Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) is a maximum-security jail located in downtown Portland, Oregon. It primarily houses pretrial detainees and serves as the main booking facility for Multnomah County.
Contact Information
Address: 1120 SW 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
Phone: (503) 988-3689
Website: https://www.mcso.us/site/detention.php
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate, use the online Inmate Lookup tool on the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office website: https://www.mcso.us/PAID/
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation at MCDC is conducted through video visitation. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance through the online scheduling system: https://www.securustech.net/video-visits
Visitation hours vary by housing unit and are subject to change. Check the scheduling system for current availability.
How to Send Money
Money can be added to an inmate's account through the following methods:
- Online: TouchPay Direct
- Kiosk: Located in the MCDC lobby
- Phone: Call 1-866-232-1899
- Mail: Send a money order to Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, Inmate Accounts, 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 350, Portland, OR 97214
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use pre-paid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through GTL.
Video visitation is available through the Securus system mentioned in the visitation section.
Inmate Services and Programs
MCDC offers various services and programs, including:
- Medical and mental health services
- Educational programs
- Religious services
- Library services
- Substance abuse treatment
History of the Facility
The Multnomah County Detention Center was opened in 1983 to replace the aging Rocky Butte Jail. It was designed to improve safety and efficiency in inmate management.
Security and Management Information
MCDC is a maximum-security facility operated by the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office. It utilizes modern surveillance technology and follows strict security protocols to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. These visits are separate from regular visitation and are not subject to the same scheduling restrictions.
Booking and Release Process
Booking at MCDC involves fingerprinting, photographing, and collecting personal information. The release process typically occurs after posting bail, completing a sentence, or by court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items are inmates allowed to have?
Inmates are provided with basic necessities. Personal items are limited and must be approved by facility staff. Approved items may include certain types of correspondence, legal papers, and religious materials.
How often can inmates shower?
Inmates typically have access to showers daily, but the exact frequency may vary depending on the housing unit and facility schedule.
Are inmates allowed to receive mail?
Yes, inmates can receive mail. All incoming mail is screened for security purposes. Certain restrictions apply to the content and type of mail that can be received.
Famous Prisoners
While MCDC primarily houses pretrial detainees and short-term inmates, some notable individuals who have been temporarily held at the facility include:
- Tonya Harding - Former figure skater, held in 2000 for allegedly assaulting her boyfriend
- Tre Arrow - Environmental activist, held in 2004 on arson charges
- James Chasse - His death in custody in 2006 led to significant reforms in the treatment of mentally ill inmates
- Mohamed Mohamud - Held in 2010 for attempting to bomb a Christmas tree lighting ceremony
- Jeremy Christian - Held in 2017 for a fatal stabbing on a Portland MAX train
