McDowell Detention Facility, Nc

Visiting someone at McDowell Detention Facility starts with figuring out what type of visit is available. Video visitation runs through NCIC—schedule by calling 1-800-943-2189 or visiting videovisit.ncic.com. Planning an in-person visit? You'll typically need to be on the incarcerated person's approved visitor list, which means completing and returning a visitor application. Rules change, so check McDowell's official visitation information before you go. Hours, who's allowed to visit, and whether visits are in-person or video-only can all vary. Some visits may be contact or non-contact depending on housing status and security classification—confirm what to expect when you schedule.

McDowell Detention Facility uses NCIC for phone service and video visitation. To set up a video visit, call 1-800-943-2189 or book online at videovisit.ncic.com—you'll need to complete the vendor's approval steps first. For written communication, text and email messaging goes through the Inmate Canteen website, which advertises rates cheaper than a postage stamp. Phone calls work differently: inmates place outgoing calls to approved family and friends, but the facility doesn't accept incoming calls. Three-way calls are prohibited. Calls are billed per minute with no connection fees, and rates vary by call type.

Mail at McDowell Detention Facility works differently than you might expect. Many North Carolina jails use offsite mail-scan vendors for non-legal letters: your mail gets screened, scanned, and delivered to the inmate as a digital copy. This can actually speed things up compared to physical mail handling. Packages, books, and subscriptions are handled separately—not through the scanning process. These typically must be sent to the facility street address or an approved vendor, following the facility's package rules. Scanned copies stay available for the inmate to view, while originals are only held briefly. Need an original returned? Request it quickly. To avoid delays or rejected mail, use the required addressing format: the inmate's full name, ID number, and full facility name (spell out the state). Send via USPS or the vendor's app/web portal where accepted.

Adding money to an inmate account at McDowell Detention Facility? You have two main options. Deposit online through the Inmate Canteen website—make sure you select McDowell County Detention Center. Or use the 24-hour kiosks in the Sheriff's Office lobby for walk-up deposits. Convenience fees apply, so check the vendor site or kiosk screen before you submit payment. Other deposit methods may be available through third-party vendors if you need a phone or retail walk-in option. To avoid delays or rejected payments, enter the incarcerated person's full booked name and inmate/account number exactly as shown.