Why You Can’t Call Natchitoches Parish Detention Center — and How to Get Calls From Your Loved One (Securus)

Can't get through to your loved one at Natchitoches Parish Detention Center? You're not doing anything wrong. Jail phones only work for outgoing calls - the person inside has to call you. There's no way to dial into a housing unit directly. When your loved one calls, it's typically collect. You'll hear a prompt asking you to accept or refuse. Calls are usually capped at around 15 minutes, so have your conversation ready when your phone rings. This facility uses Securus Technologies, which means most setup and troubleshooting goes through Securus, not jail staff.

Another common reason calls don't come through: the approved-number system. People in custody can only call numbers on their approved master list - up to 20 total. If your number isn't on that list, your loved one can't reach you, no matter how many times they try. Changes to the list happen only on a quarterly basis. Recently switched phone numbers or want to add someone new? You may have to wait. The system is strict. Any call to a number not on the approved list gets automatically blocked. If you're not receiving calls, confirm the exact number your loved one is dialing and check whether it's actually on their list.

Receiving calls on a cell phone? There's an extra step. You need to set up an account with Securus and provide your primary residence information. Until that's done, calls may not connect. One more thing: prepaid cell phones won't work. If you're on a prepaid plan, you'll need a different number - and make sure that number is on your loved one's approved list.

Practical Next Steps

• ✓ Confirm your phone number is on your loved one’s approved master list (the list can only include up to 20 numbers).
• ✓ If you want calls on a cell phone, set up your Securus account and be ready to provide your primary residence information.
• ✓ Call Securus Customer Service at 1-800-844-6591 if you have billing problems, calls won’t go through, you’re receiving unwanted calls, or you need a block.
• ✓ Remember: if your number isn’t on the approved list, the call will be automatically blocked.

Once everything is set up, know what to expect. Calls are usually collect and limited to about 15 minutes. If you miss one or get cut off, your loved one will have to wait until they can access the phones again.