Dorchester County Detention

Dorchester County Detention offers in-person visitation, video visitation, or both—exact rules and schedules depend on the facility and sometimes the housing unit. Before scheduling, you'll need to be added to the incarcerated person's approved visitor list. You may also have to complete visitation or video-visitation forms. Expect ID checks and security screening at entry; during COVID-era operations, some facilities added health questionnaires, temperature checks, and mask requirements. For video visits, create an account on the facility's chosen platform and complete any required paperwork. On-site video kiosks are sometimes free, while at-home video visits typically have fees. Leave electronics and other contraband at home unless you have prior written authorization—professional visitors may have exceptions.

Your mail will be inspected at Dorchester County Detention. Staff search incoming mail as part of routine floor duties, checking envelopes and contents for contraband. In many Maryland facilities, personal letters go through an off-site mail vendor where they're inspected, scanned, and delivered electronically to kiosks or tablets. General correspondence is opened and inspected, while properly marked legal or privileged mail is handled differently—opened only with the inmate present. Books, magazines, and care packages face tight restrictions. Many facilities require publications to come directly from publishers or approved retailers, and packages must be ordered through an approved program. Follow the facility's addressing and preparation rules exactly to avoid delays. Include any required ID numbers and a clear return address.

To contact Dorchester County Detention (Department of Corrections), call the main line at 410-228-8101 or fax 410-221-0424. If you need county offices rather than the jail, the Dorchester County contact page lists the Office Building address along with the county's main phone and fax. Routine questions about visiting, mail, or accounts are often handled through the main line or recorded options. More specific inmate or records questions may require a records or operations contact. Before calling, have the inmate's full name and inmate ID (if available) ready, plus your relationship and contact information. Double-check details on the official county or facility contact page—numbers and hours can change.

Applying to work at Dorchester County Detention? Your application stays active for one year from submission. Minimum requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have a high school diploma or GED. You'll also need to pass a background investigation and drug screen. Include photocopies of required identity and credential documents with your application—if you have a driver's license, include a copy. Candidates may receive a conditional offer contingent on passing medical and psychological exams. The job is typically inside the secure detention area. Expect loud noise, stressful or threatening situations, and occasional lifting up to 50 pounds. You'll need to certify with departmental weapons and fire equipment. Dorchester County provides most uniforms and equipment, enrolls employees in the Maryland State Retirement System, and offers 15 days of county vacation per year with unlimited accrual.