Bowman County Jail is a secure correctional facility located in Bowman, North Dakota. It serves as the primary detention center for individuals arrested within Bowman County. The jail holds people awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to other facilities. Managed by the Bowman County Sheriff’s Office, it ensures public safety while providing care and services to inmates. The facility supports rehabilitation through education, vocational training, and mental health programs. Families can stay connected through visitation, mail, and phone calls. This page provides accurate, up-to-date information about inmate lookup, visitation rules, bail procedures, and more. All details reflect current operations as of 2024.
Bowman County Jail Inmate Search and Roster Access
Finding an inmate at Bowman County Jail is simple using the official inmate search tool. This system lets families, attorneys, and the public check on someone’s status quickly. The roster shows names, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and court schedules. Updates happen daily to ensure accuracy. You can search by full name or inmate ID number. Results appear instantly on the Bowman County Sheriff’s Office website. If no match shows, double-check spelling or try a partial name. For help, call the jail directly during business hours.
How to Use the Online Inmate Search Tool
Go to the Bowman County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Type the person’s first and last name into the search box. Leave out nicknames or middle names unless you know they were used during booking. Press enter to see results. Each entry includes key details like housing location, charge type, and next court date. The system works on phones, tablets, and computers. No login or account is needed. It’s free and available 24/7.
Offline Options for Inmate Lookup
If the website is down or you prefer in-person help, visit the jail at 200 1st Street NW, Bowman, ND 58623. Staff at the front desk can assist with lookup requests. Bring a valid photo ID and the inmate’s full name. You may also call (701) 523-3400 during office hours. Have the person’s date of birth or booking number ready if possible. Public kiosks near the entrance sometimes display basic roster info, but online search is faster and more complete.
Bowman County Jail Booking and Arrest Process
When someone is arrested in Bowman County, they go through a standard booking process at the jail. This starts with fingerprinting and taking a mugshot. Personal details like name, address, and date of birth are recorded. A health screening checks for medical needs or injuries. Belongings are stored securely. The person is then placed in a holding area until classified by risk level. Classification determines housing assignment and supervision needs.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail lets an inmate leave jail before trial by paying a set amount. A judge decides this amount based on the crime, flight risk, and criminal history. To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (701) 523-3221. Payments can be made in cash, by credit card, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate completes release paperwork and leaves within hours. If bail isn’t posted, the person stays in custody until their court date.
Mugshots and Public Records Requests
Mugshots taken during booking are public records in North Dakota. Anyone can request them through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) form. Submit your request to the Bowman County Sheriff’s Office in writing. Include the inmate’s full name, booking date, and your contact info. There may be a small fee for processing. Note that mugshots remain online even if charges are dropped. Some states allow removal requests, but North Dakota does not currently offer automatic expungement for mugshots.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling at Bowman County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. Bowman County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits happen Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Virtual video calls are available on weekends and evenings. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per session. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
To visit in person, book your slot online or call the jail. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Bring a government-issued photo ID. Dress modestly—no hats, sunglasses, revealing clothes, or gang-related symbols. Bags, phones, and food are not allowed inside. Visitors go through a metal detector and may be patted down. Talking loudly, arguing, or breaking rules can result in banned access.
Virtual Video Visits
Virtual visits use a secure video platform. Schedule them through the jail’s website. You’ll get a link to join at your appointed time. Make sure your device has a camera and stable internet. Backgrounds should be plain and quiet. Talking is monitored for safety. These visits cost a small fee paid by the visitor, not the inmate. They’re ideal for long-distance family members or those unable to travel.
Inmate Communication: Phone Calls, Mail, and Email
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved contacts. All calls are monitored and recorded. They use prepaid accounts funded by family or friends. Calls last 15–20 minutes and cost per minute. No incoming calls are allowed. For mail, send letters on plain white paper in standard envelopes. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Email is available through a secure portal. Messages are screened before delivery.
Sending Mail to Inmates
Address mail like this:
Inmate Full Name
Inmate ID Number
Bowman County Jail
200 1st Street NW
Bowman, ND 58623
Do not include cash, stamps, or photos unless approved. Staff opens and checks all mail. Rejected items are returned or destroyed. Inmates receive mail within 1–3 days.
Phone Call and Email Costs
Phone calls cost around $0.25 per minute. Funds can be added online via the jail’s payment partner, by kiosk in the lobby, or by phone. Email messages are cheaper—about $0.10 each. Both services are managed by third-party vendors. Rates may change, so check the website for updates.
Sending Money to Inmates at Bowman County Jail
Family and friends can send money to inmates for commissary, phone calls, or medical co-pays. Three safe methods are available: online deposits, kiosk payments, and money orders by mail. Online transfers are instant. Kiosks accept cash and cards and are located in the jail lobby. Money orders must be made payable to the inmate, not the jail. Never send cash or personal checks—they will be rejected.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes
Always include the inmate’s full legal name and ID number. Double-check the spelling. Use only approved payment methods. Keep receipts for your records. If a deposit doesn’t show up in 24 hours, contact the payment provider or jail staff. Funds appear in the inmate’s account within minutes for online and kiosk payments.
Commissary Services and Purchasing Options
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to cells. Popular items include chips, coffee, toothpaste, soap, envelopes, and socks. Prices are reasonable and listed on the jail’s website. Inmates use their personal accounts to pay. Families can add funds anytime. Commissary helps maintain comfort and routine during incarceration.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
All inmates receive medical care upon arrival. Routine services include check-ups, prescription refills, dental cleanings, and vision tests. Mental health counselors offer individual and group therapy. Programs address addiction, anger management, and trauma. Emergency care is available 24/7. Staff follow state health standards to protect inmate well-being.
Rehabilitation and Vocational Training Programs
Bowman County Jail focuses on preparing inmates for life after release. Educational programs include GED classes and adult basic education. Vocational training covers carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. These programs reduce recidivism by building job-ready abilities. Participants earn certificates recognized by local employers. Counseling supports emotional growth and decision-making.
Security Measures and Facility Operations
The jail uses advanced security to protect everyone. Cameras monitor all areas 24/7. Electronic systems track inmate movement. Staff train regularly in crisis response and de-escalation. Inmates are classified by risk level to ensure proper housing. Fire drills and medical emergencies are practiced monthly. The facility meets state and federal safety standards.
Community Partnerships and Public Outreach
Bowman County Jail works with local police, courts, and social services. They host school tours and public education events. Victim assistance programs offer support and resources. Community campaigns promote awareness about justice and rehabilitation. These efforts build trust and improve public safety.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For questions or assistance, use these official contacts:
Address: 200 1st Street NW, Bowman, ND 58623
Phone: (701) 523-3400
Website: https://www.bowmannd.com/sheriff
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM (in-person); weekends for virtual visits
Emergency Line: (701) 523-3400
For inmate lookup, visitation scheduling, or program details, visit the website or call during business hours. Staff are available to help with accurate, timely information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about Bowman County Jail. Answers reflect current policies and procedures as of 2024.
How do I find out if someone is in Bowman County Jail?
Use the free inmate search tool on the Bowman County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID. The roster shows booking date, charges, bond amount, and court dates. If no results appear, call (701) 523-3400. Have the person’s name and date of birth ready. The system updates daily, so information is current.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits—in-person and virtual—must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. Book online or call the jail. In-person visits are weekdays 9 AM–6 PM. Virtual visits are weekends and evenings. Arrive early with a valid ID. Follow dress code and security rules. Unscheduled visitors will be turned away.
What happens if bail is posted for an inmate?
Once bail is paid, the inmate completes release forms and leaves within hours. Payment can be cash, credit card, or through a bondsman. Contact the Booking Office at (701) 523-3221 to confirm the amount. After payment, staff process the release. The inmate must return for all court dates. Failure to appear can result in rearrest.
Are inmates allowed to receive care packages?
No. Inmates cannot receive care packages from outside. All personal items must be purchased through the commissary. This includes snacks, hygiene products, and clothing. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Sending unauthorized items violates jail policy and may lead to disciplinary action.
What rehabilitation programs are offered?
Programs include GED classes, vocational training in trades like carpentry and plumbing, and mental health counseling. Substance abuse treatment and anger management groups are available. These services aim to reduce repeat offenses and support successful reentry. Participation is encouraged but not mandatory.
How can I get a copy of an inmate’s mugshot?
Submit a written FOIA request to the Bowman County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s full name, booking date, and your contact information. There may be a small fee. Mugshots are public records in North Dakota. They remain online even if charges are dismissed. No automatic removal process exists.
Can inmates make international phone calls?
No. Inmates can only call approved U.S. numbers. International calls are blocked for security reasons. Family members abroad can set up a U.S. forwarding number or use email instead. All calls are monitored and limited to 15–20 minutes. Costs apply per minute.