Pondera County Jail – Conrad, MT

Pondera County Jail is in Pondera County and is the primary correctional facility for that county. Looking for somebody in Pondera County Jail? This page will tell you information about everything you might want to know about Pondera County Jail: How to do a jail inmate search. How to view Pondera County Jail mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. Bail and bail bondsmen. Intake procedures. Court records. And lots more.

The prospect of going to jail is a scary idea, not only for whoever gets arrested, but also their family and friends. The purpose of this guide is to offer advice and information that you’ll need to make getting locked up easier. If you have specific questions, feel free to ask it, and also any tips or comments that could be beneficial to other people in the same situation would be appreciated.

Do you have a family member or friend that is locked up and need to contact them?

Has someone that has been arrested and you don’t know how to find them?

To see who is in jail at Pondera County Jail you have to navigate to their web site and use the inmate search.

The Pondera County Jail Inmate Lookup has information on persons currently in custody, which includes current status, how much their bail is, and times the inmate can have visitors. You can also get the same information about anyone processed or released in the past 24 hours. Inmates are listed alphabetically by last name. You can find their arrest information quicker if you have their first and last name, birth date, or inmate ID Number.

If the inmate you are looking for might be in another jail you will want to look here, too: Montana County Jails Listing

A mugshot, also called a booking photograph, is a photograph taken by the police when you are processed at the jail intake. A mugshot is actually one full face and one profile photo. Your name and jail ID number will be in the mugshot, and they are kept on file at the jail.

Mugshots of Pondera County Jail inmates can be seen on the website, or you can view them at the Pondera County Jail. When you search for mugshots online you will need to enter the prisoner’s first and last name, and the booking date, if you have it.

Trying to figure out how to have your mugshot erased from the Pondera County Jail website? This can be tricky, because the mugshot is a public record. You need to file a ‘Petition to Expunge’. This means that the record of your arrest will be sealed, and will not be available to the public. It is difficult to do this, and you will most likely need the services of a lawyer.

To learn more about getting your mugshot removed, the many different mugshot websites, and the mugshot removal services: Mugshot Removal

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Of course, once you’re incarcerated, your main thought is about getting out. After booking, bail is determined by the magistrate. If there is no bail set this can mean that you will either be released on your ‘own recognizance’ until your court date, or you are kept in jail until your court date.

If you are released you are required to promise to be in court on your court date, and in the meantime you are not permitted to travel out of the county.

Usually, prisoners will be given time off in exchange for good behavior if they respect the rules and area a good inmate while locked up.

If you prove to be trustworthy, you may be granted work release. You will either have to return to jail each day when you’re finished with work, or you could be allowed to move into a halfway house instead of living at the jail.

Your bail is money that you are required to pay in order to be released from jail until you go to court. The amount you will be required to pay depends on the crime you’ve been charged with. You will have to pay to the courts 10 percent of the total that was set so you can get discharged from jail. If you fail to show up for your scheduled court date, whoever put up your bail money will lose that money.

In order to find out how much someone’s bail is, you have to call the Pondera County Jail or the County Courthouse. If you’ve got the person’s info, such as name, address and date of birth, they’ll let you know what their bail is set at. Also, you can see the bail amount on the Pondera County Jail site.

Posting bail to get out of jail is no fun, but in some cases, it is really easy if you have the money. To start with, you have to find out if their bail is a Cash Only Bond. If so, you will not be able to use a bail bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – the jail will not accept a personal check. Once you have paid the bond, the prisoner will be released. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, you’ll get your money back.

If the amount of bail set is large, of if you can’t pay it, you should look into the services of a bail bondsman. Bail bondsmen will generally charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and usually charge a minimum fee of $100. This will not be returned to you and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If bail is very large, the bail bondsman may ask to use your personal assets as collateral for the bond.

To find a local bail bondsman go to: Find a bail bondsman at Pondera County Jail

Have you ever hired a bondsman for someone you know or yourself? If you have, leave a comment below and tell your story, and let us know how it worked out.

Click here to tell your story

• Get Time Off For Good Behavior
• Work Release Programs
• Get Out For Time Served
• Be Released on a Pre-Trial Release Program
• Get Released on House Arrest
• Own Recognizance

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The intake procedure includes the following steps:

• They’ll put you in a holding cell. If the jail is really busy, it will take a while to get processed.
• First, will have to answer a number of questions, such as your full name, street address, birthdate and a contact person.
• They’ll also ask you about your psychological and medical history.
• You’ll be given an inmate ID number.
• You will get fingerprinted.
• You will have a front and profile photo taken for your mugshot.
• All personal property will be taken from you and stored until you get discharged from jail.
• They will let you use the telephone to call family, friends, or bail bondsman.
• If they expect that you will make bail and be released quickly, they will let you skip the jumpsuit and keep wearing your own clothes, if not you will have to wear a jail uniform – the jumpsuit.

Have you ever been booked into jail? If so, please tell us what happened. How long did it take to get through intake? Were you treated fairly? Can you tell us tips that will help others make it through jail intake?

Speak Your Mind

When you finally post bail, you will get discharged from jail. The discharge process takes anywhere from 10 minutes to hours or even all day long. So, the quicker bail is posted, the quicker you will be released. Also, it might depend on whether you’ve got a cash bond or if a magistrate needs to determine the amount of bail to be set. For a minor charge, you will be booked and then released on your recognizance without having to pay bail. When you have served your sentence and are given a discharge date, expect to get discharged at any time that day – but usually in the morning.

If there is a, or if you must start a jail sentence, it is recommended that you do the right thing and turn yourself in willingly. For a warrant, report to the jail intake area, and tell them that believe that there could be a warrant for your arrest. A record check will be run, and if they verify that there is a warrant for your arrest, you will be taken into the sheriff’s custody. If it is for a jail sentence, report to the jail on the date and time that the sentence order requires you to. Be very careful that you don’t show up late. Just bring allowed items with you, such as your driver’s license or even state issued ID, prescription medication, and a copy of the sentencing order.

Inmates must give the name and date of birth of each visitor to the jail in advance of the visit. Your visitor’s information will be put into the visitors log as an approved visitor. Each and every visitor has to provide acceptable photo identification when visiting an inmate. Anyone that arrives for visitation late or that is not an approved visitor will be turned away.
The Pondera County Jail visitation procedures frequently change, so we suggest that you review the official site before you go.

All phone calls from jail are made through a jail approved pre-paid phone account or phone card . Calls made in jail are generally more expensive than regular phone calls. There is no limit to when you can make phone calls, how long you can talk, and how often you can make calls, but bear in mind that there are a limited number of phones, so all the inmates must share phone time. If you break the rules, an inmate’s ability to use the phone could be reduced or eliminated completely.

Phone Number: 406-271-4060

All mall sent to inmates must be sent using the actual US Postal Service. You must not use any other type of mail or package delivery. You should print the prisoner’s name, prisoner number, and the address of the jail on the letter that you send. Do not send a box or package, envelope with padding, plastic or paper bag, or an envelope with metal inside. Any mail is opened and inspected by the jail staff, and will get sent back to the person who mailed it if the jail decides it is inappropriate.

If you would like to send a letter to an inmate at Pondera County Jail, use this address:

Pondera County Jail
20 4Th Ave Sw
Conrad, MT 59425

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Pondera County Jail
20 4Th Ave Sw
Conrad, MT 59425

The mail policy at Pondera County Jail changes often, so we suggest that you check the official Pondera County Jail site before you send a letter.

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Even if you’ve been arrested, you still have certain rights, one of these is that you have the right to request an attorney. You don’t get to make many phone calls when you get arrested, so make sure to get a friend or relative to locate an attorney when you call them. You might be asking yourself ‘why do I need an attorney?’ You are not required to have an attorney for some criminal charges, a criminal defense attorney will advise you about your rights, look after your best interests and guide you through the complicated legal system in Pondera County. The sooner you get a lawyer involved with your situation, the better.

For more info on the benefits of hiring a lawyer, visit: How to Find an Attorney

If you can’t afford a lawyer, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. The Public Defender has a number of staff such as investigators, experts in forensics and case workers. You should be reassured that Public Defenders are full-fledged lawyers who are admitted to the Montana State Bar Association and are legally licensed to handle your case.

Have you or someone you know used a court appointed attorney? How did they do?

Pondera County court records are a matter of public record. Court records contain a file with a docket sheet and each of the documents that have been filed in the case. You can access your court records via the internet service, or by going to the Clerk’s office of the Court where the case was filed.

The Pondera County Clerk of Court is an officer and clerk of the court who maintains court records and controls access to them. They also administer the oath during court cases, and also read the jury’s verdict. All court records from your case are kept at Clerk of Court’s office.

Court fees and costs are the fees and charges associated with your case, which include filing charges, motion and claim fees, and court appearance fees. If you cannot afford these fees and have a court appointed attorney, you will not be responsible for these fees.

The magistrate is the type of judge that rules on your case. Magistrate judges do different functions, which include setting your bail amount, issuing warrants for arrest, and acting as the presiding judge over preliminary court hearings and detention hearings.

Your pre-sentencing report is put together with information about the arrestee’s background and details of the arrestee’s life, which the magistrate judge will review and take into consideration when deciding on the sentence. Information and personal details will be gathered from the defendant, their family, and if necessary the victim in the crime. Keep in mind you are allowed to ask to have a copy of the report before sentencing, and correct any mistakes that it contains.

If you get convicted of a crime during your trial, you will then get sentenced. There are several different options for sentencing, which include community service, house arrest, and probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on the particulars of your trial, the severity of your crime, and any sentencing guidelines that they judge will use, you may be locked up immediately, or you could receive a date to surrender and report to jail to serve out your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if some you know is incarcerated, or has ever been locked up?

You can you need to access the jail website and do an inmate search, and search using:

• The inmate’s name.
• Birthdate.
• Their booking date if you know it.
• and their jail ID.

If you’re not sure if this person is in jail, you should call the jail get confirmation.

If you think you have an outstanding warrant, you can check the arrest warrants on the website or call the jail directly. You have to have their first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask one of the officers. Keep in mind that if there is an arrest warrant out for you, you should be prepared to get taken into custody immediately.

If you know a person’s name, as well as their arrest date, contact the Pondera County jail, either by phone, in person, or you can check online. An arrest is a matter of public record and these records are available to anyone.

Civil processes are when you are served with legal papers, like warrants. You can find these by going to the Sheriff’s office, by phone or online.

All registered sex offenders must be listed and registered on a sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex offense. You can access these listings online, but remember that you can’t get the actual address, but rather the address block they live on.

Court Records are public records and available to anyone. Court Records include a court case file that contains a docket sheet and any documents filed in your court case. You can access the court records via the internet, or at the clerk’s office of the court in the jurisdiction where the case was filed.

Each state maintains a record of their state citizen’s criminal past. These databases are all connected and you can track criminal histories from another state. Go to county courthouse and check in person or you can check online. It is helpful to know the county the crime was committed in, and if the crime was in a totally different state, you might have to pay a fee for a more comprehensive search.

A search of someone’s criminal history you will be able to find out if someone has been arrested, charged, or convicted for any of the following crimes:

• DUI.
• Drug offenses such as possession or trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Sexual offenses including rape, assault.
• Violent crimes including assault, battery and murder.
• Theft, breaking and entering.

If you do a criminal records check, usually won’t be able to see if they have had any moving violations, like:

• Tickets for speeding.
• Drivers license revoked or suspended.
• Traffic accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To search for this kind of information, you have to do a driving history search.

Have you ever searched for criminal records? Was it a difficult process? Was your search online or did you have to call the Pondera County courthouse? Was it correct? There are many reasons that folks look up criminal records, and your comments may help other people.

Click here to tell about all about it

Most Wanted

For Federal crimes, the FBI has a list of the Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Pondera County, the Pondera County Sheriff’s Department has a list of most wanted criminals, too.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Just the thought of being incarcerated in Pondera County Jail is something you wish you could avoid, you will soon get used to the routine that is set for you in jail. All inmates get a wake-up alarm each morning at 6am, and then roll call. You will then have breakfast. When you finish breakfast participate in the program that has been assigned to you. This could be working in the kitchen, laundry, or some sort of manufacturing job. While this may seem tedious, it may help you when you leave jail, as you are gaining experience in a certain field of work. Other inmates go to school, while some take part in mandated treatment programs. After lunch, there will be another roll call, then back to work. Your evening will be spent either in your cell or a common room. During this time dinner is served and you will be expected to take a shower. After another roll call, it’s lights out. Even though you will be confined to your cell, there may be enough light to read or write letters. Then again, most inmates welcome lights out, and try to get as much sleep as they can.

Most people are frightened at the idea of jail because they don’t know what to expect. If you have spent any time in Pondera County Jail, your experiences would be welcomed, if it can help another person to deal with it.

Dress Code

When incarcerated, all inmates are expected to wear the Pondera County Jail uniform. This is normally a jumpsuit or scrubs. Of note to anyone visiting an inmate – you must be properly dressed. Any clothing considered inappropriate will not be permitted.

How To Send Money to an Inmate

You will have your own ‘bank account’ while in jail. This money is used to purchase items from the Commissary. Family and friends can deposit money into this account for you, and any money you earn while in prison will also be deposited into your account. Outside money can be paid in to your account via a money order, cash or check. If someone sends a check or money order, make sure that they write your inmate ID on it. The maximum amount you are allowed in your account is $290 per month.

The process for sending money to someone in jail at Pondera County Jail can change, so be sure to check the the Pondera County Jail website before you send money to an inmate there.


Commissary

The commissary is the jail store. You can purchase a number of things here, such as toiletries, snacks and writing supplies. Bear in mind that you will probably want to use the commissary daily, and any infractions will get that privilege taken away from you.

Inmate Medications

If you are on any type of prescription medication, you will be allowed to continue taking it while in jail. When you are first processed, you will be asked what medication you take. You will then be referred to the jail nurse or doctor who will be in charge of monitoring your health and prescribing your medication.

Meals

You will get three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. As expected, they are very basic, but healthy. A typical breakfast might be cereal, toast, coffee and fruit. Lunch might be spaghetti, salad, bread and milk. Dinner could be chicken casserole, rice, vegetables, dessert and milk. Contrary to popular belief, prison food has greatly improved over the years, and you might find that it’s not much different from what you would eat at home.

Pods / The Yard

The jail is designed in a ‘pod’ layout, with self-contained housing arranged around an outdoor yard. Each pod has a central control station and a common room, and the inmates take turns in using the yard. The jail is designed this way to keep certain inmates together, and others away from the general population.

Gangs

As with life in general, gangs are a part of prison life. Obviously it is best to avoid becoming a part of this environment as it will only lead to trouble. When you first enter prison, you might find yourself being ‘primed’ to join a gang, or worse, you might get their attention in a negative way. The best thing to do is keep your head down and don’t get involved.


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News and Media

News

Photos / Pictures

Videos


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Jobs

Types of Jobs at Pondera County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Pondera County Jail, overseeing the day to day operations and administration of the jail. An inmate is unlikely to have much interaction with the Deputy Sheriff, unless they have committed an infraction. Detention Officers are responsible for the custody and care of the inmates. They maintain order in the jail, and handle security. A Detention Officer is assigned to a certain pod, and therefore is responsible for the same inmates each day. They get to know the inmates on a certain level and are well equipped to handle any problems that may occur.

Apply for a Job at Pondera County Jail

Requirements:

• You must be over the age of 21.
• You must possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You must be a US Citizen.
• You must pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You must pass a drug test.
• You must have a good level of fitness.
• You must be in good health.
• You must have a valid Driver’s License
• An applicant for Deputy Sheriff must possess a Law Enforcement Certification.


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Family Resources

There are resources for families of both the perpetrator of the crime and the victim. The social and emotional impact of crime is far reaching, affecting many. Families can receive professional counseling, court related assistance, social services assistance and help in navigating the criminal justice system.

If you are a family member, which resources did you find to be particularly helpful? Please let us know, as this will be helpful to other families in the same situation.

Click here to leave a comment


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Victim Resources

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.

Victim’s Rights

The Victim Rights Act grants victims the following rights:

• The right to protection from the accused.
• The right to notification.
• The right to attend proceedings.
• The right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• The right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• The right to restitution.
• The right to a speedy trial.
• The right to be treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

The definition of victim includes:

• Spouses and children of all victims.
• Parents and guardians of minor victims.
• Parents, guardians and siblings of mentally or physically incapacitated victims or victims of homicide.
• Foster parents or other caregivers, under certain circumstances.

There are a number of services and programs designed to help victims and their families. You can find out about these services by contacting the courthouse, or local law enforcement agency.

Victim Notification

The Department of Justice Victim Notification System (VNS) is a system that provides victims with information pertaining to their case and/or any defendants in the case. You will receive a Victim Identification Number (VIN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow you to access VNS via the internet or by phone. Here, you will find information about future court hearings, historical court events, and detailed information about the defendant. This will include criminal charges filed, the outcome of charges, sentence imposed, custody location, projected release date and any other release information. The VNS website is updated daily. You will also receive any ongoing information by mail or email.

Have you, a family member or friend ever used the Victim Notification System? If so, was it effective? Did you get the information in a timely manner? Was the system difficult to use? We would like to hear from you, so please post any comments here.

Tell Your Story

Sex Offender Information and Search

All people registered as sex offenders are registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information online, but bear in mind that you will not get the exact address, rather the block that they live on.

Domestic Violence

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are services to help you. Your county will have a Domestic Violence Services office. They provide free and confidential services, such as emergency shelter information, legal advocacy, support groups and domestic violence education. They will work to help you create a safe and violence-free life, and heal from the trauma of abuse.

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.


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Reviews

Reviews of this Jail

Have you ever spent any time in this jail? Do you have a friend or family member that is a prisoner there? Have you ever visited someone at Pondera County Jail?

If your answer is yes, then you should tell us about it. Write down what you experienced so that others will know what to expect.

Things you could write in the review:

• Conditions in Pondera County Jail.
• Jail, yard and pod facility and layout
• Guards and jail staff
• Commissary and food
• Having Visitors
• The other inmates – what are they like?
• Inmate safety
• Jail gangs
• Prisoner activities and programs


Let Everyone Know

Tell Your Story

Everbody that’s been incarcerated has some stories to tell about the whole experience. Why were you locked up? Did you experience fair treatment? What was your daily routine in jail? What about the other inmates? How has this experience impacted your life?

Tell your story about when you did time at Pondera County Jail

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you meet some cool folks in jail? Do you need to reconnect with an inmate you met while you were incarcerated? Leave a message for them here.

Say Hello to Pondera County Jail


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