Mifflin County Jail is a secure correctional facility located in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. It serves as the primary detention center for Mifflin County, housing individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to state prisons. Managed by the Mifflin County Sheriff’s Office, the jail plays a vital role in public safety and the local justice system. It holds both male and female inmates and operates under strict state and federal guidelines to ensure humane treatment, security, and rehabilitation opportunities. The facility supports community safety while offering programs aimed at reducing recidivism and helping inmates reintegrate successfully.
Location and Contact Information
Mifflin County Jail is situated at 20 N. Wayne Street, Lewistown, PA 17044. This central location allows easy access for families, legal representatives, and law enforcement. The facility operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For general inquiries, the main phone number is (717) 248-6575. Emergency calls should always go to 911. The jail’s official website provides up-to-date information on visitation, inmate lookup, and services. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead before visiting to confirm hours and procedures. All contact details are regularly updated to ensure accuracy and public access.
Inmate Lookup and Roster Access
Finding an inmate at Mifflin County Jail is simple using the online inmate lookup tool. The roster is updated daily and includes current detainees with key details. Users can search by full name or inmate ID number. Results show booking date, charges, bond amount, court dates, and release information. The system is free and available on the jail’s official website. For those without internet access, calling the jail directly provides assistance. Staff can verify an inmate’s status over the phone if proper identification is provided. The roster ensures transparency and helps families stay informed.
How to Search for an Inmate
Start by visiting the Mifflin County Sheriff’s Office website and clicking the “Inmate Roster” link. Enter the person’s first and last name or their unique ID number. Double-check spelling to avoid errors. If no results appear, try a partial name or nickname. The search returns a list of matching inmates with basic details. Click on a name to view full information, including mugshots if available. The system refreshes every 24 hours, so recent bookings may take time to appear. Always confirm urgent details by phone.
Offline Inmate Search Options
If the website is down or unavailable, contact the jail by phone at (717) 248-6575. Have the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and approximate booking date ready. Staff will check the system and provide status updates. In-person visits to the jail lobby also allow access to public kiosks or staff assistance. Bring a valid photo ID. Some information may be limited due to privacy or security reasons. Always allow extra time during busy hours.
Visiting Hours and Procedures
Visitation at Mifflin County Jail occurs Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. All visits must be scheduled in advance using the online portal or by calling the visitation office. Walk-in visits are not permitted. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per session. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID. Security screenings are mandatory, and bags may be searched.
Visitation Rules and Dress Code
Visitors must follow strict dress code rules. Revealing clothing, shorts, sleeveless shirts, hats, and sunglasses are not allowed. Clothing with offensive language or images is prohibited. Failure to comply results in denied entry. No cell phones, cameras, or recording devices are permitted inside. Physical contact is limited to a brief hug at the start and end of the visit. Food, gifts, or money cannot be passed during visits. Violating rules may lead to permanent visitation bans.
Virtual Visitation Options
Mifflin County Jail offers secure video visitation for remote access. Families can schedule virtual visits through the jail’s approved platform. Sessions last 20 minutes and are monitored for safety. Users need a computer or smartphone with internet access. Appointments must be made 24 hours in advance. Virtual visits cost a small fee, paid online. This option helps distant relatives stay connected. It also reduces crowding in the visitation area.
Inmate Communication Methods
Inmates can communicate with the outside world through phone calls, mail, and email. All communication is monitored and regulated for security. Phone calls are limited to pre-approved numbers. Inmates use prepaid accounts funded by family or friends. Calls last 15 to 20 minutes and cannot be extended. Three-way calls or call forwarding are not allowed. Phone service is provided by a third-party vendor. Costs vary by call length and destination.
Mail Guidelines for Inmates
Inmates may send and receive letters. All mail is inspected for contraband. Use plain white envelopes and standard paper. Do not include stickers, tape, or drawings. Photos must be 4×6 inches or smaller and sent in clear sleeves. Polaroids and instant photos are not allowed. Magazines and books must come directly from publishers or approved vendors like Amazon. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number on all mail. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Email and Messaging Services
The jail provides a secure email system for faster communication. Family members create an account through the jail’s messaging partner. Emails are delivered electronically and printed for inmates. Replies are scanned and sent back. Messages are reviewed for inappropriate content. Attachments are not allowed. This service costs a small fee per message. It offers a quicker alternative to traditional mail. Inmates can reply once per received email.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can receive funds for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Money can be sent online, by phone, at kiosks, or via money order. Online deposits are the fastest method. Use the jail’s official payment portal with a credit or debit card. Kiosks in the jail lobby accept cash and cards. Phone deposits are available 24/7 through the payment provider. Money orders must be mailed to the jail’s lockbox address. Make checks payable to the inmate, not the jail. Cash sent by mail will be returned.
Commissary Purchases and Limits
Inmates use funds to buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies from the commissary. Orders are placed weekly and delivered on scheduled days. Each inmate has a spending limit per week. Popular items include chips, coffee, toothpaste, and socks. Funds remain in the account until used. Unused money is returned upon release. Family can check account balances online or by phone. All transactions are recorded and secure.
Booking and Release Procedures
When someone is arrested in Mifflin County, they are brought to the jail for booking. This process includes fingerprinting, taking mugshots, recording personal details, and a health screening. Inmates are searched and issued jail clothing. Personal belongings are stored securely. A classification assessment determines housing placement based on risk level. The entire process takes one to two hours. Legal rights are explained during intake.
Bail and Bond Information
Bail amounts are set by a judge during the first court appearance. The amount depends on the charges, criminal history, and flight risk. Bail can be paid in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Payments are accepted at the jail or online. Once bail is posted, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed. If bail is denied, the person remains in custody until trial. Contact the Booking Office at (717) 242-0887 for bail details.
Release Process
Inmates are released after serving their sentence, posting bail, or receiving a court order. Release times vary but usually occur during business hours. Inmates receive their personal items and any remaining commissary funds. Transportation is not provided by the jail. Families should arrange pickup in advance. Release dates are not always predictable due to court delays or administrative holds. Check the inmate lookup tool for updates.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Mifflin County Jail provides medical and mental health care to all inmates. Upon arrival, each person receives a health screening. Routine care includes treatment for chronic conditions, vaccinations, and prescription management. Dental and eye exams are available as needed. Emergency medical services are accessible 24/7. Nurses and doctors visit the facility regularly. Inmates can request medical attention at any time.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support
The jail offers counseling and therapy for mental health issues. Trained staff provide individual and group sessions. Programs address depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. Substance abuse treatment includes detox support and recovery planning. Inmates with severe conditions may be transferred to specialized facilities. Confidentiality is maintained within legal limits. These services aim to improve well-being and reduce reoffending.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
Mifflin County Jail focuses on rehabilitation through education and skill-building. Inmates can enroll in GED preparation classes to earn a high school equivalency diploma. Vocational training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. These programs are offered in partnership with local organizations. Completion increases job opportunities after release. Instructors are certified professionals. Materials and tools are provided by the jail.
Inmate Rights and Legal Access
Inmates have the right to legal representation and access to courts. They can contact attorneys by phone or mail. The jail provides law libraries with legal resources. Court documents and filings are handled through the sheriff’s office. Inmates may request visits from their lawyers. All legal mail is inspected but not opened in front of staff. These rights are protected under state and federal law.
Security and Safety Measures
The jail uses advanced security systems to protect staff and inmates. Surveillance cameras monitor all areas 24/7. Electronic tracking ensures inmate movement is logged. Emergency protocols cover fires, medical crises, and disturbances. Staff receive regular training in crisis response. Inmates are classified by risk level and housed accordingly. Regular inspections ensure compliance with health and safety standards. The facility meets all state correctional guidelines.
Community Partnerships and Outreach
Mifflin County Jail works with local police, courts, and social services. These partnerships improve inmate transitions and public safety. The jail hosts educational tours for students and community groups. Victim assistance programs offer support to crime survivors. Public awareness campaigns explain jail operations and rehabilitation efforts. Volunteers assist with mentoring and job training. These efforts build trust and promote reintegration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Mifflin County Jail. This section answers the most common ones clearly and directly. It covers inmate lookup, visitation, communication, and services. The goal is to provide accurate, helpful information for families, lawyers, and the public. All answers are based on current jail policies and official sources.
How do I find out if someone is in Mifflin County Jail?
Use the inmate lookup tool on the jail’s website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. The roster shows current inmates with booking details. If you can’t find them, call (717) 248-6575. Have the person’s name and date of birth ready. The roster updates daily, but recent arrests may take time to appear. Always verify urgent information by phone.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling in advance?
No, all visits must be scheduled ahead of time. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Use the online system or call the visitation office. Appointments open 24 hours in advance. Visits last 30 minutes and occur weekdays from 9 AM to 6 PM. Late arrivals may lose their slot. Bring a valid ID and follow all dress code rules.
What items can I send to an inmate by mail?
You can send letters, photos, and approved reading materials. Use plain envelopes and paper. Photos must be 4×6 or smaller. Magazines and books must come from publishers. Do not send cash, checks, or prohibited items. Include the inmate’s full name and ID on all mail. All mail is inspected. Violations may result in rejected packages.
How much does it cost to add money to an inmate’s account?
Fees vary by method. Online deposits cost a small processing fee, usually $2.95 to $4.95. Kiosk payments may have higher charges. Phone deposits also include fees. Money orders by mail have no fee but take longer. Check the payment portal for exact rates. Funds are available within minutes for online transfers.
Are inmates allowed to make phone calls?
Yes, inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15–20 minutes. They use prepaid accounts funded by family. Three-way calls are not allowed. All calls are monitored. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Phone service is provided by a third-party company. Costs depend on call length and location.
What happens during the booking process?
Booking includes fingerprinting, mugshots, health screening, and personal data collection. Inmates are searched and given jail clothing. Belongings are stored. A risk assessment determines housing. The process takes 1–2 hours. Legal rights are explained. Inmates can request a lawyer at any time.
Does the jail offer job training programs?
Yes, the jail provides vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. These programs help inmates gain marketable skills. Classes are taught by certified instructors. Materials are provided. Completion increases employment chances after release. Programs are offered based on space and eligibility.
Official Website: http://www.mifflincounty.org/jail
Phone Number: (717) 248-6575
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (by appointment only)
Address: 20 N. Wayne Street, Lewistown, PA 17044