Gaston County Jail – Gastonia, NC

Gaston County Jail is located in Gaston County, NC and is the main jail for that area. Looking for somebody locked up at Gaston County Jail? This page gives you all about anything you might want to know about Gaston County Jail,such as: Learn how to locate an inmate. How to view Gaston County Jail mugshots. The jail’s address and phone number. Bailing out of jail. Intake procedures. Court information. And much more…

The prospect of going to jail is a scary and daunting thought, not only for whoever goes to jail, but also that person’s family and friends. The goal of this guide is to give you information that you’ll need to make getting locked up a little less stressful. If you have a question, feel free to ask it in the comment section below, and please leave any comments or tips that might be beneficial to others is much appreciated.

Do you have a family member, loved one, or friend that has gone to jail and want to find them?

Do you know a family member or friend that’s been arrested and you want to find out where they are?

To find out who’s in jail at Gaston County Jail you will have to click on their link and do an inmate search.

The Gaston County Jail Inmate Search is a list of persons who were arrested and are now in jail, including status, bail amount, and visiting schedule. You can also get the same information about anyone arrested and processed or released within the last 24 hours. Jail inmates are shown in alphabetical order by their last name. You will be able to get the information quicker if you’ve got your friend or family member’s first and last name, birth date, or arrest number.

If your friend or family member might be in a different jail you should look here, too: Other Jails in North Carolina

A mugshot, or jail booking photo, is a photo that the jail takes when you get processed at jail intake. They take one and a side picture. Your name and jail ID number will be on the photos, and they are on file.

Mugshots of people who have been arrested can be viewed on the website, or you can go in person to the Gaston County Jail. When viewing online you will have to put in the first and last name, and the arrest date, if you have one.

Need to know how to have your mugshot removed from the Gaston County Jail site? This can be tricky, because your mugshot is a matter of public record. To get your mugshot taken down you will need to file a ‘Petition to Expunge’. This means that your arrest record would be sealed, and will not be available to the public. Unfortunately, this happens very rarely.

Read our in-depth tutorial about getting your mugshot taken down, the different websites with mugshots, and the mugshot removal services: How To Get Your Mugshot Taken Down

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Naturally, once you are incarcerated, your primary thought is about how to get out. After booking, your bail amount is decided by a special judge called a magistrate. If you don’t get a bail set this can mean that you will either be free to go until your court date, or you must remain in jail until your trial.

If you do bail out of jail you will have to agree to be there for your court date, and in the meantime you are required not to leave town.

Typically, inmates will be given an early release in exchange for good behavior if they follow the rules and conduct themselves properly while they are in jail.

If you follow the rules, you might be allowed to do work release. You will either have to stay the jail at the end of the day when you’re finished at your job, or you could be allowed to live in a halfway house instead of living at the jail.

Bail is how much money that you have to pay to the court system to get out of jail until you go to court. The amount you have to pay all depends on the crime you’ve been charged with. You will need to pay to the courts 10% of the amount set so you are able to bail out of jail. If you don’t go to your court appearance, the person that paid your bail won’t get their money back.

You need to call the jail. If you have all the person’s information, like name, address and date of birth, they’ll let you know how much their bail is. Also, you can find out how much their bail is on the Gaston County Jail website.

Needing to bail someone out of jail is never a fun thing, but thankfully, its simple to do if you have the money. First of all, you have to find out if their bail is a Cash Only Bond situation. If so, you will not be able to use a bondsman. Take cash only to the jail – they can’t take a personal check. Once the cash bond has been paid, the inmate will be released into your care. If they don’t violate the terms of their bail, you will get this money back.

If the bail amount is too high, or you just can’t afford it, you should hire a bail bondsman. They generally charge you a fee of 10-15% of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and in most cases with a minimum of $100. The amount you pay to the bondsman is non-refundable and must be paid in cash. If the bail is extremely high, the bail bondsman will usually ask to use your personal assets as collateral for the bond in addition to their charges.

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

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The jail intake process includes each of the following steps:

• You will be placed in a waiting area or cell. If the jail is really busy, it will take a while to get processed.
• The first thing you will have to is you will have to answer a number of questions, like your full name, home address, date of birth and contact person.
• You will also be asked about your medical and mental history.
• You will be given an inmate ID number.
• You will be fingerprinted.
• You will have a front and profile photo taken for your mugshot.
• Any personal property you have will be taken from you and will be stored until you are released.
• You will then be allowed to use the telephone in order to get in touch with family, friends, or bail bondsman.
• If you think you will get released quickly, you might be able to keep wearing street clothes, otherwise you will have to wear a jail jumpsuit.

Have you ever been arrested and gone through processing at jail? If so, please share your experience so others can benefit from your story. How long did you have to wait in the holding cell? What was your treatment like? Can you tell us secrets that could help other people that get arrested make it through the procedure?

Click here to tell about all about it

Once bail has been posted, you will get discharged from jail. Getting discharged from jail takes between 30 minutes to quite a few hours. In simple terms, the faster you can post bail, the sooner you can get released from jail. It also might depend on whether or not you have a bond amount or if a magistrate must determine the amount of bail to be set. For a minor offense, you will simply be booked and get released without having to post bail. When you have served out your jail sentence and know the date of your release, you should plan to get discharged anywhere between the hours of 9am and 12pm.

If the sheriff has a, or if you have to begin your jail sentence, it is recommended that you follow the rules and go down to the jail and turn yourself in. If it is for a warrant, go to the jail reception area, and tell an officer that believe that there could be an outstanding warrant for your arrest. They will do a record check, and if there is one, you will be taken into custody. If it is for a jail sentence, go down to the jail at the time and date that the sentence order states. Ensure that you are not late to report. Be sure to only bring things that are allowed when you go to jail, like your driver’s license or even ID, prescription medication, and a sentencing order from court.

In order to have visitors, inmates must provide each visitor’s name to the jail in advance of the visit. Your visitor’s information will go into a Visiting log for the requesting inmate. Each visitor will have to provide proof of identification. Anyone that arrives for visitation late or that is not on the visitation list will not be able to attend visitation.
Visitation procedures at Gaston County Jail are always changing, so double-check the official Gaston County Jail jail site before you go to the jail to visit.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are with a pre-paid phone card or account, or are collect calls . These phone calls are a lot more expensive than regular phone calls. Inmates are able to make phone calls, with restrictions on how often you can use the phone, but inmates should keep in mind that you are just one of many people who want to talk to their loved ones. If you break the rules and are disciplined, an inmate’s phone privileges might get reduced or forbidden completely.

Phone Number:

Any mail that you send to an inmate must be mailed using the actual US Postal Service. You shouldn’t use any other method of mail or package delivery. You have to write the person’s name, prisoner number, and the jail address on the letter. Do not send a box, padded envelope, bag, or an envelope containing metal parts. Any mail gets opened and read and inspected by the jail officers, and will be returned to the sender if the jail decides it is inappropriate.

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

Gaston County Jail
425 North Marietta St.
Gastonia, NC 28053

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Gaston County Jail
425 North Marietta St.
Gastonia, NC 28053

The inmate mail policy at Gaston County Jail is always changing, so it would be best to double check the the Gaston County Jail website when send a letter to someone in jail there.

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If you have been arrested, you have certain rights, and an important one is your right to request a lawyer. You are only allowed to make so many phone calls in jail, so you would be wise to get a friend or relative to find a lawyer when you talk to them. You’re probably asking yourself ‘why do I need a lawyer?’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal lawyer can advise you of your rights, look after your best interests and help you through the complicated court system in your county. The faster you get an attorney working on your criminal case, the better your chances.

To read more about this, click: How to Find a Lawyer in Gaston County

If you’ve been arrested and cannot afford an attorney, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. Also, the Public Defender is staffed by investigators, crime scene and forensics experts and case workers. All Public Defenders are bona-fide lawyers who are admitted to the State Bar and are fully licensed to practice law.

Have you ever had to use a court appointed attorney? Are you happy with how they handled your case?

Gaston County court records are public and available to anyone who requests them. They contain a court case file containing a docket and each of the documents and motions that have been filed in your case. You, and anyone else, can access your court case records with the Gaston County website, or at the Gaston County Clerk of Court.

A Clerk of Court is an officer and clerk of the court that maintains the records. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath during court cases, and read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All records, documents, and evidence from your court case are held at Gaston County Clerk of Court office.

Court fees and costs are all costs from your court case, such as filing fees, motion and claim fees, and court charges. If you don’t have the money to pay these fees and have court appointed legal counsel or a Public Defender, you may get out of having to pay them.

A Magistrate is the type of judge who presides on your case. Magistrate judges do a number of different things, like setting bail, writing arrest warrants, and presiding over preliminary court hearings and detention proceedings.

A pre-sentencing report is completed to include information about the defendant’s background and as much detail about the arrestee’s life history, which the magistrate will take into account when determining the sentence. Information will be solicited from the person on trial, the defendant’s family, and if necessary the victim in the crime. Don’t forget that you should ask to get your own copy of the report prior to sentencing, so you get the chance to go over it and correct any mistakes in it.

After you are convicted of a crime, you will be given a sentence for your crime. There are several different options for sentencing, ranging from community service and probation, to even incarceration in jail or prison. Depending on the particulars of your trial, the severity of your crime, and any sentencing guidelines that they judge will use, you may be immediately taken into custody, or you could get a date that you must go to jail to serve your jail time according to your sentence.

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Do you need to find out if somebody you know is locked up, or has gone to jail in the past?

To find this out just query the Gaston County jail website and do an inmate search lookup, and search using:

• The inmate’s name.
• Birth date.
• Their approximate booking date.
• and their jail inmate ID.

If you’re not sure if your friend or family member is in jail, you should call the jail get confirmation.

If you think you have a warrant out for your arrest, you can access arrest warrants inquiry on the Gaston County jail website or you are able to call the jail directly. You have to have their first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask them. Keep 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, as well as their arrest date, contact the Gaston County jail, either by phone, go there in person, or you can check online. An arrest is public record and this information is accessible by the public.

Civil processes are when you are served with legal papers, which can be a court order. You can access civil process orders by getting in touch with the Sheriff’s office, by phone or online.

All people registered as sex offenders must be registered on a sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex offense. You are able to view sex offenders on the internet, but you should know that you won’t find the exact address, just the address block that they live on.

Court Records are public records and available to anyone. These records include a court case file that contains a court docket and all filings and documents filed in your court case. You are able to access your court records via the internet, or at the Gaston County Clerk of Court office in the county where the case was filed.

Each state maintains records of someone’s criminal past. These databases are linked together so you are able to track criminal convictions from other states. You can go to county courthouse and check in person or you can check online. It helps to know which county the crime occurred in, and in the event that the crime was in a different state, you might have to pay for a more comprehensive search.

A search of someone’s criminal history you are able to get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for any of the following crimes:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
• Drug offenses.
• Kidnapping.
• Sexual offenses including rape, assault.
• Violent crimes like assault or murder.
• Property crimes like theft or larceny.

But, when you do a criminal records check, usually won’t learn if they has had:

• Speeding.
• Lost their driver’s license or license revoked or suspended.
• Been in a traffic accident.
• Moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To find this information, you will have to do a driving records search.

Have you ever tried to search for someone’s criminal records? Was it an easy process? Did you search online or did you have to make a phone call to the jail? Did you get information that was correct? There are plenty of reasons that people look up criminal records and backgrounds, and your story might help other people.

Click here to share your story

Most Wanted

For Federal crimes, the FBI has their list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Gaston County, the Sheriff has their own list of the most wanted criminals, that you can access online.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

While the prospect of serving a jail sentence in the Gaston County jail is no fun, you will soon become accustomed to the daily routine. Inmates get an alarm to wake up each morning at 6:00am, and then you’ll have roll call. After roll call you will eat breakfast. Following 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 Gaston 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 Gaston 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 money to Gaston County Jail inmates is always changing, so it would be best to double check the official website when send funds to someone in jail 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 Gaston County Jail

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

Speak Your Mind


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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 been a prisoner at Gaston County Jail? Do you have a family member or friend there? Have you ever visited someone there?

If yes, then please write your review about it. Write about your jail experience so that other people can learn what to expect.

What to put in your comment:

• Conditions in Gaston County Jail.
• Jail layout and facility
• Jail staff and Guards
• Food and commissary
• Having Visitors
• The other inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gang activity
• Inmate programs and activities


Write a Review

Tell Your Story

Anybody that’s ever been locked up has a story to tell. How’d you end up in jail? How did the guards treat you? What happened to you while you were locked up? What about the other inmates? How did going to jail affect your life?

Click here to post a comment

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you meet some cool folks in jail? Do you need to say wassup to someone you met in jail? Leave a message for them here.

Say Hello to someone at Gaston County Jail


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