Yellowstone County Public Records /Yellowstone County Inmate Search

Yellowstone County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Yellowstone County?

Inmate records in Yellowstone County are official government documents maintained by the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office and detention facilities that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested and detained within the county's correctional system. These records constitute the official documentation of an individual's incarceration history from initial booking through release.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions maintained by the Montana Judicial Branch, inmate records specifically track custody status and are maintained by law enforcement and correctional agencies. Pursuant to Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-103, these records are classified as "criminal justice information" and are subject to specific regulations regarding their creation, maintenance, and public accessibility.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, when an individual is first taken into custody at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility. During this intake procedure, detention staff collect and document:

Biographical information
Photographs (mugshots)
Fingerprints
Personal property inventory
Medical screening information
Initial charge information
Booking date and time

These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to document housing assignments, disciplinary actions, court appearances, and other significant events. Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains part of the permanent record maintained by the Sheriff's Office.

Are Inmate Records Public In Yellowstone County?

Inmate records in Yellowstone County are partially accessible to the public under Montana's public records laws. According to the Montana Constitution Article II, Section 9, "No person shall be deprived of the right to examine documents or to observe the deliberations of all public bodies or agencies of state government and its subdivisions, except in cases in which the demand of individual privacy clearly exceeds the merits of public disclosure."

The Montana Criminal Justice Information Act of 1979 further defines what criminal justice information is public. Under Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-103(13), certain inmate information is classified as "public criminal justice information" and is available for public inspection.

Information that is publicly accessible includes:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Inmate name and age
Booking date and time
Charges filed
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Current housing facility

However, certain elements of inmate records are considered confidential and not available to the public, including:

Medical and mental health information
Social Security numbers
Detailed personal information that would constitute an invasion of privacy
Information that could compromise facility security
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)

The Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal where members of the public may access basic information about currently incarcerated individuals.

What's Included Inmate Records in Yellowstone County

Inmate records in Yellowstone County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking
Arresting agency
Booking officer
Current custody status
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
Disciplinary records during incarceration
Visitor logs

Charge Information:

Current charges
Warrant information
Case numbers
Arresting agency
Jurisdiction of charges

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, not posted)
Bond conditions
Court-ordered holds or detainers

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Judge assigned
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction charges
Sentence length
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Good time/earned time calculations
Probation/parole eligibility dates

Release Information:

Release date and time
Type of release (bail, time served, transfer)
Release conditions
Probation/parole requirements

The Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2203, which establishes the duties of the sheriff regarding jail records and prisoner custody.

Yellowstone County Prison System

The Yellowstone County correctional system operates under the authority of the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county detention facilities. It is important to note that Yellowstone County operates local detention facilities for pre-trial detention and sentences up to one year, while the Montana Department of Corrections manages state prisons for individuals serving longer sentences.

The primary detention facility in Yellowstone County is the Yellowstone County Detention Facility, which houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. This facility is designed to accommodate individuals who:

Are awaiting trial or court proceedings
Have been sentenced to serve time for misdemeanor offenses (typically up to one year)
Are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after sentencing
Are being held on probation or parole violations
Are detained on behalf of other jurisdictions or agencies

The distinction between county detention facilities and state prisons is significant. County facilities primarily house individuals for shorter periods and focus on local offenses, while state prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences and provide more extensive rehabilitation programming.

Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office
2323 2nd Avenue North
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 256-2929
Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains oversight of all detention operations in accordance with Montana state law and local ordinances, ensuring the safe and secure custody of all individuals remanded to county custody by the courts.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Yellowstone County

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

Yellowstone County Detention Facility
3165 King Avenue East
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 256-6881
Yellowstone County Detention Facility

The Yellowstone County Detention Facility is the primary correctional institution in the county, with a capacity of approximately 500 inmates. This facility houses both male and female inmates across various security classifications. The facility includes:

Maximum security housing units
Medium security housing units
Minimum security housing units
Special management units for inmates requiring protective custody or disciplinary segregation
Medical housing for inmates with health concerns
Booking and intake processing center

Yellowstone County Work Release Center
3165 King Avenue East
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 256-6881
Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office

The Work Release Center is a minimum-security facility that allows qualifying inmates to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants in this program:

Leave the facility during approved hours for employment
Return to custody during non-working hours
Pay room and board from their earnings
May contribute to family support and victim restitution

Yellowstone County Pre-Release Center
1019 North 27th Street
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 248-9174
Alternatives, Inc.

While not directly operated by the county, this facility works in partnership with the county and state corrections systems. The Pre-Release Center is operated by Alternatives, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides:

Transitional housing for inmates nearing release
Life skills programming
Employment assistance
Substance abuse treatment
Community reintegration services

These facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Montana Board of Crime Control and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations for detention facilities.

Who's in Prison In Yellowstone County

The Yellowstone County detention facilities house a diverse population 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. These individuals are presumed innocent under the law and are either awaiting trial or unable to post the required bail. Pre-trial detainees constitute approximately 60-70% of the county jail population at any given time.

Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses and sentenced to serve time in the county jail. In Montana, misdemeanor sentences can range up to one year of incarceration. Common misdemeanor offenses include:

Driving under the influence (DUI)
Simple assault
Petty theft
Trespassing
Disorderly conduct

Short-term Felony Offenders: Some individuals convicted of certain felonies may serve portions of their sentences in the county jail rather than state prison, particularly if they have short sentences or are participating in specific programs.

Probation and Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole may be held in the county jail pending hearings or as a sanction for the violation.

Federal Detainees: The Yellowstone County Detention Facility contracts with federal agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service, to house federal detainees awaiting trial or transfer to federal facilities.

Individuals Awaiting Transfer: Persons who have been sentenced to state prison but are temporarily housed in the county jail while awaiting transfer to a Montana Department of Corrections facility.

Work Release Participants: Qualifying low-risk offenders who are permitted to work in the community during the day while returning to custody during non-working hours.

According to data from the Montana Department of Corrections, the demographic composition of Yellowstone County's incarcerated population generally reflects broader statewide trends, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups, particularly Native Americans, who make up approximately 6.7% of Montana's general population but a significantly higher percentage of the incarcerated population.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Yellowstone County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in Yellowstone County have several methods available to access inmate records. The Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems that allow for efficient searches of detention facility populations.

Online Inmate Search:

The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal. To utilize this resource:

Navigate to the official Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office website
Select the "Detention Facility" or "Inmate Search" option
Enter the required search criteria (at least one field must be completed):
- Inmate's last name (required)
- Inmate's first name (optional, but recommended for common surnames)
- Booking date range (optional)
Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Housing location
- Scheduled court dates

Telephone Inquiry:

For those without internet access, information may be obtained by contacting the Yellowstone County Detention Facility directly:

Call the detention facility at (406) 256-6881 during business hours
Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested

In-Person Inquiry:

Individuals may visit the Yellowstone County Detention Facility to request inmate information:

Visit the facility at 3165 King Avenue East, Billings, MT 59101
Present identification at the reception desk
Complete any required information request forms
Specify the information being requested

Montana Department of Corrections Offender Search:

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Montana Department of Corrections Offender Search provides information on offenders under state jurisdiction.

When searching for inmate records, it is important to note that certain information may be restricted due to privacy laws or security concerns. The information available through public searches is limited to what is classified as "public criminal justice information" under Montana law.

How To Find an Inmate in Yellowstone County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Yellowstone County can be accomplished without cost through several official channels. The county provides free public access to basic inmate information as required by Montana public records laws.

Yellowstone County Detention Center Online Roster:

The most direct method for finding an inmate at no cost is through the Yellowstone County Detention Center's online inmate search system. This free service allows users to:

Search by the inmate's last name (required field)
Optionally narrow results by including first name
Filter by booking date if known
View current custody status and location

The online roster is updated regularly to reflect current inmate populations and provides immediate access to public information.

Montana Statewide Correctional System Search:

If an individual is not found in the county system, they may have been transferred to state custody. The Montana Department of Corrections Offender Search provides free access to information about offenders in state custody, including:

Current location and custody status
Physical description
Offense information
Sentence data and discharge dates

Contacting the Detention Facility:

For those without internet access, the Yellowstone County Detention Facility provides free information by telephone:

Yellowstone County Detention Facility
3165 King Avenue East
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 256-6881
Yellowstone County Detention Facility

When calling, be prepared to provide:

The full name of the person you are inquiring about
Date of birth (if known)
Approximate booking date (if known)

Clerk of Court Records:

The Yellowstone County Clerk of Court maintains public court records that may indicate if an individual has been ordered into custody:

Yellowstone County Clerk of Court
217 N 27th Street, Room 105
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: (406) 256-2830
Yellowstone County Clerk of Court

These free search methods provide basic information about an inmate's custody status, charges, and potential release date without requiring any payment or subscription fees.

How To Visit an Inmate In Yellowstone County

Visiting an inmate at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility requires adherence to established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections. All visits are conducted in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2232, which establishes the right of inmates to receive visitors subject to reasonable restrictions.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

Visitors to the Yellowstone County Detention Facility must:

Be on the inmate's approved visitor list
Present valid, government-issued photo identification
Submit to security screening procedures
Register at the visitor check-in desk at least 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
Be at least 18 years of age (minors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor)

Visit Schedule:

The Yellowstone County Detention Facility maintains the following visitation schedule:

General Population: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Maximum Security: Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Special Management: Monday and Friday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Visits are typically limited to 30 minutes per session, with a maximum of two visits per week per inmate. Scheduling requirements and limitations may vary based on an inmate's classification and housing assignment.

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
Vehicle keys (all other personal items must be secured in lockers provided in the lobby)
Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
Baby care items if accompanied by an infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, and one small blanket)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Food or beverages
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Letters, messages, or any items for inmates

Dress Code:

Visitors must adhere to the following dress code:

No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
No see-through or tight-fitting clothing
No clothing with offensive language or images
No gang-related attire or colors
Shoes and shirts required at all times
No hats, hoods, or head coverings (except religious headwear)

Visit Types:

The facility offers two primary types of visitation:

On-site Video Visitation: Conducted through video terminals in the visitation area
Professional Visits: Attorneys, clergy, and other approved professional visitors may request contact visits in designated areas

Visit Restrictions:

Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended under the following circumstances:

Violation of facility rules
Security concerns
Disciplinary action against the inmate
Facility lockdown or emergency situations
Court order prohibiting contact

For the most current information regarding visitation policies and procedures, visitors should contact the Yellowstone County Detention Facility directly at (406) 256-6881 prior to planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a Yellowstone County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Yellowstone County Detention Facility have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other approved services.

Methods for Sending Money:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Yellowstone County Detention Facility"
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
Kiosk Deposits:
- Use the TouchPay kiosk located in the lobby of the Yellowstone County Detention Facility
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Provides immediate deposit to inmate accounts
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Yellowstone County Detention Facility"
- Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
- Mail to:
  
  Yellowstone County Detention Facility
  Inmate Accounts
  3165 King Avenue East
  Billings, MT 59101

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00

These limits are established to comply with financial regulations and facility security protocols.

Transaction Fees:

Fees vary by deposit method:

Online deposits: $2.95 fee for deposits up to $20.00; $6.95 fee for deposits of $20.01-$300.00
Kiosk deposits: $2.95 fee for deposits up to $20.00; $6.95 fee for deposits of $20.01-$300.00
Money orders by mail: No fee

What You Cannot Send:

Cash through the mail
Personal checks
Cashier's checks
Traveler's checks
Foreign currency
Cryptocurrency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Video visitation sessions
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Educational materials
Release funds

Restricted Uses:

Inmate funds cannot be used for:

Purchasing items for other inmates
Paying for unauthorized services
Gambling or betting activities
Purchasing contraband items
Paying fines or restitution (separate processes apply)

All financial transactions are monitored and recorded in accordance with facility policies and Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2245, which governs the management of inmate funds.

How To Send Jail Mail In Yellowstone County

Correspondence with inmates at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility is subject to specific guidelines designed to maintain facility security while allowing inmates to maintain important connections with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail procedures comply with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2247, which establishes inmates' rights to send and receive mail subject to reasonable restrictions.

General Mail Guidelines:

All non-legal mail sent to inmates must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name and ID Number
Yellowstone County Detention Facility
3165 King Avenue East
Billings, MT 59101

Acceptable Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages, standard white paper only)
Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
Photos (maximum of 5 photos per envelope, 4"x6" maximum size)
Money orders (must be separate from letters, see money sending guidelines)
Approved religious materials (subject to review)

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages or padded envelopes
Colored paper or envelopes
Cardstock or construction paper
Plastic, metal, or wooden items
Stickers, labels, or tape
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Perfumed or scented items
Polaroid photos
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related content
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes
Food items or candy
Clothing or accessories
Books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)

Mail Inspection Process:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Mail that does not comply with guidelines will be returned to sender, destroyed, or placed in the inmate's property to be released upon discharge.

Legal Mail:

Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Privileged" and include the sender's bar number or official letterhead. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate but is still visually inspected for contraband.

Electronic Messaging:

The Yellowstone County Detention Facility offers a secure electronic messaging system through GTL ConnectNetwork. To use this service:

Create an account on the GTL ConnectNetwork website
Add the inmate to your contacts using their full name and ID number
Purchase messaging credits
Compose and send messages through the secure platform

Electronic messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail and are reviewed before delivery to inmates.

Publications:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor. These items are subject to review for content and may be rejected if they contain material that violates facility rules or poses security concerns.

All mail services and restrictions are designed to maintain the security and orderly operation of the facility while respecting inmates' rights to communication with the outside world.