Burke County Jail

Burke County Jail Information

The Burke County Jail is a 264 bed jail in the city of Morganton, Burke County, North Carolina.

This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 828-764-9590, directions to the facility, and inmate services such as the visitation schedule and policies, funding an inmate's account, mailing them a letter, receiving phone calls from an inmate, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary purchases.

Phone: 828-764-9590

Physical Address:
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
Facility ID Number: 5020
PO Box 18247
Greensboro, NC 27419

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Burke County Jail?

To search for an inmate in the Burke County Jail, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 828-764-9590 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up an offender's Criminal Court Case information online, including the daily court dockets for Burke County.

Burke County Jail Inmate Search

The Burke County Jail maintains an average of 264 offenders in custody on any given day. The Burke County Jail has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year Burke County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 5,280 offenders.

The following charts of Burke 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 Burke 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 Burke 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 Burke 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.

For a collection of over 20 additional graphs and charts of the demographic and criminal arrest information of the inmates in Burke County and North Carolina state prisons, click the button below.
Burke County INMATE DEMOGRAPHICS

Burke County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 3/19/2024

Race Inmates % Total
White 95 45.02%
Black 35 16.59%
Hispanic or Latino 47 22.27%
American Indian/Native Alaskan 7 3.32%
Asian 13 6.16%
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian 7 3.32%
Other 7 3.32%
Total 211 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Burke County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Burke County Inmate Criminal Charges - 3/19/2024

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Charge Inmates % Total
Felony (3rd Degree) 60 28.44%
Felony (2rd Degree) 42 19.91%
Felony (1st Degree) 3 1.42%
State Jail Felony 26 12.32%
Felony (Uncategorized) 47 22.27%
Misdemeanor (Class A) 33 15.64%
Misdemeanor (Class C) 0 0.00%
Holds 0 0.00%
Uncategorized 0 0.00%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Burke County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Burke County Inmate Sex - 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 187 88.63%
Female 24 11.37%
Total 211 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Burke County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Burke County Inmate Age - 3/19/2024

Age Inmates % Total
Under 18 2 0.95%
18-20 14 6.64%
21-24 24 11.37%
25-30 39 18.48%
31-35 29 13.74%
36-40 39 18.48%
41-45 24 11.37%
46-50 13 6.16%
51-55 8 3.79%
56-60 12 5.69%
61-65 4 1.90%
66-75 2 0.95%
76-85 1 0.47%
Total 211 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Burke County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.
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About the Burke County Jail

The new Burke County Jail was completed in 2019, and began accepting inmates in 2020. While it was built for 264 inmates, they havn't had any more than about 160 inmates at any one time. The 71,000 square foot, $27 million dollar facility could be generating $40-50 a day for every county, state and federal inmate that they can rent bed space to, but the county won't let them hire more staff becuse the budget is set.

The Burke County Jail is located at 130 Government Dr in Morganton, NC 28655. They can be reached 24 hours a day by calling 828-764-9590.

The photo below gives you an idea how modern this jail is... what you are looking at is the control room that handles almost every bit of video, electrical, plumbing, doors, speakers and microphones in the entire jail.  Theoretically, with this one room, the number of staff needed to watch over the inmates is very, very low.

Mail can be received every day and is processed and passed to the inmates quickly, however the jail uses a digital service to avoid contraband entering the facility. Friends and family of inmates in the Burke County Jail can arrange to visit inmates by video, both at the jail and remotely from home. They can also send them money and buy them commissary online, and set up a phone account that allows the inmates to call them during the day and evening seven days a week.

All the information on these inmate services can be found in the sections below.  If you still have questions, you can phone the jail 24 hours a day by calling 828-764-9590.

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Burke County Jail?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Burke County Jail, call the jail’s booking line at 828-764-9590.

There may be an automated method of looking them up by their name over the phone, or you may be directed to speak to someone at the jail. Sometimes the jail staff may ask you the offender’s date of birth to ensure privacy of the offender’s status.

Keep in mind that after an arrest, the information on an offender may not be publicly available for several hours.

If you don’t want to check up on an offender by calling the jail, you can also try looking up people recently booked online.

Burke County Jail Booking Roster

What happens during booking in Burke 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 Burke County for booking.

Booking is very involved and requires multiple steps in the process, however, keep in mind that most attorneys will advise that an offender remain silent and not offer any additional information about the crime they have been arrested for because anything they do say may be recorded and may very well be used against them in court.

What is the booking process like at the Burke County Jail?

Booking includes having their photo (mugshot) and fingerprints taken, as well as being asked a lot of questions about their personal history and state of mind. If it’s a serious felony, their DNA may also be taken. They will also be checked for warrants in Burke County and other North Carolina and USA jurisdictions.

If the offender was arrested for a DUI offense, and has refused a breathalyzer test, they may also be forced to have blood drawn by a doctor or nurse.

It is also very likely that the offender will undergo a humiliating full body search while in the nude. This includes bending over, spreading their cheeks in the direction of an officer, and coughing. They will also be walked through a metal detector or x-ray machine, like those used at an airport.

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 Burke County Jail will provide a jail garment and slip-on shoes, a blanket, sheets, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel.

Often, before they are dressed in the jail outfit and brought to their housing location, they will be forced to take a shower and undergo a disinfectant treatment for body and hair lice, scabies or other pests that may be residing on their person.

How long does the Burke County Jail 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 Burke County Jail
Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Burke County Jail? What is the Schedule?

Burke County Jail Inmate on-site Video Visitation

130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590

  • First, you must register with Homewav Communications online.
  • This requires uploaded a recent photo and a copy of your valid, government issued photo ID.
  • Once you do this, you can choose Burke County Jail, choose your inmate and then schedule a time.

ON SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE

DAY TIMES
MONDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
TUESDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
WEDNESDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
THURSDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
FRIDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
SATURDAY No visitation
SUNDAY No visitation


Burke County Jail Inmate Remote Video Visitation

130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590

  • First, you must register with Homewav Communications online.
  • This requires uploaded a recent photo and a copy of your valid, government issued photo ID.
  • Once you do this, you can choose Burke County Jail, choose your inmate and then schedule a time.

REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

DAY TIMES
MONDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
TUESDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
WEDNESDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
THURSDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
FRIDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
SATURDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
SUNDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM

The Burke County Jail uses Homewav for all Video Visitation services.

The information below provides complete instructions regarding:

Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Burke County Jail

Burke County Jail uses HomeWAV for Inmate Video Visitation. 

Off-site remote visits are simple and convenient for both inmates and you. 
Outgoing calls can be initiated from the detention facility without the need for advanced scheduling.
HomeWAV is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android.
HomeWAV is compatible with most major browsers on either PC or Mac computers, but works best with Google Chrome.

 

Following these instructions exactly will enhance your chances of having trouble-free visits.

How Much does Homewav Cost?

Burke County Jail charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.  

There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.

In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.

How does HomeWAV video visitation work?

1.  Sign Up Here.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Then you just wait for the inmate to call

How Do I add Funds to my account?

1. Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds
2. Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
3. Click “Update” 
4. Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card.)

Can I use HomeWAV on my smartphone or tablet?

Yes, however your HomeWAV account must be first set up online from a computer. 

Once you have added funds to your account, you will need to install the Homewav app onto your phone or tablet.

To receive calls you must log in through the app and wait for the inmate to initiate the call. 

You cannot add funds or make any changes to your account information through the app. These options are only available through the website. 

The app should be solely used for video visitation.

What are the minimum PC requirements?

1. A computer with Windows Operating System. (Note: HomeWAV works best with Chrome.)
2. Speakers or Headphones
3. Camera and microphone

Can I use HomeWAV from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?

Yes, Burke County Jail has a HomeWAV kiosk in their lobby for you to use if you don’t have a computer or smartphone, however due to COVID issues you may be temporarily prohibited entrance into their lobby. 

How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?

1.    Make sure there are funds in your account and that you are marked as “appear online”.
2.    The moment you log in, the HomeWAV screen at the facility will light up green and display the inmates name. This informs the inmate that they have a visitor that is now logged on. 
3.    Once the inmate sees the notification, he or she will initiate the call.
4.    When the inmate initiates the call, a ringing sound will take place and a pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to accept the call.

Can I transfer funds from one inmate to another?

If you have multiple inmates and would like to transfer your funds to a different inmate, please call HomeWAV at 314-764-2872 or email [email protected] and include the following information:
1.    Homewav account holder’s name.
2.    The number of minutes to be transferred.
3.    Facility Name.
4.    From which inmate to who do you want to transfer funds.

How do I get a refund on leftover funds?

Email HomeWAV at [email protected] with your refund request. 
REFUNDS are subject to a $7.50 processing fee.  *Note* refund requests must be sent from the email address of the registered visitor.

How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?

HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:

Monday – Friday 
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST

Saturday – Sunday 
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST

HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.

HomeWAV Video Tutorials

HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Remote Video Visitation

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

Burke County Jail Inmate on-site Video Visitation

130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590

  • First, you must register with Homewav Communications online.
  • This requires uploaded a recent photo and a copy of your valid, government issued photo ID.
  • Once you do this, you can choose Burke County Jail, choose your inmate and then schedule a time.

ON SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE

DAY TIMES
MONDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
TUESDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
WEDNESDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
THURSDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
FRIDAY 7:15AM - 8:30PM
SATURDAY No visitation
SUNDAY No visitation


Burke County Jail Inmate Remote Video Visitation

130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655
828-764-9590

  • First, you must register with Homewav Communications online.
  • This requires uploaded a recent photo and a copy of your valid, government issued photo ID.
  • Once you do this, you can choose Burke County Jail, choose your inmate and then schedule a time.

REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

DAY TIMES
MONDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
TUESDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
WEDNESDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
THURSDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
FRIDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
SATURDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM
SUNDAY 8:00AM - 9:30PM

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Burke County Jail?

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

Option 1 - Dropping Money at the Jail
Bring money to the jail in person. 
Either the jail personnel will process the Inmate Account payment or you will use a Jail ATM self-serve kiosk in the lobbies that accepts cash, debit or credit cards.

Option 2 - Deposit Inmate Money Online
Burke County Jail uses Jail ATM to process all online deposits to an inmate's account. The company charges you a small fee for doing so, but the fee probably isn't as much as gas and parking would cost to take it to the jail in person.

Option 3 - Mail the Inmate Deposit to the Jail
Mailing a deposit takes more time to process than the other methods but can be done if you live too far away to bring it in person and you don't have a debit/credit card for online deposits. Never send cash. Always send a Money Order from the US Post Office, a reputable bank or Western Union. Call the Burke County Jail first as they may want you to do this online or at the jail kiosk instead.
Make the Money Order out to the inmate's name and put their Inmate ID# in memo section of the Money Order.
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655


Option 4 - Make an Inmate Deposit with Jail ATM over the Phone by calling 877-810-0914
To do this you will need the inmate's offender # (inmate ID #) and full legal name.

How to Deposit Money Online for an Inmate in Burke County

To deposit money online for an inmate in Burke County Jail follow these steps:

  • Register to open an account, or Sign In to JailATM, a service that acts as a bank for inmates in Burke County.
  • After registering and signing in, select 'Send Money Now'.
  • Choose North Carolina, then choose Burke County Jail
  • Type in your inmate's last name or their Inmate ID.
  • Select your inmate.
  • Input an amount to deposit to your inmate in Burke County Jail, and then input your payment method. 
  • NOTE: There may be a limit on how much money you can send your inmate in Burke County at any one time.
  • If you need to phone customer support, call 877-810-0914.

For all information, tips and procedures for sending money to an inmate in Burke County Jail, or depositing money at the jail, over the phone or by mail, check out our Send Money Page for Burke County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Burke County Jail?

How Do Inmates in Burke County Jail Make Phone Calls?

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

For all the information regarding phone calls with Burke County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, costs, limits, tablet rental and more visit our Inmate Phone Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Burke County Jail, and what can I send them?

Burke County Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The Burke County Jail allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. They may also allow certain photo postcards as long as they have not been tampered with or contain images that may be considered to be obscene or violent in nature. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address.

Envelopes
The Burke County Jail also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. It is best to only use blue or black ink.

Postcards and envelopes MUST HAVE the sender's full name and return address on the envelope. 

Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
Facility ID Number: 5020
PO Box 18247
Greensboro, NC 27419



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Burke County Jail
130 Government Drive
Morganton, NC 28655



No Newspapers, Magazines or Books allowed.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Burke County Jail, and what can I purchase?

Burke County Jail contracts with Oasis Commissary (aka jailcanteen.com) for the online ordering of snacks and other foods, hygiene products, letter writing materials, clothing and reading glasses.



Family members and friends can go to their website, order for their inmate and have it delivered directly to Burke County Jail.

Instructions
1.     Register here first.    
2.    Confirm registration in your email.
3.    Select North Carolina, then Burke County Jail, then input your inmate’s name.
4.    Shop… then pay using a Visa, MC or Discover credit or debit card.

Useful Information
1.     Each order incurs a $5.95 processing fee.
2.    Orders are delivered once a week.
3.    There is no limit to the number of orders you can place each week.
4.    You can purchase orders for multiple inmates and/or at multiple jails.
5.    Orders are processed weekly. The cutoff time is on Sunday at 11:59 PM.
6.    Orders are delivered to the jail within ten days.
7.    Returns incur a 20% restocking fee.

Resources
Frequently Asked Questions.  
Check the Status of your order here.  
Online Contact Form.

Oasis is now offering tablets for inmates to use for easy ordering of commissary of products. They can be used for free for 15 minutes at a time.  If an inmate wishes to use on a reguar basis for education, entertainment or programming, they can be rented for a small monthly fee.

Customer Service Contact
Call 800-956-2747 Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST. 
Email: [email protected].

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

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

  • Select North Carolina, then select Burke County Jail, and then select the 'Send a Package Order' option.
  • Register and create an account with My Care Pack, also known as Access Securepak, for Burke County.
  • Choose the inmate and 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 Burke County at any one time.

For all information, tips and available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Burke County Jail check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Burke County.

Customer Service Contact
Call 800-956-2747 Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST. 
Email: [email protected].

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Burke County Jail using an Online Messaging Service?

inteleMESSAGE by Pay Tel is a service in which Burke 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 Burke County Jail 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 Burke 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 Burke County Jail 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 Burke County

To send a secure email message to an inmate in Burke County Jail follow these steps:

How inteleMESSAGE Works

  • The Burke County Jail 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 Burke 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 Burke County Jail check out our Secure Messaging Guide for Burke County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Burke County Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Paytel Tablets can be rented by inmates housed in the Burke County Jail 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)
  • Burke County Jail 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 Burke County Jail directly at 828-764-9590 to rent a tablet for your inmate.


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

Tablets Rentals Offer Great Solutions for Inmates at the Burke County Jail

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


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

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

Contact Paytel online, or call the Burke County Jail directly at 828-764-9590 to rent a tablet for your inmate.

To find out everything you need to know about renting a tablet, what it can be used for, how much it costs, and more, check out our Tablet Page for Burke County Jail.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Burke County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 828-764-9590 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the Burke County Jail? What does it look like?
Other Jails Nearby

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

Burke Rutherford McDowell Avery Caldwell Cleveland Lincoln Catawba
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US State Prison Population Demographics

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 973,343 93.26%
Female 70,362 6.74%
Total 1,043,705 100.0%

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 327,300 35.27%
Black 345,500 37.23%
Hispanic 226,800 24.44%
American Indian / Alaska Native 15,900 1.71%
Asian 12,500 1.35%
Total 928,000 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 622,200 95.46%
Female 31,700 4.86%
Total 653,900 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 178,600 29.23%
Black 234,500 38.38%
Hispanic 179,500 29.38%
American Indian / Alaska Native 9,600 1.57%
Asian 8,800 1.44%
Total 611,000 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 147,500 93.95%
Female 10,000 6.37%
Total 157,500 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,600 26.04%
Black 63,000 43.63%
Hispanic 39,100 27.08%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,300 1.59%
Asian 2,400 1.66%
Total 144,400 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 16,000 86.02%
Female 2,600 13.98%
Total 18,600 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 5,400 43.90%
Black 3,600 29.27%
Hispanic 2,900 23.58%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.63%
Asian 200 1.63%
Total 12,300 100.0%

Violent Rape & Sexual Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 159,800 98.95%
Female 2,200 1.36%
Total 162,000 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 125,800 96.18%
Female 5,400 4.13%
Total 131,200 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 18.64%
Black 66,800 56.85%
Hispanic 26,500 22.55%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,200 1.02%
Asian 1,100 0.94%
Total 117,500 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 137,000 94.74%
Female 8,100 5.60%
Total 145,100 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,500 23.28%
Black 53,300 33.09%
Hispanic 65,300 40.53%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,800 1.74%
Asian 2,200 1.37%
Total 161,100 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 36,100 91.86%
Female 3,300 8.40%
Total 39,400 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 12,200 32.45%
Black 14,200 37.77%
Hispanic 9,700 25.80%
American Indian / Alaska Native 800 2.13%
Asian 700 1.86%
Total 37,600 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 127,900 90.64%
Female 13,600 9.64%
Total 141,500 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 60,500 50.46%
Black 37,800 31.53%
Hispanic 18,100 15.10%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,100 1.75%
Asian 1,400 1.17%
Total 119,900 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 75,900 95.11%
Female 4,200 5.26%
Total 80,100 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 30,500 44.40%
Black 24,200 35.23%
Hispanic 12,300 17.90%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,100 1.60%
Asian 600 0.87%
Total 68,700 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 22,300 84.47%
Female 4,200 15.91%
Total 26,500 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 13,800 58.97%
Black 6,800 29.06%
Hispanic 2,200 9.40%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 1.28%
Asian 300 1.28%
Total 23,400 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,400 91.43%
Female 600 8.57%
Total 7,000 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,500 48.08%
Black 1,500 28.85%
Hispanic 1,000 19.23%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.92%
Asian 100 1.92%
Total 5,200 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 9,800 75.97%
Female 3,200 24.81%
Total 13,000 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,900 63.30%
Black 2,600 23.85%
Hispanic 900 8.26%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 2.75%
Asian 200 1.83%
Total 10,900 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,600 90.67%
Female 1,400 9.33%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 6,700 58.26%
Black 2,700 23.48%
Hispanic 1,700 14.78%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.74%
Asian 200 1.74%
Total 11,500 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 114,600 87.08%
Female 17,400 13.22%
Total 132,000 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 49,500 47.50%
Black 37,300 35.80%
Hispanic 14,600 14.01%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,700 1.63%
Asian 1,100 1.06%
Total 104,200 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 28,500 84.57%
Female 5,300 15.73%
Total 33,800 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 14,800 56.27%
Black 7,900 30.04%
Hispanic 3,000 11.41%
American Indian / Alaska Native 400 1.52%
Asian 200 0.76%
Total 26,300 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 86,100 88.04%
Female 12,000 12.27%
Total 98,100 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 34,700 44.54%
Black 29,400 37.74%
Hispanic 11,600 14.89%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 1.67%
Asian 900 1.16%
Total 77,900 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 102,500 93.95%
Female 6,900 6.32%
Total 109,400 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 35,900 40.84%
Black 34,500 39.25%
Hispanic 13,800 15.70%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,500 2.84%
Asian 1,200 1.37%
Total 87,900 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 37,800 97.93%
Female 900 2.33%
Total 38,700 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 7,200 22.86%
Black 16,900 53.65%
Hispanic 6,500 20.63%
American Indian / Alaska Native 500 1.59%
Asian 400 1.27%
Total 31,500 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,400 89.33%
Female 1,600 10.67%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,800 59.65%
Black 2,000 17.54%
Hispanic 1,800 15.79%
American Indian / Alaska Native 700 6.14%
Asian 100 0.88%
Total 11,400 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 51,200 92.25%
Female 4,400 7.93%
Total 55,600 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 48.45%
Black 15,700 34.73%
Hispanic 5,600 12.39%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 2.88%
Asian 700 1.55%
Total 45,200 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/19/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,100 89.71%
Female 800 11.76%
Total 6,900 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/19/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,700 52.94%
Black 1,500 29.41%
Hispanic 700 13.73%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.96%
Asian 100 1.96%
Total 5,100 100.0%
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This facility, known as "Burke County Jail" is also known as Burke County Jail, North Carolina, Burke.