Phone Calls from Dakota County Jail: 15‑Minute Limits, Recording, and When Calls Can Be Suspended

Inmates in Dakota County Jail's general living units can make collect calls from the phones on their unit. Phone access isn't automatic or unlimited - it's a privilege that can be restricted if rules are broken.

Because phone access is a privilege, behavior on the phones matters. Loud or abusive language while using the phone isn’t tolerated, and misuse can lead to losing phone privileges.

Personal calls are limited to 15 minutes. The time cap ensures other inmates get a turn on the phones.

• ✓ Keep your voice under control - loud language on the phone isn’t tolerated.
• ✓ Avoid abusive language; it can result in consequences.
• ✓ Remember that misuse of the phone can lead to losing phone privileges.

Every phone call from Dakota County Jail is recorded. If you're talking with someone inside, assume the conversation is being monitored - keep it focused and respectful.

When the jail goes into lockdown, telephone privileges are suspended. For families outside, this can mean missed calls or a sudden silence until the lockdown lifts.

Phone privileges can also be revoked as disciplinary action. Misuse of the telephone - like loud or abusive language - is one way to lose access.

1. Expect calls to stop during certain events - if the facility is in lock down status, telephone privileges are suspended.
2. Know that discipline can also cut off access - telephone privileges may be suspended as part of disciplinary action, and misuse can lead to loss of phone privileges.
3. If the silence doesn’t make sense, check in with the jail - when calls stop unexpectedly, the most reliable way to understand what’s happening is to contact the facility directly.

Plan for short conversations. Calls are capped at 15 minutes, so prioritize what you need to cover and save less-urgent updates for next time. Keep privacy expectations realistic. All calls are recorded - avoid discussing anything you wouldn't want replayed or reviewed. Don't assume a missed call means something is wrong. Phone access can be suspended during lockdowns, or as part of disciplinary action.