Council Bluffs Jail, Iowa: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Council Bluffs Jail, also known as the Pottawattamie County Jail, is a correctional facility located in Council Bluffs, Iowa. It serves as the primary detention center for Pottawattamie County, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates.
Contact Information
Address: 1400 Big Lake Road, Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Phone: (712) 890-2200
Website: https://www.pottcountysheriff.com/jail-information
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at the Council Bluffs Jail, you can:
- Use the online inmate search tool on the Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office website
- Call the jail directly at (712) 890-2200
- Visit the facility in person and inquire at the reception desk
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation at the Council Bluffs Jail is conducted through video visitation. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance. Visitation hours may vary, so it's best to check the current schedule by contacting the facility or visiting their website.
How to Send Money
Inmates can receive money through several methods:
- Online: Through the facility's approved third-party payment provider (check the jail's website for the current provider)
- Kiosk: Located in the jail lobby
- Mail: Send a money order to the inmate's name and ID number at the jail's address
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to telephones during designated hours. Calls are collect or through pre-paid accounts set up by family members. Video visitation is available and must be scheduled in advance.
Inmate Services and Programs
The Council Bluffs Jail offers various services and programs to inmates, which may include:
- Educational programs
- Substance abuse counseling
- Religious services
- Work release programs (for eligible inmates)
- Medical and mental health services
Security and Management Information
The Council Bluffs Jail is operated by the Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office. It employs trained correctional officers and follows standard security protocols for a county jail facility.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can meet with their attorneys during designated hours. All inmates are entitled to visitation, though the format (video or in-person) may vary based on current policies and the inmate's classification.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrival, inmates go through a booking process that includes fingerprinting, photographing, and a medical screening. Release procedures vary depending on the circumstances of release (e.g., posting bail, completion of sentence, or court order).
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to an inmate?
Inmates are generally not allowed to receive items directly from visitors. Most personal items must be purchased through the jail's commissary system.
How do I post bail for an inmate?
Bail can be posted at the jail facility 24/7. Acceptable forms of payment may include cash, cashier's check, or surety bond through a licensed bondsman.
Are there medical services available at the jail?
Yes, the Council Bluffs Jail provides basic medical services to inmates. For specialized care, inmates may be transported to external medical facilities under guard.
