Yellowstone County Jail Roster gives you instant access to a live, searchable database of every person currently held at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility in Billings, Montana. Updated every four hours, the roster shows full names, booking numbers, dates of birth, charges, bond amounts, court dates, mugshots, arresting agencies, and transport status. The jail holds up to 174 inmates in medium-security housing and is located at 3165 King Avenue East, Billings, MT 59101. For fast help, call the sheriff’s office at (406) 256-2701 or use the official online search tool. This page explains how the roster works, what information it includes, how to visit or contact an inmate, and where to get support for billing, legal help, or victim services.
How to Search the Yellowstone County Jail Roster
The official Yellowstone County Jail Roster is free to use and updated multiple times each day. You can search by an inmate’s last name, booking date, or charge type. Results show key details like mugshots, fingerprint IDs, arrest times, and scheduled release dates. If someone posts bail, that change appears within hours. The system also notes if an inmate is awaiting transfer to another facility. For privacy and security, some sensitive data—like full addresses or medical records—is not shown. Always use the most recent booking number when calling or emailing about an inmate.
What Information Is Included on the Jail Roster?
Each entry on the Yellowstone County Jail Roster contains essential facts about the inmate and their case. This includes the person’s full legal name, date of birth, booking number, and the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. You’ll also see the specific charge(s), whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, the assigned bond amount, and the next court appearance date. Mugshots and fingerprint numbers are displayed when available. The roster notes if an inmate is eligible for work release, GED classes, vocational training, or substance abuse programs. It also shows pending transport orders if the person will be moved to state prison or federal custody.
Yellowstone County Detention Facility: Location and Operations
The Yellowstone County Detention Facility sits at 3165 King Avenue East in Billings, Montana. It opened in 1954 and serves as the main jail for adult offenders charged in Yellowstone County. The building has secure perimeter fencing, motion-sensor lighting, and a central control room that monitors all areas 24/7. With a capacity of about 174 beds, the jail houses both men and women in single cells and dormitory units based on risk level. Meals are prepared on-site by a certified nutritionist, and medical care is provided by licensed nurses. The facility follows Montana state laws and county policies for safety, health, and inmate rights.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility happens Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID and pass a brief security check. Only approved visitors may enter, and appointments are not required but recommended during busy times. Each inmate can have up to two visitors at once, and visits last about 30 minutes. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Food, drinks, phones, and bags are not allowed in the visitation area. For special circumstances—like out-of-state family—call (406) 256-6881 ahead of time to request accommodations.
Inmate Services: Education, Work Release, and Support Programs
Inmates at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility can take part in several programs designed to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. These include GED preparation classes, vocational training in areas like carpentry and welding, and substance abuse counseling. Eligible inmates may apply for work-release programs, allowing them to hold jobs in the community during the day and return to jail at night. The facility also offers access to a law library, religious services, and mental health support. Participation depends on behavior, charge type, and space availability. Program details are listed on the official roster next to each inmate’s name.
How to Contact an Inmate or Send Money
To send mail to an inmate, use this format: [Inmate’s Full Name], Booking Number, Yellowstone County Detention Facility, 3165 King Avenue East, Billings, MT 59101. Letters are reviewed for contraband but delivered promptly. Do not send cash—use money orders or the official inmate phone system for deposits. For phone calls, inmates can only receive collect calls or calls paid through their account. To add funds or check balances, call the billing hotline at 1-800-844-6591 and provide the booking number. This line does not connect directly to inmates—it’s for customer service only. All transactions are secure and tracked by the sheriff’s office.
Bail Bonds, Legal Help, and Victim Resources
The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office provides a directory of licensed bail bond agents, county attorneys, and victim notification services. If you need to post bail, contact a local bondsman listed on the official website. For legal representation, ask for the list of attorneys who handle criminal defense in Yellowstone County. Victims of crime can sign up for free alerts about an offender’s custody status through the victim-notification hotline. This service sends updates if an inmate is released, transferred, or has a court date change. All resources are available during business hours at (406) 256-2701.
Sex and Violent Offender Registry Access
Montana law requires public access to information about convicted sex and violent offenders. The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office maintains an online registry where you can search by last name (minimum three letters). Results show photos, conviction dates, parole eligibility, and any active restraining orders. This data is provided for public safety and may change without notice. Always verify details with the sheriff’s office if you have concerns. The registry is separate from the jail roster and includes people who have completed their sentences but remain registered under state law.
Difference Between Yellowstone County Jail and Billings City Jail
Billings City Jail, located at 220 North 27th Street, is a short-term holding facility run by the Billings Police Department. It holds people for less than 48 hours before arraignment or transfer to the Yellowstone County Detention Facility. In contrast, the county jail houses inmates longer-term—those awaiting trial, serving sentences under one year, or waiting for transfer to state prison. The city jail has about 60 beds and does not offer programs like GED or work release. Always check both rosters if you’re unsure where someone is held.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Yellowstone County Jail Roster
People often ask how often the roster updates, whether mugshots are public record, and how to find someone quickly. The roster refreshes every four hours, and mugshots are included unless restricted by court order. You can search by name, booking number, or charge. If the online system is down, call (406) 256-6881 for assistance. Other common questions involve visitation rules, sending money, and program eligibility—all covered in detail on this page and the official county site.
Official Resources and Contact Information
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always use official sources. The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office manages the jail roster, visitation, and inmate services. Their website includes the search portal, program details, and contact forms. General inquiries: (406) 256-2701. Inmate phone billing: 1-800-844-6591. Visitation and inmate status: (406) 256-6881. Email: [email protected]. Address: 3165 King Avenue East, Billings, MT 59101. Visiting hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Why the Yellowstone County Jail Roster Matters
The jail roster promotes transparency, helps families stay connected, and supports public safety. It allows citizens to verify an inmate’s status, understand charges, and plan visits or legal actions. For employers, landlords, or community members, it provides timely data on local arrests and releases. The system also reduces phone traffic to the sheriff’s office by offering self-service access. By updating every four hours, it ensures information is nearly real-time, minimizing confusion and misinformation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Roster
Don’t assume someone is still in custody just because their name appears—always check the release date. Avoid calling the main sheriff’s line for billing questions; use the toll-free number instead. Never send cash through the mail. Double-check spelling when searching names, as typos can hide results. If you can’t find someone, they may be in city jail, already released, or held under a different name. Always use the booking number for accuracy in all communications.
How Inmates Get Added to the Roster
When someone is arrested in Yellowstone County, they are taken to the detention facility for booking. This process includes fingerprinting, photographing, medical screening, and recording personal details. The arresting officer submits charge information, which is entered into the system within hours. Once booked, the person appears on the public roster with a unique booking number. If charges are dropped or the person is released before booking, they may not appear at all. All entries are verified by jail staff before publication.
Transportation and Transfer Procedures
Inmates may be transferred to state prisons, federal facilities, or other counties based on their sentence or charge severity. The roster notes “pending transport” when a move is scheduled. Transfers usually happen within 72 hours of a court order. Families are notified if possible, but timing depends on security and logistics. Once transferred, the inmate will no longer appear on the Yellowstone County roster. Contact the receiving facility for future updates.
Medical and Mental Health Care in the Jail
The Yellowstone County Detention Facility provides basic medical and mental health services on-site. Certified nurses conduct intake screenings and respond to emergencies. Serious cases are referred to local hospitals. Inmates can request medical attention at any time through staff. Mental health counselors visit regularly to support those with diagnosed conditions. All care follows Montana Department of Corrections standards. Prescription medications are managed securely and dispensed as prescribed.
Legal Rights of Inmates and Visitors
All inmates have the right to humane treatment, medical care, and access to legal resources. They can send and receive mail, practice their religion, and file grievances. Visitors have the right to be treated respectfully and to know visitation rules in advance. Discrimination based on race, gender, or religion is prohibited. Complaints can be submitted in writing to the sheriff’s office. The facility complies with the Montana Human Rights Act and federal jail standards.
Historical Data and Statistical Trends
While the current roster shows only active inmates, historical data reveals trends in arrests, charges, and demographics. Over the past five years, drug-related offenses and DUIs have been the most common charges. The average daily population hovers around 160 inmates. Peak booking times occur on weekends and holidays. This data helps the county plan staffing, programs, and facility needs. Public reports are published annually by the sheriff’s office.
How to Report Errors or Missing Information
If you spot a mistake on the roster—such as a wrong name, charge, or release date—contact the sheriff’s office immediately. Provide the booking number, your name, and a clear description of the error. Staff will investigate and correct it within one business day. Do not post corrections on social media or third-party sites, as this can spread misinformation. The official roster is the only authoritative source.
Third-Party Websites and Data Accuracy
Some websites republish Yellowstone County Jail Roster data, but they may not update as frequently as the official source. Always verify information on the county’s site before taking action. Third-party pages might include ads, outdated photos, or incorrect links. The sheriff’s office does not endorse or control these sites. For legal, employment, or safety decisions, rely only on official records.
Future Updates and Technology Improvements
The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office is exploring upgrades to the inmate search system, including mobile-friendly design and SMS alerts for court dates. Plans also include better integration with state databases for faster transfers and reduced errors. These changes aim to improve transparency and user experience while maintaining security. Updates will be announced on the official website and social media channels.
Summary of Key Facts
- The Yellowstone County Jail Roster updates every four hours.
- Search by name, booking number, or charge type.
- Mugshots, bond amounts, and court dates are included.
- Visitation is Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Call (406) 256-2701 for general questions or (406) 256-6881 for inmate status.
- Billing support: 1-800-844-6591.
- Programs include GED, work release, and substance abuse treatment.
- Official address: 3165 King Avenue East, Billings, MT 59101.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the Yellowstone County Jail Roster works, what it includes, and how to use it effectively. Below are detailed answers to the most common concerns, based on official policies and real user experiences.
How often is the Yellowstone County Jail Roster updated?
The roster is refreshed every four hours, seven days a week. This means new bookings, releases, and status changes appear quickly. Updates happen automatically through the jail’s internal system and are published online shortly after verification. If someone is arrested late at night, their information usually appears by the next morning. During holidays or system maintenance, updates may be delayed by a few hours. For the most accurate info, always check the official site rather than relying on screenshots or third-party pages. The timestamp at the top of the roster shows when it was last refreshed.
Can I find an inmate’s mugshot on the roster?
Yes, mugshots are included for most inmates unless a judge has ordered them sealed. Photos are taken during booking and uploaded within hours. They appear next to the inmate’s name and booking details. Mugshots help identify individuals and are considered public record in Montana. However, they should not be used to shame or harass anyone. If a photo seems outdated or incorrect, contact the sheriff’s office with the booking number. Never download or share mugshots for non-official purposes, as this may violate privacy laws.
What if I can’t find someone on the roster?
If a person isn’t listed, they may not have been booked yet, could be in city jail, or might have been released. Check the Billings City Jail roster for short-term holds. Also, confirm the spelling of the name and try searching with just the last name. If you still can’t find them, call (406) 256-6881 and provide as much info as possible—full name, date of birth, and approximate arrest time. Staff can check internal records not yet published online. Avoid guessing or using unverified sources.
How do I visit an inmate at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility?
Visits occur weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring a government-issued photo ID and arrive at least 15 minutes early. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate at a time, and visits last about 30 minutes. No phones, bags, food, or drinks are permitted in the visitation room. Children must be supervised by an adult. To confirm eligibility or request special arrangements—like for disabled visitors—call ahead. Appointments aren’t required, but calling (406) 256-6881 can reduce wait times during peak hours.
Can I send money to an inmate?
Yes, but not through regular mail. Use the inmate phone system’s billing line at 1-800-844-6591 to add funds to their account. You’ll need the inmate’s full name and booking number. Money orders can also be mailed to the facility address, clearly labeled with the inmate’s name and booking number. Cash is not accepted. Funds can be used for phone calls, commissary items, or medical co-pays. Balances are non-refundable if an inmate is transferred or released. Always keep your receipt for records.
Are work release and education programs available to all inmates?
No, participation depends on behavior, charge type, and space. Low-risk inmates with non-violent charges are eligible for work release, GED classes, and vocational training. Applications are reviewed by staff, and spots are limited. Inmates must follow all rules to stay in the program. Those with disciplinary issues may be removed. Program details are noted on the official roster. For more info, ask during visitation or call the sheriff’s office. These programs aim to reduce reoffending and support successful reentry into the community.
Where can victims get updates about an inmate’s status?
Victims of crime can register for free alerts through the victim-notification hotline provided by the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office. You’ll receive updates if the inmate is released, transferred, or has a court date change. Registration requires your contact info and the case number. This service is confidential and available 24/7. Call (406) 256-2701 during business hours to sign up. The system helps keep victims informed and safe without requiring them to monitor the roster manually.
Official Website: https://www.yellowstonecountymt.gov/sheriff/detention/inmatesearch.asp?sortk=bookdd&Ssearch=List&shersearch= Phone: (406) 256-2701 Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Address: 3165 King Avenue East, Billings, MT 59101