How to Schedule Your First Video Visit at Alexandria Adult Detention Center

Alexandria Adult Detention Center uses SmartInmate for video visitation. Creating an account is free and takes just a few minutes. Once you're set up, you can visit remotely from anywhere with an internet connection. That flexibility is especially helpful for first visits. Just keep in mind that your video quality depends on your connection and device - a little setup ahead of time makes a big difference.

Start by registering on SmartInmate.com. After you register, you’ll need to be approved by Alexandria Sheriff’s Office staff before you can schedule a video visit.

Planning to visit on a specific day? Build in extra time for the first-time setup. The facility doesn't spell out what ID (if any) you'll need for registration or how long approvals take. Don't wait until the last minute.

Once you're approved, you can schedule your visit - but there's a specific window. Visits must be booked at least the day before, and no more than seven days in advance. Same-day booking isn't available, and you can't book weeks ahead.

Video visits run seven days a week, including holidays, from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern time. Even with a tight schedule, you'll have plenty of time slots to choose from.

Each person in custody at Alexandria ADC gets two free 20-minute video visits per week. If you're watching costs, plan around those two free sessions - treat them like your "must make" calls.

Since you have to book at least a day ahead (and no more than seven days out), think one week at a time. Decide which two days you want to use the free visits, then reserve those slots as soon as they enter the scheduling window.

Something go wrong? Password problems, account issues, audio or video glitches - contact Smart Communications (SmartInmate) directly. The Alexandria Sheriff's Office can't troubleshoot the video system, so reaching out to the vendor is your fastest path to a fix.

1. Look for SmartInmate account/tech help - Use the vendor’s support resources for common issues like login problems, failed payments (if applicable), or camera/mic permissions.
2. Confirm you’re registered and approved - You can’t schedule until ASO staff has approved your SmartInmate registration.
3. Test your setup before visit time - Check your internet connection and make sure your device can use its camera and microphone.
4. Contact Smart Communications support if you’re stuck - Since the Sheriff’s Office can’t provide technical support, vendor support is the right next step when troubleshooting doesn’t work.

Quick Checklist

• ✓ Registered on SmartInmate.com and approved by Alexandria Sheriff’s Office staff
• ✓ Visit scheduled the day before (or earlier) and no more than 7 days in advance
• ✓ Chosen a time between 7 a.m. and midnight Eastern time (7 days a week, including holidays)
• ✓ Planned around the two free 20-minute video visits per week

• ✓ Reliable device and internet connection ready for a remote visit
• ✓ Backup plan: schedule and use the free terminal in the Detention Center lobby at the Public Safety Center if needed
• ✓ Smart Communications (SmartInmate) support info handy for account/technical problems (ASO can’t provide tech support)
• ✓ Reminder: video visits with family and friends are monitored and recorded
• ✓ Double-checked any details the facility doesn’t spell out (like what ID is required for signup, or how long approvals take) well before your planned visit