Divide County Jail is a secure correctional facility located in Crosby, North Dakota. It serves as the primary detention center for Divide County, housing individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. The jail operates under the authority of the Divide County Sheriff’s Office and follows strict state and federal guidelines to ensure safety, security, and humane treatment for all inmates. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about booking status, visitation rules, communication options, and support services. This page provides a complete, easy-to-understand overview of everything you need to know about Divide County Jail—from inmate lookup tools to rehabilitation programs and contact details.
Inmate Search and Roster Lookup
Finding an inmate at Divide County Jail is simple using the official online inmate search tool. This system lets families, lawyers, and friends check current custody status, charges, bail amounts, court dates, and expected release information. The roster is updated daily to reflect new bookings, releases, and status changes.
How to Use the Online Inmate Search
Go to the Divide County Sheriff’s Office website and click on the “Inmate Roster” section. Enter the person’s full legal name or inmate ID number. Results show key details like booking date, charges, bond amount, and housing location. If no results appear, double-check the spelling or try a partial name. The system only shows active inmates—released individuals are removed within 24 hours.
Offline Inmate Lookup Options
If you can’t use the online tool, call the jail directly at (701) 965-6500. Staff can confirm an inmate’s status during business hours. You may also visit in person at 202 2nd Avenue NE, Crosby, ND 58730. Bring a valid photo ID and the inmate’s full name or date of birth. Public kiosks near the front desk sometimes display basic roster data, but they’re not always available.
What Information Is Included in the Roster?
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and case number
- Bail or bond amount (if set)
- Court date and jurisdiction
- Housing unit and security level
- Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
The roster does not include mugshots, medical records, or disciplinary history due to privacy laws. For mugshot requests, submit a formal FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request to the Sheriff’s Office. Processing may take 7–14 days and could involve a small fee.
Booking Process and Arrest Procedures
When someone is arrested in Divide County, they are brought to the jail for processing. The booking procedure follows North Dakota state standards and includes several key steps to ensure accurate recordkeeping and inmate safety.
Steps in the Booking Process
- Intake Screening: Staff verify identity, check for warrants, and assess immediate medical or mental health needs.
- Fingerprinting: Digital fingerprints are taken and sent to state databases for background checks.
- Mugshot Photography: A front-facing photo is captured for official records and public release (unless restricted by court order).
- Property Inventory: Personal items are logged, sealed, and stored securely. Inmates receive a receipt.
- Health Assessment: Nurses conduct a basic physical and mental health screening within 24 hours of arrival.
- Classification: Inmates are assigned to housing units based on risk level, gender, age, and medical needs.
After booking, the individual sees a judge within 48 hours to set bail or determine next steps. If bail is posted, release typically happens within 2–6 hours, depending on paperwork and staffing.
Bail, Bond, and Release Procedures
Bail allows eligible inmates to leave jail while awaiting trial. The amount is set by a judge based on crime severity, flight risk, and criminal history. Divide County accepts cash, credit cards, and bail bonds.
How to Post Bail
- Call the Booking Office at (701) 965-6500 to confirm the exact bail amount.
- Pay in person at the jail using cash or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover).
- Use a licensed bail bondsman—they charge 10% of the total bail as a non-refundable fee.
- Payments made after 5 PM or on weekends may delay release until the next business day.
Once bail is processed, the inmate signs release forms and receives their personal property. If charges are dropped or the case is resolved, bail money is refunded minus administrative fees (usually 2–5%).
Release Process
Inmates serving sentences or completing their cases are released during weekday business hours. Families should call ahead to confirm timing. Released individuals receive a copy of their discharge paperwork, which includes court orders, probation terms (if applicable), and community resource referrals.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Divide County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits to help inmates stay connected with loved ones. All visits must be scheduled in advance and follow strict security protocols.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
- Visits occur Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
- Schedule online via the jail’s portal or call (701) 965-6500 at least 24 hours ahead.
- Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week. Up to two adults may attend per session.
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Visitors must present a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID). No bags, phones, food, or gifts are allowed. Dress modestly—no tank tops, shorts, hats, or revealing clothing. Failure to comply results in denied entry.
Virtual Video Visits
Remote visits use a secure video platform accessible from home computers or smartphones. Sessions last 20 minutes and cost $7.50 per visit (paid by the visitor). Schedule through the jail’s website. Audio and video are monitored and recorded for security.
Inmate Communication: Mail, Phone, and Email
Staying in touch with inmates is encouraged but regulated to prevent contraband and ensure safety.
Phone Calls
Inmates can make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and cost $0.23 per minute. Families add funds via the jail’s phone service partner (Securus Technologies) online or at lobby kiosks. Incoming calls are not allowed.
Sending Mail
Mail must be sent to:
Inmate’s Full Name & ID Number
Divide County Jail
202 2nd Avenue NE
Crosby, ND 58730
Use plain white envelopes and standard paper. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or Amazon. All mail is opened and inspected. Inmates receive photocopies of letters if originals contain restricted content.
Email Messages
Secure email is available through the jail’s online portal. Messages are printed and delivered within 24–48 hours. Inmates reply using tablets in their units. Emails are screened for threats, codes, or inappropriate content.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can receive funds for commissary purchases, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Three safe methods are available:
- Online: Deposit via the jail’s commissary portal using a debit or credit card.
- Kiosk: Use the lobby machine with cash, card, or money order.
- Mail: Send a money order (no cash or personal checks) payable to the inmate’s full name and ID.
Funds appear in the inmate’s account within 1–2 hours for online/kiosk deposits. Mailed money orders take 3–5 business days. There’s a $2.50 fee for online transactions under $50.
Commissary and Inmate Purchases
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery. Orders are placed weekly using tablets or paper forms. Items are delivered every Thursday.
| Item Category | Examples | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Snacks | Chips, candy, instant coffee | $1.00 – $3.50 |
| Hygiene | Toothpaste, soap, deodorant | $2.00 – $4.00 |
| Stationery | Pens, paper, envelopes | $0.50 – $2.00 |
| Clothing | Socks, undershirts (jail-approved) | $3.00 – $6.00 |
Balances carry over if an inmate is transferred or released temporarily. Unused funds are returned upon final release.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Divide County Jail provides essential medical and mental health care in line with state standards. All inmates receive a health screening within 24 hours of arrival.
Medical Care
Nurses and contracted physicians handle routine care, chronic disease management (like diabetes or hypertension), and emergency treatment. Prescription medications are dispensed daily. Dental and vision services are available for urgent needs.
Mental Health Support
Licensed counselors offer individual and group therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use. Crisis intervention is available 24/7. Inmates with serious mental illness may be referred to state facilities if needed.
Rehabilitation and Reentry Programs
The jail partners with local agencies to prepare inmates for successful reintegration.
Education and Vocational Training
- GED preparation classes (offered twice weekly)
- Basic computer literacy courses
- Job readiness workshops (resume writing, interview skills)
- Substance abuse counseling (individual and group sessions)
Participants earn certificates upon completion, which can improve employment chances after release.
Reentry Planning
Case managers help inmates connect with housing, job placement, and counseling services before release. Families can request support resources by contacting the jail’s social services liaison.
Security, Safety, and Facility Operations
Divide County Jail uses modern security systems to protect staff, inmates, and visitors.
- 24/7 video surveillance in all common areas
- Electronic door controls and motion sensors
- Regular fire drills and emergency response training
- Inmate classification system to separate high-risk individuals
- Daily health and safety inspections by jail administrators
Staff undergo annual training in de-escalation, first aid, and cultural sensitivity.
Community Partnerships and Public Resources
The jail collaborates with local law enforcement, courts, and nonprofits to support public safety and rehabilitation.
- Victim advocacy services through Divide County Social Services
- School tours and educational presentations (by appointment)
- Volunteer programs for faith-based mentoring and literacy tutoring
- Public access to non-sensitive jail statistics and annual reports
Contact Information and Location
Divide County Jail
202 2nd Avenue NE
Crosby, ND 58730
Phone: (701) 965-6500
Website: www.dividecountynd.com/jail
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Emergency Contacts
For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. For non-urgent jail inquiries, use (701) 965-6500 during business hours (8:00 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Friday).
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Divide County Jail. Below are clear, direct answers based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in Divide County Jail?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. If no results appear, call (701) 965-6500. Staff can confirm custody status during business hours. You may also visit in person with a valid ID. The roster updates daily and includes booking date, charges, and bail info. Mugshots require a FOIA request.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends or holidays?
No. Visitation is only available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The jail is closed on federal holidays. All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Virtual visits are also limited to weekday slots. Plan ahead—same-day requests are rarely approved due to staffing and security checks.
What happens if I send cash or a personal check to an inmate?
Cash and personal checks are not accepted. They will be returned or destroyed for security reasons. Only money orders, cashier’s checks, or electronic deposits are allowed. Money orders must include the inmate’s full name and ID number. Online deposits are fastest and appear in the account within hours.
Are inmates allowed to receive books or magazines?
Yes, but only if they come directly from publishers, bookstores, or Amazon. No used books, handwritten materials, or third-party sellers. All items are inspected for contraband. Hardcover books are not allowed—paperback only. Subscriptions must be pre-approved by jail administration.
What rehabilitation programs are offered at Divide County Jail?
The jail provides GED classes, substance abuse counseling, job readiness training, and mental health support. Programs run weekly and are open to eligible inmates. Certificates are awarded upon completion. Case managers also assist with reentry planning, including housing and employment referrals. Families can request program information by calling the main office.
How long does it take to process a bail payment?
Bail payments made before 3:00 PM on weekdays are usually processed within 2–4 hours. Weekend or after-hours payments may delay release until the next business day. Cash and credit card payments are fastest. Bail bondsmen require additional paperwork, which can add 1–2 hours. Always confirm the exact bail amount with the Booking Office first.
Can inmates make phone calls to anyone?
No. Inmates can only call pre-approved numbers added by family or legal representatives. All calls are outgoing, monitored, and limited to 15 minutes. International calls are not permitted. Phone accounts must have sufficient funds. Calls cost $0.23 per minute. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls or text messages.