Photo ID is mandatory, and dress codes are strictly enforced.

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ section addresses common queries about county jails in Mississippi, including mail rules, visitation, and inmate information. Clear answers help families, attorneys, and the public navigate local jail policies and improve time on page.

How many county jails are there in Mississippi?

Mississippi has over 80 county jails, each managed by its respective sheriff’s office. Unlike state prisons, which are administered by the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC), county jails serve local law enforcement needs. They hold individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer. Some counties operate regional facilities that house inmates from multiple jurisdictions.

How do I send mail to an inmate in a local jail?

Inmates in county jails in Mississippi are allowed to receive mail, but all correspondence is screened for safety. Mail must include the inmate’s full name and booking number. Items such as cash, stamps, or any prohibited materials are not allowed. Letters and packages are opened and inspected for contraband before delivery. It is recommended to check the specific jail’s mail policies on the sheriff’s official site or call the facility to confirm the rules. Following these guidelines ensures mail reaches the inmate without delay.

What’s the difference between a county jail and a state prison?

County jails and state prisons serve different purposes. County jails are managed by local sheriffs and typically house pretrial detainees, short-term sentences, or inmates awaiting transfer. Policies vary by county. State prisons, on the other hand, are operated by MDOC and house individuals serving long-term sentences for felony convictions. Rules, visitation, and programs are standardized across the state. This distinction affects visitation hours, inmate services, and available programs.

How can I find out an inmate’s release date?

Release dates are generally available for state inmates through the MDOC website or by contacting the facility directly. For county jail inmates, you can use the county sheriff’s inmate search tool if available online, or call the jail to verify booking and expected release dates. Keep in mind that early release programs, bail, or transfers can change the date, so phone confirmation is often the most accurate method.

Are there juvenile facilities in Mississippi?

Yes, Mississippi operates separate juvenile facilities that are distinct from adult county jails. These facilities are managed under the Mississippi Department of Human Services – Division of Youth Services. Juvenile detention centers provide specialized programs for education, counseling, and rehabilitation. They follow different visitation rules than adult jails and maintain strict privacy policies to protect minors. Mail and commissary policies also differ from those in county jails.