Gaston County Jail

Search for an Inmate or Active Arrest Warrant in Gaston County

Gaston County Jail

The 488-bed Gaston County Jail provides inmate information 24 hours a day by phone at 704-869-6800.

People arrested in this county on misdemeanor or felony charges are brought here first for booking and processing. Those who aren’t immediately released stay in custody until they bond out, are released on their own recognizance, or are ordered held until their trial concludes.

Want to know if someone is here? Search the facility’s roster with the inmate search tool.

After sentencing, inmates with terms under one year stay at this jail, while inmates with longer terms are transferred to the North Carolina State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

This page tells you how to search the official jail roster, how to get to the jail, and how to use inmate services such as visitation, account funding, mail, phone calls, voicemail, email and texting, tablet rentals, bail bonds, and commissary.

Most communication services ask for the inmate’s booking number or jail ID, so keep it on hand. If it’s missing online, call Gaston County Jail at 704-869-6800.

Phone

704-869-6800

Physical address

425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Gastonia, NC 28052
Get directions

Mailing address (personal mail)

Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131

Mailing address (legal mail or subscriptions)

Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
PO Box 1578
Gastonia, NC 28053

Other Jails and Prisons

To search for an inmate in the Gaston 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 704-869-6800 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 Gaston County.

Gaston County Jail Inmate Search

The Gaston County Jail maintains an average of 488 offenders in custody on any given day. The Gaston 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 Gaston County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 13,280 offenders.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

INTERESTING FACTS about the Gaston County Jail: If an inmate is in ANY program (at court, on trustee assignments, attorney visits, Bible studies, Chemical Dependency etc.), they are NOT eligible to receive the visit at that time. Please schedule your visits around the inmate’s program schedule. Check with your inmate for his or her schedule.

The Gaston County Jail and annex, which adjoins it, combined can incarcerate up to 664 inmates. This jail, built in 1999 and encompassing over 160,000 square feet, holds 488 inmates.

The Gaston County Jail is responsible for the housing and care of those who are accused or convicted of committing a misdemeanor or felony in Gaston 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 704-869-6800, 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 Gaston County Jail 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 & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
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 & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
PO Box 1578
Gastonia, NC 28053

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

What should you know about the booking process at Gaston County Jail?

Once arrested, the person is taken to Gaston County Jail for booking, a process that confirms identity, assesses charges, and determines if they will be released on their own recognizance, posted for bail, or held until court.

Staying silent is key during this process, as anything spoken can be used as evidence in court. It’s best to wait for legal counsel before responding to questions.

Steps involved in booking at Gaston County Jail include:

  • Confirming identity.
  • Taking mugshots for record.
  • Medical, mental health, and substance history questioning.
  • DNA collection if applicable.
  • Comprehensive physical search.
  • Seizing personal property.
  • Access to a free phone call.

To check on an offender’s bond amount, contact Gaston County Jail at 704-869-6800.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

Steps to pay bail in Gaston County

After an arrest, individuals are brought to Gaston County Jail in Gastonia for processing. Following this, three possible outcomes exist:

1. The individual may be released without posting bail, with a promise to appear in court.
2. The individual could be held in jail until their court date.
3. Bail or bond can be posted for release; for more information, contact 704-869-6800.

Bail payment can be handled through various means.

  • Pay a cash bond in full at the bonding window inside the jail or at the clerk of court, by cash, cashier's check or money order; a lobby kiosk or online bond vendor often takes debit and credit cards for an extra fee, and you should bring the inmate's full name and booking number (the jail can be reached at 704-869-6800).
  • Licensed bail bond agents in Gaston County are available for assistance.
  • Land or a home can often serve as bond collateral: the owner provides a deed and a recent tax or appraisal value showing clear title and equity of at least the bond amount, commonly double, and the court that set bail approves the pledge.

To learn more about the bail process in Gaston County, North Carolina, visit the Gaston County Jail Bail Page.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Gaston County Jail Inmate Visitation Schedules

425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Gastonia, NC 28052
704-869-6800

  • First, register and then schedule with IC Solutions.
  • Each inmate is allowed one visit per week
  • Closed Custody and Protective Custody inmates are allowed on 1 visit per week
  • On-site visits is limited to 4 visitors per visit
  • Only 2 visitors will be allowed at one time in the visitation area during On-site visits.
  • Inmate workers can receive two On-site visits per week.
  • All visits must be scheduled the day prior to the appointment or up to 2 weeks in advance.
  • Visits will last 25 minutes
  • Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Dress professionally and nicely, as if you were going to church with your grandmother.
  • You'll need a valid, government issued photo ID.

General Population Main Jail           

Onsite Visitation Hours
Monday – Thursday
1:05 pm – 3:35 pm
5:05 pm – 8:00 pm

Remote Visitation Hours
Monday – Sunday
1:05 pm – 3:35 pm
5:05 pm – 8:00 pm

General Population  Annex

Onsite Visitation Hours
Monday – Thursday
1:05 pm – 9:05 pm

Remote Visitation Hours
Monday – Sunday
1:05 pm – 9:05 pm

Closed Custody and Protective Custody (Onsite Only)

Onsite Visitation Hours
Monday – Thursday
1:05 pm – 3:35 pm
5:05 pm – 8:00 pm

Gaston County Jail uses IC Solutions for their Remote Video Visitation services.



In order to visit with your inmate online, you must first register with IC Solutions.
There are three ways to visit remotely with your inmate:
1.    Using your personal computer.
2.    Using the IC Solutions iphone or Android app.
3.    Using the IC Solutions visitation kiosk in the jail lobby.

How it Works
Register or Log in here. 

  • Once you are logged into your existing IC Solutions account or have created a new account and are logged in, you must select Register for Video and enter the facility name.
  • Select your Inmate.
  • Fund your account using either a Visa, Mastercard credit or debit card.
  • Schedule a Visit.

Registering and Scheduling Video Visits Instructions

'Understanding IC Solutions Video Visits' Instructions

Remote Visitation using the IC Solutions app
Download your phone app:
iphone
Android
Instruction for using the IC Solutions app 

Cost of a Remote Video Visit

  • IC Solutions shows the price and length of a remote video visit before you confirm it. Rates are set by the provider and can change.

Video Visitation Rules
Understanding the rules completely are the responsibility of both you and your inmate. Not knowing the rules will NOT be accepted as an excuse if you make a mistake and violate them. Disobeying them could result in being banned from have future visits.
•    Any inmate or visitor whose behavior is disruptive during a visit may have his/her visiting privileges suspended/terminated.
•    All visits are subject to monitoring and recording.
•    All visits must be scheduled ahead of time; the IC Solutions calendar shows which time slots are open.
•    Be logged in or checked in before the scheduled start time.
•    Valid picture identification (e.g., driver's license, State I.D., or Military I.D. with picture) is required of all visitors, with the exception of children under the age of 17.  
•    Visitors under the age of 17 must be accompanied and supervised by an authorized adult visitor.
•    Visitors who 'arrive' after the scheduled start time may not be allowed to visit.
•    Clothing must cover all private/sensitive body areas.
•    The visitation schedule may be canceled or altered on holidays or for safety/security reasons.
•    Gaston County Jail can disconnect, deny, change, or cancel a visit at any time.
•    Internet connectivity issues during offsite visits will NOT be refunded.
•    Each visitation session will show a timer to display elapsed time.
•    After your visit has ended your connection will be terminated automatically.

Gaston County Jail uses IC Solutions for their Video Visitation services.



In order to visit with your inmate online, you must first register with IC Solutions.
There are three ways to visit remotely with your inmate:
1.    Using your personal computer.
2.    Using the IC Solutions iphone or Android app.
3.    Using the IC Solutions visitation kiosk in the jail lobby.

How it Works
Register or Log in here. 

  • Once you are logged into your existing IC Solutions account or have created a new account and are logged in, you must select Register for Video and enter the facility name.
  • Select your Inmate.
  • Fund your account using either a Visa, Mastercard credit or debit card.
  • Schedule a Visit.

Registering and Scheduling Video Visits Instructions

'Understanding IC Solutions Video Visits' Instructions

Remote Visitation using the IC Solutions app
Download your phone app:
iphone
Android
Instruction for using the IC Solutions app 

Cost of a Remote Video Visit

  • IC Solutions shows the price and length of a remote video visit before you confirm it. Rates are set by the provider and can change.

Video Visitation Rules
Understanding the rules completely are the responsibility of both you and your inmate. Not knowing the rules will NOT be accepted as an excuse if you make a mistake and violate them. Disobeying them could result in being banned from have future visits.
•    Any inmate or visitor whose behavior is disruptive during a visit may have his/her visiting privileges suspended/terminated.
•    All visits are subject to monitoring and recording.
•    All visits must be scheduled ahead of time; the IC Solutions calendar shows which time slots are open.
•    Be logged in or checked in before the scheduled start time.
•    Valid picture identification (e.g., driver's license, State I.D., or Military I.D. with picture) is required of all visitors, with the exception of children under the age of 17.  
•    Visitors under the age of 17 must be accompanied and supervised by an authorized adult visitor.
•    Visitors who 'arrive' after the scheduled start time may not be allowed to visit.
•    Clothing must cover all private/sensitive body areas.
•    The visitation schedule may be canceled or altered on holidays or for safety/security reasons.
•    Gaston County Jail can disconnect, deny, change, or cancel a visit at any time.
•    Internet connectivity issues during offsite visits will NOT be refunded.
•    Each visitation session will show a timer to display elapsed time.
•    After your visit has ended your connection will be terminated automatically.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Gaston County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Gaston County Jail Inmate Visitation Schedules

425 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Gastonia, NC 28052
704-869-6800

  • First, register and then schedule with IC Solutions.
  • Each inmate is allowed one visit per week
  • Closed Custody and Protective Custody inmates are allowed on 1 visit per week
  • On-site visits is limited to 4 visitors per visit
  • Only 2 visitors will be allowed at one time in the visitation area during On-site visits.
  • Inmate workers can receive two On-site visits per week.
  • All visits must be scheduled the day prior to the appointment or up to 2 weeks in advance.
  • Visits will last 25 minutes
  • Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Dress professionally and nicely, as if you were going to church with your grandmother.
  • You'll need a valid, government issued photo ID.

General Population Main Jail           

Onsite Visitation Hours
Monday – Thursday
1:05 pm – 3:35 pm
5:05 pm – 8:00 pm

Remote Visitation Hours
Monday – Sunday
1:05 pm – 3:35 pm
5:05 pm – 8:00 pm

General Population  Annex

Onsite Visitation Hours
Monday – Thursday
1:05 pm – 9:05 pm

Remote Visitation Hours
Monday – Sunday
1:05 pm – 9:05 pm

Closed Custody and Protective Custody (Onsite Only)

Onsite Visitation Hours
Monday – Thursday
1:05 pm – 3:35 pm
5:05 pm – 8:00 pm

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Gaston County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Instructions on purchasing commissary items for an inmate:
NOTE: Gaston County Jail may only allow online deposits for local commissary purchasing.

1. Register or Log in to your account at Inmate Canteen.
2. Select the facility where the inmate is located and the inmate you wish to purchase commissary items for.
3. Select the "Purchase Items" option.
4. Follow the prompts on screen to purchase items for an inmate.

Inmate Canteen Customer Service can be reached at 715-690-2965, or by email at support@inmatecanteen.com.

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

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

  • Register to create an account, or Log in to your account at Inmate Canteen if you already have one.
  • Select North Carolina, then Gaston County Jail, and then the inmate you wish to purchase commissary items for.
  • Select the "Purchase Commissary Items" option.
  • Follow the prompts on screen to purchase items for an inmate.
  • NOTE: Gaston County Jail may at times only allow online deposits for your inmate to purchase their own commissary locally. 

For all information, tips and to see the hundreds of available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Gaston County Jail, or to see how deposit money so that your inmate can purchase their own commissary, check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Gaston County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Gaston County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

How Do Inmates in Gaston County Jail Make Phone Calls?

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

  • Gaston County Jail uses the services of IC Solutions.
  • Register with them online or call them at 888-506-8407. 
  • Agents are available 24 hours a day, and speak both English & Spanish.
  • Families and friends of Gaston County inmates can set up a prepaid calling account with IC Solutions, which can also explain any messaging or video call options it offers in Gaston County.
  • Call rates are set by the provider and can change; IC Solutions shows the current per-minute rate when you set up an account.

Note: All your calls with an inmate are recorded, stored and shared with law enforcement if the conversation deals with your case or any criminal activity. Anything communicated can be used against you or your inmate in court.

For all the information regarding phone calls with Gaston County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, limits 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 Gaston County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Gaston County Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
Check the Gaston County Jail's mail rules before sending postcards or books. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address.

Envelopes
The Gaston 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#
Gaston County Jail
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
PO Box 1578
Gastonia, NC 28053



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
Check the Gaston County Jail's mail rules before sending postcards or books.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Gaston County Jail standards will be disposed of.


All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
PO Box 1578
Gastonia, NC 28053

Gaston County Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
Check the Gaston County Jail's mail rules before sending postcards or books.

Envelopes
The Gaston County Jail also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates.

Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
P.O. Box 247
Phoenix, MD 21131



Legal Mail

Send all legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
PO Box 1578
Gastonia, NC 28053



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
Check the Gaston County Jail's mail rules before sending postcards or books.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Gaston County Jail standards will be disposed of.


All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Gaston County Jail
PO Box 1578
Gastonia, NC 28053

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Gaston County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Gaston County Jail uses the services of Inmate Canteen for Online Commissary Purchases for an Inmate.

Inmate Canteen Customer Service can be reached at 715-690-2965, or by email at support@inmatecanteen.com.

NOTE: Gaston County Jail may only allow online deposits for local commissary purchasing.

For best results use google chrome as your browser for accessing Inmate Canteen.
Instructions on purchasing commissary items for an inmate:

  • Register or Log in to your account
  • Select the facility where the inmate is located and the inmate you wish to purchase commissary items for.
  • Select the "Purchase Items" option
  • Follow the prompts on screen to purchase items for an inmate.

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

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

  • Register to create an account, or Log in to your account at Inmate Canteen if you already have one.
  • Select North Carolina, then Gaston County Jail, and then the inmate you wish to purchase commissary items for.
  • Select the "Purchase Commissary Items" option.
  • Follow the prompts on screen to purchase items for an inmate.

For all information, tips and to see the hundreds of available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Gaston County Jail, or to see how deposit money so that your inmate can purchase their own commissary, check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Gaston County.

Inmate Canteen Customer Service can be reached at 715-690-2965, or by email at support@inmatecanteen.com.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Gaston County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

How Do Inmates in Gaston County Jail Make Phone Calls?

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

  • Gaston County Jail uses the services of IC Solutions.
  • Register with them online or call them at 888-506-8407. 
  • Agents are available 24 hours a day, and speak both English & Spanish.
  • Families and friends of Gaston County inmates can set up a prepaid calling account with IC Solutions, which can also explain any messaging or video call options it offers in Gaston County.
  • Call rates are set by the provider and can change; IC Solutions shows the current per-minute rate when you set up an account.

Note: All your calls with an inmate are recorded, stored and shared with law enforcement if the conversation deals with your case or any criminal activity. Anything communicated can be used against you or your inmate in court.

For all the information regarding phone calls with Gaston County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, limits 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 Gaston County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Gaston County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 704-869-6800 for further assistance.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Gaston County County Jails

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

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

Gaston County (this county)Cleveland CountyLincoln CountyMecklenburg CountyYork County, South Carolina
Gaston County Jails listed No jails listed
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

Search for an Inmate or Active Arrest Warrant in Gaston County

The Gaston County Jail serves the following cities and towns of Gaston County: Belmont, Bessemer City, Cherryville, Cramerton, Dallas, Gastonia, High Shoals, Lowell, McAdenville, Mount Holly, Ranlo, Spencer Mountain and Stanley.