Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail is a key correctional facility in Raleigh County, West Virginia. It holds people waiting for court or serving short sentences. The jail works with the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office to keep the community safe. It also helps inmates stay connected with family and prepare for life after release. This page gives clear, up-to-date information about how the jail works, how to find an inmate, visitation rules, and support services.
About Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail
Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail opened in 1993 and serves all of Raleigh County. It is run by the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office and follows state and federal rules for safety and care. The jail houses adult inmates arrested in the Beckley metro area. Most people stay here before trial or while waiting for court dates. Some serve sentences of less than one year.
The jail has modern security systems, medical care, and programs to help inmates. It focuses on safety, fairness, and helping people return to the community. Staff train regularly in crisis response, mental health, and inmate rights. The jail also works with local police, courts, and social services.
How to Find an Inmate at Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail
If you need to find someone in Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail, use the online inmate search tool. This system is free and updated daily. You can search by full name or inmate ID number. Results show booking date, charges, bond amount, court dates, and expected release date.
To use the search, go to the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Type the person’s first and last name. Make sure the spelling is correct. If you don’t find a match, try a partial name or call the jail. You can also visit in person or call (304) 256-6726 for help.
What Information Is Available in the Inmate Search?
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and legal status
- Bond amount and type
- Next court date and location
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
The roster is updated every 24 hours. It does not include medical records, disciplinary actions, or personal messages. For privacy, some details may be limited.
Offline Options for Inmate Lookup
If you can’t use the internet, call the jail at (304) 256-6726. Staff can help you search by name or ID. You can also visit the jail at 2001 South Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV 25801. Bring a photo ID and the inmate’s full name. Public kiosks may show basic info during business hours.
Visitation Rules and Hours at Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed.
In-person visits happen Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Visitors must arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate per day.
How to Schedule a Visit
To schedule a visit, use the online system on the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office website. Choose a date and time slot. You’ll need the inmate’s full name and ID number. Confirm your visit by phone or email.
Virtual visits use a secure video platform. They must also be scheduled ahead of time. You’ll get a link to join the call on the scheduled day.
Visitor Requirements
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- No hats, sunglasses, or hoods during visit
- No revealing clothing, shorts, or sleeveless tops
- No phones, bags, or food allowed in visitation area
- Children under 18 must be with a parent or guardian
Visitors who break rules may lose visiting rights. All visits are recorded and monitored.
Mail, Phone Calls, and Email for Inmates
Inmates at Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail can stay in touch with family through mail, phone, and email. All communication is screened for safety.
Sending Mail to an Inmate
Send mail to: Inmate’s Full Name & ID Number Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail 2001 South Kanawha Street Beckley, WV 25801
Use plain white envelopes and paper. Do not send cash, stamps, stickers, or Polaroid photos. Books and magazines must come directly from Amazon or a publisher. All mail is opened and checked.
Phone Calls from Inmates
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15 minutes. They are charged per minute. Families can add money to an inmate’s phone account online or at a kiosk in the jail lobby. Calls are recorded and may be monitored.
Email Messages
The jail offers a secure email service. Family can send messages through the jail’s partner website. Inmates read and reply during computer time. Messages are screened for threats or illegal content. Attachments are not allowed.
Sending Money to an Inmate
Inmates can receive money for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. There are three ways to send funds:
- Online: Use the jail’s payment portal with a credit or debit card.
- Kiosk: Deposit cash or card at the kiosk inside the jail lobby.
- Money Order: Mail a money order to the jail address. Write the inmate’s name and ID on the memo line. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Funds appear in the inmate’s account within 24 hours. There may be a small fee for online or kiosk deposits.
Commissary and Inmate Purchases
The jail has a commissary where inmates can buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly. Items are delivered to cells.
Common items include:
- Chips, candy, and soft drinks
- Toothpaste, soap, and deodorant
- Pens, paper, and envelopes
- Socks and undershirts (approved styles only)
Prices are posted in the commissary menu. Inmates cannot share or trade items. Money for purchases comes from their account.
Health and Mental Health Care
Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail provides medical and mental health services. All inmates get a health screening within 24 hours of arrival. Doctors, nurses, and mental health staff visit regularly.
Services include:
- Treatment for chronic illnesses like diabetes or asthma
- Prescription medications (managed by jail medical staff)
- Dental and eye care (by appointment)
- Mental health counseling and group therapy
- Substance abuse support and detox programs
Inmates can request medical help at any time. Serious issues are sent to local hospitals. Families are notified in emergencies.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to help inmates build skills and prepare for life after release. These include:
- GED classes to earn a high school diploma
- Vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, and computer skills
- Anger management and life skills workshops
- Religious services and spiritual support
Programs are free and run by certified instructors. Inmates sign up through counselors. Completion can help with parole or job placement.
Bail and Release Information
If an inmate is granted bail, the amount is set by a judge. Bail can be paid at the jail or through a bail bondsman. Payment options include cash, credit card, or certified check.
To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (304) 256-6700. Have the inmate’s name and case number ready. Once bail is paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is complete.
Release times vary. Most happen within 2–4 hours after bail is posted. Inmates receive a release form and any personal items held during booking.
Security and Safety at the Jail
Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail uses strict safety rules to protect everyone. The facility has:
- 24/7 video surveillance in all areas
- Electronic tracking of inmate movements
- Regular staff training in emergency response
- Inmate classification by risk level
- Fire drills and medical emergency plans
Staff conduct daily checks for weapons, drugs, or unsafe conditions. Inmates are searched during transfers. The jail follows West Virginia state laws and federal guidelines.
Community Partnerships and Outreach
The jail works with local groups to support inmates and the community. Partners include:
- Raleigh County Circuit Court
- Beckley Police Department
- West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources
- Local churches and nonprofit organizations
Programs include victim support, job training, and public education tours. The jail also hosts events for families and schools to learn about the justice system.
Contact Information and Location
Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail is located at 2001 South Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV 25801. The main phone number is (304) 256-6726. For inmate lookup, call (304) 256-6700.
Visiting hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Call ahead to confirm times or check the website. The official website is www.raleighcountysheriff.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail. Below are answers to the most common ones. These cover inmate search, visitation, mail, and support services. If you need more help, call the jail or visit the website.
How do I find out if someone is in Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail?
Use the free inmate search tool on the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID. You’ll see their booking date, charges, bond, and court info. If you can’t find them online, call (304) 256-6726. Staff can help with the search. You can also visit the jail in person with a photo ID. The roster updates every day, so info is current.
Can I visit an inmate at Beckley-Metro-Area County Jail?
Yes, but you must schedule your visit ahead of time. Walk-ins are not allowed. Visits are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. You need a valid photo ID and must follow the dress code. No hats, sunglasses, or revealing clothes. Virtual visits are also available through a secure video system. Both types require advance booking.
How do I send money to an inmate?
You can send money online, at the jail kiosk, or by mailing a money order. Online payments use the jail’s secure portal. Kiosks accept cash or card and are in the jail lobby. Money orders must include the inmate’s name and ID. Do not send cash or personal checks. Funds appear in 24 hours and can be used for commissary, phone calls, or medical fees.
What programs are available for inmates?
Inmates can join GED classes, vocational training, and counseling. Programs include carpentry, plumbing, computer skills, and anger management. Mental health and substance abuse support are also offered. These help inmates build skills for life after jail. Sign up through a counselor. Participation may help with parole or job placement.
How do I post bail for someone in jail?
Call the Booking Office at (304) 256-6700 to confirm the bail amount. You can pay with cash, credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Pay at the jail or online if available. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork. Most releases happen within a few hours. Have the inmate’s name and case number ready.
Can inmates receive books or magazines?
Yes, but only if sent directly from a publisher or Amazon. Do not mail books from home. All mail is checked for safety. Books must be new and paperback. Hardcover books are not allowed. Include the inmate’s name and ID on the package. Approved vendors ensure no hidden items are sent.
What happens during the booking process?
When someone is arrested, they go through booking at the jail. This includes fingerprinting, a mugshot, and a health check. Personal items are stored safely. Inmates get jail clothing and a bed. They are assigned a cell based on risk level. The process takes 1–2 hours. Families can call to check status after booking.
How can I get a copy of a mugshot?
Mugshots are public records. Request one from the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking date. There may be a small fee. Some mugshots are online in the inmate roster. If charges are dropped, you can ask to remove the photo. This may require a court order.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, use these official sources:
- Website: www.raleighcountysheriff.com
- Phone: (304) 256-6726
- Booking Office: (304) 256-6700
- Address: 2001 South Kanawha Street, Beckley, WV 25801
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM