The Polk County Detention Center is a 60 bed jail in the city of Columbus, Polk 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) 894-3001, 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) 894-3001
Physical Address:
164 Government Complex Drive
Columbus, NC 28722
Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Polk County Detention Center
164 Government Complex Drive
Columbus, North Carolina 28722
Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Polk County Detention Center
164 Government Complex Drive
Columbus, North Carolina 28722
Other Jails and Prisons
To search for an inmate in the Polk County Detention Center, 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) 894-3001 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 Polk County.
Polk County Detention Center Inmate Search
The Polk County Detention Center maintains an average of 60 offenders in custody on any given day. The Polk County Detention Center 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 Polk County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 1,200 offenders.
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INTERESTING FACTS about the Polk County Jail: Built in 2018, the 60-bed detention has modular steel cells sized for double occupancy in indirect pod supervision dayrooms with recreation yards. Jail operations are single-level, with no mezzanine housing floors. The law enforcement portion contains an evidence-processing lab and storage, vehicular evidence-processing bay, training room, locker rooms, records storage and administrative offices for the sheriff, investigations, patrol and narcotics.
The facility includes a kitchen and laundry area, enclosed vehicle sallyport, intake and booking area, medical suite, video visitation room and magistrate’s offices. The jail is being built on a 22-acre site that was also master planned for a future courthouse and other county buildings.
The site is overlooking the nearby mountains and will also serve as the location for a future replacement courthouse that is master planned on site. The site was designed to hide the face it is a detention center.
VISIT YOUR LOVED ONE
Providing emotional support for someone who is incarcerated at the Polk County Jail is critical to their well-being. Even short visits via remote visitation can be critical for them in getting through the ordeal of being incarcerated. They may have medical needs to inform you of, or they may have complaints about the way they are being treated by the Polk County Detention Center staff.
Remote Visitation, in the comfort of your own home is available for most facilities. Visitation hours may be dependent upon the sex of the person and, also dependent upon the section of the facility in which they are housed.
In 2020, COVID stopped in person visitation in all facilities, but some have reinstated in person visitation. Call (828) 894-3001 to check the current status of in person visitation in.
See information below for how to register for an account for remote video visitation.
You must submit a picture and government photo ID for facility approval prior to visiting someone in our facility.
If you are doing in person visitation, visitors are subject to search. Dress appropriately. If too much skin is showing, you may be refused visitation rights.
Deposit money online with a debit or credit card by registering with an account. See details below in the Commissary section.
PHONE CALLS AND TABLETS
Money to friends and loved ones may also be used for them to have time for phone calls or time on a tablet for entertainment or educational purposes to better themselves during this time. Also, it may be used for sending texts or emails. See the sections below for details.
Please include the inmates name, ID number, dorm number and cell or bed number if possible, when sending mail.
Inmates do NOT have the right to send mail to one another!
DO NOT SEND lewd photos. All mail will be inspected by authorities and contraband seized.
Books or magazines may be sent if only from a publisher such as direct mailed from Amazon.
See section below for more details on sending mail.
To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Polk County Detention Center, call the jail’s booking line at (828) 894-3001.
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.
Polk County Detention Center 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk County Detention Center 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 Polk County Detention Center? What is the Schedule?
On-Site visiting hours are 1-4pm every Sunday.
Scroll down for online visit information and schedules.
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 Polk County Detention Center
Polk County Detention Center 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?
Polk County Detention Center 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, Polk County Detention Center 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 Polk County Detention Center’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 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 Polk County Detention Center?
Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Polk County Detention Center
Polk County Detention Center 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?
Polk County Detention Center 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, Polk County Detention Center 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 Polk County Detention Center’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Polk County Detention Center?
Polk County Detention Center 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 Polk County Detention Center.
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 -
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 Polk County Detention Center’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Polk County Detention Center?
To receive phone calls from inmates in Polk County, or to assist them in making phone calls to other people, follow these steps:
For all the information regarding phone calls with Polk 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 Polk County Detention Center’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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How do I Mail an Inmate in the Polk County Detention Center, and what can I send them?
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Polk County Detention Center’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Polk County Detention Center, and what can I purchase?
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 Polk County Detention Center.
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.
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 Polk County Detention Center'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.
To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Polk County Detention Center follow these steps:
NOTE: There will also be a limit on how much product you can send your inmate in Polk 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 Polk County Detention Center check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Polk County.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Polk County Detention Center’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Polk County Detention Center using an Online Messaging Service?
The cost is $1.00 per message. In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase.
How does HomeWAV video messaging (email) work?
1. Sign Up.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Send your video message.
Using Jail ATM Digital Messaging with an Inmate at Polk County Detention Center - Sending and Receiving Messages.
How It Works:
Once you sign up with Jail ATM instant Messaging you can you can send texts from the cell phone associated with the mobile number you provided at sign-up, and receive text messages from the inmate on the same cell phone. You can only use the phone number you signed up with or it won't work.
To learn more about this email service, check out our full instructions, including fees at our emailing and texting page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Polk County Detention Center’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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Do Inmates in the Polk County Detention Center have Access to Tablets or Computers?
Tablets can be used by inmates, for the following things:
Contact Paytel online, or call the Polk County Detention Center directly at (828) 894-3001 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 Polk County? Read the following:
Tablets can be used by inmates, for the following things:
Contact Paytel online, or call the Polk County Detention Center directly at (828) 894-3001 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 Polk County Detention Center.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Polk County Detention Center’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call (828) 894-3001 for further assistance.
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What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Polk County?
This facility, known as "Polk County Detention Center" is also known as Polk County Jail & Sheriff, Polk County Jail & Sheriff , Polk County Jail & Sheriff , North Carolina, Polk.
