Flathead County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Flathead County?

Inmate records in Flathead County are official government documents maintained by the Flathead County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county detention facilities. These records document an individual's custody status from initial booking through release and are distinct from court records maintained by the Montana Judicial Branch.

Pursuant to Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-103, inmate records are classified as "criminal justice information" and include documentation of an individual's interaction with the criminal justice system while in custody. The creation of these records begins during the booking process when an individual is first taken into custody at the Flathead County Detention Center. Information is systematically collected, including:

• Biographical and demographic data
• Photographs and fingerprints
• Criminal charges
• Court case information
• Custody classification
• Housing assignments
• Behavioral incidents
• Medical information
• Visitation records
• Release information

These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration and are maintained according to Montana's records retention schedules after the person's release. The Flathead County Detention Center is responsible for creating and maintaining these records in accordance with state law and departmental policies.

Are Inmate Records Public In Flathead County?

Inmate records in Flathead County are partially accessible to the public under Montana's public records laws. According to the Montana Constitution Article II, Section 9, citizens have the right to examine government documents except when the demand of individual privacy clearly exceeds the merits of public disclosure.

The Montana Criminal Justice Information Act § 44-5-301 further specifies which criminal justice information is public and which is confidential. Under current law, the following inmate information is publicly accessible:

• Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
• Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
• Booking date and time
• Charges filed
• Bond/bail amounts
• Court of jurisdiction
• Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
• Facility housing location (general)

However, certain information within inmate records remains confidential, including:

• Medical and mental health information
• Social Security numbers
• Detailed disciplinary records
• Victim information
• Information that would compromise facility security
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible jail roster that provides basic information about current inmates in accordance with these regulations.

What's Included Inmate Records in Flathead County

Inmate records in Flathead County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth and age
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Fingerprints
• Last known address

Custody Information:

• Booking date and time
• Arresting agency
• Custody classification
• Housing assignment
• Disciplinary incidents and sanctions
• Participation in jail programs
• Visitation records
• Phone call logs

Charge Information:

• Current charges (felony/misdemeanor designation)
• Warrant information
• Arresting agency
• Case numbers
• Prior booking history

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond/bail amount
• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond status (posted/not posted)
• Bond conditions

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned
• Court dates
• Court appearance records
• Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction charges
• Sentence length
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Probation/parole eligibility dates
• Special conditions of sentence

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Probation/parole information

These records are maintained in the Flathead County Detention Center's jail management system and are updated throughout an individual's incarceration in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-301.

Flathead County Prison System

The Flathead County correctional system operates under the authority of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office, which maintains local detention facilities for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system operated by the Montana Department of Corrections.

The Flathead County Detention Center serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice system:

• Housing pre-trial detainees who are awaiting court proceedings
• Incarcerating individuals sentenced to terms of up to one year
• Temporarily holding individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Housing state inmates under contract with the Montana Department of Corrections
• Detaining individuals for federal agencies under intergovernmental agreements

The primary detention facility in Flathead County is administered by:

Flathead County Sheriff's Office - Detention Center
920 South Main Street
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-5585
Flathead County Sheriff's Office

The Flathead County Detention Center operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and is staffed by trained detention officers who are responsible for the safety, security, and welfare of all inmates. The facility operates under standards established by the Montana Association of Counties and follows policies and procedures that comply with state and federal regulations governing detention facilities.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Flathead County

Flathead County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different inmate populations and security needs. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's detention system:

Flathead County Detention Center (Main Facility)
920 South Main Street
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-5585
Flathead County Detention Center

The main detention center is a secure facility designed to house adult male and female inmates of various classification levels. This facility includes:

• Maximum security housing units
• Medium security housing units
• Minimum security housing units
• Special management units for inmates requiring separation
• Medical observation cells
• Booking and intake processing area
• Visitation areas
• Administrative offices

Flathead County Juvenile Detention Center
1035 1st Avenue West
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-5720
Flathead County Juvenile Services

This separate facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) and provides:

• Secure detention for juveniles awaiting court proceedings
• Age-appropriate educational services
• Counseling and rehabilitation programs
• Separate housing from adult populations as required by federal law

Flathead County Work Release Center
920 South Main Street
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-5585

This minimum-security facility allows eligible inmates to:

• Maintain employment in the community while serving their sentence
• Return to secure detention during non-working hours
• Participate in community service programs
• Transition gradually back into the community

These facilities operate under the authority of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office and in accordance with Montana state laws governing detention facilities, including Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2201, which establishes the sheriff's authority to keep and maintain the county jail.

Who's in Prison In Flathead County

The Flathead County Detention Center houses several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
• Persons who could not post bail or were denied bail due to public safety concerns
• Those awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
• Individuals held on warrants from other jurisdictions

Sentenced Inmates:

• Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of up to one year
• Individuals convicted of felonies serving short sentences in county custody
• Those serving intermittent sentences (weekends only)
• Persons participating in work release programs while serving their sentences

Special Population Inmates:

• State inmates temporarily housed under contract with the Montana Department of Corrections
• Federal detainees held under intergovernmental agreements
• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Persons held on immigration detainers

Other Custody Categories:

• Individuals held for probation or parole violations
• Those serving sanctions for contempt of court
• Persons detained for mental health evaluations under court order
• Individuals in protective custody

The Flathead County Detention Center's daily population fluctuates but typically ranges between 80-100 inmates. Demographic information about the current inmate population is available through the Flathead County Jail Roster, which is updated regularly to reflect the current custody status of all individuals detained in county facilities.

According to Montana law, specifically Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2205, the sheriff is required to maintain records of all persons committed to the county jail, including the grounds for their commitment and release.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Flathead County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Flathead County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in place for conducting inmate record searches:

Online Jail Roster Search:

1. Visit the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Jail Roster website
2. No login or account creation is required for basic searches
3. Enter the inmate's name in the search field (last name, first name)
4. Review the results, which include current inmates only
5. Information displayed includes name, booking date, charges, and bond amount
6. The roster is updated regularly throughout each day

In-Person Record Requests:

1. Visit the Flathead County Sheriff's Office Records Division Flathead County Sheriff's Office
   920 South Main Street
   Kalispell, MT 59901
   Phone: (406) 758-5585
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
2. Complete a public records request form
3. Provide identification and specify the records being requested
4. Pay applicable fees for copies ($0.50 per page for standard copies)
5. Allow up to 10 business days for processing as permitted under Montana law

Written Record Requests:

1. Submit a written request to: Flathead County Sheriff's Office
   Records Division
   920 South Main Street
   Kalispell, MT 59901
2. Include the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
3. Specify the information being requested
4. Provide contact information for response
5. Include payment for applicable fees (call ahead for current fee schedule)

Montana Department of Corrections Offender Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:

1. Visit the Montana Correctional Offender Network
2. Enter the individual's name or DOC ID number
3. Review results for current location and custody status
4. Access additional information about state inmates

When requesting inmate records, be aware that certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-303, which protects confidential criminal justice information from public disclosure.

How To Find an Inmate in Flathead County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Flathead County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods that provide basic custody information to the public. The following resources are available to assist in finding an individual currently in custody:

Flathead County Jail Roster:

1. Access the Flathead County Sheriff's Office online jail roster
2. This free public service requires no registration or account creation
3. Search by entering the inmate's last name, first name
4. Results display current inmates only and include:
   • Full name
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Housing facility
5. The roster is updated multiple times daily

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Call the Flathead County Detention Center directly: Flathead County Detention Center
   Phone: (406) 758-5585
   Hours: 24 hours daily (non-emergency inquiries best during business hours)
2. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
3. Staff can confirm if an individual is in custody and provide basic information
4. Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate

Montana Statewide Resources: If the person may be in state custody rather than county jail:

1. Use the Montana Correctional Offender Network
2. This free database includes all adults under Department of Corrections supervision
3. Search by name or DOC ID number
4. Results show current location and custody status

Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE):

1. Visit VINE Link or call 1-800-456-3076
2. Register for free to receive custody status notifications
3. Search for inmates by name
4. Receive automated notifications about custody changes, releases, or transfers

When using these free resources, be aware that information is limited to what is considered public record under Montana law. More detailed information may require a formal records request and associated fees. All searches are subject to the provisions of Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-301 regarding public criminal justice information.

How To Visit an Inmate In Flathead County

Visitation with inmates at the Flathead County Detention Center is governed by specific policies designed to maintain facility security while allowing inmates to maintain community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visits must be scheduled in advance
• Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
• Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult
• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Visitors are subject to search prior to entering the visitation area
• Visitors with active warrants or criminal cases pending will be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• General public visits: Scheduled by housing unit
  • Maximum security: Tuesday and Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Medium security: Wednesday and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Minimum security: Thursday and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
• Inmates are allowed two visits per week

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
• Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
• Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)

What NOT to Bring:

• Cell phones or electronic devices
• Weapons of any kind
• Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20
• Medications (unless medically necessary and approved)

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire required
• No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or skirts above mid-thigh)
• No gang-related clothing or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• Shoes and shirts required
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)

Visit Types:

• Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy in designated rooms)
• Video visitation available for certain housing units
• Special visits may be approved by the facility administrator for exceptional circumstances

Visit Restrictions:

• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
• Persons on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
• Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit

For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:

Flathead County Detention Center
920 South Main Street
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-5585
Flathead County Detention Center

All visitation policies are established in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2225, which authorizes the sheriff to establish rules for the government of jails and the preservation of order.

How To Send Money to a Flathead County Inmate

Individuals in custody at the Flathead County Detention Center are permitted to maintain inmate accounts for purchasing commissary items and paying for services. The following methods are currently available for depositing funds into an inmate's account:

Online Deposits:

1. Visit Access Corrections
2. Create an account or log in
3. Select "Montana" and "Flathead County Detention Center"
4. Enter the inmate's name and ID number
5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
6. Processing fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
7. Funds are usually available within 24 hours

Kiosk Deposits:

1. Visit the lobby kiosk at the Flathead County Detention Center Flathead County Detention Center
   920 South Main Street
   Kalispell, MT 59901
   Lobby Hours: 24 hours daily
2. Follow the on-screen instructions
3. Insert cash or credit/debit card
4. Obtain and keep receipt
5. Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
6. Small service fee applies for credit/debit transactions

Money Order by Mail:

1. Purchase a money order payable to "Flathead County Detention Center"
2. Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
3. Do not send personal checks or cash
4. Mail to: Flathead County Detention Center
   Inmate Accounts
   920 South Main Street
   Kalispell, MT 59901
5. No processing fee
6. Allow 5-7 business days for processing

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
• Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Deposit Fees:

• Online deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
• Kiosk credit/debit card: $2.50 per transaction
• Money orders: No fee

What Money Can Be Used For:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Phone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Electronic messaging where available
• Restitution payments
• Court-ordered fines and fees

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

• Bail or bond payments (must be arranged separately)
• Purchasing items from outside vendors
• Transferring funds to other inmates
• Paying for special privileges

All inmate accounts are managed in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2245, which governs the handling of prisoner funds. Upon release, any remaining balance will be returned to the inmate via debit card or check.

How To Send Jail Mail In Flathead County

Correspondence with inmates at the Flathead County Detention Center is permitted but subject to specific guidelines to ensure facility security. The following rules apply to all mail sent to individuals in custody:

Regular Mail Guidelines:

1. Address all mail as follows: Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known) Flathead County Detention Center
   920 South Main Street
   Kalispell, MT 59901
2. Include a complete return address with sender's full name
3. All incoming mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service
4. Mail is processed Monday through Friday, excluding holidays
5. All mail is opened and inspected for contraband before delivery to inmates
6. Personal mail is limited to standard white envelopes and postcards

Permitted Items:

• Letters on plain white paper
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (subject to review)

Prohibited Items:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Colored paper or envelopes
• Plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Perfumed or scented items
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Polaroid photographs
• Cash or personal checks
• Stamps or envelopes
• Food items or clothing
• Any items containing biohazards or unknown substances

Legal Mail:

1. Clearly mark "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" on the envelope
2. Must be from a verifiable attorney, court, or legal agency
3. Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
4. Is not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening

Publications:

1. Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
2. Hardcover books are not accepted
3. Publications containing sexually explicit material, instructions for manufacturing weapons/drugs, or material that threatens security will be rejected
4. Limited to 3 books and 5 magazines in possession at any time

E-Communications (where available):

1. Register at Access Corrections
2. Purchase electronic "stamps"
3. Compose and send messages
4. Attach photos (subject to screening)
5. Fees apply for each message and attachment

All mail procedures are established in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 45-7-307, which addresses contraband in correctional facilities, and facility policies designed to maintain security while allowing inmates to maintain community connections.

Lookup Inmate Records in Flathead County

Jail Roster - Flathead County Sheriff's Office

Detention Center Information

Montana Offender Search Database

Montana Department of Corrections

Montana Judicial Branch Court Records