Everything You Need To Know About Big Sandy Regional Detention Center (Paintsville, KY): A Comprehensive Guide

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center (BSRDC) in Paintsville, Kentucky. It aims to be a helpful resource for anyone needing information about the facility, whether you're a family member, friend, legal professional, or simply curious about the institution. This guide covers key aspects, from finding an inmate to understanding visitation policies.

Prerequisites:

  • Basic Computer Literacy: Familiarity with using a web browser and navigating websites is essential.

  • Internet Access: A reliable internet connection is required to access online resources.

  • Pen and Paper (Optional): For note-taking and recording important information.

  • Inmate's Full Name (If Applicable): Crucial for inmate search and related inquiries. Date of Birth can also be helpful.

    • Tools:

  • Web Browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.): Used to access online resources.

  • Telephone: For contacting the facility directly.

  • Email Client (Optional): For sending and receiving email correspondence.

    • Step-by-Step Guide:

    1. Finding an Inmate:

    This is often the first step for anyone seeking information about BSRDC. Unfortunately, there isn't a direct, publicly accessible online inmate roster specifically for the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center. However, there are several avenues you can explore:

  • Kentucky Department of Corrections (KY DOC) Offender Search: The KY DOC website (search for "Kentucky Department of Corrections Offender Search") offers a statewide inmate search. While it doesn't specify the location directly, you can search by name and, if the individual is in state custody, the search results will indicate their current location. If they are listed as being held in "regional jail," it *might* be BSRDC, but further verification is needed.

    • * Steps:
    1. Navigate to the Kentucky Department of Corrections website.
    2. Locate the "Offender Search" or "Inmate Search" section.
    3. Enter the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known).
    4. Click "Search."
    5. Review the results. If the location is a "regional jail," proceed to Step 2.
  • Contacting the Jail Directly: This is the most reliable method to confirm if an individual is currently housed at BSRDC.

    • * Steps:
    1. Find the official phone number for the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center. You can typically find this through a general Google search ("Big Sandy Regional Detention Center phone number").
    2. Call the facility and politely inquire about the inmate. Be prepared to provide the inmate's full name and date of birth.
    3. The staff will be able to confirm if the individual is currently housed there.
  • Contacting the Johnson County Court Clerk: If the inmate's charges originated in Johnson County, the court clerk's office might have information about their current status.

    • * Steps:
    1. Locate the contact information for the Johnson County Court Clerk's office.
    2. Contact the office and inquire about the individual's case and custody status.

    2. Understanding Visitation Policies:

    Visitation policies are crucial for maintaining contact with an inmate. These policies can change, so always verify the most up-to-date information directly with the BSRDC.

  • Contact the Jail Directly: The best source for current visitation policies is the BSRDC itself. Call them and ask specifically about:

    • * Visitation days and times.
    * Required identification for visitors.
    * Dress code restrictions for visitors.
    * Rules regarding children visiting.
    * Any restrictions on who can visit (e.g., individuals with prior felony convictions).
    * Whether pre-registration is required for visitors.
  • General Visitation Guidelines (Likely, but Confirm):

    • * Visits are typically non-contact, meaning there is a barrier between the inmate and the visitor.
    * Visits are usually scheduled in advance and are limited in duration.
    * Visitors are subject to search and must adhere to a strict code of conduct.
    * Inappropriate behavior or dress may result in the termination of the visit.

    3. Sending Mail and Money:

    Sending mail and money can provide essential support to an inmate.

  • Mail:

    • * Address the Mail Correctly: Use the inmate's full name and inmate number (if known), followed by the BSRDC's address: [Insert BSRDC address here - You'll need to find the official address online]. Improperly addressed mail may be returned to sender.
    * Content Restrictions: Avoid sending contraband, including drugs, weapons, and explicit material. Letters may be read by jail staff.
    * Photos: Check with the BSRDC about restrictions on photographs. Some facilities limit the number and type of photos allowed.
  • Sending Money:

    • * Approved Methods: The BSRDC will likely have specific methods for sending money to inmates, such as:
    * Money Order: Made payable to the inmate's name.
    * Online Services: Many jails use third-party services like JPay or Access Corrections. Check if BSRDC utilizes these services.
    * Kiosk: Some facilities have kiosks in the lobby where you can deposit money directly into an inmate's account.
    * Fees: Be aware that there may be fees associated with sending money.

    4. Understanding Inmate Phone Calls:

    Inmates typically cannot receive incoming phone calls. They can make outgoing calls, but these are often collect calls or require the purchase of phone time through a third-party provider.

  • Collect Calls: Inmates can call landlines and cell phones collect, but the recipient must accept the charges.

  • Phone Accounts: Third-party providers like Securus Technologies or GTL often contract with correctional facilities to provide inmate phone services. You may need to set up an account with one of these providers to receive calls from an inmate.

  • Call Monitoring: Be aware that inmate phone calls are typically monitored and recorded.

    • 5. Obtaining Legal Information:

    If you need legal information related to an inmate's case, contact an attorney licensed to practice in Kentucky. The BSRDC staff cannot provide legal advice. You can also search for public records related to the case through the Johnson County Court Clerk's office.

    Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Website Errors: If you encounter errors on the KY DOC website, try a different browser or clear your browser's cache and cookies.

  • Difficulty Reaching the Jail: If you have trouble reaching the BSRDC by phone, try calling during off-peak hours.

  • Conflicting Information: If you receive conflicting information from different sources, always defer to the official policies of the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.

Summary:

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville, Kentucky. It covers key aspects, including finding an inmate, understanding visitation policies, sending mail and money, and understanding inmate phone calls. Remember to always verify information directly with the BSRDC as policies can change. This guide is intended as a starting point for navigating the complexities of the correctional system and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with legal professionals for legal matters.