How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Burleigh Morton Detention Center is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Burleigh Morton Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Burleigh Morton Detention Center

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Burleigh Morton Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Burleigh Morton Detention Center. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Burleigh Morton Detention Center
   4000 Apple Creek Rd
   Bismarck, ND 58504
   Phone: (701) 255-3113

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Burleigh Morton Detention Center vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (701) 255-3113 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Burleigh Morton Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Burleigh Morton Detention Center, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Burleigh Morton Detention Center?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Burleigh Morton Detention Center for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Burleigh Morton Detention Center, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

The Burleigh/Morton Detention Center maintains structured communication and visitation programs designed to help individuals maintain connections with their support networks during their stay. The facility operates regular visitation sessions every Tuesday and Thursday from 1-4 pm, allowing eligible individuals up to 20 minutes with a maximum of two visitors per session. Through partnerships with Reliance Telephone, the center provides phone services that enable individuals to purchase calling time and stay connected with family members and legal counsel. Additionally, the facility operates an inmate message system, allowing loved ones to leave messages through a dedicated phone line.

Beyond communication services, the detention center typically may offer educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and life skills workshops common to North Dakota correctional facilities. These programs often include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation courses, and vocational training opportunities that help individuals develop job-ready skills. Mental health services and addiction counseling may also be available to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

The facility provides essential personal care items including hygiene products, razors, and feminine products to ensure individuals maintain their health and dignity during their stay. Support services may extend to include religious programming, library access, and reentry planning assistance to help individuals prepare for successful community integration. The center's approach often emphasizes maintaining family connections and providing resources that support positive behavioral changes during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at the Burleigh/Morton Detention Center maintain contact with family members through structured visitation sessions held every Tuesday and Thursday from 1-4 pm, with each person allowed one 20-minute visit per visitation day. Up to two visitors may meet with an inmate at the visitation station, and while appointments aren't required, calling (701) 255-3113 the day before or day of can help reserve a time slot. The facility provides essential personal hygiene items including razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, combs, and feminine products to all residents.

Communication extends beyond in-person visits through the phone system managed by Reliance Telephone, where inmates can make calls using purchased phone time. Family members can leave messages through the inmate message line at (701) 354-3292 or deposit money into inmate accounts using the self-service kiosk in the detention center lobby. The facility typically maintains structured daily routines that may include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and programming activities, though specific schedules often vary based on housing assignments and individual circumstances.

The detention center operates under standard security protocols while accommodating the practical needs of both inmates and their families. Staff review any clothing items left for inmates, though certain restrictions apply for individuals being transported to or from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCR) or those in federal custody. Located at 4000 Apple Creek Road in Bismarck, the facility serves both Burleigh and Morton counties and maintains policies designed to balance security requirements with opportunities for inmates to maintain important family connections during their stay.