Buffalo County Jail – Kearney, NE

Buffalo County Jail is in Buffalo County, NE and is the primary correctional facility for this region. Do you know someone in Buffalo County Jail? This page gives you information about everything a person needs to know about Buffalo County Jail,such as: How to locate an inmate at Buffalo County Jail. Find inmate mugshots. The jail’s address and phone number. Bail and bail bondsmen. Intake procedures. Court information and records. And everything else.

The thought of getting arrested and going to jail is a daunting and scary prospect, not only for whoever is incarcerated, but also that person’s family and friends. The purpose of this guide is to give you information that you need to make getting locked up easier. If you have questions, just ask it in the comment section below, and also any comments or feedback that might help others would be much appreciated.

Do you have a friend or family member that is in jail and want to find them?

Has a friend or family member that’s been arrested and you don’t know how to find them?

To look up who is in jail at Buffalo County Jail you need to visit their link and use the inmate search.

The Buffalo County Jail Inmate Search is an online list of persons who are in jail, including current status, bail amount, and times the inmate can have visitors. Also, you can get info for anybody arrested and booked or discharged in the past 24 hours. Prisoners are listed in alphabetical order by their last name. You’ll be able to get the information quicker if you’ve got your friend or family member’s full name, date of birth, or arrest number.

If your friend or loved one is at another county jail you will want to check our Nebraska county jail guide: Other County Jails in Nebraska

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

Mugshots of Buffalo County Jail prisoners can be found online, or you can go in person to the Buffalo County Jail. When you search for mugshots online you have to enter the prisoner’s first and last name, and the arrest date, if you have one.

Do you want to get your mugshot taken down from the Buffalo County Jail site? This may not be possible, as the mugshot is public record. You need to file a ‘Petition to Expunge’. What this means is that your arrest record will be sealed, so no one will be able to see them. It is difficult to do this, and you will most likely need the services of a lawyer.

For a more in-depth article about getting your mugshot removed, the many different mugshot sites, and the mugshot removal services: How To Get Your Mugshot Taken Down

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Of course, if you’re in jail, your main thought is about when you get out. After you’ve gone through the booking process, your bail amount will be set using the bail schedule or the magistrate will decide it. In cases where no bail is set this may mean that you will either be released on your ‘own recognizance’ until your court date, or you don’t get released while you wait for your court date.

If you do bail out you are required to agree to be there for your court date, and until that date you won’t be allowed to leave town.

Usually, a prisoner in the Buffalo County Jail can earn time off for good behavior if they respect the rules and don’t cause any problems while incarcerated.

If you prove to be trustworthy, you may be allowed to participate in a work release program. You will have to go back to the jail every day when you’re finished with work, or you could be permitted to move to a halfway house instead of the jail.

Your bail is how much money that you are required to pay to get out of jail pending trial. The amount you will be required to pay all depends on the seriousness of your charges. You or someone you know will have to post 10 percent of the total amount set in order to be released from jail. If you don’t show up for your court appearance, whoever put up your bail money will lose that bail money.

In order to find out how much someone’s bail is, you must call the Buffalo County Jail or the County Courthouse. If you’ve got the person’s info, like name, address and date of birth, they’ll be able to let you know what their bail is set at. Also, you can see the bail amount on the jail website.

Having to get someone out of jail is never a fun thing, but thankfully, its easy if you have the money. First, you have to find out if they have a “Cash Bond Only”. If so, you won’t be able to use the services of a Bail Bondsman. Take cash only to the jail – the jail will not take a check. When you’ve paid bail, 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 bail is set too high, or you can’t afford it yourself, you should use a bail bondsman. Bondsmen usually charge you a fee of 10-15% of the total bail amount, and usually charge a minimum charge of $100. The money you pay to the bail bondsman will not be returned to you and the bondsman only accepts cash. If the bail is exceptionally high, the bail bondsman may ask to use your assets, such as home, property or cars, as collateral for the bond in addition to their charges.

To contact a local bail bondsman visit our page about: Bail bondsman

Have you ever had to find a bail bondsman for someone you know or yourself? If so, leave a comment below and tell your story, and let us know how things turned out.

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

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The jail intake procedure is made up of these steps:

• You will get put in a holding cell. If the jail is really busy, you will have to wait a while to get processed.
• Firstly, you will answer some basic questions, like what is your full name, your address, date of birth and an emergency contact.
• Also, you will also be asked about your medical and mental history.
• You will be given an inmate ID number.
• You will get fingerprinted.
• They will take your mugshot.
• Any property you have will be taken from you and stored until you are discharged.
• They will allow you to make a telephone call to contact family, friends, or bail bondsman.
• If you are expected to be released quickly, you might be able to keep wearing your own clothes, otherwise you will have to change into a jail issued jumpsuit.

Have you ever been arrested and gone through the jail intake procedure? If so, please tell your story. How long did it take to get through intake? How were you treated? Do you know any things that might help others to get through jail processing?

Click here to share your story

Once bail has been posted, you will get released from jail. Getting discharged will take anywhere from 30 minutes to all day. In simple terms, the faster you can pay your bail, the quicker you will get discharged from jail. How quickly you get discharged can depend on whether or not you’ve been given a cash bond amount or if the judge needs to decide on the bail amount. For lesser charges, you will get booked and then released on your recognizance without having to pay bail. When you have served your sentence and have a release date, expect to be released at any time that day – but usually in the morning.

If you have a, or if you have to begin your jail sentence, you really should follow the law and turn yourself in. If it is for a warrant, go to the jail intake center, and tell the intake officer that think that there is a warrant for your arrest. A record check will be run, and if so, they will ask that you surrender yourself and you will be taken into custody. If you are reporting to serve out your sentence, go down to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order states. Ensure that you aren’t late. Be sure to only bring necessary items when you go, like a driver’s license or even photo ID, any prescription medication you might take, along with your doctor’s prescription, as well as the sentencing order.

Inmates must provide the name and date of birth of each visitor to the jail in advance of any visit. Your visitor’s information will go in the log as an authorized visitor. Every visitor will be required to provide acceptable photo identification. Anyone that arrives for visitation late or without a visiting order will not be allowed to attend visitation.
Visitation procedures at Buffalo County Jail change often, so we suggest that you visit the official Buffalo County Jail jail site before you go.

All phone calls from jail are collect calls or through a pre-paid phone account. These phone calls are usually pricier than phone calls made at home. There are certain restrictions about when you can make phone calls, how long you can talk, and how often you can make calls, but inmates should 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, your ability to use the phone may be limited or eliminated altogether.

The Buffalo County Jail phone number is: 308-233-5274

Any mail that you send to an inmate is required to be sent using the US Postal Service. You can’t use any other form of delivery. You must print the inmate’s name, inmate ID, and the address of the jail on the outside of the letter that you send. Don’t send a box or package, envelope with padding or insulation, bag, or an envelope with any metal in it. All mail sent to inmates will be opened and reviewed by the officers at the jail, and the mail will get returned to the sender if they decide it is inappropriate.

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

Buffalo County Jail
2025 Avenue A
Kearney, NE N/A

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Buffalo County Jail
2025 Avenue A
Kearney, NE N/A

The Buffalo County Jail inmate mail policy can change, so you should review the official Buffalo County Jail site before you send a letter to an inmate there.

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If you get arrested, you have particular rights, the first of which is your right to request an attorney. Remember that you may be limited to the amount of phone calls you can make, so it is important to have a friend or family member find a lawyer when you call. You might be asking yourself ‘but do I really need an attorney’ You are not required to have an attorney for some criminal charges, a criminal attorney will make sure you know your rights, help protect your interests and help you navigate through the complicated court system that you are now faced with. The quicker you get an attorney working on your charges, the better.

For more information about how to find a lawyer, read our guide: How to Find an Attorney

If you need an attorney, but can’t afford a lawyer, you will be assigned a public defender. The Public Defender has a number of staff such as independent investigators, crime scene and forensics experts and social case workers. Public Defenders are actual attorneys, admitted to the Nebraska State Bar Association and are completely licensed to practice law and represent you in court.

Have you or someone you know used the services of a Public Defender? How did they do?

Court records are public records. They have a court case file with a sheet called a docket sheet and all of the motions, documents, and evidence that have been filed in the case. You can access court records using the online service, or by going to the Clerk’s office of the Court.

The Clerk of Court is an official part of the court that maintains the records. They also administer the oath during court cases, and read the verdict when the jury makes their final decision. All records, documents, and evidence associated with your case are available at Buffalo County Clerk of Court office.

Court fees are the charges and fees associated with your court case, for example filing fees, motion and claim fees, and court charges. If you cannot afford these fees and have a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees.

The magistrate is the judge that presides on your court case. Magistrates do different functions, like setting your bail amount, issuing warrants for arrest, and overseeing preliminary court proceedings and detention proceedings.

A defendant’s pre-sentencing report is prepared with information about the defendant’s background and details of the defendant’s life history, which the magistrate will review when determining a sentence. Information will be solicited from the person on trial, their family, and, if applicable, the victim of the crime. Don’t forget you are able to ask to see your own copy of the report prior to sentencing, and make sure that you correct any mistakes that it contains.

When you are convicted of a crime, you will be given a sentence for your crime. The presiding judge in your case will weigh several options when determining your sentence, ranging from community service and probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on the severity of the crime, you may be taken into custody, right there in court, or you could get a date that you are supposed to report to jail to serve your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if some you know is incarcerated, or has been an inmate in the past?

To find this out you need to query the jail’s website, and search by:

• Name.
• Birthdate.
• Approximate booking date.
• or jail ID.

If you’re not sure if this person is in jail or not, you should call the jail confirm whether they’ve been arrested or not.

If you have an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you can find out by checking the arrest warrants inquiry online or call the court. You have to have the person’s first and last name. Or, you can just go down to the jail and ask the officer in charge. Bear in mind that if you do have an outstanding warrant, you should be prepared to get taken into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s first and last name, and possibly an arrest date, contact the Buffalo County jail, on the phone, go there in person, or look online. An arrest is a matter of public record and these records are accessible to anyone.

A Civil Process is when someone has been served with papers, such as a court order. You can find these civil process orders by going to the Sheriff’s office, by phone or online.

All convicted sex offenders are registered on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. The people on these databases have been tried by jury and convicted in a court of law of a sex offense. You can access these offenders on the internet, but bear in mind that you won’t find the exact address, just the block they live on.

Court Records are public, and are accessible by anyone. They include a case file that contains a docket and any documents and filings filed in the case. You are able to access the court records online, or at Clerk of Court where the case was filed.

Each and every state maintains records of someone’s criminal history. These online databases are connected so you can track criminal histories from other states. You can go to courthouse and make an inquiry, or check online. It is helpful to know the county, and in the event that it was in a completely different state, you might have to pay a fee for a more intensive search.

A search of someone’s criminal history you can get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for these crimes:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
• Drug offenses such as possession or trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Sex offenses which could include rape, and sexual assault.
• Violent crimes like assault or murder.
• Breaking and entering, theft, larceny.

During a criminal records search, you generally won’t learn if they had:

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

To get driving records, you must do a search for their driving record.

Have you ever searched for criminal records? Was it an easy process? Did you do your search online or did you have to call the Buffalo County courthouse? Did you get information that was correct? There are plenty of reasons that folks look up criminal records, and your story could help other people.

Click here to post a comment

Most Wanted

On a Federal level, the FBI has a listing of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Buffalo County,The Sheriff’s Department keeps their own list of most wanted criminals and fugitives.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Everyone knows that getting locked up in the Buffalo County jail is very scary, you will soon get used to the daily routine there. Expect a wake-up alarm at 6am, and next you’ll have roll call. Next, you will get breakfast. After 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 rules for sending funds to someone in jail could change, so be sure to check the the Buffalo County Jail website before you send money to an inmate.


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 Buffalo County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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.

Tell 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:

• You have the right to protection from the accused.
• You have the right to notification.
• You have the right to attend proceedings.
• You have the right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• You have the right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• You have the right to restitution.
• You have the right to a speedy trial.
• You have 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 a prisoner in Buffalo County Jail? Do you have a friend or family member there? Have you ever visited a prisoner at this jail?

If yes, then you should write a review about it. Tell us about your experience because other people will know what to expect.

What to include in your comment:

• Conditions at the jail.
• Jail, yard and pod facility and layout
• Guards and staff
• Jail food and commissary
• Having Visitors
• Inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gang activity
• Inmate programs and activities


Write a Review of Buffalo County Jail

Tell Your Story

Everbody that’s been incarcerated has a story about it. How’d you get locked up? Were you fairly treated? What was your daily routine in jail? What about the other inmates? How did it affect you to go to jail?

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

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Make some good friends in jail? Do you want to talk to a person you met in jail? Leave a message for them here.

Post a message to someone at Buffalo County Jail


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