The Burke County Jail is a 264 bed jail in the city of Morganton, Burke County, North Carolina.
This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 828-764-9590, directions to the facility, and inmate services such as the visitation schedule and policies, funding an inmate's account, mailing them a letter, receiving phone calls from an inmate, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary purchases.
Phone: 828-764-9590
Physical Address:
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
Facility ID Number: 5020
PO Box 18247
Greensboro, NC 27419
Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
Other Jails and Prisons
To search for an inmate in the Burke County Jail, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 828-764-9590 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up an offender's Criminal Court Case information online, including the daily court dockets for Burke County.
Burke County Jail Inmate Search
The Burke County Jail maintains an average of 264 offenders in custody on any given day. The Burke County Jail has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year Burke County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 5,280 offenders.
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The new Burke County Jail was completed in 2019, and began accepting inmates in 2020. While it was built for 264 inmates, they havn't had any more than about 160 inmates at any one time. The 71,000 square foot, $27 million dollar facility could be generating $40-50 a day for every county, state and federal inmate that they can rent bed space to, but the county won't let them hire more staff becuse the budget is set.
The Burke County Jail is located at 130 Government Dr in Morganton, NC 28655. They can be reached 24 hours a day by calling 828-764-9590.
The photo below gives you an idea how modern this jail is... what you are looking at is the control room that handles almost every bit of video, electrical, plumbing, doors, speakers and microphones in the entire jail. Theoretically, with this one room, the number of staff needed to watch over the inmates is very, very low.
Mail can be received every day and is processed and passed to the inmates quickly, however the jail uses a digital service to avoid contraband entering the facility. Friends and family of inmates in the Burke County Jail can arrange to visit inmates by video, both at the jail and remotely from home. They can also send them money and buy them commissary online, and set up a phone account that allows the inmates to call them during the day and evening seven days a week.
All the information on these inmate services can be found in the sections below. If you still have questions, you can phone the jail 24 hours a day by calling 828-764-9590.
To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Burke County Jail, call the jail’s booking line at 828-764-9590.
There may be an automated method of looking them up by their name over the phone, or you may be directed to speak to someone at the jail. Sometimes the jail staff may ask you the offender’s date of birth to ensure privacy of the offender’s status.
Keep in mind that after an arrest, the information on an offender may not be publicly available for several hours.
If you don’t want to check up on an offender by calling the jail, you can also try looking up people recently booked online.
Burke County Jail Booking Roster
After being arrested and taken into custody, and after being read their Miranda Rights, an offender will next be transported to the local police or department or the Sheriff’s Department in Burke County for booking.
Booking is very involved and requires multiple steps in the process, however, keep in mind that most attorneys will advise that an offender remain silent and not offer any additional information about the crime they have been arrested for because anything they do say may be recorded and may very well be used against them in court.
Booking includes having their photo (mugshot) and fingerprints taken, as well as being asked a lot of questions about their personal history and state of mind. If it’s a serious felony, their DNA may also be taken. They will also be checked for warrants in Burke County and other North Carolina and USA jurisdictions.
If the offender was arrested for a DUI offense, and has refused a breathalyzer test, they may also be forced to have blood drawn by a doctor or nurse.
It is also very likely that the offender will undergo a humiliating full body search while in the nude. This includes bending over, spreading their cheeks in the direction of an officer, and coughing. They will also be walked through a metal detector or x-ray machine, like those used at an airport.
The arresting jurisdiction will ask about gang affiliations, tattoos, medical conditions, prescribed medication they are taking, recreational drugs they are on or addicted to, allergies, if they are suicidal, and other relevant information that will help with determining their cell assignment and special needs.
During the arrest and booking process an offender will also have all their personal property confiscated and held for either their release from jail, or with the offender’s approval, released to a friend or family member.
Personal property includes the clothing they are wearing, money, wallets, purses, cell phones, jewelry, body rings, earrings, watches, and even glasses if they are deemed a security risk. If they are allowed to keep their shoes or sneakers, the laces are removed.
At this point the offender will be allowed to make a free phone call to a person of their choice to notify them of their arrest, and/or arrange a bond or bail for their release.
If the offender is being detained and housed while awaiting arraignment, the Burke County Jail will provide a jail garment and slip-on shoes, a blanket, sheets, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel.
Often, before they are dressed in the jail outfit and brought to their housing location, they will be forced to take a shower and undergo a disinfectant treatment for body and hair lice, scabies or other pests that may be residing on their person.
Booking can take anywhere from an hour to 24 hours or more. It all depends on the number of people that are awaiting processing, the number of staff on duty at the time, and the behavior of the offender.
If the offender is heavily intoxicated and/or violent, the Booking Officer may decide to stick the offender in a holding cell for several hours until they become more manageable.
How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Burke County Jail? What is the Schedule?
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590
ON SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE
| DAY | TIMES |
| MONDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| SATURDAY | No visitation |
| SUNDAY | No visitation |
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590
REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE
| DAY | TIMES |
| MONDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| THURSDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| SUNDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
The information below provides complete instructions regarding:
Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Burke County Jail
Burke County Jail uses HomeWAV for Inmate Video Visitation.
Off-site remote visits are simple and convenient for both inmates and you.
Outgoing calls can be initiated from the detention facility without the need for advanced scheduling.
HomeWAV is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android.
HomeWAV is compatible with most major browsers on either PC or Mac computers, but works best with Google Chrome.
Following these instructions exactly will enhance your chances of having trouble-free visits.
How Much does Homewav Cost?
Burke County Jail charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.
There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.
In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.
How does HomeWAV video visitation work?
1. Sign Up Here.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Then you just wait for the inmate to call
How Do I add Funds to my account?
1. Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds
2. Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
3. Click “Update”
4. Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card.)
Can I use HomeWAV on my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, however your HomeWAV account must be first set up online from a computer.
Once you have added funds to your account, you will need to install the Homewav app onto your phone or tablet.
To receive calls you must log in through the app and wait for the inmate to initiate the call.
You cannot add funds or make any changes to your account information through the app. These options are only available through the website.
The app should be solely used for video visitation.
What are the minimum PC requirements?
1. A computer with Windows Operating System. (Note: HomeWAV works best with Chrome.)
2. Speakers or Headphones
3. Camera and microphone
Can I use HomeWAV from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?
Yes, Burke County Jail has a HomeWAV kiosk in their lobby for you to use if you don’t have a computer or smartphone, however due to COVID issues you may be temporarily prohibited entrance into their lobby.
How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?
1. Make sure there are funds in your account and that you are marked as “appear online”.
2. The moment you log in, the HomeWAV screen at the facility will light up green and display the inmates name. This informs the inmate that they have a visitor that is now logged on.
3. Once the inmate sees the notification, he or she will initiate the call.
4. When the inmate initiates the call, a ringing sound will take place and a pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to accept the call.
Can I transfer funds from one inmate to another?
If you have multiple inmates and would like to transfer your funds to a different inmate, please call HomeWAV at 314-764-2872 or email [email protected] and include the following information:
1. Homewav account holder’s name.
2. The number of minutes to be transferred.
3. Facility Name.
4. From which inmate to who do you want to transfer funds.
How do I get a refund on leftover funds?
Email HomeWAV at [email protected] with your refund request.
REFUNDS are subject to a $7.50 processing fee. *Note* refund requests must be sent from the email address of the registered visitor.
How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?
HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:
Monday – Friday
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST
Saturday – Sunday
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.
HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Burke County Jail?
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590
ON SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE
| DAY | TIMES |
| MONDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:15AM - 8:30PM |
| SATURDAY | No visitation |
| SUNDAY | No visitation |
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590
REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE
| DAY | TIMES |
| MONDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| THURSDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
| SUNDAY | 8:00AM - 9:30PM |
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Burke County Jail?
Option 1 - Dropping Money at the Jail
Bring money to the jail in person.
Either the jail personnel will process the Inmate Account payment or you will use a Jail ATM self-serve kiosk in the lobbies that accepts cash, debit or credit cards.
Option 2 - Deposit Inmate Money Online
Burke County Jail uses Jail ATM to process all online deposits to an inmate's account. The company charges you a small fee for doing so, but the fee probably isn't as much as gas and parking would cost to take it to the jail in person.
Option 3 - Mail the Inmate Deposit to the Jail
Mailing a deposit takes more time to process than the other methods but can be done if you live too far away to bring it in person and you don't have a debit/credit card for online deposits. Never send cash. Always send a Money Order from the US Post Office, a reputable bank or Western Union. Call the Burke County Jail first as they may want you to do this online or at the jail kiosk instead.
Make the Money Order out to the inmate's name and put their Inmate ID# in memo section of the Money Order.
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
Option 4 - Make an Inmate Deposit with Jail ATM over the Phone by calling 877-810-0914
To do this you will need the inmate's offender # (inmate ID #) and full legal name.
To deposit money online for an inmate in Burke County Jail follow these steps:
For all information, tips and procedures for sending money to an inmate in Burke County Jail, or depositing money at the jail, over the phone or by mail, check out our Send Money Page for Burke County.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Burke County Jail?
To receive phone calls from inmates in Burke County, or to assist them in making phone calls to other people, follow these steps:
For all the information regarding phone calls with Burke County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, costs, limits, tablet rental and more visit our Inmate Phone Page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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How do I Mail an Inmate in the Burke County Jail, and what can I send them?
Postcards
The Burke County Jail allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. They may also allow certain photo postcards as long as they have not been tampered with or contain images that may be considered to be obscene or violent in nature. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address.
Envelopes
The Burke County Jail also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. It is best to only use blue or black ink.
Postcards and envelopes MUST HAVE the sender's full name and return address on the envelope.
Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
Facility ID Number: 5020
PO Box 18247
Greensboro, NC 27419
Legal Mail
Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
No Newspapers, Magazines or Books allowed.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Burke County Jail, and what can I purchase?
Family members and friends can go to their website, order for their inmate and have it delivered directly to Burke County Jail.
Instructions
1. Register here first.
2. Confirm registration in your email.
3. Select North Carolina, then Burke County Jail, then input your inmate’s name.
4. Shop… then pay using a Visa, MC or Discover credit or debit card.
Useful Information
1. Each order incurs a $5.95 processing fee.
2. Orders are delivered once a week.
3. There is no limit to the number of orders you can place each week.
4. You can purchase orders for multiple inmates and/or at multiple jails.
5. Orders are processed weekly. The cutoff time is on Sunday at 11:59 PM.
6. Orders are delivered to the jail within ten days.
7. Returns incur a 20% restocking fee.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions.
Check the Status of your order here.
Online Contact Form.
Oasis is now offering tablets for inmates to use for easy ordering of commissary of products. They can be used for free for 15 minutes at a time. If an inmate wishes to use on a reguar basis for education, entertainment or programming, they can be rented for a small monthly fee.
Customer Service Contact
Call 800-956-2747 Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
Email: [email protected].
To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Burke County Jail follow these steps:
For all information, tips and available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Burke County Jail check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Burke County.
Customer Service Contact
Call 800-956-2747 Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
Email: [email protected].
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Burke County Jail using an Online Messaging Service?
How inteleMESSAGE Works
Cost to send messages
Paytel App Download
Check to see if Tablets are Available in Burke County Jail for rent to your inmate. Tablets can be used for phone calls, messaging, education, and entertainment.
To send a secure email message to an inmate in Burke County Jail follow these steps:
How inteleMESSAGE Works
For all information on rates, and how to Text/Email an Inmate in Burke County Jail check out our Secure Messaging Guide for Burke County.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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Do Inmates in the Burke County Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?
Tablets can be used by inmates, for the following things:
Contact Paytel online, or call the Burke County Jail directly at 828-764-9590 to rent a tablet for your inmate.
If you want download the Paytel App, click the image below:
How can you rent a tablet for an inmate in Burke County? Read the following:
Tablets can be used by inmates, for the following things:
Contact Paytel online, or call the Burke County Jail directly at 828-764-9590 to rent a tablet for your inmate.
To find out everything you need to know about renting a tablet, what it can be used for, how much it costs, and more, check out our Tablet Page for Burke County Jail.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.
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What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Burke County?
This facility, known as "Burke County Jail" is also known as Burke County Jail, North Carolina, Burke.
