Norfolk County Correctional Center

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 Norfolk Sheriff’s Office embraces a comprehensive approach to corrections, understanding that successful re-entry into society requires accountability and support. With the average sentence served at the Norfolk County Correctional Center being approximately three months, the focus is on preparing offenders for a productive return to their communities. From day one, the re-entry program addresses the unique risks and needs of each individual, assessed by the Classification Department. Offenders are grouped with others of similar risk levels and provided treatment and educational programs in key areas, including anger management, substance use, and domestic violence. These initiatives aim to equip offenders with tools for a law-abiding future.

The Community Service Program enables inmates to give back to Norfolk County by assisting with local projects such as landscaping, painting, and cleaning for towns and housing authorities, contributing thousands of hours annually to public service.

The Educational and Vocational Services Department offers transformative learning opportunities, including Adult Basic Education to work toward a high school credential, as well as advanced educational and vocational training to foster meaningful skill development.

Religious Services are provided weekly by Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, and Protestant clergy, with chaplains and faith representatives available for personal consultations upon request, ensuring spiritual support for all faiths.

The Self-Help Programming includes the Substance Abuse Unit (SAU), a 45-day cognitive-behavioral program based on best practices for addressing both substance use and criminal behavior through structured group sessions and educational classes.

Vocational Programs further support skill development by providing inmates with practical job training, empowering them to pursue stable employment post-release.

Through the Volunteer Services Program, community volunteers offer invaluable support in re-entry, education, substance and alcohol treatment, religious guidance, and mentoring. This dedicated group plays an essential role in enhancing the rehabilitation process, helping individuals prepare for a successful reintegration into society. Together, these programs reflect the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to fostering accountability and reducing recidivism through a well-rounded approach to corrections.

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.