Bienville Parish Jail Inmate Lookup

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The Bienville Parish Jail in Louisiana is a secure correctional facility dedicated to maintaining the safety and security of its inmates and the community. This detention center plays a pivotal role in the law enforcement framework of Bienville Parish, ensuring that individuals charged or convicted of crimes are held in a controlled environment.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

The inmate search and prison roster of the detention facility provide vital details about individuals incarcerated there. Access to this information is crucial for family members, legal representatives, and other stakeholders.

Steps for Searching an Inmate

1. Visit the Official Website: Begin by navigating to the official website of Bienville Parish Sheriff's Office or the related page dedicated to the detention center.
2. Access the Inmate Search Portal: This portal is often located in the navigation menu or can be directly linked from the main page. If there's no direct link, look for terms like "Inmate Lookup", "Jail Roster", or "Current Inmates".
3. Input Inmate Details: Enter the required details in the search fields. This usually includes Last Name and First Name. However, if you're uncertain about the spelling, you can use a partial name.
4. Review Search Results: Once you submit your query, a list of inmates matching the provided details will appear. You can then click on an individual name to get more detailed information.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

When viewing an inmate's profile on the jail roster, you will typically find the following details:

• Booking Number: A unique number assigned to each inmate upon their entry into the detention facility.
• Last Name: The surname of the inmate.
• First Name: The given name of the inmate.
• Date of Birth: The birthdate of the inmate.
• Release Date: The expected date on which the inmate will be released. This might be blank or tentative for some inmates.
• Criminal Charges: The offenses or crimes for which the inmate has been incarcerated.

Tips for Inmate Search

• Spelling Matters: Ensure that you have the correct spelling of the inmate's name. Even minor spelling errors can lead to inaccurate or missing results.
• Partial Searches: If unsure about the complete name, you can often use a portion of the name to search.
• Multiple Results: In cases where multiple inmates have similar names, use the Date of Birth or Booking Number (if known) to identify the correct individual.
• Direct Contact: If you encounter issues while searching online, consider calling the detention facility directly. Staff may assist in providing the required information.

For further details or specific concerns, it's recommended to visit the official website or directly contact the detention facility.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Maintaining connections with family and friends during incarceration can be crucial for the morale and well-being of inmates. However, to ensure security and order, the Bienville Parish Jail enforces specific guidelines for visitation.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

1. Inmate Approval: Before arranging a visit, ensure that the inmate has added your name to their approved visitor list. Inmates are typically given the opportunity to update this list periodically.
2. Schedule in Advance: Most detention centers require visitors to schedule their visit in advance. This can often be done online or by directly calling the facility.
3. Provide Valid Identification: On the day of the visit, ensure you have a government-issued photo ID. This can include a driver's license, passport, or state ID.
4. Arrival Time: Arrive at least 15-30 minutes ahead of your scheduled visit. This allows time for security screenings and any necessary paperwork.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

• Dress Code: Most jails have a strict dress code for visitors. Avoid clothing that is too revealing, has offensive prints, or resembles inmate uniforms (e.g., orange jumpsuits).
• Personal Belongings: Items like bags, mobile phones, and other electronics are generally not allowed in the visitation area. Lockers may be provided to store personal items.
• Physical Contact: Physical contact between visitors and inmates may be limited. Always follow the instructions of the jail staff.
• Children: If you're bringing children, ensure they are supervised at all times.
• Behavior: Maintain decorum and respect the facility's rules. Disruptive behavior can result in the termination of the visit.

Visitation Hours

• Weekdays: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Weekends: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Inmate Communications

Communication with inmates extends beyond in-person visits. The detention facility offers ways for inmates to stay in touch via calls and might have associated regulations.

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

• Collect Calls: Inmates might be allowed to make collect calls. The receiver of the call will be responsible for the associated costs.
• Prepaid Accounts: Families and friends can set up prepaid accounts for inmates, allowing them to make calls until the balance is depleted.
• Duration: Call durations are typically limited. A standard limit might be 15-20 minutes per call.
• Monitoring: For security reasons, all calls (except those to legal representatives) may be monitored and recorded.

Guidelines for Use

When using the jail phone system:

• Availability: Inmates typically have designated times during which they can make phone calls.
• Rejected Calls: If you wish not to receive calls from the detention center, you usually have the option to block future calls or notify the facility.
• Charges: Be aware of the rates before accepting calls, as charges for inmate calls can be higher than standard call rates.

To inquire about call restrictions, charges, or any other communication-related concerns, contact the detention center directly. Always ensure you're abiding by the facility's rules to ensure continued communication privileges for the inmate.

Inmate Mail

Mail serves as a vital communication method for inmates, allowing them to stay connected with their loved ones, legal representatives, and others. However, to maintain the security and order within the Bienville Parish Jail, there are specific guidelines and procedures in place.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

1. Address the Mail Correctly: Ensure the mail is addressed to the inmate using their full name, booking number, and the jail's address. 

[Inmate's Full Name]
[Booking Number]
Bienville Parish Jail
[Official Address]
[City, State, ZIP]

2. Return Address: Always include your full name and return address on the top left corner of the envelope.
3. Seal with Care: Ensure the envelope is sealed properly, with no additional markings or stickers on it.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

• Content Restrictions: Avoid sending any inappropriate or explicit content. Letters are subject to inspection, and inappropriate material will be confiscated.
• Prohibited Items: Do not send items like staples, paper clips, plastic cards, or any form of contraband.
• Photos: If you're sending photos, they should be non-polaroid and must adhere to content guidelines. Explicit or inappropriate photos will be discarded.
• Publication: If you wish to send books, magazines, or newspapers, they should come directly from the publisher or an approved bookstore.
• Legal Mail: Correspondence with legal representatives is confidential but may be opened in the presence of the inmate to inspect for contraband.

Sending Money to Inmates

Financial support can be crucial for inmates, allowing them to purchase items from the commissary, make phone calls, and more.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

1. Online Transactions: Many jails partner with third-party services that allow you to send money online using a credit or debit card.
2. Money Orders: You can send a money order via mail. Ensure you include the inmate's full name and booking number.
3. Cashier's Checks: Similar to money orders, these can be mailed to the inmate with appropriate identifiers.
4. Jail Kiosk: Some facilities have kiosks in the lobby where you can deposit funds directly to an inmate's account.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

• Transaction Limits: There may be a limit on the amount of money you can send in a single transaction or within a certain timeframe.
• Service Fees: Online transactions or kiosk deposits might have associated fees.
• Refunds: Money sent to an inmate is non-refundable, even if the inmate is transferred or released.
• Account Cap: Inmates might have a limit on the total amount they can have in their accounts. Ensure they haven't reached this cap before sending money.
• Usage: While inmates can use the funds for various purchases, there might be restrictions on certain items or services, depending on the facility's rules.

Always consult the Bienville Parish Jail's official website or directly contact the detention center to get the most accurate and updated information on mail and money transfer procedures.

Inmate Commissary

The inmate commissary is an integral part of life within correctional facilities, offering a range of products and services that aren't usually provided by the institution.

Commissary refers to a store within the detention facility where inmates can purchase products using funds from their account. It exists to:

• Provide Extras: Inmates can buy items that the jail doesn't provide as part of its basic provisions, such as snacks, hygiene products, writing materials, and more.
• Enhance Well-being: Having access to personal items can significantly improve an inmate's morale and well-being.
• Economic System: The commissary acts as an internal economy, encouraging inmates to manage their finances and make purchasing decisions.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

1. Account Funds: Inmates use the money deposited into their personal jail accounts to make purchases.
2. Ordering Process: Depending on the facility's setup, inmates might fill out order sheets, use digital kiosks, or order through other approved methods.
3. Delivery: Once orders are processed, items are delivered to inmates on designated commissary days.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

• Spending Cap: There may be a limit to how much an inmate can spend in the commissary within a certain period.
• Item Limitations: Some items might have quantity restrictions.
• Prohibited Items: Not all items available in the commissary might be allowed for all inmates. The availability can vary based on the inmate's security level or behavior.
• Order Frequency: Inmates may only be allowed to place orders once a week or during other set intervals.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Access to incarceration records and mugshots can be crucial for various reasons, ranging from personal to legal and journalistic.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

1. Official Request: Most jails or detention facilities require a formal request to access incarceration records. This can often be done online or via a written application.
2. Public Records Portals: Many states or counties have online portals where the public can search for and access certain incarceration records.
3. Third-party Websites: There are several websites that aggregate incarceration records. Ensure the website is reputable if choosing this route.
4. Fees: There might be associated fees, especially if you're requesting certified copies or detailed reports.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

Mugshots are photographic portraits of individuals taken shortly after their arrest. They typically feature a frontal view and, in some cases, a side view. Mugshots serve multiple purposes:

• Identification: They provide law enforcement with a visual record of the arrestee.
• Public Records: Mugshots often become a part of the public record, helping in identifying individuals in subsequent investigations or informing the public.
• Media and News: Mugshots can be used by news outlets when reporting on crimes or investigations.

Availability:

• Online Databases: Many law enforcement agencies or counties provide online access to mugshots as part of public records.
• Privacy Concerns: Depending on jurisdictional laws and the nature of the offense, some mugshots might not be made publicly available to protect the individual's privacy.
• Expungement: In certain situations, individuals can request to have their mugshots and associated records removed or sealed, especially if charges were dropped or they were found not guilty.

Always ensure you're accessing and using mugshots ethically and in compliance with local laws and regulations.

Security Level

The Bienville Parish Jail, like many detention facilities, prioritizes the safety and security of both its inmates and staff.

• Perimeter Security: High fences, possibly topped with barbed or razor wire, and surveillance cameras ensure the security of the facility's boundaries.
• Internal Surveillance: Closed-circuit cameras are strategically placed throughout the facility to monitor all areas, ensuring inmate and staff safety.
• Control Points: Entry and exit points, including checkpoints, ensure that movements in and out of the jail are closely monitored.
• Search and Seizure: Inmates, visitors, and even staff may undergo random searches to prevent contraband from entering the facility.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The detention center houses various categories of offenders, including:

• Pretrial Detainees: Individuals who are awaiting their court dates or trials.
• Sentenced Inmates: Those who have been convicted and are serving their sentences.
• Transferees: Inmates who might be in transit to another facility or are temporarily housed due to other factors.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a pivotal role in maintaining order, security, and safety within the facility. Their duties include:

• Supervision: Ensuring inmates follow facility rules and intervening during disputes or altercations.
• Security Checks: Regularly patrolling and inspecting cells and other areas for signs of contraband or potential security breaches.
• Inmate Management: Managing inmate movements, including transfers, releases, and daily activities like meal times or recreational periods.
• Communication: Serving as a bridge between inmates and other departments, including medical, counseling, or administrative services.

Correctional officers undergo rigorous training to handle various situations, ensuring the jail operates smoothly and safely.

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

1715 East St, Ringgold, LA 71068

Official Phone Number

318-894-2092

Official Website

www.bienvillesheriff.org

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search, Arrests Lookup & Jail Bookings

1. How do I search for an inmate in the system?

To search for an inmate, visit the official website of the correctional facility or county jail. Typically, there is an 'Inmate Search' or 'Inmate Lookup' tool where you can enter the inmate's name or inmate number. Some websites might require additional details like date of birth for a more accurate search.

2. Can I look up recent arrests online?

Yes, many police departments and county jails maintain online databases where you can look up recent arrests. However, availability might vary depending on the jurisdiction and their transparency policies.

3. How frequently is the jail bookings list updated?

The frequency of updates varies by facility. Some jails might update their bookings list in real-time or multiple times a day, while others might do so once a day or less frequently.

4. Why can't I find a specific inmate using the online search?

Several reasons might explain this:

• The inmate was recently booked, and the system hasn't updated yet.
• The inmate might be housed in a different facility.
• Some inmates might be excluded from public databases due to their age, protection status, or other legal reasons.

5. Are all inmates listed on the online database?

No, not all inmates might be listed. Juveniles, inmates under protective custody, and those with certain legal conditions might be excluded from public databases.

Inmate Calls

6. How can inmates make phone calls from the facility?

Inmates typically have access to phones within the facility during designated hours. They can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts set up either by them or their family members.

7. How do I accept collect calls from an inmate?

When an inmate makes a collect call, you'll receive an automated message informing you of the call's origin. You will then be prompted to accept the charges and the call.

8. Are inmate calls recorded?

Yes, most inmate calls are recorded for security reasons, with the exception of privileged calls to legal representatives.

9. Can I initiate a call to an inmate?

No, in most facilities, you cannot directly call an inmate. However, they can call you during designated hours.

10. What are the charges for inmate calls?

Charges vary by facility and the service provider. It's best to check with the specific correctional facility or the phone service provider for exact rates.

Inmate Mail

11. How do I send mail to an inmate?

Address the mail using the inmate's full name, inmate number, and the facility's address. Ensure you follow the facility's guidelines on what can be included in the mail.

12. Are there any restrictions on what can be sent via mail?

Yes, restrictions typically include:

• No contraband or illegal items.
• No cash (unless otherwise specified).
• No items that might be considered a weapon. Some facilities might also have restrictions on certain types of paper, envelopes, or contents.

13. How often do inmates receive their mail?

Mail is typically delivered to inmates daily, except for weekends and holidays. However, there might be a delay if the mail is subject to inspection.

14. Is inmate mail inspected or read before delivery?

Yes, for security reasons, most inmate mail is inspected. Privileged mail, like that from legal representatives, might be exempt from being read but can still be inspected for contraband.

15. Can I send photos or magazines to an inmate?

Generally, yes, but there are often restrictions on the type and content of photos or magazines. Always check the facility's guidelines before sending.

Visitation

16. What is the process for scheduling a visit with an inmate?

Most facilities require visitors to schedule in advance, either online or over the phone. Visitors might also need to be on an approved list and undergo a background check.

17. Are there specific visitation hours?

Yes, each facility will have designated visitation hours, which can often be found on their official website.

18. How many visitors are allowed at one time?

The number varies by facility but is typically limited to ensure security and order.

19. Are children allowed during visitations?

Most facilities allow children, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some might have age restrictions or additional requirements.

20. What items can I bring during a visitation?

Most facilities have strict guidelines about what can be brought in. Common items like wallets, keys, and cell phones are often prohibited. It's best to check the facility's rules beforehand.

Sending Money

21. How can I send money to an inmate?

There are usually several methods, including online transfers, mailing a money order, or using kiosks at the facility.

22. Is there a limit to how much money I can send?

Yes, facilities often set a limit on the amount of money an inmate can receive or have in their account at any given time.

23. Are there fees associated with sending money?

Yes, depending on the method used, there might be associated fees. Online transfers, for instance, often come with a transaction fee.

24. How can an inmate use the money sent to them?

Inmates can use the money for various purposes, including purchasing items from the commissary, making phone calls, or paying for certain programs or services.

Posting Bond

25. What is the process for posting bond for an inmate?

To post bond, you'll need to visit the facility or a designated location, provide the full bond amount or work with a bail bondsman, and complete any necessary paperwork.

26. Can I post bond online?

Some jurisdictions allow for online bond payments, but this varies. It's best to check with the specific facility or jurisdiction.

27. What forms of payment are accepted for bond?

Accepted forms usually include cash, cashier's check, money order, and sometimes credit or debit cards.

28. When will the bond amount be returned?

If the inmate attends all court dates, the bond amount (minus any fees) is typically returned after the case's conclusion. However, if the inmate does not appear in court, the bond may be forfeited.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

29. How can an inmate access legal assistance while incarcerated?

Inmates have the right to access legal materials and can request assistance from the facility's law library. They can also hire private attorneys or seek help from public defenders.

30. Can I hire a private attorney for an inmate?

Yes, you can hire a private attorney to represent an inmate.

31. Are there free legal services available for inmates?

Yes, public defenders and certain non-profit organizations provide free legal services for inmates, especially those who cannot afford private representation.

Release

32. How will I know when an inmate is scheduled to be released?

Release dates are often available through the facility's inmate lookup tool. Alternatively, the inmate can inform you directly.

33. What is the process for an inmate's release?

Once an inmate's release date arrives, they'll undergo a release process that includes finalizing paperwork, returning facility property, and receiving personal belongings.

34. Can I pick up an inmate upon their release?

Yes, you can usually pick up an inmate. Ensure you coordinate with the facility regarding the release time and location.

Criminal Records Lookup & Background Check

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

You can request criminal records through state or county agencies, often the Department of Public Safety or a similar organization. Some jurisdictions also offer online databases for public record searches.

36. Are all criminal records available to the public?

Not all. Juvenile records, expunged records, and some others might be restricted from public view.

37. How accurate are online background checks?

Accuracy varies. Official sources like state agencies tend to be more accurate, but third-party online services might not always have up-to-date or comprehensive information.

38. What information is included in a background check?

Typically, a background check includes criminal history, past addresses, work history, and other personal details. What's included might vary depending on the purpose of the check.

39. Are there fees associated with requesting a background check or criminal record lookup?

Yes, official agencies typically charge a fee. Third-party online services also have associated costs.

40. How long does it take to receive a background check report?

Timeframes vary. Online requests can be almost instantaneous, while official requests might take days to weeks, depending on the agency and the depth of the search.