The New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail is a secure detention center located in Craven County, North Carolina. It serves as the main holding facility for individuals arrested in New Bern and surrounding areas. Managed by the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, this jail houses inmates awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to state prisons. It also holds people serving short-term sentences of less than one year. The facility ensures public safety while supporting inmate rehabilitation through structured programs and services.
Location and Contact Information
The New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail is located at 1100 Clarks Road, New Bern, NC 28562. This central location allows easy access for families, legal representatives, and law enforcement. The jail operates under the authority of the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, which manages daily operations, security, and inmate care.
For general inquiries, the main phone number is (252) 636-6620. Staff are available during business hours to assist with questions about visitation, inmate status, or jail services. Emergency calls should be directed to this number as well. The official website provides up-to-date information on policies, programs, and online tools.
Official Website and Online Resources
The Craven County Sheriff’s Office maintains an official website with resources for the public. This includes inmate lookup tools, visitation schedules, and forms for sending money or mail. The site also posts updates on policy changes, holiday hours, and community outreach events. Using these online services helps reduce wait times and ensures accurate information.
Inmate Search and Roster Access
Families, friends, and legal professionals can use the online inmate search tool to find current inmates at the New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail. This system shows real-time data including name, booking date, charges, bond amount, and court dates. Searches can be done using a full name or inmate ID number.
To use the tool, visit the Craven County Sheriff’s Office website and click on the “Inmate Roster” section. Enter the required details and review the results. If no match appears, double-check spelling or try a partial name. For help, call the jail directly or visit in person with valid ID.
Offline Search Options
If the online system is down or unavailable, people can still get inmate information offline. Call the jail at (252) 636-6620 and ask to speak with the records department. Have the inmate’s full name and date of birth ready. You may also visit the jail lobby during business hours and request assistance from staff.
Public kiosks near the entrance sometimes display basic inmate lists. These are updated regularly but may not include all details like bond amounts or court dates. Always confirm critical information by phone or in person.
Booking Process and Intake Procedures
When someone is arrested in the New Bern metro area, they go through a standard booking process at the county jail. This starts with fingerprinting and a mugshot. Personal details such as name, date of birth, address, and emergency contact are recorded.
Next, a health screening checks for medical needs, mental health concerns, or substance use. Inmates receive basic care and may be referred to specialists if needed. All belongings are inventoried and stored securely. New arrivals are assigned to housing based on risk level and behavior history.
Bail and Bond Information
Bail allows eligible inmates to leave jail before trial by paying a set amount. The judge decides this amount during the first court appearance. It depends on the crime, flight risk, and criminal history. If bail is granted, payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or through a licensed bail bondsman.
Contact the Booking Office at (252) 636-6619 to confirm bail amounts and payment options. Payments are accepted at the jail lobby or online via approved partners. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed. Failure to appear in court results in forfeiture of the bond.
Inmate Communication Services
Inmates at the New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail can stay in touch with loved ones through phone calls, mail, and email. All communication is monitored for safety and security. Outgoing calls are limited to pre-approved contacts and last 15–20 minutes each.
Phone accounts are prepaid. Family members add funds online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Email is available through a secure platform where messages are screened before delivery. Replies are sent the same way.
Mail Guidelines
Inmates may send and receive letters. All mail is inspected for contraband. Use plain white paper and standard envelopes. Do not include stickers, drawings, or Polaroid photos. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers like Amazon.
Address mail to: Inmate’s Full Name, Inmate ID Number, Craven County Jail, 1100 Clarks Road, New Bern, NC 28562. Include your return address. Packages are not accepted unless approved for medical or religious needs.
Visitation Rules and Schedules
Visitation helps inmates maintain family ties and emotional well-being. The New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance through the jail’s website or by calling the visitation office.
In-person visits occur Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visitors must arrive early for security screening. A valid photo ID is required. Dress codes are strict: no revealing clothes, hats, sunglasses, or offensive graphics. Children under 17 need adult supervision.
Virtual Visitation
Video visits are available for those who cannot travel. These are scheduled like in-person visits and last up to 30 minutes. Participants use a secure app provided by the jail. Internet access and a device with a camera are needed. Virtual visits follow the same rules as in-person ones.
Both types of visits are subject to cancellation due to emergencies or lockdowns. Always confirm your appointment before traveling. Disruptive behavior leads to immediate termination and possible bans.
Sending Money to Inmates
Family and friends can send money to inmates for commissary purchases, phone calls, or medical co-pays. Three safe methods are available: online payments, kiosk deposits, and mailed money orders. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.
Online transfers use the jail’s payment partner site. Create an account, enter the inmate’s details, and add funds with a debit or credit card. Kiosks in the lobby accept cash and cards. Money orders must be payable to the inmate and include their full name and ID number.
All transactions are recorded and funds appear in the inmate’s account within 24 hours. There are small fees for some services. Keep receipts for your records.
Commissary Services and Purchases
The jail commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, writing supplies, and extra clothing. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to cells. Funds come from the inmate’s personal account. Popular items include chips, coffee, toothpaste, soap, pens, and socks.
Commissary improves comfort and morale during incarceration. It also teaches budgeting and responsibility. Prices are posted online and updated regularly. Special dietary or religious items may be requested through staff.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
Medical care is provided to all inmates upon intake and as needed. Routine services include check-ups, prescription refills, dental care, and vision exams. Emergency treatment is available 24/7. Mental health is a priority, with counselors offering individual and group therapy.
Programs address addiction, anger management, trauma, and coping skills. Inmates with serious conditions may be transferred to specialized facilities. All care follows state and federal guidelines to ensure dignity and safety.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail offers education and job training to prepare inmates for life after release. GED classes help adults earn high school equivalency diplomas. Vocational courses teach carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills.
These programs reduce recidivism by building confidence and employability. Participants gain certificates that improve job prospects. Local employers sometimes hire graduates, creating a path to stable housing and income.
Security and Facility Operations
Security is maintained through cameras, electronic monitoring, and trained staff. Inmates are classified by risk level and housed accordingly. Emergency plans cover fires, medical crises, and escapes. Regular drills keep everyone prepared.
Staff receive ongoing training in de-escalation, first aid, and cultural sensitivity. The facility follows strict sanitation rules. Meals are nutritious and meet dietary needs. Bedding and uniforms are cleaned weekly.
Community Partnerships and Outreach
The jail works with police, courts, schools, and nonprofits to support public safety and reintegration. Tours educate students about the justice system. Victim assistance programs offer counseling and legal help. Awareness campaigns share facts about jail operations and reform efforts.
These partnerships build trust and transparency. They also connect inmates with community resources before release, increasing success rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about the New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail. Below are answers to the most common ones. These cover search tools, visitation, bail, mail, and more. For specific cases, always contact the jail directly.
How do I find out if someone is in the New-Bern-Metro-Area County Jail?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Craven County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID. You’ll see their booking date, charges, bond amount, and court schedule. If the search fails, call (252) 636-6620 or visit the jail with your ID. Staff will help verify the inmate’s status. Keep in mind that recent arrests may take a few hours to appear online.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment?
No. All visits—in-person or virtual—must be scheduled ahead of time. Go to the jail’s website and select a time slot. Same-day visits are rarely allowed. Walk-ins disrupt operations and may be turned away. Once booked, arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Bring a valid photo ID and follow all dress code rules.
What happens if bail is not posted?
If bail is not paid, the inmate remains in custody until their court date. They will appear before a judge for arraignment, plea, or trial. Delays can extend their stay. Legal counsel can request bond reductions or release on recognizance. Always consult an attorney for case-specific advice.
Are mugshots public record?
Yes, mugshots taken during booking are generally public records. They can be requested through the sheriff’s office. Some states allow removal if charges are dropped or dismissed, but North Carolina has limited expungement options for jail photos. Contact the records department for details.
How often can inmates use the phone?
Inmates can make calls daily, but each call is limited to 15–20 minutes. Calls are monitored and recorded. Only pre-approved numbers can be called. Family must add funds to the inmate’s phone account first. Overuse may result in temporary restrictions.
What items are prohibited in inmate mail?
Do not send cash, checks, stickers, drawings, or Polaroid photos. Avoid glossy paper or envelopes with metal parts. Books must come from approved vendors. Anything that could hide contraband is banned. All mail is opened and inspected. Violations may lead to mail rejection or disciplinary action.
Does the jail offer substance abuse treatment?
Yes. The jail provides detox support, counseling, and recovery programs. Inmates with addiction issues are assessed upon intake. Group sessions cover relapse prevention, coping strategies, and life skills. Referrals to community programs are made before release to ensure continuity of care.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and current information, use these official sources:
Website: http://www.cravencountync.gov/departments/sheriff/jail/index.php
Phone: (252) 636-6620
Address: 1100 Clarks Road, New Bern, NC 28562
Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM