Catawba County Detention Facility

Search for an Inmate in Catawba County

Catawba County Detention Facility Information

The Catawba County Detention Facility is a 579 bed jail in the city of Newton, Catawba 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 828-465-8999, 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: 828-465-8999

Physical Address:
100 Government Drive
Newton, NC 28658

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Name
Catawba County Detention Facility
PO Box 385
Newton NC 28658

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's name
Catawba County Detention Facility
100 Government Drive
Newton, NC 28658

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Catawba County Detention Facility?

To search for an inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility, 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 828-465-8999 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 Catawba County.

Catawba County Detention Facility Inmate Search

The Catawba County Detention Facility maintains an average of 579 offenders in custody on any given day. The Catawba County Detention Facility 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 Catawba County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 11,580 offenders.

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About the Catawba County Detention Facility

The Catawba County Detention Facility is located on the Catawba County Government Campus in Newton. Originally built in 1980 with 83 inmate beds,  the first expansion was completed in 2007 which added 176 more beds, a booking area, medical area, and an industrial kitchen. In 2021, due to explosive growth in the county and throughout North Carolina, the jail was expanded again to 579 beds. 

The Catawba County Detention Facility is located at 100 Government Drive in Newton, NC 28658. You can call the the jail 24 hours a day by phoning them at 828-465-8999. There is an online Inmate Jail Roster with mugshots, criminal charges, personal address, age, date arrested, upcoming court dates, court docket number and which law enforcement agency arrested them.

The expansion adds five new cell blocks of 32 beds each, which is a smaller (and safer) capacity than the exisiting jail's blocks, and a total of 320 more beds. Upgraded safety features and more opportunities for inmates to seek rehabilitation while there are two more factors that improve the facility. The smaller size pods also allow inmates more time out of their cells to recreate. This leads to less problems and violence. There are now outdoor areas in each cell block, and checker boards printed on the table.

The new expansion also has four times the number of security cameras, added to the security of staff and inmates.

Given that so many of the jails in western North Carolina are seriously overcrowded, Catawba County can 'rent out' any extra bed space they may now have to bring in extra revenue for the county. The total cost of the expansion was $33 million, and good thing theydid the construction when they did as construction costs nearly tripled in 2022 due to supply chain issues. The extra space will make it easier to keep gang members apart, and will allow for moving inmates around while they are upgrading the older areas of the jail

Each cell block also has video call centers and one of the new cell blocks is built for elderly inmates and those with medical needs with electrical outlets (for medical equipment) that can be turned off from the control room when not in use.

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 Catawba County Detention Facility can arrange to visit inmates by video, both at the jail and remotely from home. Friends and family can also communicate using an online text/email system, 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 828-465-8999.

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Catawba County Detention Facility?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Catawba County Detention Facility, call the jail’s booking line at 828-465-8999.

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.

Catawba County Detention Facility Booking Roster

What happens during booking in Catawba County?

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 Catawba 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.

What is the booking process like at the Catawba County Detention Facility?

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 Catawba 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.

What kind of questions are asked during booking?

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.

What happens to an offender’s personal property during booking?

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.

What happens after booking?

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 Catawba County Detention Facility 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.

How long does the Catawba County Detention Facility Booking process take?

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.

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Directions / Map to the Catawba County Detention Facility
Inmate Bail and Bonding

The Catawba County Sheriff recommends that you use a bail bond agent licensed to do business in Catawba County.

  • You can pay a cash bond yourself, or use your home in Catawba County, or in some cases the state of North Carolina, but the benefit of using a bail bond agent is that they take responsibility for making sure the inmate shows up for court in Catawba County, and if they don't, then they take the financial responsibility.
  • The typical fee for a bond will be between 10-20% of the bail amount; usually 15%.  So if an offender has a bail of $10,000.00, their bond will be $1500.00.

Call 828-465-8999 to find out the exact bond (plus other fees) amount, or look it up online by looking up the information on the Catawba County inmate locator.

Catawba County Bail Bond Information

Because Catawba County and North Carolina can change their bail bond procedures, it is always best to call either the Catawba County Detention Facility at 828-465-8999, or the court in the jurisdiction (i.e. Municipal Court, District Court, etc.) where the offender was charged, and do this right after an arrestee has been booked. 

Ask the staff at the Catawba County Detention Facility or the Catawba County Court Clerk these specific questions:

  1. Is the defendant eligible for bail or a bond?
  2. How much will the bail or bond be, and what are the additional fees?
  3. Where do I go to pay it?
  4. Are there any days or times of the day or night when I cannot post bail?
  5. What types of payment are allowed? Cash? Money order? Credit card? What types of credit cards? Property or other collateral? Surety bonds?
  6. Do I have to use a bail or bond agent?

If you feel the bail is too high and you wish to get it reduced, contact a lawyer or the defendant's public defender and get them to look into what they can do to get a bail reduction. The sooner you get working on this the quicker you will get your loved one released. 

This entire process will go smoother and faster with a criminal attorney or bail agent handling it for you.

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Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility? What is the Schedule?

Catawba County Detention Facility Inmate Visitation Schedule (Video)

100 Government Drive
Newton, NC 28658
828-465-8999

  • First, you must register an account with iwebvisit, then add Catawba County Detention Facility, then your inmate.
  • Second, you can choose a time to visit.
  • Offsite Video Visits can be done on Android, IOS (Apple) or Windows devices.
  • All visits must be scheduled 24 hours prior to the appointment or up to 1 weeks in advance.
  • Each inmate gets one on-site 15-minute visit per week.
  • On-site visits are only 15 minutes.
  • CHECK-IN: 10 minutes prior to scheduled visit.
  • Valid picture identification (e.g., driver’s license, State I.D., or Military I.D.) is required at Check-In.
  • Visitors under the age of 17 must be listed as an additional visitor and accompanied and supervised by an authorized visitor over the age of 18.
  • If a visitor loses internet connection during an offsite video visitation session, no refund will be issued.

ON-SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE

DAY TIME
SUNDAY 8:00AM - 4:30PM
MONDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
TUESDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
WEDNESDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
THURSDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
FRIDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
SATURDAY No on-site visits


REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Off site visits can be either 15 minutes or 30 minutes.
  • Cost in $3.50 for each 15 minutes, $7.00 for each 30 minutes.
DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
MONDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
TUESDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
WEDNESDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
THURSDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
FRIDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
SATURDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM

Catawba County Detention Facility uses iWebVisit for Inmate Video Visitation. 

  • All visits are by appointment and first-come, first-serve.
  • If you are using a desktop or laptop computer, the iWebVisit platform can be used with all operating systems.
  • If you are using a tablet computer or mobile cellular device, the iWebVisit platform works with the Android operating system.
  • The iWebVisit system may NOT support the iPhone or iPad, however an Apple MAC Book laptop is supported. The app for iPhones/iPads is coming soon so please check back regularly on their website or in the App Store.

NOTE: For the best quality video experience, please ensure that you have the latest updates available for both your operating system and Google Chrome Browser.
How much does iWebVisit Cost?
The cost for a 15-20 minute visit varies.
It can be as low as $3.00 in some facilities, or as high as $8.00. Prices may change with no notice.
Check the pricing for Catawba County Detention Facility here.
How do I pay for iWebVisit?
You can pay for an iWebVisit with a major credit or debit card.
You can also use a pre-paid money card, as long as you register it with your personal information prior to using it on this platform.
How does iWebVisit video visitation work?
1. Create a free account.
2. “Choose A Facility” and then select the facility you want to visit with. Whatever facility you choose will become your “Default” facility each time you log in.
3. Click “Schedule a Visit” and enter the inmate name and inmate number. Select either “Visit Now” or “Schedule Visit Later” and choose an available date and time.
After your visit payment is processed, you may begin visiting at your scheduled time. 
Tutorial - Visual Instructions here.
The next time you return, just sign in to your account and you are ready to schedule new visits.
Can I use iWebVisit from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?
No. You can only use these video visitation services from your own computer or device.
How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?
Visits are first come, first serve and an appointment must be made by you.
Your inmate will be notified of the date of your video visit once you secure a time.
How do you get refunds?
Go here for refunds.
How often can you visit?
The number of times you can visit each week is a policy determined by this jail, typically twice a week, although visitation frequency is subject to change based on security circumstances . 
Who do you contact if you are having any problems?
iWebVisit support is available 7 Days a week during normal visitation hours: (5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. PST / 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. EST)
LIVE CHAT: You can use LIVE CHAT on iWebVisits Website. The Chat Box is at the bottom right corner of your screen.
EMAIL: You can email any questions you may have to: [email protected]
TELEPHONE: 775-434-8748. During peak times, you may need to get a call back.
What are the Rules for using iWebVisit at Catawba County Detention Facility
All Remote Visitation sessions are reserved in advance, prepaid, and non-refundable.
All visitors are responsible for having working equipment and a strong internet connection. 
Unsuccessful visits due to your own equipment, browser, and internet issues cannot be credited.
If a visit is cancelled for any reason at least 24 hours in advance of the visit, you will automatically receive a prepaid code for future use. This code will be sent to your email.
If a visit is not cancelled at least 24 hours in advance you will NOT receive a prepaid code for future use.
After a visit is scheduled, the time of the visit cannot be changed.
If you miss a visit for any reason, no waiver code can be provided as the visit session was held for you whether you attended or not.
If you schedule a “Same-Day” visit and cancel or miss it for any reason, no waiver code can be provided as the visit session was held for you whether you attended or not.
If you are an attorney or clergy and want to schedule a ‘confidential visit’, you need to email pictures of your state-issued identification (and bar card for lawyers) to be granted confidential status. Please follow these directions.
**
If you experience any technical difficulties with your device, please contact iWebVisit at 775-434-8748 before, or during your visit. If you are using your mobile device for the visit, click on “hang up” and call them while your visit is happening.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Remote Video Visitation

Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility?

Catawba County Detention Facility Inmate Visitation Schedule (Video)

100 Government Drive
Newton, NC 28658
828-465-8999

  • First, you must register an account with iwebvisit, then add Catawba County Detention Facility, then your inmate.
  • Second, you can choose a time to visit.
  • Offsite Video Visits can be done on Android, IOS (Apple) or Windows devices.
  • All visits must be scheduled 24 hours prior to the appointment or up to 1 weeks in advance.
  • Each inmate gets one on-site 15-minute visit per week.
  • On-site visits are only 15 minutes.
  • CHECK-IN: 10 minutes prior to scheduled visit.
  • Valid picture identification (e.g., driver’s license, State I.D., or Military I.D.) is required at Check-In.
  • Visitors under the age of 17 must be listed as an additional visitor and accompanied and supervised by an authorized visitor over the age of 18.
  • If a visitor loses internet connection during an offsite video visitation session, no refund will be issued.

ON-SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE

DAY TIME
SUNDAY 8:00AM - 4:30PM
MONDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
TUESDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
WEDNESDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
THURSDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
FRIDAY 2:00PM - 4:30PM
SATURDAY No on-site visits


REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Off site visits can be either 15 minutes or 30 minutes.
  • Cost in $3.50 for each 15 minutes, $7.00 for each 30 minutes.
DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
MONDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
TUESDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
WEDNESDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
THURSDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
FRIDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM
SATURDAY 6:30AM - 5:30PM

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility?

How to Deposit Money Online for an inmate in Catawba County Detention Facility

Catawba County Detention Facility uses McDaniel Supply Company for their inmate commissary. 

McDaniel Supply operates the JailPackStore website so you can order online using a credit or debit card. They will send the money to your inmate at Catawba County Detention Facility.

JailPackStore has a very cumbersome website that requires you to: 

1. register,
2. add a credit or debit card, and then
3. locate your inmate, before you can even deposit funds.

Maximum Deposit -  $300

Fee to Deposit Money using a credit or debit card - 

  • $3.95 to deposit $10.00 - 25.00
  • $6.95 to deposit $25.01 - 100.00
  • $8.95 to deposit $100.01 - 200.00
  • $10.95 to deposit $200.01 to 300.00

Any money that you deposit and don't immediately send will be held as a credit on your account for future disbursement or spend.

For full instructions on how to deposit money to your inmate online, what the fees are, and how to save money doing it this way, check out our inmate money page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility?

How Do Inmates in Catawba County Detention Facility Make Phone Calls?

To receive phone calls from inmates in Catawba County, or to assist them in making phone calls to other people, follow these steps:

For all the information regarding phone calls with Catawba 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 Catawba County Detention Facility’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility, and what can I send them?

Catawba County Detention Facility Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The Catawba County Detention Facility allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address. All mail will be scanned and delivered digitally. Write your return address on the letter, as the envelopes are destroyed.

Envelopes
The Catawba County Detention Facility also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. It is best to only use blue or black ink. All mail will be scanned and delivered digitally. Write your return address on the letter, as the envelopes are destroyed. No photos can be mailed. 

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 Name
Catawba County Detention Facility
PO Box 385
Newton NC 28658



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's name
Catawba County Detention Facility
100 Government Drive
Newton, NC 28658



Newspapers
No newspapers allowed.

Magazines
No magazines allowed.

Books
No books allowed.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility, and what can I purchase?

Catawba County Detention Facility uses McDaniel Supply Company for their inmate commissary. 

McDaniel Supply operates the JailPackStore website so you can order online using a credit or debit card. They will ship your order directly to your inmate at Catawba County Detention Facility.

JailPackStore has a very cumbersome website that requires you to:  1. register, 2. add a credit or debit card, and then 3. locate your inmate, before you can even see their commissary products, prices, additional fees, etc. 

Here are the basic details of what they sell and their fees:

Commissary products that you can purchase -

Candy, Chips, Meats, Seafood, Writing supplies, Hygeneine Kits, Underwear. These are all in various pre-defined packs ranging in price from $11.00-$27.00. The shipping fee is an additional $4.95.

Maximum Deposit -

$300

Fee to Deposit Money using a credit or debit card - 

$3.95 to deposit $10.00 - 25.00

$6.95 to deposit $25.01 - 100.00

$8.95 to deposit $100.01 - 200.00

$10.95 to deposit $200.01 to 300.00

Any money that you deposit and don't immediately spend will be held as a credit on your account for future purchases.

JailPackStore is the Catawba County Detention Facility's outside vendor for Commissary Items. They have a very good mix or Chips, Snacks, Candy, Meat, Seafood, Hygeine products, Letter writing materials and Underwear items for sale on their website.

Here is a sample of what you can purchase for your inmate:

SNACKS

$19.75 + $4.95 shipping + $6.95 fee to add money = Total cost to you before tax $31.65

MAC'S Pack Caramel Corn 6oz - 1
Bud's Best Butterfinger Cookie 6oz - 1
Chex Mix - Cheddar 1.75oz - 1
Combos Buffalo Blue Cheese - 7oz -1
Creme Cookies 13oz - 1
White Cheddar Cheez-its 1.5oz - 2
Kar's Honey Roasted Peanuts 3.5oz - 1
Kar's Sweet and Salty Mix 2oz - 1
Snyder's Jalapeno Pretzel Pieces 2.25oz - 1

LETTER WRITING MATERIALS

$15.00 + $4.95 shipping + $3.95 fee to add money = Total cost to you before taxes $23.90

Stamped Envelopes - 8
Glue Top Writing Pad 8.5x11 - 1
Friendship Greeting Cards w/Stamps – 2

HYGEINE ITEMS

$26.50 + $4.95 shipping + $6.95 fee to add money = Total cost to you before taxes $38.40

Degree Extreme Blast Deodorant - 1.7oz - 1
Colgate w/Baking Soda Toothpaste - 6.4oz - 1
Dove Sensitive Skin Soap - 4oz- 2
Suave Advanced Therapy Lotion - 10oz - 1
Garnier Shampoo - 13oz - 1
Axe Body Wash 16oz – 1

If you don't have a bank card and want to see if they will accept a money order for payment call JailPackStore at 800-822-9388. Their hours are Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM.
They are closed Saturday and Sunday.

How to Send a Carepack Commissary Package Directly to an Inmate in Catawba County

To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Catawba County Detention Facility follow these steps:

  • Catawba County Detention Facility uses McDaniel Supply Company for their inmate commissary.
  • McDaniel Supply operates the JailPackStore website so you can order online using a credit or debit card. They will ship your order directly to your inmate at Catawba County Detention Facility.
  • JailPackStore has a very cumbersome website that requires you to:  1. register, 2. add a credit or debit card, and then 3. locate your inmate in Catawba County before you can even see their commissary products, prices, additional fees, etc. 

NOTE: There will also be a limit on how much product you can send your inmate in Catawba County at any one time.

For all information, tips and a list and photos of available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Catawba County Detention Facility check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Catawba County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Catawba County Detention Facility using an Online Messaging Service?

inteleMESSAGE by Pay Tel is a service in which Catawba County inmates can use tablets to send messages to any friend or family member that has set up an on-line prepaid or direct bill account with Pay Tel. 

How inteleMESSAGE Works

  1. The Catawba County Detention Facility inmate must contact you first in order to activate messaging for your account.
  2. Once an inmate has messaged you, you are then able to visit the Pay Tel website, log in, read and respond to his or her messages. 
  3. When you log in and follow the inteleMESSAGE™ link, you will be asked if you want to accept messages from your Catawba County inmate. If you accept, you will then be able to read any inmate message that has been sent to you.
  4. An on-line prepaid or direct bill account is required to use messaging. 
  5. You must visit the Pay Tel website, login to your account, and follow the inteleMESSAGE™ link in order to send or check for messages. You will not be notified of messages by any other method.
  6. All messages are subject to monitoring and review and should never be used for privileged attorney-inmate communications.
  7. If a message is rejected for any reason, the sender’s account will be automatically credited for the cost of the message.
  8. Free messages which are rejected will not be refunded or restored.

Cost to send messages

  1. The sender of the message is charged $.50 per message. Rates are subject to change.
  2. For friends and family outside of a facility, this amount is deducted from the prepaid account balance or charged to your direct bill account.
  3. For inmates, the amount is charged to the inmate and deducted from the inmate’s debit account.
  4. There is no charge to read a message that was sent to you.

Paytel App Download

Check to see if Tablets are Available in Catawba County Detention Facility for rent to your inmate. Tablets can be used for phone calls, messaging, education, and entertainment.

How to Send a Secure Email Message to an Inmate in Catawba County

To send a secure email message to an inmate in Catawba County Detention Facility follow these steps:

How inteleMESSAGE Works

  • The Catawba County Detention Facility inmate must contact you first in order to activate messaging for your account.
  • Once an inmate has messaged you, you are then able to visit the Pay Tel website, log in, read and respond to his or her messages. 
  • When you log in and follow the inteleMESSAGE™ link, you will be asked if you want to accept messages from your Catawba County inmate. If you accept, you will then be able to read any inmate message that has been sent to you.

For all information on rates, and how to Text/Email an Inmate in Catawba County Detention Facility check out our Secure Messaging Guide for Catawba County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Catawba County Detention Facility have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Paytel Tablets can be rented by inmates housed in the Catawba County Detention Facility for a small monthly fee.  


Tablets can be used by inmates, for the following things:

  • Phone Calls
  • Messages (email / texts)
  • Educational applications
  • Entertainment (movies, games, television, music)
  • Catawba County Detention Facility information (rules, guidelines, visitation schedules, etc.)
  • Legal research
  • Medical requests
  • Programs (anger management, drug recovery, job skills, parenting, etc.)

Contact Paytel online, or call the Catawba County Detention Facility directly at 828-465-8999 to rent a tablet for your inmate.


If you want download the Paytel App, click the image below:

Tablets Rentals Offer Great Solutions for Inmates at the Catawba County Detention Facility

How can you rent a tablet for an inmate in Catawba County? Read the following:


Tablets can be used by inmates, for the following things:

  • Phone Calls
  • Messages (email / texts)
  • Educational applications and Entertainment
  • Legal Research
  • and much more!

Contact Paytel online, or call the Catawba County Detention Facility directly at 828-465-8999 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 Catawba County Detention Facility.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Catawba County Detention Facility’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-465-8999 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the Catawba County Detention Facility? What does it look like?
Other Jails Nearby

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Catawba County?

Catawba Alexander Caldwell Burke Lincoln Iredell
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Search for an Inmate in Catawba County

This facility, known as "Catawba County Detention Facility" is also known as Catawba County Jail & Detention Facility , Catawba County Jail & Detention Facility , North Carolina, Catawba.