Wells County Jail

The 15-bed Wells County Jail is responsible for the housing and care of those who are accused or convicted of committing a misdemeanor or felony in Wells 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 701-547-3211, 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 Wells 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: 

700 Railway Street North
Fessenden, ND 58438

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:

700 Railway Street North
Fessenden, ND 58438

The booking process explained for Wells County Jail

Following an arrest, individuals are processed at Wells County Jail. The booking process confirms identity, charges, and whether the individual will be released, granted bail, or held until court.

It is advisable to remain silent during booking, as anything said can be used against the individual later. Legal counsel should be consulted before any statements are made.

The booking steps at Wells County Jail include:

• Identification verification.
• Taking mugshots.
• Answering questions about health, criminal history, and gang affiliations.
• Possible DNA sample collection.
• A full-body search.
• Confiscating personal items for safekeeping.
• Providing a phone call.

Depending on circumstances, the booking process can take one hour or up to 48 hours. To inquire about posting bond for an arrestee, contact the facility at 701-547-3211.