The search coming up empty the day after a transfer is completely normal. State DOC databases can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours to update after a move, sometimes longer over weekends or holidays. The fact that you know he arrived at Caldwell yesterday is reliable enough information to work from while the system catches up. On the inmate number question, Louisiana state inmates typically retain their DOC number throughout their entire incarceration, regardless of which facility they are housed...

In many states, possession of drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor for a first-time offender with no prior drug history. In those cases the outcome often involves a fine, probation, mandatory drug counseling or education classes, and in some jurisdictions a diversion program that can result in the charge being dismissed upon completion. Actual jail time for a clean first offense on this charge alone is possible but not the most common outcome. The picture changes significantly when criminal history is involved....

Not knowing where a friend ended up after an arrest and not having family connections to ask is a genuinely difficult situation, but the information is out there and accessible through several public channels. The first step is figuring out which county the arrest happened in, even approximately. Once you know that, the county sheriff or jail website will typically have a searchable inmate roster that is updated regularly with current bookings. Searching by name should confirm whether your friend is...

Is paying $14.99 per call to the phone service at the jail a scam? The discount phone service gets a telephone number (forwarded onto your current line) that reduces what the prison phone service can charge you. All it does is save money, the phone companies hate it and will tell you it's a scam while they are taking your money in big piles for simple 15 minute phone calls because they have a monopoly on the service to your...