Muskegon County Jail

We are glad you came here for help with the Muskegon County Jail. Our goal is to give you the facts you need. We work hard to share clear and full details about the jail. This page holds key data for you.

If you need to find someone in custody now, go to https://muskegoncountyjails.org to start your Muskegon County Jail search. This site may help you find inmate details fast. It is a good place to start your search effort. Please check their site for the most current data on who is in the jail right now. They aim to keep their lists up to date for the public.

Muskegon County Jail Overview

Location and Contact Details

The Muskegon County Jail is part of the Sheriff's Office operations. Mail for inmates goes to a specific jail address. Send mail to: Inmate Name, Muskegon County Jail, 980 Terrace Street, Muskegon, MI 49440. Do not send packages. The main Sheriff's Office is close by. Their address is 990 Terrace Street STE 450, 4th Floor, Muskegon, MI 49442. You can call the Sheriff's Office main line at 231−724−6351. For jail specific administration questions, reach the Jail Lieutenant at 231−724−7113.

Facility Information

The current Muskegon County Jail is a modern site. It opened its doors in 2015. The jail holds up to 542 beds. It runs all day, every day, 24/7. A team of sergeants and corrections officers manage the shifts. This ensures the jail is secure and well run at all times. Inside the jail, there are key services. These include medical offices for inmate health care. A laundry service cleans clothes and linens. A large kitchen makes all the meals. They produce well over 200,000 meals each year for the inmates. This makes the jail mostly self contained for these basic needs. It helps keep things running smooth.

Jail Administration

Lieutenant Nate Stephenson serves as the Jail Administrator. He leads the corrections division staff. They manage the day to day life inside the jail. This includes security, inmate care, and facility tasks. The team makes sure rules are followed. They work to keep inmates and staff safe. They follow state rules for jails. You can find more details on the official Muskegon County Sheriff's Office Corrections page. Visit https://co.muskegon.mi.us/189/Corrections for their info.

Finding Someone in Muskegon County Jail

Inmate Search Resources

Finding out if someone is in the Muskegon County Jail can be vital. Family and friends need this info fast. The best way to start a search now is the site mentioned earlier. Please visit https://muskegoncountyjails.org for their search tool. While the county sheriff's site lists an inmate lookup resource, it has sometimes shown as offline. Using the suggested link is a good first step. These tools often let you search by name. They give booking details if the person is found. Check often if you do not find them right away. Things can change fast.

Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) OTIS Search

Sometimes people confuse the county jail with state prisons. Michigan has state prisons also near Muskegon. The state system is run by the MDOC. They have their own search tool. It is called the Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS). You can search it here: https://mdocweb.state.mi.us/otis2/otis2.aspx. OTIS lists prisoners in state facilities. It also lists parolees and some probationers. It does not usually list people in county jails. County jails hold persons waiting for trial. They also hold those serving short terms. OTIS will not show county inmates unless they are sentenced to state prison time. Or if they have been off state supervision for less than three years. Use OTIS only if you think the person might be in the state prison system.

Communicating with Inmates

Staying in touch is key for inmates and their loved ones. The Muskegon County Jail offers ways to connect. These include mail, phone calls, and video visits. Each way has rules you must follow.

Sending Mail

Mailing Address

You can send letters and some photos to inmates. Use the right address format. This helps mail get there fast. Use this address: Inmate Name Muskegon County Jail 980 Terrace Street Muskegon, MI 49440

Mail Rules and Restrictions

Only send allowed items. Letters are fine. Some photos may be okay, but check rules first. Do not send things like staples or paper clips. The jail does not allow external packages. Any packages sent will be thrown out. They will not be sent back. Do not send cash or checks in the mail. Use the deposit system instead. All mail is opened and checked for safety. Mail must not contain illegal items or plans. Breaking rules can stop mail privileges. It is best to keep letters simple. Share news and support. This helps the inmate a lot. Make sure your return address is clear on the envelope.

Inmate Phone Calls & Voicemail

Inmates can make phone calls out. They cannot receive calls direct. Calls are often collect calls. Or they can be paid using funds from the inmate's account. The jail also offers a voicemail service. This lets you leave a message for an inmate. To leave a voicemail, call 1−866−949−4574. Choose "Muskegon County Jail" from the list. Follow the steps to leave your message. The inmate gets a notice about the new voicemail. This is good if schedules make calls hard. Costs may apply for calls and voicemail. The phone service provider manages these costs. Funds can be added via https://expressaccount.com/.

Video Visitation System

Video visits are the main way to visit inmates here. You can visit from home using the web. Or you can visit using a kiosk at the jail site. This system needs you to sign up first.

Registration and Scheduling

You must register before you can schedule a visit. Go to https://visit.muskegonsheriff.com to sign up. You will need a valid email address. Follow the steps to make an account. Check your email to finish setup. If you need help, call 855−208−7349. Once signed up, you can log in. Then you can schedule visits. You must schedule visits at least one day ahead. You cannot book more than seven days out. Pick the inmate, date, time, and location (internet or on-site). Test your system first for internet visits.

Visitation Hours

Visiting hours depend on the type of visit.

• Internet Visits (from home): Monday - Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

• On-Site Visits (at jail): Monday - Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Times are listed in the jail's time zone (Eastern Time). Plan your visit based on these hours. Make sure the inmate is free at that time too.

Costs and Payment

Video visits have a cost. Fees depend on the length.

• Up to 10 minutes: $4.00

• Up to 25 minutes: $10.00 You must pay when you schedule the visit. The system takes major credit cards and debit cards. Enter your card details when asked. Confirm the cost before you finish booking. These fees help run the visit system. They are subject to change.

Important Visitation Rules

Follow all rules for visits. For on-site visits, you must sign in 15 minutes early. If you need to cancel, do it 48 hours ahead to get a refund. Read all the visit policies on the site. You must agree to them to book a visit. Dress code may apply for on-site visits. Act proper during all visits. Visits are watched and recorded. Bad conduct can end the visit. It can also stop future visits. Inmates must be in uniform for visits. It is the inmate's job to tell you if they move housing units.

Inmate Accounts and Commissary

Inmates need money for certain things inside jail. This includes buying snacks or hygiene items. It also pays for phone calls or video visits. You can add money to their account. They can then use it at the jail store, called the commissary.

Depositing Funds

There are easy ways to put money in an inmate account. You can do it online. Or you can do it by phone. The service is run through eXpress Account. Visit their website at https://expressaccount.com/ to make a deposit. You can also call them at 866−422−6833. Their phone hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You will need the inmate's name and the jail name. Any money you deposit becomes the inmate's property. They decide how to spend it. This system is fast and secure. It helps inmates get funds quick.

Ordering Commissary

Inmates can buy items from the commissary list. Things like food, drinks, soap, or stamps may be sold. You can also order items for them sometimes. Use the same eXpress Account service. Go to their website https://expressaccount.com/. Or call 866−422−6833. Note there is a $4.50 handling fee if you order by phone. Check the jail's website for a commissary menu. It lists items for sale and prices. Prices can change. Delivery days might shift due to holidays. Ordering lets you send needed items direct.

Using Inmate Funds

Money in an inmate's account has many uses. The main use is buying items from the commissary shop. This lets them get extra food or personal care things. Funds also pay for phone time. This allows them to call family and friends. Money can pay for video visits too. Some jails use funds for email or message services. Having funds makes jail life a bit easier. It gives inmates some choice. It helps them stay linked to the outside world. Make sure they have funds for these needs.

Posting Bond

When someone is arrested, a judge may set bond. Bond is money paid to the court. It acts as a promise the person will show up for future court dates. If they attend all dates, the bond money is often returned. Posting bond allows the person to be released from jail while their case moves on.

Bond Information Resources

You first need to know the bond amount. This is set by the judge at arraignment. You can usually get this info from the court handling the case. Sometimes the jail records desk can tell you the bond amount too. Call the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office at 231−724−6351 for guidance. Ask about the process to find bond details. Once you have the amount, you need to know how to pay it. Options may include cash paid at the jail or court. You might use a bond company (surety bond). Some systems allow online bond payments. The eXpress Account service used for commissary (https://expressaccount.com/) also lists bond payment as an option. Check with the jail staff or court clerk for the exact ways accepted in Muskegon County. They can explain the steps and rules. Be sure you know all terms before paying bond.

Jail Services and Programs

The Muskegon County Jail provides more than just housing. They offer services to help inmates. These can support well being and future success.

Inmate Programs

The jail lists several programs for inmates. These aim to help them during their time inside. They may also help them get ready for release. Programs can include:

• Work Release: Allows some inmates to keep jobs in the town.

• Educational Programs: May offer GED prep or other classes.

• Substance Abuse Programs: Help for inmates with drug or alcohol issues.

• Faith Based Programs: Religious services and support. The jail works with groups to offer help. The goal is to reduce repeat offenses. Ask jail staff for details on current programs. Michigan law (MCL 801.4a) allows some booking fees to fund inmate programs like these.

Medical and Mental Health Care

Inmates have rights to health care. The Muskegon County Jail has medical staff. They provide medical, dental, and mental health services. New inmates get a health screen. This checks for urgent needs. Trained staff perform these checks. Doctors and nurses provide care as needed. A licensed physician oversees medical judgment. If an inmate needs care outside the jail, it can be arranged. Per Michigan law (MCL 801.4), the county may seek payment from the inmate's health insurance if they have it. The jail works to meet health needs while persons are in custody.

Jail Chaplain Services

The jail recognizes spiritual needs. Chaplain services are available to inmates. This provides religious guidance and support. It can be a key resource for inmates dealing with hard times. Details on schedules or specific faith services can be obtained from jail staff. Access to clergy is a standard practice in correctional settings.

Muskegon County Jail Rules and Regulations

Living in jail means following strict rules. These keep everyone safe. They ensure the jail runs in good order. Inmates must know and follow all rules.

General Conduct

Inmates must act in a proper way. Loud talk and bad words are not allowed. Respect staff and other inmates. Harassment or fighting leads to discipline. Inmates must respond when staff ask questions. Groups like gangs are banned. Gambling is not allowed. Follow the daily schedule. Keep noise low, especially for TVs or talk. Do not bang on doors or walls. Follow orders from staff right away. These rules help keep peace in the housing units.

Property Rules

Inmates get certain items from the jail. This includes a uniform, bedding, and towels. These items are county property. Inmates must take care of them. Do not trade items with others. Lost or damaged items must be paid for. Money may be taken from the inmate's account to cover costs. Personal property allowed in cells is very limited. Store valuable items at booking. Items bought from commissary are usually allowed. Keep your cell area clean and neat. Return linens on laundry day. Do not tie knots in towels or sheets.

Contraband

Contraband is anything not allowed in the jail. It can also be items used in the wrong way. Having contraband is a serious offense. It leads to discipline. Examples include:

• Weapons of any kind.

• Drugs or alcohol.

• Tobacco products (smoking is banned).

• Cell phones or other electronics.

• Extra clothing or bedding.

• Items belonging to another inmate. Staff search cells and inmates for contraband. Do not try to bring banned items into the jail. Do not accept them from others. Report any contraband you see.

State Regulations Reference

County jails in Michigan must follow state rules. These rules set standards for safety, security, and inmate care. The Michigan Department of Corrections oversees these rules. You can read the Administrative Rules for Jails and Lockups here: https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/corrections/progserv/Folder1/Administrative_Rules_for_Jails_and_Lockups_v293527.pdf?rev=aa8b3e14c101491485ee699ba0583cbb. State laws also apply. Michigan Compiled Laws Chapter 801 covers county jails: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=mcl-chap801. These ensure jails meet standards.

Important Contact Information

Here are key contacts for the Muskegon County Jail and related services.

Muskegon County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office oversees the jail.

• Address: 990 Terrace Street STE 450, 4th Floor, Muskegon, MI 49442

• Main Phone: 231−724−6351

• Website: https://www.co.muskegon.mi.us/1709/Sheriffs-Office

Jail Specific Contacts

For issues dealing only with the jail:

• Jail Administrator (Lt. Nate Stephenson): 231−724−7113

• Video Visitation Support: 855−208−7349

• Commissary/Deposits (eXpress Account): 866−422−6833

Victim Notification Services

Crime victims can sign up for alerts. These alerts tell you if an offender's custody status changes. Michigan uses the VINE system (Victim Information and Notification Everyday). You can register online. Or you can register by phone. This service is free and confidential. Register for Michigan VINE alerts here: https://www.vinelink.com/. Select Michigan to begin. This helps victims stay informed and safe.

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