Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Information

The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central is a 1900 bed jail in the city of Charlotte, Mecklenburg 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 704-336-8100, 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: 704-336-8100

Physical Address:
801 East Fourth Street
Charlotte, NC 28202

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 34429
Charlotte, NC 28234-4429

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 34429
Charlotte, NC 28234-4429

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.

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

Mecklenburg County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 3/29/2024

Race Inmates % Total
White 126 6.59%
Black 948 49.56%
Hispanic or Latino 488 25.51%
American Indian/Native Alaskan 56 2.93%
Asian 184 9.62%
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian 52 2.72%
Other 59 3.08%
Total 1,913 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Mecklenburg County Inmate Criminal Charges - 3/29/2024

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Charge Inmates % Total
Felony (3rd Degree) 316 16.52%
Felony (2rd Degree) 426 22.27%
Felony (1st Degree) 212 11.08%
State Jail Felony 150 7.84%
Felony (Uncategorized) 571 29.85%
Misdemeanor (Class A) 238 12.44%
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 Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Mecklenburg County Inmate Sex - 3/29/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 1,700 88.87%
Female 213 11.13%
Total 1,913 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Department, North Carolina Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Mecklenburg County Inmate Age - 3/29/2024

Age Inmates % Total
Under 18 9 0.47%
18-20 82 4.29%
21-24 170 8.89%
25-30 452 23.63%
31-35 249 13.02%
36-40 383 20.02%
41-45 162 8.47%
46-50 149 7.79%
51-55 119 6.22%
56-60 94 4.91%
61-65 32 1.67%
66-75 12 0.63%
76-85 0 0.00%
Total 1,913 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Mecklenburg 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central

INTERESTING FACTS about the Mecklenburg County County Jail/Detention Center.

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  house 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 these 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.

VISIT YOUR LOVED ONE  

Showing support by visiting friends at the Mecklenburg County Jail is critical to their well-being. Visits and calls can make a difference in their mental health. They may have medical needs to inform you of, or they may have complaints about the way they are being treated by the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central staff.

Remote visitation is usually allowed. Visitation hours may be dependent upon the sex of the person and, also dependent upon the section of the facility in which they are housed.

 In 2020, COVID stopped in person visitation in all facilities, but some have reinstated in person visitation. Call 704-336-8100 to check the current status of in person visitation in.

You must submit a picture and government photo ID for facility approval prior to visiting someone in our facility.

If you are doing in person visitation, visitors are subject to search. Dress appropriately. If too much skin is showing, you may be refused visitation rights.

Purses will be searched.

Visitation Center Hours: See in section below.

COMMISSARY

Help your friend or loved one get through this difficult time by adding funds for them to get items in the commissary. Note: You must have the inmate's ID number in order to add money to an account in the kiosk of the lobby. They are responsible for purchasing their own items. CASH ONLY in the lobby! Posts immediately for use. See other ways to deposit commissary below. Cash is available immediately but money orders may take longer to post.

Deposit money online with a debit or credit card by registering with an account. See details below in the Commissary section.

PHONE CALLS AND TABLETS

Money to friends and loved ones may also be used for them to have time for phone calls or time on a tablet for entertainment or educational purposes to better themselves during this time. Also, it may be used for sending texts or emails. See the sections below for details.

MAIL

Please include the inmates name, ID number, dorm number and cell or bed number if possible, when sending mail. 

Inmates do NOT have the right to send mail to one another!

DO NOT SEND lewd photos. All mail will be inspected by authorities and contraband seized.

 

 

 

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central, call the jail’s booking line at 704-336-8100.

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.

Mecklenburg Detention Center Central Booking Roster

What happens during booking in Mecklenburg 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 Mecklenburg 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central?

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 Mecklenburg 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central 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 Mecklenburg Detention Center Central
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. Postcards MUST have a return address.



Envelopes
The Mecklenburg Detention Center Central also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. Envelopes MUST have a return address.

Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 34429
Charlotte, NC 28234-4429



Money
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



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. Residents are only allowed five (5) books and five (5) magazines in their cells at any given time.



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 above.
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. Residents are only allowed five (5) books and five (5) magazines in their cells at any given time. Hard cover books will not be accepted by the jail due to their potential to be used as a weapon.


All mail, newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & PID #
Mecklenburg County Jail
P.O. Box 34429
Charlotte, NC 28234-4429


 

Commissary Care Packages
You can send inmate a care package from icare gifts once a week in addition to them being able to purchase commissary at the jail using funds in their trust account.

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?

  • Tablet devices include some services and the content is free.
  • The subscription services require additional funding.
  • There may be multiple options such as 7-day or 30-day subscriptions.
  • Costs are dependent upon the available services and what the Mecklenburg Detention Center Central charges.

To estimate costs for phone calls, sign in to your account and click “Rate & Fees Calculator” in the footer (bottom of the page) or call 866-516-0115 for assistance.

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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US State Prison Population Demographics

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 "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.