Missoula County Jail is a secure correctional facility in Missoula, Montana, run by the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office. It holds people who are waiting for court or serving short sentences. The jail focuses on safety, care, and helping inmates prepare for life after release. Families, friends, and legal teams use the jail’s online tools and services to stay connected. This page gives clear, up-to-date details about how the jail works, how to find an inmate, visit, send money, and more.
Missoula County Jail Inmate Search and Roster
Finding someone at Missoula County Jail is fast and easy. The jail offers a free online inmate lookup tool. You can search by name or inmate ID. The roster shows current inmates, their charges, booking date, bond amount, and court dates. The list updates daily, so you see the latest info.
How to Use the Inmate Lookup Tool
Go to the official Missoula County Sheriff’s Office website. Click on “Inmate Roster” or “Inmate Search.” Type the person’s first and last name. You can also use their booking number if you have it. The system will show matching results. Click on a name to see full details.
What Information Is Available
The inmate search shows:
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Charges and case status
- Bond amount (if set)
- Next court date
- Housing location (general area)
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
If you don’t find a name, check the spelling. Try different name formats. If still no result, call the jail at (406) 258-4000.
Offline Search Options
You can also call the jail or visit in person. Bring a photo ID. Staff will help you find an inmate if you provide their full name and date of birth. The jail does not give out personal details over the phone unless you are on the inmate’s approved contact list.
Missoula County Jail Booking Process
When someone is arrested in Missoula County, they are taken to the jail for booking. This process takes 1 to 4 hours. It includes several steps to confirm identity, record charges, and assess health.
Steps in the Booking Process
First, the person is searched for weapons or contraband. Then, they are fingerprinted and photographed (mugshot). Their personal items are stored safely. Next, staff collect basic info: name, date of birth, address, and emergency contact.
A medical screening follows. Nurses check for injuries, mental health needs, or substance use. If needed, the person sees a doctor. Finally, they are assigned to a housing unit based on risk level and behavior.
Bail and Release
If bail is set, the person can pay it to leave jail before trial. Bail can be paid in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman. The jail accepts payments at the front desk or online. Once bail is paid, the person is released after paperwork is done.
If no bail is set or the person cannot pay, they stay in jail until their court date.
Missoula County Jail Visitation Rules and Hours
Visiting an inmate at Missoula County Jail helps keep strong family ties. The jail offers both in-person and video visits. All visits must be scheduled ahead of time.
In-Person Visits
Visits happen Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. You must sign up at least 24 hours in advance. Use the jail’s online system or call (406) 258-4000.
Visitors must show a valid photo ID. No children under 18 are allowed unless accompanied by an adult. Dress modestly. No shorts, tank tops, or clothing with gang signs or offensive words.
Video Visits
Video visits are available 7 days a week. They cost $12.50 for 20 minutes. You can do them from home using a computer or phone. Schedule through the jail’s approved vendor. The inmate must approve your visit request first.
What You Can Bring
Only bring your ID and car keys. No bags, phones, food, or drinks. All items are checked. If you bring prohibited items, you may be denied entry.
Missoula County Jail Commissary and Inmate Accounts
Inmates can buy snacks, hygiene items, and supplies from the jail commissary. They use money from their trust account. Family and friends can add money online, by phone, or at a kiosk.
How to Send Money
There are three ways to send money:
- Online: Use the jail’s payment partner. Fast and secure.
- Kiosk: Located in the jail lobby. Accepts cash, credit, or debit cards.
- Money order: Mail a money order to the jail. Write the inmate’s full name and ID on it. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Funds appear in the account within 1 hour for online and kiosk payments. Mail takes 3 to 5 days.
Commissary Items
Inmates can buy:
- Snacks: Chips, candy, coffee
- Hygiene: Toothpaste, soap, deodorant
- Supplies: Paper, envelopes, pens
- Clothing: Socks, undershirts (approved types only)
Orders are placed weekly. Items are delivered to the inmate’s unit.
Missoula County Jail Phone Calls and Mail
Inmates can call approved contacts. All calls are monitored and recorded. Calls last 15 minutes. Inmates pay for calls using their phone account.
Phone System
Family can add money to the inmate’s phone account online or at the kiosk. Calls cost about $0.21 per minute. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls.
Mail Guidelines
Inmates can send and receive letters. Mail must follow rules:
- Use plain white paper and standard envelopes
- No stickers, drawings, or Polaroid photos
- Books and magazines must come from approved vendors
- Address mail to: Inmate Name, Inmate ID, 2340 Mullan Road, Missoula, MT 59808
All mail is opened and checked. If it breaks the rules, it is returned or destroyed.
Missoula County Jail Inmate Programs and Services
The jail offers programs to help inmates stay healthy and prepare for life outside. These include education, job training, and counseling.
Education and GED
Inmates can earn a GED while in jail. Classes are free and held on-site. Teachers help with reading, math, and test prep. Getting a GED improves job chances after release.
Vocational Training
The jail partners with local groups to offer job skills training. Programs include:
- Carpentry and construction basics
- Plumbing and electrical safety
- Computer skills and typing
These skills help inmates find work and avoid returning to jail.
Mental Health and Substance Support
Counselors provide therapy for depression, anxiety, and addiction. Group sessions cover anger management and relapse prevention. Medical staff treat chronic conditions and give medications as needed.
Missoula County Jail Medical Care
All inmates get medical care. On arrival, they see a nurse for a health check. If they have a serious condition, they see a doctor. The jail has a clinic with basic equipment.
Inmates can request medical help at any time. Prescription drugs are given daily. Dental and eye care are available for urgent needs. Mental health staff are on call 24/7.
Missoula County Jail Inmate Rights
Inmates have rights protected by law. They include:
- Right to medical care
- Right to file grievances
- Right to religious practice
- Right to legal visits
- Right to be free from abuse
The jail has a grievance system. Inmates can report problems in writing. Staff must respond within 7 days.
Missoula County Jail Mugshots and Public Records
Mugshots are public records. Anyone can request them from the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office. Submit a request online or by mail. There may be a small fee.
If charges are dropped or the person is found not guilty, they can ask to have their mugshot removed from public websites. This process varies by state and may require a court order.
Missoula County Jail Contact Information
For questions or help, contact the jail directly:
- Address: 2340 Mullan Road, Missoula, MT 59808
- Phone: (406) 258-4000
- Website: https://www.missoulacounty.us/government/departments/jail
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM
For emergencies, call 911.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about inmate search, visits, and services. Below are clear answers to common questions.
How do I find out if someone is in Missoula County Jail?
Use the free online inmate search tool on the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office website. Type the person’s full name. The roster shows current inmates, charges, and booking dates. If you don’t find them, call (406) 258-4000. Have their full name and date of birth ready. The jail updates the list daily, so it’s usually accurate.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits need a reservation 24 hours before. Video visits also require approval. Walk-in visits are not allowed. This helps the jail manage space and security. Use the online system or call the jail to book.
How much does it cost to add money to an inmate’s account?
There is no fee to add money online or at the kiosk. However, third-party payment sites may charge a small service fee. Mail-in money orders have no fee but take longer. Funds are used for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Keep receipts for your records.
Are inmates allowed to have books or magazines?
Yes, but only if they come directly from approved publishers or bookstores. No used books or magazines from individuals. All items are checked for contraband. Popular titles are allowed, but content with violence or illegal activity may be rejected. Send books to the inmate’s full name and ID at the jail address.
What happens if an inmate needs urgent medical care?
Inmates can request medical help anytime. Nurses are on duty 24/7. For serious issues, they are taken to a local hospital. The jail works with Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. Families are notified if the inmate agrees. All care is documented and follows state health standards.
Can I send clothes to an inmate?
No. Inmates are given jail-issued clothing. Personal clothes are not allowed except for religious items approved in advance. This rule keeps the facility safe and fair. If an inmate needs something special, staff will review the request. Most requests are denied for security reasons.
How long does it take to get released after posting bail?
Once bail is paid, release takes 30 to 90 minutes. Staff must complete paperwork and return personal items. If the jail is busy, it may take longer. Weekend releases may be slower. Call the booking desk at (406) 258-4000 to check the status.