Blaine County Jail – Chinook, MT

Blaine County Jail is located in Blaine County and is the jail for that region. Looking for someone in Blaine County Jail? This page gives you information about anything a person needs to know about Blaine County Jail,like: How to locate an inmate. Find mugshots and inmate photos. The jail’s phone number and address. Bailing out of jail. Intake procedures and booking. Court records. And much more…

The prospect of going to jail is a scary thought, not only for the person who is incarcerated, but also their family, friends, and loved ones. This guide is meant to give you information and tips that you’ll need to make getting locked up less stressful. If you have specific questions, just ask them, and please leave any feedback or comments that might be beneficial to other people in the same situation is appreciated.

Do you have a family member or friend that is in jail and want to find out where they are?

Has somebody who’s been arrested and you don’t know how to locate them?

In order to find out who is in jail at Blaine County Jail you have to visit their web site and use the inmate search.

The Blaine County Jail Inmate List is an online list of people who have been arrested, which includes status, how much their bail is, and times you can visit. You can find info about anybody arrested and booked or discharged in the past 24-hour period. Inmates are listed alphabetically by their last name. You will be able to get the information quicker if you enter your friend or family member’s full name, birth date, or inmate ID.

If your friend or loved one might be in another county jail you should check the other Montana county jails in our Montana County Jail Guide: Other County Jails in Montana

A mugshot, also known as a intake picture, is the picture that the police take when you get processed at jail intake. They take one frontal photo and one profile photo. Your name and jail booking number will be on the pictures, and they will be on file at the jail.

Mugshots of Blaine County Jail inmates can be found online, or you can go in person to the Blaine County Jail. When viewing mugshots online you need to enter the person’s first and last name, and the booking date, if you have it.

Are you trying to get your mugshot taken off of the Blaine County Jail website? This will be difficult, as the mugshot is a matter of public record. To get your mugshot removed you will need to file a Petition to Expunge in court. What this means is that all of your arrest records will be sealed, and will not be available to the public. Depending on your situation, this may be a longshot.

Read our in-depth tutorial about getting your mugshot removed, the different websites with mugshots, and the websites that offer to remove your mugshot for you: How To Remove Your Mugshot from the Internet

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Obviously, once you’re locked up, your only thought is about how to get out. After you’ve been booked, a bail amount will be determined using the bail schedule or the magistrate will decide it. If no bail is set this might mean that you will either be free to go until your trial, or you don’t get released while you wait for your court date.

If you are released from jail you are required to promise to be there for your court date, and until that date you won’t be allowed to leave the county.

Usually, inmates in the Blaine County Jail will earn an early release in exchange for good behavior when they don’t break the rules and act right while they are in jail.

If you follow the rules, you may be allowed to do work release. You will be required to return to the jail each day after work, or you may be permitted to move to a halfway house instead of living at the jail.

Your bail is how much money that you are required to pay to get out of jail until you go to court. The amount of bail that is set depends on what crime you are charged with and how serious it is. You will need to post ten percent of the total that was determined so you are able to bail out of jail. If you miss your court appearance, whoever posted your bail will lose all of the bail money.

You need to call the Blaine County Jail. If know the person’s info, including name, address and date of birth, they’ll be able to let you know what their bail is set at. Also, you can find out how much their bail is online.

Posting bail to get out of jail is an unpleasant situation, but in some cases, its really easy. To start with, find out if their bail is a “Cash Bond Only” situation. If it is, you won’t be able to use the services of a bail bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – the jail will not take a check. As soon as you’ve paid the bail bond, the inmate will be released into your care. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, you will get this money back.

If their bail has been set too high, or you just can’t afford to pay it, you should try to hire a bail bondsman. Bail bondsmen will usually have a fee of 10-15% of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and usually with a minimum of $100. The amount you pay to the bondsman is non-refundable and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If their bail has been set particularly high, the bail bondsman might require that they use your assets, such as home, property or cars, as collateral for the bond in addition to whatever their charges are.

If you need a local bail bondsman go to: Bail bondsman

Have you ever hired a bail bondsman either for yourself, a family member or friend? If so, please leave a comment below and tell about your experience, and let us know how things turned out.

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

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The intake process takes you through each of these steps:

• You will be placed in a holding cell. If the jail is busy, you may not be processed immediately.
• The first step is that you will answer some basic questions, like what is your full legal name, home address, birth date and an emergency contact person.
• Also, you will also be asked about your medical and mental history.
• You will be issued an inmate ID number.
• Your fingerprints will be taken.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• All personal property will be taken away from you and stored until you get released.
• You will then be allowed to make a phone call to contact family, friends, or bail bondsman.
• If they expect that you will make bail and be released quickly, you might get to skip the jumpsuit and keep wearing your own clothes, otherwise you will have to wear a jail jumpsuit.

Have you ever been arrested and gone through the jail intake procedure? If you have, you should tell us how it happened. How long did you have to wait? How were you treated? Do you know any tips that will help other people get through the process?

Click here to tell your story

When you pay your bail, you will be discharged from jail. This process takes anywhere from 15 minutes to all day long. So, the faster you post bail, the faster you can get out of jail. Also, it can depend on whether or not you have a bond amount or if a judge needs to determine the bail amount. For a minor charge, you will be booked and get released without having to post bail. If you have served a sentence in jail and have a release date, plan to get discharged anywhere between the hours of 9am and 12pm.

warrant out for your arrest, or if you need to report to start a sentence, it is highly advisable that you do the right thing and turn yourself into the authorities. In the case of an outstanding warrant, go to the jail reception area, and let them know that you think they might have a warrant out for your arrest. They will do a record check, and if you do, you will be taken into jail custody. When reporting to serve a sentence, go to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order or court paperwork states. Ensure that you are not late. Only bring approved items when you turn yourself in, for example your driver’s license or even your ID, prescription medication, as well as the copy of the sentencing order.

The inmate need to list information about each visitor to the jail in advance. Your visitor’s names will be entered in a Visiting log as an authorized visitor. All visitors must provide identification. Anyone that gets to visitation or that is not on the visitation list will not be allowed to attend visitation.
The Blaine County Jail visitation procedures frequently change, so make sure that you double-check the jail site before you visit an inmate.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are made through a jail approved pre-paid phone account or phone card . These phone calls are much more expensive than regular phone calls. There are certain restrictions about when and how often you can use the phone, but inmates must keep in mind that a long line can form at the phones, because everyone wants to use the phone, too. If you break the jail rules, an inmate’s ability to use the phone might get cut back or forbidden.

The Blaine County Jail phone number is: 406-357-3260

All mail has to be sent using the actual US Postal Service. You can’t use any other type of delivery. You have to write the name, inmate ID, and the address of the jail on the letter. Do not mail anything in a box, padded envelope, plastic or paper bag, or an envelope with any metal in it. Any mail will be opened and inspected and read by the jail staff, and will be returned if it can’t be delivered.

Use this address when sending a letter to someone incarcerated at Blaine County Jail:

Blaine County Jail
420 Ohio Street
Chinook, MT 59523

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Blaine County Jail
420 Ohio Street
Chinook, MT 59523

The mail policy is always changing, so visit the official website when send a letter to someone in jail there.

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If you get arrested, you have particular rights, one of these is the right to request an attorney. You don’t get to make many phone calls when you get arrested, so you would be wise to get a friend or family member to locate a lawyer when you call. I know you’re probably asking yourself right now ‘why do I need a lawyer?’ You are not required to have an attorney for some criminal charges, a criminal defense attorney will make sure you know your rights, protect your interests and help you understand the complicated court system in Blaine County. The sooner you hire an attorney to represent you and work on your charges, the better off you’ll be.

For more information on how to find a lawyer, visit: How to Find a Lawyer in Blaine County

If you need an attorney, but can’t afford a lawyer, the courts will assign you a public defender, which is a free lawyer. The Public Defender’s Office has access to independent investigators, experts in forensics as well as social workers. You will be reassured to know that Public Defenders are actual attorneys who are admitted to the Montana State Bar Association and are fully licensed to practice law and represent you in court.

Have you or someone you know used a court appointed attorney or Public Defender? What was your experience?

All court records are public records and are available upon request. Court records include a court case file containing a docket and all documents and motions in your case. You are able to access court records using the Blaine County website, or at the Clerk’s office of the Court.

A Clerk of Court is an officer of the court who maintains court records and controls access to them. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath during court cases, and also read the verdict when decided by the jury. All records relating to your case are kept and available to you at Clerk of Court’s office.

Court costs and court fees are all costs associated with your court case, such as filing fees, motion fees and various court charges. If you can’t afford to pay these fees and have a Public Defender, you may not have to pay them.

The Blaine County magistrate is the person that rules over your case in court. Magistrate judges do many different things, such as setting your bail amount, issuing arrest warrants, and presiding over initial court appearances and detention hearings.

A pre-sentencing report is completed to include the defendant’s background information and as much detail about the defendant’s life and public history, which the judge will review when decide your sentence. Information, details, and character witnesses will be gathered from the person on trial, his or her family members, and in some cases the victim in the crime. Bear in mind you are able to ask to see a copy of the report before you are sentenced, so you have the opportunity to review it for accuracy and completeness, and correct any mistakes.

After you are convicted of a crime, you will then get sentenced. The judge will have several different options when sentencing you, ranging from community service to probation, to even incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on sentencing guidelines and the severity of your crime, you will either be locked up immediately, or given a date that you are supposed to go to jail to do your time.

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Want to find out if a family member or friend is incarcerated, or has gone to jail in the past?

This is pretty simple to do, just just visit the Blaine County jail website and do an inmate search lookup, and search by:

• Name.
• Birth date.
• Their approximate booking date.
• or jail ID.

If you think that they are currently in jail, you can call the jail to find out.

If you have an outstanding warrant, you can access arrest warrants on the website or you can call the jail directly. This requires a first and last name. Or, you can just go down to the jail and ask one of the officers. Bear in mind that if you do have an outstanding warrant, they will take you into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s first and last name, and the date of their arrest, contact the Blaine County jail, either by phone, in person, or you can check online. Arrest records are a matter of public record and this information is available to anyone.

A Civil Process is when you get served with papers, like a court order. You can access civil process orders by getting in touch with the Blaine County Sheriff’s office, on their website or by phone.

All people registered as sex offenders are required to be registered and listed on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex offense. You can access this information online, but keep in mind that you can’t get the street address, but rather the neighborhood block that they live on.

Court Records are public records and available to anyone. These records include a case file containing a docket sheet and any documents and filings filed in the case. You are able to access the court records via the internet, or at the Blaine County Clerk of Court office in the jurisdiction where the case was filed.

Each and every state maintains a record of someone’s criminal background. These state databases are linked together so you are able to track criminal histories from other states. You are able to go to county courthouse and make an inquiry, or check the website. It helps to know the county, and in the event that it was in a completely different state, you may have to pay a fee for a more complete search.

When you look up a person’s criminal records you will get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for any crimes they may have committed, which could include:

• DWI or DUI.
• Drug Possession.
• Kidnapping.
• Sexual offenses including rape, assault.
• Violent crimes including assault, battery and murder.
• Theft.

If you do a criminal records check, you generally will not find out if they has had:

• Speeding or reckless driving.
• Drivers license revoked or suspended.
• Accidents.
• Minor infractions or moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To search for this information, you have to do a search for their driving record.

Have you ever tried to search for someone’s criminal records? How hard was it? Did you do your search online or did you have to make a phone call to the Blaine County courthouse? Was the information correct? There are lots of reasons that folks search for criminal records and backgrounds, and your story could help other people.

Click here to leave a comment

Most Wanted

Everyone knows that the FBI has a list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Blaine County, the Sheriff maintains their own list of the top most wanted criminals in the county.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List: Link


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Just the thought of serving a jail sentence in Blaine County Jail is something you wish you could avoid, eventually you will settle into the daily routine. Inmates get an alarm to wake up at about 6:00 AM, and then you’ll have roll call. Next, you will eat breakfast. Following breakfast you will have to work in the work program or other activity that you are assigned. 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 Blaine 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 Blaine 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 procedure to send money to Blaine County Jail inmates could change, so check the official Blaine County Jail site when you send funds 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 Blaine County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Blaine 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 Blaine County Jail

Requirements:

• You have to be over the age of 21.
• You have to possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You have to be a US Citizen.
• You have to pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You have to pass a drug test.
• You have to have a good level of fitness.
• You have to be in good health.
• You have to 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 share your story


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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.

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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 been incarcerated at Blaine County Jail? Do you know anybody that is an inmate there? Have you ever visited an inmate at Blaine County Jail?

If your answer is yes, then you should write your review about it. Write down your jail experience because others can find out what to expect.

Things you could write in what you write:

• Jail conditions.
• Jail and pod facility and layout
• Staff and guards
• Commissary and food
• Visitors
• Inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gangs
• Prisoner activities and programs


Speak Your Mind

Tell Your Story

Everyone’s who has been put in jail has at least one story to tell about it. Why’d you get arrested? Did you experience fair treatment? What happened to you while you were locked up? What about the other inmates? Did going to jail affect your life? How?

Tell Your Story About Blaine County Jail

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you make friends in jail? Do you want to reconnect with someone from jail? Leave a message for them here.

Say Hello to people still locked up at Blaine County Jail


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