What to Expect When You Arrive for a Visit: Security Screening at Tulsa County Jail
Visiting at Tulsa County Jail (David L. Moss Criminal Justice Center) starts with security screening. Know what to expect at the metal detector—and what to leave behind—and you'll avoid delays or getting turned away.
Expect to be searched before you’re allowed to visit. Screening includes a hand-held scanning device and a stationary metal detector. If you can’t successfully pass through the metal detector, you’ll be denied entry for the visit.
Staff may also conduct a pat search. When possible, these are performed by an officer of the same sex as the visitor.
Note: You can refuse a search, but refusing means you won’t be allowed access to the facility for your visit.
Visitors Denied at Screening
- ✓ Refusing the required search (refusal means no access to the facility)
- ✓ Not being able to successfully pass through the stationary metal detector
Personal items that aren't allowed past the last metal detector will also get you denied entry. Cell phones and other mobile communication devices are off-limits, along with food, beverages, and tobacco products. Leave them in your car before you reach screening.
Electronics are a hard no for regular visits. Cell phones, computers, and other mobile communication devices are prohibited unless explicitly authorized by the Sheriff or Jail Administrator. The facility doesn't allow any personal items past the last metal detector - don't count on carrying anything in, including food, drinks, or tobacco.
Legal warning: Bringing a cellular phone or electronic communication device into a secure area without authority is a felony under Oklahoma law, punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine up to $2,500, or both.
Practical Pre Visit Checklist
- ✓ Bring bona fide photo ID if you’re 18 or older (state driver’s license, state, federal, military, or school ID)
- ✓ Leave personal items behind before you reach the last metal detector (including phones, other mobile devices, food, beverages, and tobacco)
- ✓ Do not bring cell phones, computers, or other mobile communication devices unless explicitly authorized by the Sheriff or Jail Administrator
- Have your photo ID ready - If you’re 18 or older, you must present bona fide photo identification (such as a state driver’s license, state, federal, military, or school ID).
- Clear out personal items before screening - Don’t take anything past the last metal detector, including cell phones/mobile devices, food, beverages, or tobacco.
- Complete the metal detector screening - You’ll be scanned with a hand-held device and a stationary metal detector; if you can’t pass, you’ll be denied entry.
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