Facility policies that affect families: transfers, releases, and medical or compassionate-release inquiries
If your loved one is in NDOC custody and you're hoping for a move closer to home, know that NDOC does not transfer offenders for convenience or family reunification. The department also won't provide information about when approved transfers will happen. For compassionate release, NDOC has a program for terminally ill offenders or those with substantial physical handicaps. Requests are generally initiated by the NDOC Medical Division. NDOC points families to the Family Services Division for information on compassionate release, but Family Services cannot help with merit credits, housing or relocation, healthcare information, or offender releases.
In county detention settings, release timing can be slower than families expect. At Washoe County Sheriff's Office, once bail is posted, the release procedure can take up to eight hours. The detention facility does not provide transportation after release. Within 24 hours of booking, inmates are interviewed by Pre Trial Services for a possible Own Recognizance release. If that's not granted, bail will be set or the inmate will be held until seen by the court.
Tip: If someone is released and required to register as a sex offender in Nevada, staying in the state more than 48 hours triggers a requirement to register with local law enforcement within 48 hours. Failure to comply can result in arrest and a category D felony charge.
Common Questions
Q
Can an inmate receive incoming phone calls?
At Henderson Detention Center, ICE states that detainees cannot receive incoming calls. For NDOC facilities, NDOC’s phone information focuses on setting up prepaid calling accounts through ViaPath/ConnectNetwork so your loved one can place outgoing calls. If you are unsure what system applies, start with the facility’s phone provider instructions and set up the prepaid option listed for that facility.
Q
Who should I call for general family questions about someone in NDOC custody?
Call the NDOC Family Services Division at (775) 977-5707 for general information and assistance about how NDOC facilities are run. NDOC also states Family Services cannot assist with merit credits, housing or relocation, healthcare information, or offender releases.
Q
If an inmate is released after posting bail, how long might release processing take and is transportation provided?
Washoe County Sheriff’s Office states that, once bail is posted, the release procedure can take up to eight hours. It also states the detention facility does not provide transportation from the facility after release.
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