Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

Search for an Inmate in Mecklenburg County

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Information

Located in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central is a 1900-bed jail. For inmate information, you can contact them 24 hours a day at 704-336-8100.

This facility handles the booking and processing of offenders arrested for misdemeanors and felonies. Depending on their charges, inmates may be held until they are bonded out, released on their own recognizance, or remain in custody until their trial is concluded.

You can use the inmate search tool to view the roster of individuals currently in custody.

Inmates sentenced to less than one year will serve their time at this facility, while those sentenced to longer terms will be transferred to either the North Carolina State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

This page provides details on the visitation schedule, how to fund an inmate's account, send mail, receive phone calls, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bonds, and commissary purchases.

It’s advisable to save the inmate’s jail ID or booking number for communication purposes. If you cannot locate it online, call Mecklenburg Detention Center Central at 704-336-8100 for help.

Phone: 704-336-8100

Physical Address:
801 East Fourth Street
Charlotte, NC 28202

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, NC
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 31367
Charlotte, NC 28231

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central?

To search for an inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, 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 704-336-8100 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 Mecklenburg County.

The Mecklenburg County Sheriff has a very informative FAQ section that helps you understand the various codes used on the Jail Roster and what they mean. If you know someone who has been arrested, and you want to understand when they are going to be released, or why they are still being held, the FAQ will be very helpful.

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmate Search

The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central maintains an average of 1900 offenders in custody on any given day. The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central 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 Mecklenburg County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 50,280 offenders.

The following charts of Mecklenburg County inmate population demographics are updated daily. The information shown is for today. For research purposes we have broken down the inmates by sex, age, ethnicity, and criminal charges.

The information is compiled from the Mecklenburg County Corrections Department, the state of North Carolina Department of Corrections, as well as the United States Department of Justice and Census Bureau records. It represents every person in custody in Mecklenburg County.

For complete information on how to get directions, bond, visit, mail, send and receive email and texts, receive phone calls, and send money or commissary to an inmate, find arrest information for Mecklenburg County and other counties surrounding this one, scroll down this page. We have a section for each.

We also provide photos of the jail that we have collected over the years.

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About the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

INTERESTING FACTS about the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central:

Currently – 1800 bed capacity.

Recent upgrades – the seven-level, expansion of Mecklenburg Jail added a 110 bed dormitory for the weekender program, a 28-bed medical pod, more than 660 cells, and office space as well as expanded kitchen and staff dining areas. Two annexes were also recently added - Each Structure has a hallway down the center of the building. On each side of the hallway, 4pods housing 40 inmates each. Each pod has bathroom facilities, beds, day room and an officer station. Therefore, each housing structure will house approximately 320 inmates, for a total population of 640 inmates in this new Annex (called the North Annex).

Prior to building these, it was not uncommon to have 300 inmates sleeping on the floor. Recent staffing shortages have put the spotlight on the facility – as it faces the possibility of having to send some of its inmates to nearby facilities. 

Commissary items valued at $50 each order may be placed twice a week here.

The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central is responsible for the housing and care of those who are accused or convicted of committing a misdemeanor or felony in Mecklenburg County as they wait for their trial or as they serve their sentence, usually less than one year. 

It serves many law enforcement organizations including the Sheriff’s Department, local police, Immigration, and other surrounding counties as needed.

If you have questions regarding an inmate or the programs and services provided, the staff can be reached at 704-336-8100, and an online listing of all the detainees is published for your own investigation.

Upon intake, the booking process is completed, which includes a medical screening, fingerprinting and mugshots, DNA sample, along with an assessment to determine security needs, medical needs, mental health requirements, and housing assignment. 

Staff is available to transport all inmates to court dates and any medical appointments or emergency needs, as well as inspecting all mail for contraband, receiving commissary funds and other money for inmates, maintaining the safety of the community and the security of the facility, and other tasks. 

The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central also provides several other services to inmates including basic needs in meals, laundry, and hygiene items, and programs including AA, counseling, religious programs, education, recreation, and opportunities to grow social and life skills. 

Along with the efforts made by the staff, reduced recidivism is seen when inmates are able to stay in contact and supported by their family or friends who are not incarcerated so mail, phones, and visits are provided. 

Visits are in person, and are via video and an account is created online to book and complete visits, allowing both visitors and inmates to schedule a visit. 

Phone accounts are also registered online, and allow for inmates to make outgoing calls during the daytime and evening hours when they are not participating in a task or program. 

Information for money for an inmate’s commissary can be found on our Inmate Money page

All personal mail is sent to: 

Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, NC
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131

Staff will open each piece and look for contraband, which is removed before it is given to the inmate.

Legal mail, money orders, books and newspaper and magazine subscriptions are mailed to:

Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 31367
Charlotte, NC 28231

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

Booking process details at Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

When someone is arrested, they are taken to Mecklenburg Detention Center Central for booking. This process involves verifying identity, assessing charges, and determining whether the person will be released on bail or detained.

It's crucial to remain silent during this process, as any statements could be used in court. Legal counsel should be consulted before making any comments about the arrest.

The booking process at Mecklenburg Detention Center Central typically involves the following steps:

  • Identifying the individual.
  • Taking a mugshot.
  • Health assessments and questions about criminal background.
  • DNA collection if applicable.
  • Conducting a full-body search.
  • Confiscating personal property.
  • Allowing a phone call.

Booking times can range from one hour to 48 hours. For details on posting bond for an arrestee, call the facility at 704-336-8100.

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Directions / Map to the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central
Inmate Bail and Bonding

How to post bail for a loved one in Mecklenburg County

Once booked at Mecklenburg Detention Center Central in Charlotte, the individual has several possible outcomes:

1. Release without posting bail, with a commitment to appear in court.
2. Remaining in custody until their court date.
3. Posting bail or bond for release. For the exact amount, call 704-336-8100.

Several payment methods are available for bail.

  • Bail can be paid in cash, by credit card, or with a money order.
  • Licensed bail bondsmen in Mecklenburg County can assist with the process.
  • Property within the county can also be used to pay bail.

For more details on the bail process in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, visit the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Bail Information Page.

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Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central? What is the Schedule?

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmate at-the-jail Visitation Schedule, Registration & Guidelines

For remote video visits, scroll down to the second schedule.
For Clergy Visits, scroll to the bottom of this section.

801 East Fourth Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-336-8100

  • All visits must be scheduled online with ViaPath/GTL.
  • If you have questions or problems scheduling a visit please call Via Path at 855-208-7349.
  • Each inmate is allowed one 25-minute visit per week.
  • An inmate may have two adults and one child, or one adult and two children for their visit. Adults must be 18 and older.
  • All Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance but cannot be scheduled more than one week in advance. 
  • Visits will automatically be cancelled if the visitor arrives 10 minutes after the scheduled visitation time.
  • ID Required: valid state issued id, driver’s license, passport, military, or international id required.
  • Mecklenburg Detention Center Central will not accept any state issued driver’s license, or id cards if they are cracked, expired, taped, faded, laminated or that appear to be altered.
DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
MONDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
TUESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
WEDNESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
THURSDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
FRIDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
SATURDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM


Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Remote Inmate Visitation Schedule, Registration & Guidelines

DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
MONDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
TUESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
WEDNESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
THURSDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
FRIDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
SATURDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM

CLERGY VISTS: Each resident receives one free 25 minute clergy video and one in-person visit a week. To schedule and get authorization, call the Volunteer Coordinator at 980-314-5172 during normal business hours Monday through Friday.

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central offers Video Visitation for Inmates using the Services of GTL, aka ViaPath Techologies

In order to schedule and then visit an inmate using GTL you need to first register with GTL.

Next Steps:

  • Register yourself and all visitors.
  • Select Mecklenburg Detention Center Central
  • Select your inmate.
  • Schedule your preferred time for the visit.

For at-home video visits: Sign in to the visitation scheduling site 15 minutes prior to your scheduled visit. Test your connection, and follow the steps to start your visit.
For on-site video visits: Arrive at the facility at least 15 minutes prior to check-in. A valid photo ID is required. 

All your questions can be answered after you register, at the Frequently Asked Questions page, or call 855-208-7349 during the following hours:
6AM – 4PM MST Monday – Friday, or 
7AM – 4PM MST Saturday – Sunday

Costs for Visits are subject to change but generally run less than $10.00 for a 30 minute visit.
Payment can be made with Visa, Mastercard debit, credit or gift cards.

How to Arrange Video Visitation with Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmates

Follow these instructions to schedule and then visit an inmate using GTL.

  • Register yourself and all visitors.
  • Select Mecklenburg Detention Center Central
  • Select your inmate.
  • Schedule your preferred time for the visit.

For all the information you need to know regarding scheduling, cost, rules, tips and guidelines of inmate visits at the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, check out our Visit Inmate Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central?

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmate at-the-jail Visitation Schedule, Registration & Guidelines

For remote video visits, scroll down to the second schedule.

801 East Fourth Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-336-8100

  • All visits must be scheduled online with ViaPath/GTL.
  • If you have questions or problems scheduling a visit please call Via Path at 855-208-7349.
  • Each inmate is allowed one 25-minute visit per week.
  • An inmate may have two adults and one child, or one adult and two children for their visit. Adults must be 18 and older.
  • All Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance but cannot be scheduled more than one week in advance. 
  • Visits will automatically be cancelled if the visitor arrives 10 minutes after the scheduled visitation time.
  • ID Required: valid state issued id, driver’s license, passport, military, or international id required.
  • Mecklenburg Detention Center Central will not accept any state issued driver’s license, or id cards if they are cracked, expired, taped, faded, laminated or that appear to be altered.
DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
MONDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
TUESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
WEDNESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
THURSDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
FRIDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
SATURDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM


Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Remote Inmate Visitation Schedule, Registration & Guidelines

DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
MONDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
TUESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
WEDNESDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
THURSDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
FRIDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM
SATURDAY 8:00AM-11:00AM
1:00PM-4:00PM
8:00PM-10:00PM

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central?

There are two options for putting money on an inmate's books:


Option 1 - Deposit Inmate Money Online
Mecklenburg Detention Center Central uses Touchpay 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 2
Money Orders and Cashier's Checks can NOT be sent to the inmate. 
They MUST be made out the inmate and their PID# and sent to the Inmate Trust Account Department:

Inmate's Name as it appears on their armband, and PID Number
P.O. Box 31427
Charlotte, N.C. 28231-1427

How to Deposit Money into an Inmate's Account in Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

To deposit money into the account of an inmate in Mecklenburg County, follow these instructions:

  • Create an account with Touchpay Services, a GTL company.
  • Select North Carolina.
  • Select Mecklenburg Detention Center Central
  • Enter the Inmate ID of your inmate.  This can be found by calling 704-336-8100 or by looking up the inmate's name in the Inmate Search link.
  • Enter your billing information and send money.
  • You can also deposit cash using the kiosk at the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central.  To do this you need the Inmate's ID Number and the Facility Locator Number for Mecklenburg County.

For all the information you need regarding making an inmate deposit, what it costs, how much you can send, how long it takes for your inmate to receive funds and more, and to get the Facility Locator Number, check out our Send Money Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central?

How Do Inmates in Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Make or Receive Phone Calls?

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

1.  Start by confirming that Mecklenburg Detention Center Central has the phone service you need to communicate with your inmate by the facility lookup here.
2. In the meantime, you can create an account here for GettingOut.
3. Then add funds to your account. This account can be controlled by just you, or by both you and your inmate.
4. Last, select Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, and then the inmate you wish to communicate with.

Mecklenburg County Services that are provided by GettingOut, a GTL company:
 - Phone Calls & Voicemail 
 - Video Visits (from home or jail lobby)
 - Email & Photo Sharing
 - Tablet Rental
 - Deposits


Phone & Voicemail Fees

1.  GettingOut charges $0.25 per minute for all phone calls, prepaid or collect, within North Carolina.
2. Prepaid calls between North Carolina and other states costs $0.21 per minute. International calls are $0.95 per minute.
3. There is a fee of $3.00 every time you add money to your account online, and it costs $5.95 if you add funds over the phone with a live agent.
4. You can also leave an inmate a short voice message for a flat fee of $1.25.

Note: Rates are subject to change.

Types of Phone Calls
Collect Calls
Collect calls allow you to accept and pay for calls to your land line (only) phone account. This means that if you accept your call from your inmate, all the charges for that call will then be billed to your land line phone account and will show up and be listed on your next local phone bill. Additional fees, costs, restrictions may apply.

Prepaid calls (Direct Calls)
With Prepaid Calls you can set up your account so that the inmate can only call you and/or you can just deposit money in their account and they can purchase prepaid phone cards through their commissary and call whoever they choose, provided the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central approves of the phone number.

Quick Connect
Quick connect is an alternative to collect calls. It allows you to quickly pay for a phone call with your credit card.  When your inmate calls you, follow the instructions from the automated voice system to pay for that one phone call, directly billed to your card.

Customer Service
If you have any questions about the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central GettingOut phone services, you can call them at 866-516-0115.

* All the information you need to understand making and receiving phone calls with inmates in Mecklenburg County, can be found on our Inmate Phone Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, and what can I send them?

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central 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 & PID #
Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, NC
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 31367
Charlotte, NC 28231



Newspapers
Local or national newspapers may also be mailed to the inmate as long as they are mailed directly from the newspaper publisher.

Magazines
News, special interest or sports magazines may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher. Any magazines that contain profanity, weapons, pornography or other content that is adult in nature will be confiscated by the jail staff and will NOT be delivered to the inmate.

Books
The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central allows books to be mailed directly to the jail from a reputable source such as AmazonBarnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. You can order them directly from your computer and have them shipped to the inmate at the address below.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central standards will be disposed of. No more than three books may be shipped at any one time.
Hard cover books will not be accepted by the jail due to their potential to be used as a weapon.


All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 31367
Charlotte, NC 28231

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central 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.

Envelopes
The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates.

Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, NC
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131



Legal Mail

Send all legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 31367
Charlotte, NC 28231



Newspapers
Local or national newspapers may also be mailed to the inmate as long as they are mailed directly from the newspaper publisher.

Magazines
News, special interest or sports magazines may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher. Any magazines that contain profanity, weapons, pornography or other content that is adult in nature will be confiscated by the jail staff and will NOT be delivered to the inmate.

Books
The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central allows books to be mailed directly to the jail from a reputable source such as AmazonBarnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. You can order them directly from your computer and have them shipped to the inmate at the address below.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central standards will be disposed of. No more than three books may be shipped at any one time.
Hard cover books will not be accepted by the jail due to their potential to be used as a weapon.


All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 31367
Charlotte, NC 28231

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, and what can I purchase?

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central allows pre-determined commissary packs to be purchased by friends and family of inmates.  

The service they use is called icaregifts.

Instructions

1.    Register here.
2.    Click the "Find an Inmate" button and enter your loved one’s first name, last name, or inmate number. When the information is entered correctly, click the “Search” button to confirm they are in the system.
3.    Select the icare gift you want to send them.
4.    Confirm the order in your confirmation email.
5.    Mecklenburg Detention Center Central has up to 30 days to give your icaregift pack to your inmate.
6.    You will receive a confirmation email when it is delivered.

There are a total of fourteen (14) pre-determined icaregift packs available to choose from. 

They range in price from $10.49 for ten pre-stamped envelopes, 2 pens and a pad of writing paper…

… to $104.99 for a box of 85 snack and food items…

… with many gift packs priced in between.

Resources
Frequently Asked Questions (you must have an inmate chosen in order to review these FAQs for Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

Contact Info:
888-439-5020 - 8AM–9PM ET, 7 days a week.

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

To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Mecklenburg Detention Center Central follow these steps:

  • Register here to create an account with icaregifts for Mecklenburg County.
  • Choose North Carolina, then Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, and then the products you want shipped to them, and input your payment method. 
  • NOTE: There may be a limit on how much product you can send your inmate in Mecklenburg County at any one time.
  • There are a total of fourteen (14) pre-determined icaregift packs available to choose from. 
  • The gift packs for inmates in Mecklenburg County range in price from $10.49 for ten pre-stamped envelopes, 2 pens and a pad of writing paper, to $104.99 for a box of 85 snack and food items.

For all information, tips and available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, as well as sending money to the inmate so that they can purchase their own items, check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Mecklenburg County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central using an Online Messaging Service?

Emailing and Texting Messages, Photos & Videograms

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central contracts with GTL GettingOut, the same service that handles Inmate Phone Systems and Video Visitation, for sending secure messages and photos between you and your inmate.


If you are not already registered, do so here, or Log in.

Then use the Facility Finder to:
1.  Select Mecklenburg Detention Center Central,
2. Add your inmate to your list of contacts,
3. Add a credit or debit card to cover your costs.

How Messaging Works
Watch this video on how to send a message.
1.
  Messages can be up to 500 characters long, including punctuation. At the bottom of your message there is a 'character countdown' feature.  
2. After you click the “CONTINUE” button, you can review the cost to send your message to your inmate. You can also attach credits for your inmate to reply to your message.  Be sure to accept the Terms and Conditions and click the “SEND” button for your message to be successfully delivered to your inmate.

How Uploading Photos Works
Watch this video on how to upload a photo.
1.
  Select the Photos Tab.
2. Select “Take New Photo” or “Upload New Photo”.
3. Take a new photo with your webcam, or select "Choose File" to upload a photo from your computer.
4. Give your photo a Title or add it to the "Gallery" of your choice.
5. Select the "Share" button.
6. Select your inmate(s) and then select "Share".
7. Once the photo is approved, it will be shared with your inmate(s).

Customer Service Questions
'Online' Contact Form, or
Call   866-516-0115

How to Communicate with an Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmate by Mail and by Email

To mail or email an inmate in Mecklenburg County follow these steps:

When mailing a letter or postcard to an inmate, please follow these instructions:

  • All mail sent to an inmate at the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central must include the sender's name and mailing address in the top left corner of the envelope or postcard.
  • All mail must include the facility's address, as well as the inmate's name and assigned number.
  • Failure to include your return address will most likely result in your mail NOT being delivered and your letter destroyed.
  • The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central has a zero-tolerance policy regarding mail violations. 
  • All the information you need to understand mail and email policies can be found on our Inmate Mail Page and our Text/Email an Inmate Page.

Emailing Messages & Photos

Facility_name_1} contracts with GTL GettingOut, the same service that handles iInmate Phone Systems and Video Visitation, for sending secure messages and photos between you and your inmate.
 
If you are not already registered, do so here, or Log in.

Then use the Facility Finder to:
1.  Select Mecklenburg Detention Center Central,
2. Add your inmate to your list of contacts,
3. Add a credit or debit card to cover your costs.

  • Messages can be up to 500 characters long, including punctuation. At the bottom of your message there is a 'character countdown' feature.  
  • After you click the “CONTINUE” button, you can review the cost to send your message to your inmate. You can also attach credits for your inmate to reply to your message.  Be sure to accept the Terms and Conditions and click the “SEND” button for your message to be successfully delivered to your inmate.
  • You can also send your Mecklenburg County inmate photos and videos.

Customer Service Questions
'Online' Contact Form, or
Call   866-516-0115

Go here to this FAQ to get answers to how the transition to ViaPath from GTL and gettingout will affect your account.

All the information you need to understand mail and email policies for Mecklenburg County can be found on our Inmate Mail Page and our Text/Email an Inmate Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central allows inmates access to tablets to use for the services provided by 'gettingout'.


The devices are similar to common handheld tablets, but are made exclusively by GettingOut, a GTL / Viapath company.
Tablets offer specialized content and services for inmates to use during their stay at Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, such as:

  • Music
  • Books
  • Games
  • Education
  • News
  • Radio
  • Television
  • Read mail and messages
  • Video visits

-  Free services are already available for use on the device at Mecklenburg Detention Center Central.
-  Subscription services are funded separately by family and friends with deposits made into an inmate’s Debit Link account.
-  Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Inmates will then be able to purchase subscription services and premium content to enjoy.

What Does a Tablet Cost?

To estimate costs for tablets and other services such as phone calls, sign in to your account and click “Rate & Fees Calculator” in the footer (bottom of the page), but the following gives you a general idea.

Game Center:

30-Day Subscription: $4.99, with an additional $1.00 service infrastructure charge ($5.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $2.99, with an additional $0.75 service infrastructure charge ($3.74)

Seven-Day Subscription: $1.99, with an additional $0.50 service infrastructure charge ($2.49)

Unlimited eBooks:

Thirty-Day Subscription: $1.99, with an additional $1.00 service infrastructure charge ($2.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $0.99, with an additional $0.75 service infrastructure charge ($1.74)

Seven-Day Subscription: $0.49, with an additional $0.50 service infrastructure charge ($0.99)

Streaming Music:

Thirty-Day Subscription: $8.99, with an additional $16.00 service infrastructure charge ($24.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $5.99, with an additional $9.00 service infrastructure charge ($14.99)

Seven-Day Subscription: $2.99, with an additional $5.00 service infrastructure charge ($7.99)

Newsfeed

Thirty-Day Subscription: $3.99, with an additional $6.00 service infrastructure charge ($9.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $1.99, with an additional $5.00 service infrastructure charge ($6.99)

Seven-Day Subscription: $0.99, with an additional $3.00 service infrastructure charge ($3.99)

Same Day Subscription Services

Game Center: $0.99, with an additional $0.50 service infrastructure charge ($1.49)

Unlimited eBooks: $0.25, (Total = 0.25)

Newsfeed: $0.24, with an additional $0.75 service infrastructure charge ($0.99)

FM Radio: $0.24, with an additional $0.25 service infrastructure charge ($0.49)

All Subscription and message credit pricing is subject to state and local taxes. 

Replacement Components - should your inmate break it...

Tablet: $249.99 per each

Charger: $8.99 per each

Earbuds: $2.99 per each

How Inmates Can Use a Tablet to Access Services at Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

To find out how to get access to a tablet for inmate read the following:

1.  First, Register or Sign In to GettingOut/GTL

2.  Purchase the services you want for your Mecklenburg Detention Center Central inmate.
3. All inmates have free access to the tablets to read their letters from family & friends, but there are many other services available to keep your inmate busy while incarcerated... such as Games, Books, Music and Movies. These other services come with fees that you can pay for when you pay for phone service.

To learn more about Tablet Rentals for inmates, including the cost, all the services available and everything else you need to know, check out our Tablet Rental Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Mecklenburg Detention Center Central’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-336-8100 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central? What does it look like?
Other Jails in Mecklenburg County

What are the other City and County Jails in Mecklenburg County?

Mecklenburg County County Jails
Mecklenburg County Juvenile Facilities
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Other Jails Nearby

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

Mecklenburg Gaston Lincoln Iredell Cabarrus Union Lancaster York
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Search for an Inmate in Mecklenburg County

This facility, known as "Mecklenburg Detention Center Central" is also known as Mecklenburg County Jail - Central, MCJ - Jail Central, Mecklenburg County Jail-Central , Mecklenburg County Jail-Central , North Carolina, Mecklenburg.