You can support your loved ones at Flathead Co Jail on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 406-758-5585.
When someone you care about gets arrested, it can be overwhelming. This webpage aims to ease your concerns by providing information about Flathead County Detention Center. From visitation guidelines to contacting jail staff, we're here to support you as you navigate this challenging time. Take a look around and let us help you understand how to best support your family member or friend in custody.
The Flathead Co Jail, located at 920 S Main St in Kalispell, MT, is a secure detention center operated by the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. This facility primarily houses individuals awaiting trial or sentencing, typically for less than two years. It accepts inmates from various jurisdictions, including surrounding towns, municipalities, the US Marshal's Service, and the Kalispell Police Department.
New detainees are regularly admitted to the jail, with some being released on bail or placed under pretrial services caseloads. Others await their court appearances at the facility, receiving necessary accommodations such as bedding and meals. View all arrest records here.
Individuals who do not post bail within the first twenty-four hours are required to appear before a judge. During this first appearance, conducted either in person or via telephone, the judge informs the arrested person of the charges against them and sets the bond amount.
Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.
After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.
The jail is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.
The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.
Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.
Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.
The Detention Center is equipped to hold adult male and female persons. It was opened in October of 1987 with a holding capacity of 63. Our average daily inmate population in 2007 was 92. With the expansion in 2018 we currently have 154 beds. The majority of persons held in this facility are pre-trial, meaning they have been accused but not convicted of a criminal offense.Inmates have daily access to medical care.Due to HIPPA laws; medical issues of inmates are confidential and cannot be discussed with others.Commissary is offered two times a week; available items for order include hygiene items and food selections.Please note that cash money is the only thing accepted for inmates.
The adult detention facility is a division of the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The facility is operated twenty-four hours a day throughout the year. Detention Staff attends training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy on the latest techniques in offender management. All officers are CPR and First Aid qualified.
