Discovering an arrest in Allegany County can be achieved through several methods. Which option will provide the most up-to-date information?
Understanding what's contained in jail booking records is crucial. But, what specific details are usually included, and how comprehensive is the data?
Note: The extent of available information may vary based on the state’s laws and the specific jail’s policies.
The timeliness of updates to jail records and inmate rosters is critical for accurate information. What is the usual update frequency, and how does it affect the availability of current data?
Most facilities only update their 'in custody' list every 24 hours, or even less so. While many jails have an automated systemn which updates every 15 minutes, it is always possible that those with a manual update system, may skip a day or two, especially over the weekends and holidays.
When up-to-date arrest information isn't available online, what steps can be taken to obtain the latest details on an inmate's status?
The best way to find out an inmate's status is to call 301-729-8540 and ask. You may run into a situation that you have to provide some personal information before the Allegany County Detention Center will speak to you about an inmate. Usually, it's nothing more than a date of birth or an age, but some jails are hesitant to provide any information about an inmate or their status, especially the ones that don't post rosters online.
Discovering the whereabouts of an inmate in Allegany County Detention Center or within Allegany County can be accomplished through multiple channels:
There are two ways of locating an inmate within the Maryland Department of Corrections who has been convicted, sentenced and moved to a state prison:
The Federal Bureau of Prisons offers tools to locate inmates incarcerated from 1982 to the present:
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement's detainee locator system offers a way to find foreign detainees aged 18 and older:
Additionally, if an individual is arrested for a state crime, it may still be possible to locate them in the county jail or state prison system where convicted.
Encountering difficulties when searching for an inmate in Allegany County could be due to several reasons:
If your search returns "no record found" for someone you know is in custody, consider the following possibilities:
Understanding the persistence of jail records online post-release:
Notifying an inmate of a family tragedy requires sensitivity and follows specific protocols:
The possibility of an inmate attending a family member's funeral depends on various factors:
Several factors determine whether an inmate is placed in a low or high-security unit in the Allegany County Detention Center:
Vinelink.com serves as a crucial resource for tracking the custody status and location of offenders and inmates nationally. It's designed to assist victims and witnesses of crimes by providing updates on offender movements, including transfers and releases. The service is widespread, covering 48 states and 2,900 correctional facilities.
How does Vinelink.com support those affected by crime?
Through its registration system, anyone can sign up to receive automated notifications about changes in an offender's status via email, text, or phone calls, enhancing safety and peace of mind. For an overview of Vinelink's origins and functionality, watch this informative video. Vinelink is designed for victims of an offender's crimes to track and be notified of their whereabots and especially, their release.
Accessing jail records from years past can often require direct communication with the local sheriff's department:
To inquire about older records, what details should you provide in a written request to the Allegany County Sheriff's office?
Information such as the inmate's name, any known aliases, their date of birth, the specific time period of incarceration, the offense they were charged with or convicted for, and any additional pertinent information can aid in the search.
Mail to:
Allegany County Sheriff's Department
Att. Allegany County Detention Center Inmate Records
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
Sealing a jail record, particularly an expungement, involves legal proceedings that requite a Maryland licensed attorney.
What is involved in sealing a jail record or expunging a criminal conviction from an a convicted person's record?
Not all crimes are eligible for sealing a jail record or expungement, highlighting the importance of consulting with a legal expert. Felonies are never expunged, except in the case where a person was convicted of possession of marijuan, which was a felony in some states, and no longer is. In fact, all simple marijuana possession convictions have now been expunged nationwide. In addition to felony convictions, there are some misdemeanor convictions, particular with violent misdemeanors or repeat offenders, in which it is near impossible to seal the jail records and/or expunge the conviction from someone. Anything to do with either of these require a Maryland licensed attorney experienced in expungements, pardons and the sealing of criminal records.
Visitation rights are guaranteed by federal law, which mandates that all jails provide the opportunity for offenders, whether pretrial or convicted, to have visits from friends and family. However, the specifics, such as duration and frequency of visits, vary by state and facility.
The specific rules that must be followed when visiting an inmate will be posted in the visitation area of the Allegany County Detention Center, but in general, these are the guidelines:
• Expect to have a background check done prior to being approved.
• When you arrive for your visit, expect to be searched, go through a metal detector or pass by a drug sniffing dog.
• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You must have a valid, government issued photo ID.
• Recently released inmates are either not allowed or must wait 6-12 months before being approved.
• Felons must get special permission to visit. It can take several weeks for this special approval.
• Children are allowed but must be with parent(s) or legal guardian. The child's birth certificate(s) or other legal proof is mandatory.
• If you have a baby with you, you will be allowed one diaper, a few wipes, one clear bottle, one teething ring, and a baby carrier.
• Parents must be in control of their children at all times.
• You and the other visitorts must stay seated at all times.
• You cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or your visit will be denied, and future visits may be suspended.
• No arguments, loud voices or fighting allowed. This is cause for immediate termination of the visit.
• No cell phones or any electronic equipment allowed in the building.
• No cigarettes, drugs, or lighters allowed are allowed in the building.
• No purses, handbags or backpacks are allowed in the building.
• No weapons are allowed on the grounds.
• Your photo ID and your car key will be the only things allowed on the visit.
Here are the types of clothing NOT allowed:
• Shorts
• Short skirts or dresses
• Long skirts or wrap around skirts
• Sleeveless clothing
• Low cut shirts or dresses.
• Underwire bras (metal detector issue)
• Skirts or dresses with slits.
• Sweats or leggings.
• Tank tops or wife beater shirts.
• Excess jewelry
• Hats or headbands
• See-through clothing
• Pajamas
• Sunglasses
• Wigs or toupees
• Uniforms or scrubs
• Heels over 1”
There are three primary types of visitation for inmates: video, in-person non-contact, and contact visitation.
How Much does Homewav Cost?
Allegany County Detention Center charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.
There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.
In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.
How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?
HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:
Monday – Friday
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST
Saturday – Sunday
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.
The issue of contraband, particularly drugs and tobacco being smuggled in through visits, has prompted many facilities to reconsider their visitation policies.
It is always possible that Allegany County Detention Center may eliminate in-person visits entirely at some point.
Similar to jails, prisons also allow inmate visitation but with their own set of rules and limits on visitation times.
Once sentenced to prison, an offender must once again list you as an approved visitor.
Given that visitation schedules can frequently change, verifying the current times directly with Allegany County Detention Center by calling 301-729-8540 is essential.
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
301-729-8540
ON SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE
| DAY | TIMES |
| MONDAY | 8:00AM - 3:45PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00AM - 3:45PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00AM - 3:45PM |
| THURSDAY | 8:00AM - 3:45PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00AM - 3:45PM |
| SATURDAY | No visitation |
| SUNDAY | No visitation |
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
301-729-8540
REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE
| DAY | TIMES |
| MONDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
| THURSDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
| SUNDAY | 8:00AM - 9:45PM |
Video visitation offers greater flexibility compared to in-person visits.
Remote video visitation is discussed in more detail further down the page, but there is much more flexibility with visitation schedules when you are using your own device from home.
Visit frequency varies significantly across jails, influenced by state policies and individual facility rules.
Visit durations can vary, often set by state law and the facility's policies. In-person visits are generally 30 minutes, while video visits range from 15 to 30 minutes. (see Allegany County Detention Center's schedule above.)
While video visits provide convenience, they come with associated fees. Usually the first visit each week or month is free or comes with a reduced price. After that video visits cost approximately $0.50 per minute.
What factors influence the number of visitors allowed during an inmate's visitation in jail or prison?
Typically, the number of visitors is restricted to three or four, with a maximum of two adults for in-person visits. For video visits from home, the number of participants is not limited.
While specific rules can vary, what are some common guidelines visitors should expect to follow?
The entire list of rules and guidelines are listed above, but in general they cover the following areas:
What clothing items are generally prohibited during jail or prison visitations to maintain a respectful and safe environment?
The entire list of dress codes are listed above, but in general they cover the following areas:
Considering the strict policies of jails and prisons, what are visitors allowed to bring to an inmate visit?
Other than inmate visitation in New York jails and visitation with trustees in some jails, there is never contact with inmates during visits.
Inmates and their visitors are either separated by plexiglass or are visiting via video.
All inmates are entitled to visitors, whether family or friends, with specific exceptions for perior inmates, convicted felons, vistors with 'no contact' orders, or juveniles in secure detention facilities.
Why is video visitation becoming a favored method for visiting inmates in jails and prisons?
Video visits can be conducted from various locations using a computer, tablet, or phone, offering convenience and time-saving benefits to visitors.
Video visitation has revolutionized how friends and family connect with inmates.
Which companies offer these services to correctional facilities?
Additionally, some facilities utilize video conferencing platforms like Microsoft Meeting and Zoom for remote visits.
Conjugal visits offer private, unmonitored time between an inmate and their spouse, sometimes including their children.
What is the purpose of these visits, and which states permit them?
Conjugal visits are meant to keep the family unit intacts, both the inmate and their spouse, as well as their children.
The following states allow conjugal visits but only in their state prisons. No jails in the US allow conjugal visits.
To qualify for a conjugal visit, participants must meet specific criteria, including marital status, good standing with the prison, and completion of preparatory courses.
What steps should you take if either an inmate's or a visitor's visitation privileges are suspended?
Appealing a suspension involves detailed correspondence with the facility's administration.
When drafting an appeal letter to the Jail Warden, County Sheriff, or Captain, what key details should be covered to ensure your appeal is considered?
Address your letter to Allegany County Detention Center at:
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
What are the policies for individuals with criminal records wishing to visit inmates, and how does this vary depending on the relationship with the inmate and previous incarcerations at Allegany County Detention Center?
If you have a criminal record and your child is incarcerated, you still might be granted visitation rights.
Despite the usual restrictions for individuals with criminal records, being the parent of an inmate will qualify you for special visitation permissions, unless you have been suspended from the jail for other reasons.
Who is permitted to visit juvenile inmates, and under what circumstances might siblings be allowed to visit?
Visitation rights for juveniles in custody are restricted to direct family members (parents and grandparents) and legal guardians, with potential allowances for sibling visits.
What are the guidelines for children visiting inmates, and what documentation is required to prove their relationship?
Children are generally allowed to visit inmates, provided they are accompanied by an adult with legal proof of their relationship, such as a birth certificate.
The specific visitation policies above address concerns regarding distractions and the needs of children during visits.
If unsure about the status of your criminal record, where can you conduct a comprehensive and cost-effective background check?
For individuals uncertain about their criminal record or those facing discrepancies in background checks, privaterecords.net offers a solution for verifying your criminal history.
Check your criminal recordVideo visitation offers numerous benefits over traditional in-person visits, such as:
From the visitor's perspective, video visitation expands the possibilities of connecting with inmates from virtually anywhere, enhancing the sense of inclusion for the inmate.
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639
Video visits can be easily conducted using modern technology:
Inmates at Allegany County Detention Center have several options for calling out, including collect calls, prepaid calling cards from the commissary, or credits purchased by external parties.
Being listed on the inmate's approved contact list is essential for receiving calls.
Directly initiating calls to inmates at Allegany County Detention Center is not an option. For inquiries about an inmate's status or to arrange for incoming calls, please call 301-729-8540.
Inmates may be allowed a limited number of free calls immediately after arrest, with subsequent calls potentially being collect, subject to the receiver's ability to accept them.
Leaving messages directly for inmates at most facilities is uncommon, with exceptions typically made for emergencies.
Some inmate phone systems may offer a voicemail service for a fee.
To confirm if Allegany County Detention Center supports this, please refer to the service provider's information or contact the facility directly by calling 301-729-8540.
What service do friends and family members of Allegany County Detention Center inmates register with for phone use?
Friends and Family of inmates in this facility can use HomeWAV Video services for voice calls with inmates.
To accept a collect call from an inmate, you must respond affirmatively after an automated message.
Check with your phone service to make sure you are set up to receive collect calls. Most cell companies do not allow collect calls.
If unwanted calls persist, requesting a block from your service provider is possible.
Federal regulations cap inmate call rates, but costs can vary based on the method (collect, prepaid, or credit).
Federal law caps the direct jail inmate call rate at $0.21 per minute and slightly hogher for international calls. Collect calls are capped at $0.25 per minute.
Third-party providers may offer competitive rates, though it's wise to be cautious of hidden fees.
If you happen to be in jail in New York City or San Francisco, inmate to family (and friends) calls are free.
Typically, inmates have access to phone services following breakfast until lights out, with restrictions during meals, counts, and shift changes.
Specific schedules may apply to working inmates or those with other duties.
Several companies offer phone services to correctional facilities, with services and rates regulated to ensure fairness.
Details on the current provider for Allegany County Detention Center can be found by calling the facility at 301-729-8540 or checking the provided information below.
Here is a list of other inmate phone services. While only the system above will work with Allegany County Detention Center inmates and families at the moment, they may change their service in the future.
Video calls and possibly messaging services provide additional ways to maintain contact, subject to the facility's policies and available technology.
For specific services and setup, refer to Allegany County Detention Center's Visitation and Emailing polices by hitting the UP ARROW at the bottom right of the screen, and clicking on the appropriate link in the Table of Contents at the top of the page.
Ensuring you're approved for communication and understanding the facility's policies are crucial steps.
For assistance with setup or troubleshooting, contact the service provider or Allegany County Detention Center directly by calling 301-729-8540.
Inmates are legally allowed to receive mail through the USPS, which includes letters, postcards, greeting cards, and digital letters.
Due to security concerns, many facilities only allow white, pre-stamped postacards like the type you can buy at the Post office, or now scan and digitize mail by either reprinting the mail or sending it to the inmates via kiosks or tablets.
This process aims to prevent contraband, like drugs soaked into paper, from entering the facility.
For Allegany County Detention Center, mail policies may include restrictions on the type of mail accepted.
Traditional mail may be scanned and delivered digitally. Specific guidelines around ink color, envelope and paper type are set to ensure security.
For detailed policies, it's recommended to check directly with the facility or call 301-729-8540.
To send mail to an inmate, and if you want them to actually receive it, follow these guidelines.
Postcards
The Allegany County Detention Center allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. They may also allow certain photo postcards as long as they have not been tampered with or contain images that may be considered to be obscene or violent in nature. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address.
Envelopes
The Allegany County Detention Center also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. It is best to only use blue or black ink.
Postcards and envelopes MUST HAVE the sender's full name and return address on the envelope.
Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Allegany County Detention Center - MD - #5261
PO Box 18247
Greensboro, NC 27419
Legal Mail
Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Allegany County Detention Center
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
Newspapers
Local or national newspapers may also be mailed to the inmate as long as they are mailed directly from the newspaper publisher.
Magazines
News, special interest or sports magazines may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher. Any magazines that contain profanity, weapons, pornography or other content that is adult in nature will be confiscated by the jail staff and will NOT be delivered to the inmate.
Books
The Allegany County Detention Center allows books to be mailed directly to the jail from a reputable source such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. You can order them directly from your computer and have them shipped to the inmate at the address below.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Allegany County Detention Center standards will be disposed of. No more than three books may be shipped at any one time.
Hard cover books will not be accepted by the jail due to their potential to be used as a weapon.
All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Allegany County Detention Center
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
Most jails several different addresses for the physical jail address, personal and legal mail addresses for inmates, and addresses for administrative and commissary purposes.
For personal inmate mail at Allegany County Detention Center use:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Allegany County Detention Center - MD - #5261
PO Box 18247
Greensboro, NC 27419
or
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502,
depending on the latest guidelines provided by the facility.
When sending a letter to an inmate, include a full return address including your name.
Address the inmate’s full booking name, ID#, and housing location if known.
Addressing must follow the specific format provided by Allegany County Detention Center noted above to ensure delivery. Incomplete or incorrect addressing may result in undelivered mail.
Undelivered mail might be returned, destroyed, or in cases involving illegal substances, turned over to legal authorities.
Always ensure compliance with mail policies to avoid delivery issues.
Many jails allow inmates to receive newspapers, magazines, and books directly from publishers or trusted sources like Amazon.
Restrictions on quantity and content apply, and certain binding types such as hardcover books and metal spiral bindings will be prohibited.
Check with Allegany County Detention Center by calling 301-729-8540 for specific mailing addresses and guidelines.
Typically, inmates can receive letters, computer printouts, and photos within specified guidelines.
Contraband or prohibited items will result in mail being returned or destroyed.
Some facilities offer digital alternatives or third-party services for sending approved care packages.
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639
Yes. This facility has an agreement with Jail ATM, whereby loved ones can send money, snacks, hygiene and gifts to inmates.
Inmates at Allegany County Detention Center can receive approved gift items only through contracted commissary companies.
Unauthorized items sent directly will not be delivered.
Check the facility’s guidelines by calling 301-729-8540 or the Commissary section below for information on approved vendors.
Sending illegal or contraband items can lead to prosecution for senders and disciplinary action for inmates.
Facilities screen all mail for such violations to maintain security and safety within the institution.
Inmates can buy stamps through the commissary with funds from their accounts.
Indigent inmates may receive a limited number of stamps and supplies from the facility to maintain communication with the outside world.
Allegany County Detention Center accepts inmate money through specific channels which can include money orders, cashier’s checks, and electronic deposits via approved third-party vendors.
Direct cash deposits can be made in the lobby kiosk, but personal checks are never allowed.
Yes. This facility has an agreement with Jail ATM, whereby loved ones can send money, snacks, hygiene and gifts to inmates.
Several companies specialize in handling financial transactions for inmates, charging a service fee. These companies offer convenient ways to send money online, by phone, or even through kiosks in various locations.
Access Corrections, Inmate Canteen and JPay are among the numerous services partnering with correctional facilities. The following are all of the thirsd party companies used for accepting inmate deposits by facilities across America.
To mail money to an inmate, a postal money order or cashier’s check from a local bank made out to the inmate, or if the facility, write inmate’s name and ID# on the memo line is needed.
For specifics, always call the Allegany County Detention Center at 301-729-8540 to ask their current requirements.
This should be mailed in a separate envelope, not included with other items like letters or photos.
Yes, most facilities partner with digital services to accept funds online for inmates' accounts.
These platforms provide a convenient way to transfer money directly into an inmate's commissary or phone account.
Yes. This facility has an agreement with Jail ATM, whereby loved ones can send money, snacks, hygiene and gifts to inmates.
The Bureau of Prisons offers multiple ways to send money to federal inmates, including online transfers, ensuring that funds are securely deposited into the inmate's account.
There are three ways to deposit money in an inmate's account in the Federal Bureau of Prisons:
In order to do any of these you need to know the exact name the inmate is incarcerated under, and their Inmate ID# (aka Register Number)
If you can't find the inmate and Register Number online, use the online contact form to request help.
1. The Bureau of Prisons and Moneygram
You can send an inmate funds electronically using MoneyGram's ExpressPayment Program.
You can send money either online or at a Moneygram location.
- Funds are received and processed seven days per week, including holidays.
- Funds sent between 7:00AM - 9:00PM EST are posted within 2 to 4 hours.
- Funds sent after 9:00PM EST are posted at 7:00AM EST the following morning.
- If you have any questions you may contact BOP staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00AM and 4:30PM EST.
NOTE: Do not send money until the inmate has actually arrived to the facility he has been assigned. At that point you can locate their location online.
Please visit https://www.moneygram.com/mgo/us/en/paybills, and enter the receive code 7932 or Federal Bureau of Prisons.
First time users will have to set up a profile and account.
A MasterCard or Visa credit card is required.
The maximum you can send is $300 at a time.
Locate the nearest agent by calling 800-926-9400 or finding a location online.
You'll need to complete a MoneyGram ExpressPayment Blue Form.
You can pay with cash or credit/debit Mastercard or Visa.
2. The Bureau of Prisons and Western Union.
You need to know these codes.
Codes:
Code City: FBOP, DC
State: DC
Senders Account #: Inmate's eight-digit register number with no spaces or dashes, followed immediately by the inmate's last name (example: 12345678DOE)
Attention: Inmate's full committed name
Sending a Western Union payment from a location
Western Union Facilities
Deposit funds in-person at Western Union.
Codes:
Code City: FBOP, DC
State: DC
Senders Account #: Inmate's eight-digit register number with no spaces or dashes, followed immediately by the inmate's last name (example: 12345678DOE)
Attention: Inmate's full committed name
If you have any questions you may contact BOP staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00AM and 4:30PM EST.
3. The Bureau of Prisons and Mailing a Payment
- First, you need to know the exact spelling of the inmate's name and inmates ID #
NOTE: Do not send money until the inmate has actually arrived to the facility he has been assigned. At that point you can locate their location online.
When sending an inmate money by mail, the Allegany County Detention Center will only accept:
**Important Notes**
- Obtain a money order and include both the inmate's:
- Full committed name AND complete eight-digit register number on the money order.
- Non-postal money orders and non-government checks will be placed on a 15-day hold.
- If you have any questions you may contact BOP staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00AM and 4:30PM EST.
Make sure your full name and return address is on the envelope.
Address the Money Order to:
Federal Bureau of Prisons
Insert Valid Committed Inmate Name
Insert Inmate Eight-Digit Register Number
Post Office Box 474701
Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
Inmate funds, or trust accounts, allow inmates to purchase commissary items, phone time, and other permitted goods and services, contributing to their hygiene, comfort, welfare and communication needs.
Spending limits for inmates vary, with typical caps on monthly expenditures for commissary purchases and communication services. Limits ensure fair access to goods while managing facility security and inmate welfare.
In general $300 a month is allowed for commissary and a similar amount allowed for communication needs, however typically communication has no monthly limit.
Facilities usually cap the amount of money that can be sent to an inmate at once to maintain financial control and security within the institution.
If money is being sent online, $200 is the maximum at one time. If you are sending a money or cashier's check, the limit is usually $100.
While not illegal, cash is considered contraband within facilities and is confiscated to prevent unmonitored transactions and maintain security.
Inmates often use items like stamps, food, or commissary goods as currency for trades or gambling, showcasing the creativity and adaptability of the inmate population in managing their economy.
In addition to food items, inmates can buy hygiene products, clothing, stationary supplies, religious items, electronics, and educational materials, enhancing their quality of life while incarcerated.
Commissary, also known as Canteen, serves as the 'store' within a jail or prison where inmates can purchase items they want or need to alleviate the hardships of incarceration.
These items range from snacks and comfort foods to electronics and art supplies, depending on the facility's offerings.
While some institutions manage their commissaries internally, others outsource to specialized companies, enabling purchases via online platforms, kiosks, or tablets within the Allegany County Detention Center.
Yes. This facility has an agreement with Jail ATM, whereby loved ones can send money, snacks, hygiene and gifts to inmates.
Inmates have the option to purchase a wide array of items, categorized as follows:
Inmates typically have a spending cap of about $300 per month in jails, reflecting the temporary nature of their stay.
However, money for phones, messaging and tablet rentals when available, are considered a separate expense cartegory and inmates have the option of spending more for these services.
Prisons, serving as a more permanent residence, may permit a slightly higher monthly expenditure, acknowledging the extended duration inmates spend within their facilities.
There are usually up to four options for putting money on an inmate's books:
Option 1 - Dropping Money at the Jail
Bring money to the jail in person.
Either the jail personnel will process the Inmate Account payment (if it's a money order) or you will use a self-serve kiosk in the lobbies that accepts cash, debit or credit cards.
Option 2 - Deposit Inmate Money Online
Allegany County Detention Center and others often use a private company to process all online deposits to an inmate's account.
The company charges you a small fee for doing so, but the fee probably isn't as much as gas and parking would cost to take it to the jail in person.
Option 3 - Mail the Inmate Deposit to the Jail
Mailing a deposit takes more time to process than the other methods but can be done if you live too far away to bring it in person and you don't have a debit/credit card for online deposits. Never send cash. Always send a Money Order from the US Post Office, a reputable bank or Western Union.
Make the Money Order out to the inmate's name and put their Inmate ID# in memo section of the Money Order.
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Allegany County Detention Center
14300 McMullen Highway, S.W.
Cresaptown, MD 21502
or
Inmate's Full Name & ID#
Option 4 - Make an Inmate Deposit over the Phone by calling the third party service's phone number. You cannot do this be calling the jail.
These systems facilitate the transfer of funds into an inmate’s trust account, enabling them to make commissary purchases and use communication services.
Commissary items are priced comparably to goods found at a local Walmart store, ensuring affordability and fairness.
This pricing strategy helps maintain access to necessities and comforts for inmates without imposing excessive financial burdens on them or their supporting family members.
A commissary deposit refers to the process of adding funds to an inmate's trust account from an external source.
These funds are then available for the inmate to spend on commissary items and communication services, facilitating a level of financial autonomy and access to personal care products and services.
The balance limit for an inmate’s commissary account typically stands at around $300.
This cap is designed to manage financial resources effectively while ensuring all inmates have fair access to the commissary's offerings.
Yes. This facility has an agreement with Jail ATM, whereby loved ones can send money, snacks, hygiene and gifts to inmates.
An inmate carepack comprises a curated selection of snacks and personal hygiene products that loved ones can purchase on behalf of inmates.
This thoughtful gesture allows friends and family to provide tangible support by enhancing the daily living conditions of their incarcerated loved ones.
To facilitate this process, the company offering the carepack service must have an established agreement with the correctional facility, ensuring the items meet the institution's security and policy standards before they can be delivered to the inmate.
Companies that offer these services collaborate extensively with correctional facilities across the United States, adhering to specific regulations and guidelines to ensure the safe and secure delivery of carepacks to inmates.
While the commissary provides a wide array of basic supplies, including food and personal care items, its offerings in terms of gifts are somewhat limited.
The primary gift option available to inmates is the purchase of greeting cards.
Inmates can select these cards to write personal messages and send them to friends, family members, or loved ones outside the prison.
This means of communication allows inmates to maintain connections and share sentiments with their social circles despite the physical barriers of incarceration.
Correctional facilities have increasingly embraced advanced communication systems, enabling inmates to connect with external contacts through a specialized electronic messaging platform.
This system, distinct from conventional email or texting, utilizes unique account numbers for communication, rather than personal email addresses or phone numbers.
A third-party provider acts as an intermediary for all messages, ensuring compliance with institutional regulations.
Following an approval process similar to that for visitation, friends and family can establish an account, funded via credit or debit card, to initiate messaging.
Messages, typically restricted in length to about one page of text, are screened for prohibited content before delivery to the recipient.
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639
Yes, Allegany County Detention Center provides Homewav ComPAS™ (Portable Access System) tablets for their inmates.
Questions: Call 314-764-2872
The electronic messaging service offers a cost-effective way to maintain communication, with charges ranging from $0.50 to $1.00 per message, approximately 500 characters in length. This fee facilitates the secure exchange of written correspondence between inmates and their contacts.
While inmates themselves cannot send photos due to security protocols, their external contacts may share images via the messaging system, subject to an additional fee and a stringent security review process to screen for inappropriate content.
Yes, video sharing is possible within the framework of many correctional facility messaging systems. Similar to photos, videos are subject to content review and must adhere to strict guidelines regarding length and appropriateness.
However, inmates do not have the capability to send videos in return.
Inmates access messaging services via kiosks located within their units or through personal tablets, which are designed to withstand the rigors of institutional use.
These devices enable private and secure access to messages, photos, and videos, enhancing the communication experience.
A variety of companies across the United States offer specialized messaging services for inmates, facilitating electronic communication with friends and family.
These providers ensure compliance with facility regulations while offering secure platforms for exchanging messages, photos, and videos.
Messaging accounts are typically funded through credit or debit cards, with most services accepting major card providers.
This allows for convenient and immediate funding of the account, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Inmates can send and receive an unlimited number of messages, subject to facility rules regarding timing and device access.
Those with personal tablets may message at any time, while others must adhere to the scheduled availability of shared kiosks.
Direct communication between inmates, either within the same facility or across different institutions, is prohibited to maintain security and order.
To determine if Allegany County Detention Center currently offers a tablet program for inmates, refer to the provided information at the top of this page.
If no details are available, it may indicate a recent change in providers or that the service is not yet available.
For confirmation and the most up-to-date information, calling the facility at 301-729-8540 is recommended.
Yes, Allegany County Detention Center provides Homewav ComPAS™ (Portable Access System) tablets for their inmates.
Questions: Call 314-764-2872
Inmates utilize tablets for a multitude of purposes, enhancing their ability to stay connected, entertained, and informed.
Key services include video visitation, phone calls, and a form of electronic messaging that simulates texting and email.
Additionally, tablets offer entertainment options like movies, music, and e-books, alongside educational content and legal resources.
These tools provide invaluable opportunities for personal development and maintaining connections with the outside world.
No, inmate tablets do not have internet access. All content, including messages and visitation, is delivered through a controlled system managed by the service provider and the facility.
This ensures content is appropriate and complies with jail policies, safeguarding both inmates and external communications.
While accessing certain features on tablets is free, such as the basic device usage provided by the facility, services like video visits and electronic messaging may incur fees.
These costs are typically covered by the inmate’s family and friends, enabling communication and support during incarceration.
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639
The provision of tablets in jails and prisons is grounded in the belief that engaging inmates in constructive activities contributes to a safer environment for both inmates and staff.
Tablets also serve as an effective behavioral management tool, incentivizing good conduct through the privilege of tablet access.
This strategy not only aids in maintaining order but also supports the well-being and rehabilitation of inmates.
A range of companies specialize in supplying tablet technology to correctional facilities, facilitating various forms of communication and access to educational and entertainment content.
Some notable providers include CIDNET, City Tele Coin, Gettingout, GTL, and others, each offering distinct features and services tailored to the needs of correctional environments.
In the event of a tablet being damaged by an inmate, they are held financially responsible for its replacement.
The cost is deducted from their commissary account, which not only penalizes the inmate by removing their tablet access but also impacts their ability to purchase additional commissary items, reinforcing the importance of responsible device usage.
