Columbia County Prison – Bloomsburg, PA

Columbia County Prison is located in Columbia County, Pennsylvania and is the main jail for the area. Are you looking for somebody in jail at Columbia County Prison? This site tells you all about anything related to Columbia County Prison,like the following: Find an inmate at Columbia County Prison. Find inmate mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. Bail and bail bondsmen. Intake procedures. Court information and records. And much more…

The prospect of going to jail is a scary and daunting thought, not only for the person who gets arrested, but also that person’s friends and family. The goal of this guide is to give you info that you need to make getting locked up less stressful. If you have specific questions, feel free to ask them, and also any comments or tips that might be a benefit to other people in the same situation will be appreciated.

Do you have a friend or family member that is locked up and don’t know how to locate them?

Has someone who has been arrested and you want to find them?

In order to search who’s in jail at Columbia County Prison you need to navigate to their website and use the inmate lookup.

The Columbia County Prison Inmate Locator has information on people who have been arrested, which includes custody status, bail amount (if applicable), and times you can visit. Also, you can find the same information for anybody processed or discharged in the past 24 hours. Prisoners are listed in alphabetical order by last name. You can locate the information more quickly if you enter their full name, birth date, or inmate ID Number.

If the inmate you are looking for is in another county jail you should look here: Pennsylvania Jails

A mugshot, also known as a intake picture, is the photo that the jail takes when you get processed at jail intake. A mugshot is actually one frontal photo and a profile picture. Your name and jail ID number will be on the pictures, and they are kept on file at the jail.

Mugshots of Columbia County Prison inmates can be searched on the website, or you can see them in person at the Columbia County Prison. When viewing mugshots online you need to put in the person’s legal name, and the arrest date, if you have it.

Trying to figure out how to get your mugshot erased from the Columbia County Prison site? This may not be possible, since your mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot taken down you need to file a Petition to Expunge with the court. This means that the record of your arrest would be sealed, and unavailable to the public. Unfortunately, this happens very rarely.

Read our in-depth tutorial about removing your mugshot, the different mugshot websites, and the websites that offer to remove your mugshot for you: How To Get Your Mugshot Taken Down

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Naturally, if you are incarcerated, your only thought is about when you get out. After you’ve been booked, a bail amount will be decided either through a preset bail schedule or a magistrate. 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 of jail you will have to promise to be in court on your court date, and until then you can’t travel out of the county.

Typically, an inmate at Columbia County Prison are given an early release in exchange for good behavior if they don’t break the rules and area a good inmate while locked up.

If you do exhibit good behavior and the jail believes you can be trusted, you might be given work release detail. Either you will have to go back to the jail each day when you’re finished with work, or you could get to move into a halfway house instead of jail.

Bail is the amount of money that you will be required to pay in order to be released from jail until your trial. The amount of bail that is set depends on how serious your crime is. You will need to pay ten percent of the total that was determined so you can be released. If you fail to show up for your court date, the person that bailed you out of jail will lose that money.

In order to find out how much someone’s bail is, you have to call the jail or the county courthouse. If you’ve got the pertinent information, like name, address and date of birth, they will 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 bail a friend or family member out of jail is no fun, but thankfully, it is simple to do if you have the money. To start with, figure out if it is a Cash Only Bond. If this is the case, you will not be able to use a bail bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – the jail can’t accept a personal check. Once the cash bond has been paid, the person 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 don’t have the money, you might need to use a bail bondsman. Bondsmen usually charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of bail set, and sometimes charge a minimum of $100. The money you pay to the bail bondsman is non-refundable and must be paid in cash. If bail is very large, the bondsman will in most cases require that they use assets as collateral for the bond in addition to whatever their charges are.

To find a local bail bondsman visit our page about: Find a bail bondsman at Columbia County Prison

Have you ever used the services of bail bondsman for yourself, a family member or friend? If so, leave a comment below and tell your story, and let us know how things turned out.

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

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The jail intake procedure takes you through these steps:

• You will be placed in a waiting area or cell. If there are a lot of arrests, you will have to wait a while to get processed.
• The first step is that you must answer a bunch of questions, such as what your legal name is, home address, date of birth and contact person.
• Also, you will also be asked about your medical and mental history.
• You will be issued an inmate ID number.
• You will be fingerprinted.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• Any personal property you have will be taken from you and stored until you get discharged from jail.
• You will get to make a telephone call in order to call family, friends, or bail bondsman.
• If they expect that you will make bail and be released quickly, you might get to keep wearing street clothes, but if you are not expected to make bail quickly you will have to wear a jail issued jumpsuit.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If you have, please share your experience so others can benefit from your story. How long did it take? How were you treated? Do you have any tips that might help other people that get arrested to get through the process?

Click here to tell your story

Once you are able to post bail, you will be allowed to leave jail. Getting discharged can take between 10 minutes to all day long. So, the quicker you post bail, the quicker you will get discharged from jail. Also, it might depend on if you’ve been given a cash bond amount or if a judge must decide on how much your bail will be. For a minor charge, you will simply be booked and get released without having to post bail. When you have completed your jail sentence and have a release date, expect to get discharged in the morning.

In the event there is a, or if you have to begin your sentence in jail, you really should do the right thing and turn yourself in. For a warrant, go to the jail intake center, and tell them that you think they might have an outstanding warrant for your arrest. They will check their system to see if there are any outstanding local, state or federal arrest warrants out for you, and if there is one, they will ask that you surrender yourself and you will be taken into custody. If you have a jail sentence to serve, report to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order requires you to. Be sure that you are not late. Be sure to only bring approved items when you go to jail, for example your driver’s license or even photo ID, prescription medication, and the sentencing order from court.

In order to have visitors, inmates must list each visitor’s name and date of birth to the jail in advance of any visit. Your visitor’s names will be entered in a log of visitors for the inmate. Each and every visitor will be required to provide a photo ID when visiting. Visitors that gets to visitation or that is not an approved visitor will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Jail visitation policies frequently change, so we suggest that you visit the jail site before you go to visitation.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are collect calls or through a pre-paid phone account. Calls made in jail are a lot more expensive than phone calls made at home. Inmates are able to make phone calls, with restrictions on when and how often you can use the phone, but bear in mind lots of people want to use the phone – so you have to share. If you break the rules and are disciplined, phone calls might get cut back or forbidden.

The Columbia County Prison phone number is: 570-784-4815

All mail is required to be sent via the actual US Postal Service. You must not use any other form of delivery. You should write or type the name, inmate number, and the address of the jail on the letter that you send. Don’t mail a package, envelope with padding or insulation, bag, or an envelope with metal in it. All mail will be opened and inspected by the jail officers, and will get returned if they decide it is inappropriate.

Use this address when sending a letter to someone incarcerated at Columbia County Prison:

Columbia County Prison
721 Iron Street
Bloomsburg, PA 17815

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Columbia County Prison
721 Iron Street
Bloomsburg, PA 17815

The mail policy can change, so you should visit the site when you send a letter to an inmate there.

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If you have been arrested, you have particular rights, one of these being that you have the right to request a lawyer. You only get so many phone calls when you get arrested, so you would be wise to have a friend or relative find a lawyer for you. You’re probably asking yourself ‘I don’t need a lawyer – I can just represent myself’ While you are not required to have one, a criminal defense attorney will advise you about your rights, protect your interests and help you find your way through the complicated legal system in Columbia County. The quicker you hire an attorney to represent you and work on your case, the better your chances.

For more information on how to find a lawyer, go to: How to Find an Attorney

If you need an attorney, but can’t afford a lawyer, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. The Public Defender Office has a number of staff such as private investigators, forensics experts and social workers. All Public Defenders are licensed attorneys, admitted to the State Bar and are legally licensed to represent you in court and practice law.

Have you ever had to use a Public Defender or court appointed attorney? Are you satisfied with how they handled your case and represented you in court?

Columbia County court records are public and available to anyone who requests them. They are comprised of a case file with a sheet called a docket sheet and every motions, documents, and evidence in the case. You are able to access the records and documents in your court case using the website, or by going to the Clerk of Court.

A Clerk of Court is an officer of the court that manages the records. They also administer the oath during court cases, and also read the verdict when decided by the jury. All court records associated with your case are kept at Clerk of Court’s office.

Court costs and court fees are the charges from your case, for example 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 can get a waiver for these fees and won’t have to pay them.

The magistrate is the person who presides on your case in court. Magistrates do many different things, like determining how much your bail will be, writing arrest warrants, and acting as the presiding judge over preliminary court hearings and detention hearings.

A pre-sentencing report is prepared to include information about the arrestee’s background and information about the defendant’s life and public history, which the magistrate judge will review when determining a sentence. Information will be gathered from the defendant, his or her family, and if necessary the victim in the crime. Bear in mind that you can request to get a copy of the report prior to sentencing, so you have the opportunity to review it and correct any mistakes.

If you get convicted of a crime, you will be given a sentence for your crime. The judge will have several different options when sentencing you, 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 might get taken into custody immediately, or given a date that you are supposed to report to jail to serve your jail term according to your sentence.

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Want to find out if someone is incarcerated in jail, or has ever been in jail?

This is pretty simple to do, just you should visit the Columbia County jail website, and search using:

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

If you think that they are currently 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 are able to check the arrest warrants inquiry on the website or you are able to call the court. You have to have their first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask one of the officers. Bear in mind that if there is a warrant for your arrest, you will be taken into custody immediately.

If you know a person’s name, as well as their arrest date, contact the Columbia County jail, on the phone, go there in person, or look online. Arrest records are in the public record and these records are accessible by the public.

Civil processes are when you get served with papers, such as , subpoenas, and arrest warrants. You can access civil process orders by going to the Columbia County Sheriff’s office, on their website or by phone.

All people registered as sex offenders must be listed and registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access these listings on the website, but bear in mind that you will not find the precise address, but rather the block that they live on.

Court Records are considered public records, so they are accessible to anyone who requests them. These records include a court case file containing a docket and all documents and filings filed in your court case. You can access the court records online, or at the Columbia County Clerk of Court office in the county where the case was filed.

Each state maintains a record of someone’s criminal past. These state databases are all connected so you can track criminal convictions from another state. You can go to the Columbia County Courthouse and check in person or you can check online. It is helpful to know the county the crime was committed in, and if it was in a different state, you might have to pay a fee for a more comprehensive search.

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

• DUI.
• Drug crimes.
• Kidnapping.
• Rape or other sexual assault.
• Violent crimes like assault or murder.
• Theft, breaking and entering.

But, when you do a criminal records check, you generally will not discover if they have had any infractions like moving violations:

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

To find this information, you will have to do a search for their driving history.

Have you ever had to look for criminal records online? Was it an easy process? Was your search online or did you have to make a phone call to the courthouse? Was the information correct? There are many reasons that people look up criminal backgrounds and records, and your account may help other people that are in the same situation.

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Most Wanted

For Federal crimes, the FBI has a listing of the Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Columbia County, the 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

Just the thought of serving a jail sentence in the Columbia County jail is no fun, soon you will get used to the daily routine there. Inmates get an alarm for wake-up each morning at 6am, and then you’ll have roll call. You will then get breakfast. Following breakfast you will work 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 Columbia County Prison, 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 Columbia County Prison 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 inmates could change, so we suggest that you double check the site before 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 Columbia County Prison

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Columbia County Prison, 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 Columbia County Prison

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:

• 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.

Speak Your Mind

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 locked up in this jail? Do you know anybody that is a prisoner there? Have you ever visited an inmate at this jail?

If so, then we would like you to tell us about it. Tell us about your jail experience so that others can learn what to expect.

Things you could put in the review:

• Conditions in Columbia County Prison.
• Jail facility and layout
• Guards and staff
• Commissary and food
• Visitation Days
• The other inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gangs
• Inmate programs and activities


Click here to write your review

Tell Your Story

Anyone who’s been in jail has some stories about their time ‘inside’. How’d you end up in jail? Did you experience fair treatment? How was life in jail? How did you get along with the other inmates? How has this experience impacted your life?

Tell the World All About It

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you make friends in jail? Do you need to find someone from jail? Leave a message for them here.

Post a message to people still locked up at Columbia County Prison


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