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Shelby County AL Jail

County Jail

Last Updated: February 23, 2025
Address
380 McDow Rd, Columbiana, AL 35051
Beds
500
County
Shelby
Phone
205-669-3938
Fax
205-669-3868
Email
schapman@shelbyso.com
Mailing Address
PO Box 1240, Columbiana, AL 35051
View Official Website

Shelby Co Jail is for County Jail offenders sentenced up to twenty four months.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is NCIC Inmate Telephone Services, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are seeking to send your inmate money for commissary, one recommended for this facility is InmateCanteen.com. There is a fee for sending money, see their rates and limitations.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Looking for an inmate at this facility? Visitation Information, Times and Rules
Satellite View of Shelby County AL Jail

You can support your loved ones at Shelby Co Jail on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 205-669-3938.

When someone you care about gets locked up, it's tough to figure out all the ins and outs of jail life. From sending mail to visiting, there are a lot of things to sort out. And getting info about the arrest? Not always easy. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get a handle on how things work here so that you can stay connected and support your loved one behind bars.

The Shelby Co Jail is a detention center located at 380 McDow Rd Columbiana, AL which is operated locally by the Shelby County Sheriff's Office and holds inmates awaiting trial or sentencing or both. Most of the sentenced inmates are here for less than two years. Shelby County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, Columbiana Police Department, and the US Marshal's Service.

New detainees arrive at the jail regularly, with some being released on bail, placed under pretrial services caseloads, supervised by probation agencies, or released on recognizance with a court appearance agreement. Those who are not released await their court appearances at the jail, receiving accommodations including bedding and meals.

You can see all the arrest records for Alabama here.

Individuals who do not post bail within the first twenty-four hours are required to appear before a judge. During this first appearance, conducted either in person or via telephone, the judge informs the arrested person of the charges against them and sets the bond amount.

Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

The jail is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.

The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.

For more comprehensive details about the jail, you can download the 34-page Inmate Handbook provided by the Sheriff's Office. This guide offers valuable information about jail rules, procedures, and inmate services.

Table of Contents for Shelby Co Jail

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in Alabama. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at Shelby County AL Jail.

The second section features the InmateAid Inmate Search tool, providing a user-generated database of inmates. You can access this resource to utilize any of InmateAid's services. If you require assistance in creating an inmate profile to maintain communication, please contact us at aid@inmateaid.com, and we'll gladly help you locate your loved one.

As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason, they charge to access it.

Visitation Information

Shelby County Jail On-Site Inmate Visitation:

Inmates at the Shelby County Jail are permitted one scheduled visit per week, but there are certain situations where this privilege can be restricted. These visits take place via video in the lobby of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and are free of charge to both the inmate and visitor. If an inmate is on privilege restriction or already has a visit scheduled for the week, the system will not allow an additional visit to be booked.

Attorney Visitation: Attorneys can visit inmates 7 days a week during the following hours:

  • 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
  • 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Scheduling Visitation: Friends or family members can schedule a visit in one of three ways:

  • Online at www.ncic.com
  • By phone at 1-800-943-2189
  • By using the Visitation Kiosk located in the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office visitation area

All visitors must be approved before visiting and must present a valid government-issued ID. Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance, and the system will automatically enforce the one-visit-per-week rule based on the availability of visitation monitors in each housing area. This structured visitation approach helps maintain order and ensures that all inmates have fair access to visitation privileges.

Available Visit Times

Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday
7:20pm – 7:50pm | 7:55pm – 8:25pm | 8:30pm – 9:00pm | 9:05pm – 9:35pm
Saturday
8:00am – 8:30am | 8:35am – 9:05am | 9:10am – 9:40am | 9:45am – 10:15am | 9:45am – 10:15am | 10:20am – 10:50am | 10:55am – 11:25am
Sunday
8:00am – 8:30am | 8:35am – 9:05am | 9:10am – 9:40am | 9:45am – 10:15am | 9:45am – 10:15am | 10:20am – 10:50am | 10:55am – 11:25am | 1:00pm – 1:30pm | 1:35pm – 2:05pm | 2:10pm – 2:40pm | 2:45pm – 3:15pm | 3:20pm – 3:50pm | 3:55pm – 4:25pm | 7:20 pm – 7:50 pm | 7:55pm – 8:25pm | 8:30pm – 9:00pm | 9:05pm – 9:35pm

Basic Visitation Rules at Shelby County Jail:

  • Behavior and Language: Loud, foul, or offensive language is prohibited during visits. Visitors must remain respectful of others in the lobby.
  • Dress Code: Nudity is strictly not allowed at any time during visits.
  • Children: Children can visit as long as they do not disrupt other ongoing visits.
  • Inmate Visits: Visitors are allowed to visit a maximum of two separate inmates per week. However, "inmate swapping" (switching between inmates during a visit) is not permitted.
  • Scheduling: Visits scheduled via the lobby kiosk will not start sooner than 15 minutes after scheduling is completed and can be scheduled up to two weeks in advance.
  • Electronic Devices: Cell phones or tablet devices are not allowed to be used during visits.
  • Protection Orders: Visitors who have a protection from abuse order involving an inmate are not permitted to visit.
  • Juvenile Visitors: Individuals under 18 can only visit when accompanied by an adult unless otherwise approved by a supervisor.
  • Termination: An officer may terminate visits at their discretion.
  • Alcohol and Drugs: Visitors must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the visit.
  • Identification: Adult visitors must present a valid state or government-issued ID. All visitors must provide accurate information when scheduling visits.
  • Monitoring: All visits, except those with attorneys, may be recorded and monitored for security purposes.

These rules are enforced to maintain a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for all visitors, inmates, and staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shelby County AL Jail - 25 FAQs

  1. How can I find out if someone is in jail at Shelby County AL Jail?
    To determine if someone is currently incarcerated at Shelby County AL Jail, start by checking the facility’s online inmate search database, which is typically updated with recent booking information. If your search does not yield results, try using VINELink, a nationwide inmate locator that provides custody status for individuals in participating correctional facilities. If online searches are unsuccessful, calling Shelby County AL Jail directly and providing the individual’s full name and date of birth is another reliable way to confirm their custody status. If all else fails, you can use the Arrest Record Finder for a small fee, which can provide broader search results across multiple jurisdictions. 

  2. What are the visitation hours at Shelby County AL Jail?
    Visitation schedules vary by facility and housing unit. Some jails offer in-person visits on specific days, while others have transitioned to video visitation. Always check with the jail in advance, as visits may require scheduling and approval.

  3. How do I send money to an inmate at Shelby County AL Jail?
    Inmates can receive funds through various methods, including online deposits via jail-approved services, kiosks at the facility, or by mailing a money order. Some jails require funds to be added by specific family members or approved contacts.

  4. Can I call an inmate at Shelby Co Jail?
    Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they may initiate collect calls or use a prepaid account provided by the jail’s phone service provider. Calls are generally recorded and monitored, and inmates must adhere to time limits. Communication gets costly, you might qualify for discounts on inmate calls if your inmate is calling you a lot.

  5. What items can I send to an inmate at Shelby Co Jail?
    Approved items typically include letters, legal documents, and photographs. Some jails also permit care packages from authorized third-party vendors. Items such as greeting cards with glitter, stickers, or Polaroid photos may be prohibited.

  6. Are books and magazines allowed at Shelby Co Jail?
    Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from approved vendors such as Amazon or InmateAid. Hardcover books and explicit content are typically prohibited to maintain facility security. Some jails also have restrictions on the number of reading materials an inmate can possess at one time.

  7. What is the mailing address for inmates here?
    Each facility has a designated mailing address for inmate correspondence. It is important to include the inmate's full name, booking number (if applicable), and facility-approved format to ensure proper delivery. Mail containing contraband, including staples or stickers, may be rejected.

  8. What is the process for bonding someone out of Shelby County AL Jail?
    Bail or bond amounts can be paid at the facility’s designated payment location, online, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Some jails accept cash, cashier’s checks, or credit card payments, while others require payments to be made at a county clerk’s office.

  9. How do I deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account at Shelby Co Jail?
    Commissary funds allow inmates to purchase personal hygiene products, snacks, and other approved items. Deposits can be made online, at facility kiosks, or through phone services. Some facilities limit the amount that can be added per week.

  10. What clothing and personal items can an inmate have at Shelby Co Jail?
    Inmates are generally issued standard jail clothing. Personal items are often restricted, and necessary hygiene products must be purchased through commissary unless the inmate is deemed indigent. Some jails allow inmates to have religious items, such as prayer beads or a Bible.

  11. How long do inmates stay at Shelby County AL Jail before being transferred?
    The length of stay varies based on the nature of their charges, sentencing, and case status. Some inmates serve their full sentences in county jail, while others may be transferred to a state or federal facility after sentencing.

  12. Can an inmate at Shelby Co Jail receive visits from children?
    Most jails allow minors to visit inmates but require them to be accompanied by a legal guardian. Some facilities impose restrictions based on the nature of the inmate's charges or have specific visitation hours for families with children.

  13. How can I schedule a visit with an inmate at Shelby Co Jail?
    Many jails require visitation to be scheduled in advance through an online portal or by phone. Some facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others enforce strict scheduling rules and background checks for visitors.

  14. What happens if an inmate gets sick or needs medical care at Shelby Co Jail?
    Jails provide basic medical care, and inmates can request medical attention as needed. Emergency cases are treated immediately, while routine care is provided through medical staff. Some jails charge small medical co-pays deducted from an inmate’s commissary funds.

  15. Can inmates work while incarcerated here?
    Some inmates qualify for work programs within the facility, such as kitchen duty, janitorial work, or laundry services. In some counties, low-risk inmates may participate in work-release programs that allow them to work in the community and return to jail afterward.

  16. How can I find court dates and case information for an inmate at Shelby Co Jail?
    Court dates and case details can usually be found through the county court website, public records, or by contacting the court clerk. Inmates are typically transported to court on scheduled hearing dates.

  17. What are the rules for inmate phone calls at Shelby Co Jail?
    Inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes. Calls must be made through facility-approved phone services, and any attempt to arrange three-way calls or circumvent restrictions may result in loss of phone privileges.

  18. Can an inmate be released early from Shelby Co Jail?
    Early release may be granted through good behavior, completion of rehabilitative programs, or at the discretion of the court. In some cases, inmates may qualify for electronic monitoring or house arrest programs.

  19. What types of rehabilitation programs are available at here?
    Many county jails offer educational programs, GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to help inmates reintegrate into society after release.

  20. What are the consequences of bringing contraband into the jail?
    Introducing contraband, such as drugs, weapons, or cell phones, is a criminal offense and can lead to legal charges, visitation bans, or enhanced security measures within the jail.

  21. Are there special accommodations for disabled inmates at Shelby County AL Jail?
    Yes, jails are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and medical care.

  22. How do I report an issue or concern about an inmate at Shelby County AL Jail?
    Family members and advocates can report concerns to jail administration, a prisoner rights organization, or a legal representative. Some jails have grievance procedures inmates can follow if they experience mistreatment.

  23. Can an inmate at Shelby Co Jail receive religious services or counseling?
    Yes, most jails provide chaplain services, religious counseling, and access to faith-based programs. Some facilities have multi-denominational services or allow clergy members to visit inmates upon request.

  24. What are the disciplinary procedures at Shelby Co Jail?
    Inmates who violate jail rules may face disciplinary actions such as loss of privileges, placement in solitary confinement, or additional charges. Disciplinary hearings are typically conducted before penalties are imposed.

  25. How do I obtain an inmate’s release records from Shelby County AL Jail?
    Release records may be available through the facility’s records department, the sheriff’s office, or the county clerk. Requests may require an application and a processing fee.

Ask The Inmate

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