Kotzebue Regional Jail

Frequently Asked Questions

Kotzebue Regional Jail - FAQs

1. What counties does this regional detention center serve?
   This facility houses inmates from multiple surrounding counties that do not have their own jails, in addition to local detainees.

2. What is the capacity of this regional detention center?
   The facility's maximum inmate population varies based on its design, staffing, and classification requirements.

3. Who operates the detention center?
   The center is typically operated by a county sheriff’s office or a regional law enforcement board, with oversight from state correctional authorities.

4. What types of inmates are housed here?
   The facility houses pretrial detainees, individuals serving short-term sentences, and inmates awaiting transfer to state or federal correctional institutions.

5. Are inmates segregated by gender and classification?
   Yes, inmates are housed based on security level, classification status, and gender to ensure safety and compliance with correctional standards.

Visitation & Communication

6. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?
   Visitation is typically first-come, first-served or requires advance registration, depending on facility rules. Check with the detention center for specific policies.

7. What forms of identification are required for visitation?
   Visitors must provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or consular card.

8. Are video visitations available?
   Many regional facilities offer on-site or remote video visitation through contracted service providers.

9. What items am I allowed to bring into the visitation area?
   Only ID, keys, and a small wallet are typically allowed. Personal belongings, including cell phones, bags, and purses, must be secured outside the visitation area.

10. How can inmates make phone calls?
    Inmates can make outgoing calls via a prepaid account or collect calls using a contracted phone service provider. Incoming calls are not allowed.

Mail & Commissary

11. Can I send letters, books, or photos to an inmate?
    Yes, handwritten letters and approved photographs are generally allowed. Books must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved retailer in most cases, please check with the facility 907-442-3351 before ordering as some Regional Jails have ceased this privilege.

12. Are care packages allowed?
    Some facilities permit commissary care packages through an approved vendor, but outside food, hygiene items, or unauthorized packages are prohibited.

13. How do I send money to an inmate?
    Funds can be added to an inmate’s account via online deposits, lobby kiosks, money orders, or third-party services such as JailATM or Access Corrections.

Security & Conduct

14. What happens if a visitor violates facility rules?
    Violations, such as attempting to bring contraband or disruptive behavior, can result in visitation suspension, arrest, or criminal charges.

15. Are former inmates allowed to visit?
    Many regional detention centers prohibit former inmates from visiting for a set period (e.g., 30 days to 6 months after release).

16. Can an inmate request a transfer to another facility?
    Transfers are determined by security needs, space availability, and legal requirements, and cannot be requested by the inmate or their family.

17. What is the procedure for reporting concerns about an inmate’s welfare?
    Concerns regarding inmate safety, medical needs, or mistreatment should be reported directly to jail administration or the facility's designated grievance officer.