Fergus County Jail – Lewistown, MT

Fergus County Jail is located in Fergus County and is the correctional facility for this region. Looking for someone incarcerated at Fergus County Jail? This page gives you about everything related to Fergus County Jail,like: Find out who’s in jail at Fergus County Jail? How to view Fergus County Jail mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. Bail and how to get out of jail. Booking and intake procedures. Court information. And more…

The chance of going to jail is a daunting and scary prospect, not only for whoever is incarcerated, but also that person’s friends and family. The goal of this guide is to give you all the information and tips that you’ll need to make helping someone get out of jail less stressful. If you have questions, feel free to ask it, and also any comments or feedback that would help others would be much appreciated.

Do you have a friend or family member in jail and need to find them?

Do you know a friend or family member that has been arrested and you need to find out what jail they’re in?

To find out who is in jail at Fergus County Jail you should click on their web site and use the inmate lookup.

The Fergus County Jail Inmate Lookup is an online list of people who have been arrested, which includes custody status, bail amount (if applicable), and times you can visit. You can find information for anyone arrested and booked or discharged within the past 24 hours. Jail inmates are listed alphabetically by their last name. You will be able to get their inmate information faster if you enter your friend or family member’s name, birth date, or inmate ID Number.

If the person you are looking for might be in another county jail you should check our Montana county jail guide: List of all county jails in Montana

A mugshot, also called a jail booking photo, is a picture taken by the police when you are processed at the jail intake. They will take one frontal photo and a side photo. Your full name and jail booking number will be on the pictures, and they are stored.

Mugshots of inmates are online, or you can go in person to the Fergus County Jail. When you search for mugshots on the website you will need to input the prisoner’s first and last name, and a booking date, if you have one.

Are you trying to get your mugshot taken down from the Fergus County Jail website? This will be difficult, as your mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot removed you have to file a Petition to Expunge in court. Basically, this means that your arrest record would be sealed, so no one will be able to see them. Depending on your situation, this may be a longshot.

For more information about getting your mugshot removed, the many different websites with mugshots, and the mugshot removal services: How To Get Your Mugshot Taken Down

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Of course, once you are incarcerated, your primary thought is about when you get out. After you’ve gone through the intake process, your bail amount will be set by a special judge called a magistrate. In cases where no bail is set this can 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 are released from jail you will have to agree to show up for court, and in the meantime you are not permitted to go out of town.

In most cases, a prisoner will earn time off 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 granted work release. You will either have to return to the jail each day when you’re finished at your job, or you may have the chance to move into a halfway house instead of jail.

Bail is money that you have to pay to the court system in order to be released from jail pending trial. The amount you will be required to pay all depends on the seriousness of your charges. You will have to pay to the courts ten percent of the total set in order to get out of jail. If you don’t go to your court appearance, whoever posted your bail will lose that money.

You will have to call the jail. If you’ve got the person’s information, such as name, address and date of birth, they will let you know how much their bail is. Also, you can see the bail amount online.

Posting bail to get out of jail is no fun, but in some cases, it’s very simple to do. To start with, find out if their bail is a “Cash Bond Only” situation. If it is, you will not be able to use the services of a Bail Bondsman. Take cash only to the jail – they won’t take a personal check. Once you have paid the bond, the prisoner will be released. If they don’t violate the terms of their bail, you’ll get your money back.

If their bail has been set too high, or you just don’t have the money, you should hire a bail bondsman. Bondsmen will usually charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and in most cases with a minimum charge of $100. This money will not be returned to you and has to be paid in cash. If the bail is exceptionally high, the bondsman will usually require that they use your personal assets as collateral in addition to the fee they charge.

You can find a local bail bondsman click here: Find a Bail Bondsman in Fergus County

Have you ever used 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 it worked out.

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

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The jail intake process includes these steps:

• They’ll put you in a holding cell. If the jail is really busy, you will have to wait a while to get processed.
• First, will answer some basic questions, such as what is your full name, your address, birth date and contact person.
• Also, you will also be asked about your medical and psychological history.
• You will be given an inmate ID.
• Your fingerprints will be taken.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• All of your personal property will get taken away from you and stored until you get released.
• You will then be allowed to use the telephone in order to contact a member of your family, friend, or bail bondsman.
• If you are expected to be released shortly, they will let you keep wearing street clothes, otherwise you will be given a jail uniform.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If you have, you should share your experience so others can benefit from your story. How long did you have to wait? How were you treated? Can you share any things that could help other people that get arrested to get through jail processing?

Click here to post a comment

When you finally post bail, you will get discharged from jail. Getting discharged from jail may take between 30 minutes to many hours. In other words the faster bail is posted, the sooner you will get discharged from jail. How quickly you get discharged might depend on whether you’ve got a bond amount or if a judge must figure out the amount of bail to be set. For minor charges, you will be booked and released on your own recognizance. When you have served your sentence and know the date of your release, expect to get discharged in the morning.

If there is a, or if you need to start your sentence, you really should follow the rules and turn yourself in. If it is for a warrant, go down to the jail, and tell them that you think there may be a warrant out for your arrest. A record check will be run, and if they verify that you have one, they will take you into custody. If it is for a jail sentence, go down to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order states. Be very careful that you get don’t get there late, or they may decide to arrest you. Only bring approved items when you go, such as your driver’s license or even ID, any prescription medication you might take, along with your doctor’s prescription, as well as a sentencing order from court.

To have visitors, you have to provide each visitor’s name and date of birth to the jail before anyone can visit them. Your visitors will be entered in the log for the inmate. Each and every visitor must provide proof of identification. Visitors that arrives for visitation late or that is not on the visitation list will not be able to attend visitation.
Visitation procedures are always changing, so you should visit the jail site before go to the jail to visit an inmate.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are with a pre-paid phone card or account, or are collect calls . Calls made in jail are usually more expensive than phone calls made at home. There is no limit to when and how often you can use the phone, but bear in mind that a long line can form at the phones, because everyone wants to use the phone, too. If you break the rules and are disciplined, an inmate’s ability to use the phone might get reduced or eliminated altogether.

The Fergus County Jail phone number is: (406)535-3415

All mall sent to inmates is required to be sent via the actual US Postal Service, and not courier or delivery, or hand delivered. You must not use any other form of delivery. You have to clearly write or type the prisoner’s name, inmate ID number, and the jail address on the letter that you send. Do not mail a box or package, padded envelope, plastic or paper bag, or an envelope containing metal parts. All mail is opened and inspected and read by the jail staff, and will be returned if deemed inappropriate.

The mailing address for Fergus County Jail is:

Fergus County Jail
121 8Th Avenue South
Lewistown, MT 59457

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Fergus County Jail
121 8Th Avenue South
Lewistown, MT 59457

The Fergus County Jail inmate mail policy changes frequently, so it would be best to review the official Fergus County Jail site before you send a letter to an inmate.

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Even if you’ve been arrested, you need to be aware that you still have rights, one of these being that you have the right to request a lawyer. Remember that you may be limited to the amount of phone calls you can make, so it is important to get a friend or family member to find a lawyer when you talk to them. I know you’re probably asking yourself right now ‘why do I need an attorney?’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal defense attorney will advise you about your rights, help protect your interests and show you the way through the legal system. The faster you get an attorney working on your charges, the better off you’ll be.

For more info on the benefits of and how to hire an attorney, read: How to Find an Attorney in Fergus County

If you cannot afford an attorney, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. Also, the Public Defender Office is staffed by investigators, crime scene and forensics experts as well as case workers. You will be reassured to know that Public Defenders are full-fledged lawyers that are members of the State Bar and are licensed to practice law in Montana.

Have you or someone you know had to use a court appointed attorney? What was your experience?

Fergus County court records are public records. They are comprised of a court case file containing a docket and all documents filed in the case. You, and anyone else, can access your court records via the online service, or at the Clerk’s office of the Court where the case was filed.

The Fergus County Clerk of Court is an officer of the court that manages court records. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath for anyone testifying in court, and read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All records, documents, and evidence relating to your case are held at Clerk of Court.

Court costs and court fees are the costs from your case, which include filing fees, motion fees and various court charges. If you don’t have the money to pay these fees and have a Public Defender, you may not have to pay the fees.

The Fergus County court magistrate is the person that presides over your case in court. Magistrate judges do a number of different things, which include setting bail, issuing warrants, and acting as the presiding judge over first court appearances and detention hearings.

A defendant’s pre-sentencing report is prepared to include information about the defendant’s background and details of the defendant’s life, which the judge will take into account when determining your sentence. Information, details, and character witnesses will be solicited from the person on trial, his or her family, and if necessary the victim of the crime. Don’t forget you can request to have your own copy of the pre-sentencing report before sentencing, and correct the mistakes.

If you get convicted of a crime, you will be sentenced. The judge will have several different options when sentencing you, including community service and probation, to prison or jail time. Depending on how serious your crime was, you may be locked up immediately, or you might be given a date that you are supposed to turn yourself into jail to serve your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if someone is in jail, or has ever been locked up?

This is pretty simple to do, just you will have to query the Fergus County jail website, and search by:

• The inmate’s name.
• Birthdate.
• Their approximate booking date.
• or inmate ID.

If you’re not sure if your friend or family member is in jail, you can call the jail find out if they’ve been arrested.

If you think you might have a warrant out 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 one of the officers. Bear in mind that there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you should be prepared to get taken into custody immediately.

If you have a first and last name, and the date of their arrest, contact the Fergus County jail, by phone, in person, or check online. Records of arrests are a matter of public record and this information is freely available.

A Civil Process is when you are served with legal papers, like warrants. You can find these civil process orders by contacting the Fergus County Sheriff’s office, either by phone or through their website.

All people registered as sex offenders are registered on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. The people listed on these databases have been convicted of a sex offense. You are able to see these offenders on the internet, but remember that you can’t find the actual address, rather the neighborhood block that they live on.

Court Records are considered public records, so they are accessible to anyone who requests them. They include a case file that contains a docket sheet and any of the documents and filings filed in your case. You can access the court records on the internet, or at Clerk of Court where the case was filed.

Every state keeps a record of their state citizen’s criminal history. These databases are linked together and you can track criminal backgrounds from other states. Go to the Fergus County Courthouse and make an inquiry, or check online. It is helpful to know the county, and in the event that the crime was in a completely different state, you may have to pay a fee for a more complete search.

A criminal history search you are able to find out if someone has been arrested, charged, or convicted for these crimes:

• DWI or DUI.
• Drug offenses such as possession or trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Rape or other sexual assault.
• Violent crimes like assault or murder.
• Theft.

But, when you do a criminal records check, usually will not discover if someone had:

• Tickets for speeding.
• Lost their driver’s license or license revoked or suspended.
• Traffic accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

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

Have you ever needed to find criminal records? Was it a difficult process? Did you search online or did you have to call the Fergus County courthouse? Was the information correct? There are plenty of reasons that folks look up criminal backgrounds and records, and your comments could help other people.

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Most Wanted

On a Federal level, the FBI maintains a list of the Top Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Fergus County, the Fergus County Sheriff has their own list of the most wanted criminals, that you can access online.

FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Everyone knows that serving a jail sentence in the Fergus County jail is very scary, in time you will become accustomed to the routine that is set for you in jail. You should expect an alarm to wake up each morning at 6:00 AM, and next they’ll do 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 Fergus 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 Fergus 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 at Fergus County Jail could change, so you should visit the site before 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 Fergus County Jail

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

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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:

• Victims have the right to protection from the accused.
• Victims have the right to notification.
• Victims have the right to attend proceedings.
• Victims have the right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• Victims have the right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• Victims have the right to restitution.
• Victims have the right to a speedy trial.
• Victims 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 an inmate at this jail? Do you know anybody that spent time there? Have you ever visited a prisoner at this jail?

If so, then please leave a comment below about it. Write about your experience so other people will know what to expect.

What to put in the review:

• Conditions in Fergus County Jail.
• Jail facility and layout
• Guards and jail staff
• Food and commissary
• Visitation
• The other inmates – what are they like?
• Inmate safety
• Jail gangs
• Inmate programs and activities


Click here to write a review

Tell Your Story

Anybody that’s ever been locked up has some stories to tell about the whole experience. Why’d you get arrested? Were you fairly treated? How was life in jail? Were the other inmates cool? How did it affect you to go to jail?

Click here to leave a comment

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you meet some cool folks in jail? Are you trying to find out how to get in touch with someone you met in jail? Send a message to them here.

Send a message to someone at Fergus County Jail


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