How to Pick Up an Inmate's Property from Western Tidewater Jail
Picking up someone's property from Western Tidewater Jail is straightforward—but timing and approval matter, especially if you're not the inmate. Here's how to handle it without wasted trips.
Inmate property at Western Tidewater Jail can be picked up during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. If you’re trying to coordinate around work, plan for a weekday pickup within that window.
Call ahead before you go. Property pickup requires a prearranged appointment - call 757-942-0545 to schedule.
Note: Holidays and special events can affect the schedule. If you're unsure whether offices are open, call before making the drive.
Western Tidewater Jail releases inmate property only to the inmate by default. If you're a family member or friend trying to pick it up, the inmate must request an exception and the jail must approve it. Without that approval, expect to be turned away.
- Have the inmate submit an inmate request form - property can be released to someone other than the inmate only if the inmate submits the request and it’s approved (approval is not guaranteed).
- Wait for approval before you schedule anything - non-inmate pickups should be set up only after the request has been approved.
- Schedule your pickup appointment - once approved, call the property department at 757-942-0545 to arrange a preplanned appointment.
There are limits on what the jail holds as inmate property. Everything must fit inside the authorized storage container - anything beyond that is treated as contraband. If you're expecting a lot of items, know that "extra" property may not be kept for later pickup.
Contraband & drop-off warning: Inmates may not receive packages from outside sources, and the jail will not accept property dropped off at the jail or sent through the mail - except nonmetal glasses and/or contacts with current prescriptions.
Need to get essentials to someone inside? Use the channels the jail allows. Property is either provided by WTRJ or purchased through the Inmate Canteen (Oasis) - you can't bring items in from home.
If the inmate has been released and is owed money from their account, they can pick up the remaining balance at the Administration Office in the Main Lobby. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 3:45 pm, excluding holidays and special events.
For questions or requests related to picking up an inmate account balance, call 757-942-0530.
The jail issues remaining funds by debit card, unless the amount is under $25 - that's paid in cash. When the released inmate picks up the debit card, staff will explain the process and any associated fees.
Tips Checklist
- ✓ Plan for weekday pickup hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–3:00 pm
- ✓ Call the property department to prearrange your pickup appointment: 757-942-0545
- ✓ If you’re not the inmate, make sure the inmate submitted an inmate request form and it was approved before you schedule
- ✓ Expect property to be released only to the inmate unless that approved request is on file
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