Carteret County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Beaufort, North Carolina. It serves as the main holding center for individuals arrested in Carteret County who are awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to state prisons. Managed by the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office, the jail ensures public safety while providing humane care and basic services to inmates. The facility supports legal processes, rehabilitation efforts, and maintains strong communication channels for families and legal representatives.
Carteret County Detention Center Overview
The Carteret County Detention Center operates under strict state and federal guidelines to ensure safety, security, and fairness. It houses both male and female inmates across different security levels. The center focuses on maintaining order, offering medical care, and supporting reintegration programs. With a capacity of over 200 beds, it handles daily intake, processing, and release operations efficiently. Staff includes trained correctional officers, medical personnel, and administrative support.
Carteret County Inmate Search and Roster Access
Anyone can search for an inmate in Carteret County Jail using the official online inmate lookup tool. This system provides real-time data on current detainees. The roster includes names, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, court dates, and expected release information. Searches can be done by full name or inmate ID number. Results appear instantly and are updated multiple times per day.
How to Use the Inmate Lookup Tool
Visit the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office website and click on the “Inmate Roster” section. Enter the person’s first and last name or their unique inmate number. Double-check spelling to avoid errors. If no results appear, try partial names or known aliases. The system does not require login or registration.
Offline Inmate Search Options
If the website is down or unavailable, call the jail directly at (252) 504-4800. Staff can assist with locating an inmate over the phone. You may also visit the jail in person at 300 Courthouse Square, Beaufort, NC 28516. Bring a valid photo ID and any known details about the inmate, such as date of birth or booking date.
Carteret County Jail Booking Information
When someone is arrested in Carteret County, they are brought to the jail for booking. This process includes fingerprinting, taking mugshots, recording personal details, and conducting a health screening. All steps are documented and stored securely. The booking officer assigns an inmate ID number used for all future records.
What Happens During Booking
- Fingerprinting: Captured digitally and sent to state databases.
- Mugshot: A photo is taken and stored as part of the public record.
- Personal Information: Name, address, date of birth, and emergency contacts are recorded.
- Health Check: Basic medical screening identifies urgent needs.
- Property Inventory: Personal items are logged and stored safely.
Carteret County Jail Mugshots and Public Records
Mugshots taken during booking are considered public records in North Carolina. They are available upon request through a formal public records application. Submit a written request to the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and booking date if known. There may be a small processing fee.
Privacy and Mugshot Removal
Some individuals seek to remove their mugshots after charges are dropped or they are acquitted. North Carolina law allows expungement under certain conditions. A court order is typically required. Contact a local attorney for guidance on filing an expungement petition.
Carteret County Jail Visitation Hours and Rules
Visitation at Carteret County Jail is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Use the online portal or call the visitation office. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Each visit lasts 30 minutes.
Visitation Guidelines
- Valid photo ID required for all visitors age 18 and older.
- Dress code enforced: no revealing clothing, hats, or sunglasses.
- No cell phones, bags, or food allowed in visitation area.
- Only two visitors per inmate per session.
- Children must be supervised at all times.
Virtual Visitation Option
Carteret County Jail offers video visitation through a secure online platform. Families can schedule video calls from home. Sessions are monitored and recorded. Fees apply based on call length. This option is ideal for those who live far away or have mobility issues.
Carteret County Jail Phone Number and Contact Details
The main phone number for Carteret County Jail is (252) 504-4800. This line connects to the administrative office during business hours. For emergencies, dial 911. The jail is located at 300 Courthouse Square, Beaufort, NC 28516. Mail correspondence should be addressed to the same location.
Staff Directory
| Department | Phone Extension |
|---|---|
| Booking Office | (252) 728-8400 |
| Visitation Scheduling | (252) 504-4800 ext. 2 |
| Medical Services | (252) 504-4800 ext. 3 |
| Commissary Inquiries | (252) 504-4800 ext. 4 |
Carteret County Jail Address and Directions
Carteret County Jail is situated in downtown Beaufort, near the courthouse. It is easily accessible by car and public transit. Parking is available on-site for visitors. GPS coordinates are 34.7176° N, 76.6625° W. The building is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Map Location
Carteret County Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines
Inmates can receive mail daily except holidays. All letters are inspected for contraband. Use standard envelopes and plain paper. Include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and return address. Do not send cash, stamps, or Polaroid photos. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or approved vendors like Amazon.
Sample Mail Format
John Doe #12345
Carteret County Jail
300 Courthouse Square
Beaufort, NC 28516
Carteret County Jail Phone Calls and Communication
Inmates can make outgoing calls using a prepaid account system. Family members fund these accounts online or at kiosks inside the jail. Calls last 15–20 minutes and are monitored. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All conversations are recorded for security purposes.
Funding Inmate Phone Accounts
- Online: Use the jail’s approved vendor portal.
- Kiosk: Located in the jail lobby, accepts cash and cards.
- Phone: Call the vendor’s customer service line.
- Fees: Rates vary; check the website for current pricing.
Carteret County Jail Commissary Services
The commissary allows inmates to buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly. Funds come from inmate accounts. Family can add money via online deposit, kiosk, or money order. Popular items include chips, toothpaste, soap, and envelopes.
How to Send Money
- Online: Secure portal with instant transfer.
- Kiosk: Located at the jail entrance.
- Money Order: Mail to the jail with correct inmate info.
- No cash or personal checks accepted.
Carteret County Jail Bail Bonds and Release Procedures
Bail is set during the first court appearance. The amount depends on the charge and flight risk. To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (252) 728-8400. Payment options include cash, credit card, or a licensed bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed.
Release Process
- Verify bail amount with the court or jail.
- Pay at the jail or through a bondsman.
- Complete release forms.
- Receive property and exit within one hour.
Carteret County Jail Release Dates and Scheduling
Release dates depend on court rulings, sentence length, and behavior. Sentenced inmates may earn time off for good conduct. The jail does not provide exact release times due to security reasons. Families should check the inmate roster or call the jail the day of expected release.
Carteret County Jail Rules and Regulations
All inmates must follow strict rules to maintain order. Violations can result in loss of privileges or disciplinary action. Key rules include no fighting, no possession of contraband, and compliance with staff instructions. Inmates receive a rulebook upon intake.
Common Inmate Rights
- Access to medical care.
- Ability to send and receive mail.
- Right to file grievances.
- Opportunity to participate in programs.
- Protection from harm and discrimination.
Carteret County Jail Inmate Services and Programs
The jail offers several services to support rehabilitation. These include GED classes, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training. Programs aim to reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for life after release. Participation is voluntary but encouraged.
Available Programs
- GED Preparation: Free classes taught by certified instructors.
- Anger Management: Group sessions led by counselors.
- Job Skills Training: Carpentry, plumbing, and computer basics.
- Religious Services: Weekly worship and spiritual guidance.
Carteret County Jail Inmate Medical Care
Medical services are available 24/7. Upon arrival, inmates receive a health screening. Chronic conditions are managed with medication and regular check-ups. Emergency care is provided immediately. Mental health support includes counseling and crisis intervention.
How to Request Medical Attention
Inmates submit a request form to staff. Urgent issues are seen the same day. Non-urgent requests are handled within 48 hours. All care is confidential and follows HIPAA guidelines.
Carteret County Jail Inmate Grievances and Complaints
Inmates can file formal complaints about treatment, conditions, or staff behavior. Forms are available from correctional officers. Grievances are reviewed by supervisors and resolved promptly. Retaliation for filing a complaint is prohibited.
Carteret County Jail Inmate Housing and Classification
Inmates are housed based on security level, gender, and behavior. Dormitory-style units hold low-risk individuals. High-risk inmates are placed in single cells with increased supervision. Classification reviews occur monthly.
Carteret County Jail Inmate Transfers
Transfers happen when inmates are moved to state prisons, other counties, or federal facilities. Families are notified when possible. Transfer dates are not always disclosed for security reasons. Inmates retain their ID numbers during transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Carteret County Jail operations. Below are answers to the most common inquiries. This information helps families, attorneys, and community members stay informed and connected.
How do I find out if someone is in Carteret County Jail?
Use the online inmate lookup tool on the Carteret County Sheriff’s website. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID. If you can’t access the internet, call (252) 504-4800. Provide the individual’s name and date of birth. Staff will confirm if they are currently held and share basic details like charges and bond amount. The roster updates several times daily, so information is usually current. Always double-check spelling when searching online.
Can I visit an inmate at Carteret County Jail?
Yes, but visits must be scheduled in advance. Go to the jail’s website or call the visitation office. Visits occur Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Each session lasts 30 minutes. You need a valid photo ID and must follow the dress code—no shorts, tank tops, or hats. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate per visit. Children must be supervised. Virtual video visits are also available for a fee. All visits are monitored for safety.
How can I send money to an inmate?
There are three ways to add funds to an inmate’s account. First, use the online portal linked on the jail’s website. Second, visit the kiosk in the jail lobby and pay with cash or card. Third, mail a money order to the jail address. Write the inmate’s full name and ID number clearly. Do not send cash or personal checks. Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. The money can be used for commissary, phone calls, or medical co-pays.
What programs are offered to help inmates prepare for release?
Carteret County Jail provides education and skill-building programs. Inmates can earn their GED through free classes. Vocational training includes carpentry, plumbing, and basic computer skills. Counseling is available for substance abuse and anger management. Religious services are held weekly. These programs aim to reduce repeat offenses and support successful reintegration. Participation is encouraged but not mandatory. Progress is tracked and shared with case managers.
How do I request a mugshot or inmate record?
Submit a written request to the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and booking date if known. Specify that you want a mugshot or booking record. There may be a small fee for processing. Mail your request to 300 Courthouse Square, Beaufort, NC 28516. Allow 7–10 business days for a response. Some records may be restricted if the case is still active. For expungement requests, contact a local attorney.
What happens if an inmate gets sick or injured?
All inmates receive a medical screening upon arrival. If someone feels unwell, they can submit a health request form. Urgent cases are seen immediately. Chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension are managed with regular medication and check-ups. Mental health support includes counseling and crisis care. The jail has nurses on duty 24/7 and contracts with local doctors for specialty care. Emergency transport to a hospital is available if needed.
Can inmates make phone calls?
Yes, inmates can make outgoing calls using a prepaid system. They cannot receive incoming calls. Family members fund the account online, by phone, or at the jail kiosk. Calls last 15–20 minutes and are monitored. All conversations are recorded. Inmates must call only approved numbers. Misuse of the phone system can result in loss of privileges. Rates vary, so check the vendor’s website for current fees.
Contact Information
Official Website: http://www.carteretcountygov.org/Departments/Sheriff/Jail.aspx
Phone Number: (252) 504-4800
Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 300 Courthouse Square, Beaufort, NC 28516