Two Ways to Video Visit at Alexandria: From Home vs. the Detention Center Lobby
Alexandria gives you two ways to video visit: remotely from anywhere with internet, or in person at a free video terminal in the Detention Center lobby. Which one works best depends on your tech setup and the kind of visit experience you want.
At the Alexandria Adult Detention Center, video visitation works two ways. You can connect remotely from anywhere with internet access, or you can come to the Public Safety Center and use the free terminal in the Detention Center lobby. Both options use the same video system - the only difference is whether you're on your own device or the facility's equipment.
Quick timing snapshot: Video visits run daily (including holidays) from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time, and you have to schedule at least the day before - no more than seven days out.
Remote video visits offer the most flexibility. With a stable internet connection, you can visit from home, on a work break, or anywhere you can get online. No trip to the facility required. That matters if you're managing childcare, limited transportation, or a packed schedule.
Privacy reminder: All video visits with family and friends are monitored and recorded, whether you’re visiting from home or on-site.
- ✓ Plan on using a reliable internet connection for a remote visit.
- ✓ If you run into login, account, or technical issues, Smart Communications handles support for remote video visitation.
- ✓ The Alexandria Sheriff’s Office can’t provide technical support to system users.
Remote visits are available every day - including holidays - from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time. That wide window makes it easier to find a slot that works, especially if daytime hours don't fit your schedule.
Don't have reliable internet? Trying to avoid burning through phone data? The free terminal in the Detention Center lobby at the Public Safety Center might be your best bet. You still get a video visit - you're just using the facility's equipment instead of your own device. It's also a solid backup if remote visits have been glitchy.
How it works: Lobby-terminal visits are still scheduled video visits and use the same daily window (7 a.m. to midnight ET). For account or technical questions, Smart Communications is the support contact - not the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office.
Scheduling works the same for both options: book at least the day before, and no more than seven days out. If you want a specific time slot, plan a few days ahead. Don't wait until the last minute.
- Pick a time within the visitation window - Video visitation is offered seven days a week (including holidays) from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time.
- Plan around the weekly visit allowance - Inmates receive two free 20-minute video visits per week, so coordinate with other family members if multiple people want time.
Before scheduling anything, you'll need to register and get approved by Alexandria Sheriff's Office staff. First-time visitor? Build in extra time for that approval step so you're not scrambling the day before your visit.
Choose Option
- ✓ Choose a remote visit if you want the convenience of visiting from anywhere you have internet access.
- ✓ Choose the free lobby terminal at the Public Safety Center if you don’t have reliable internet or you’d rather not use your own device/data.
- ✓ Keep the two free 20-minute visits per week limit in mind when you’re planning - especially if more than one person wants to visit.
Final tip: Handle account/tech issues through Smart Communications, and remember that video visits are monitored and recorded - keep the conversation focused on support, updates, and everyday life.
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