Tyrrell County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Columbia, North Carolina. Managed by the Tyrrell County Sheriff’s Office, it holds individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. The jail provides basic care, communication options, rehabilitation programs, and public access to inmate records. This page covers everything you need to know about the facility—from how to search for an inmate to visitation rules, commissary services, and release procedures. All information is up to date and based on official sources.
How to Search for an Inmate at Tyrrell County Jail
If you need to find someone held at Tyrrell County Jail, start with the online inmate lookup tool. This free service lets you search by name or inmate ID. Results show current status, booking date, charges, bond amount, court dates, and expected release. The roster updates daily, so you get accurate data. If the online system is down, call the jail directly at (252) 796-2335. You can also visit in person at 100 East Main Street, Columbia, NC 27925. Bring a photo ID and the inmate’s full legal name. Staff will assist with your request during business hours.
Online Inmate Search Steps
Go to the Tyrrell County Sheriff’s Office website. Click on “Inmate Roster” under the jail section. Type the person’s first and last name into the search box. If you know their inmate number, use that for faster results. The system shows matching names with key details. Double-check spelling—even small errors can block results. Try partial names or known aliases if needed. The roster includes only current inmates, not those released or transferred.
Offline Search Options
Not everyone has internet access. For offline searches, call the jail’s main line. Have the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and last known address ready. Staff may ask for your relationship to the person. If calling doesn’t work, visit the jail lobby. A kiosk displays basic inmate info during open hours. Public boards may also list recent bookings. Always bring ID—it’s required for all in-person requests.
Tyrrell County Jail Roster and Booking Information
The inmate roster is the official list of people currently held at Tyrrell County Jail. It includes full name, booking date, charges, bond status, and housing location. New entries appear within hours of arrest. The roster helps families track loved ones and lawyers monitor cases. Booking happens after arrest and transport to the jail. Officers take fingerprints, photos (mugshots), and personal details. A health screening checks for medical needs. Inmates receive a bunk assignment based on risk level. All steps follow state law and jail policy.
What Shows Up on the Roster?
Each roster entry has clear, public data. Full name appears as listed in court records. Booking date marks when the person arrived. Charges show the alleged crimes, like theft or assault. Bond amount is listed if set by a judge. Court dates appear once scheduled. Expected release shows for sentenced inmates only. Some details, like medical info, are private and not shared.
How Often Is the Roster Updated?
The roster refreshes every 24 hours. Changes happen after releases, transfers, or new bookings. Weekend updates may be slower. For real-time info, call the jail. Staff can confirm if someone was released after the last update. Never assume an inmate is still held based on old data.
Visitation Rules and Hours at Tyrrell County Jail
Visitation keeps inmates connected to family and friends. Tyrrell County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled ahead of time. Walk-ins are not allowed. In-person visits happen Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Virtual visits use secure video calls and follow the same schedule. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID—no exceptions. Minors need a parent or guardian present.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
Schedule your visit online or by phone at least 24 hours in advance. Arrive 15 minutes early for security checks. Dress modestly—no shorts, tank tops, hats, or sunglasses. Clothing with offensive words or images is banned. Bags, phones, and food are not allowed inside. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors per inmate per session. Staff monitor all visits for safety.
Virtual Visitation Process
Virtual visits use a secure platform approved by the jail. Book your slot through the sheriff’s website. You’ll get a link to join the call. Test your camera and microphone beforehand. Background noise should be minimal. The inmate sees you on a screen in the visitation room. Conversations are recorded and may be reviewed. Technical issues? Call the jail for help.
How to Send Money to an Inmate at Tyrrell County Jail
Inmates can buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies from the commissary. To fund their account, friends and family send money. Three safe methods are available: online, kiosk, or mail. Online deposits use the jail’s payment partner—credit cards accepted. Kiosks in the lobby take cash or cards. Mail money orders only—no cash or personal checks. Make checks payable to the inmate, not the jail. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number.
Online Deposit Steps
Visit the commissary payment site linked on the sheriff’s website. Create an account or log in. Enter the inmate’s name and ID. Choose the amount to send. Pay with a debit or credit card. Funds appear in the account within minutes. Keep your receipt for records.
Mail a Money Order
Buy a money order from a post office, bank, or retail store. Write the inmate’s full name and ID on the memo line. Address it to: Tyrrell County Jail, 100 East Main Street, Columbia, NC 27925. Do not send cash. Processing takes 3–5 business days. Lost mail? Contact the jail with your tracking number.
Inmate Communication: Phone Calls, Mail, and Email
Inmates stay in touch through calls, letters, and email. All communication is monitored for security. Phone calls are outgoing only—no incoming calls allowed. Inmates call pre-approved numbers using a prepaid account. Families add funds online or at the kiosk. Calls last 15–20 minutes. Rates vary by provider.
Mail Policies
Inmates send and receive letters. Use plain white paper and standard envelopes. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers like Amazon. Greeting cards are allowed if flat and unsealed. Staff open and check all mail. Return addresses are required on outgoing letters.
Email Services
The jail offers secure email through a third-party system. Families sign up and pay per message. Inmates read and reply on tablets in their units. Messages are screened before delivery. Photos can be sent but may be delayed. Email is faster than regular mail but costs more.
Commissary Services and What Inmates Can Buy
The commissary sells items not provided by the jail. Inmates order weekly using their account balance. Common products include chips, coffee, toothpaste, soap, pens, and socks. Prices are fixed and listed in the commissary catalog. Orders are delivered to cells within two days. Money for commissary comes from deposits by loved ones.
Sample Commissary Items
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Food & Drinks | Chips, candy, instant coffee, soda |
| Hygiene | Toothbrush, shampoo, deodorant, soap |
| Stationery | Pens, paper, envelopes, stamps |
| Clothing | Undershirts, socks, thermal wear |
Items must fit jail rules—no sharp objects or extra fabric. Special diets? Notify medical staff during intake.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
Tyrrell County Jail provides basic medical care. New inmates get a health screening within 24 hours. Routine services include vaccinations, chronic disease management, and prescription refills. Dental and eye exams are available by request. Mental health is a priority. Counselors offer one-on-one sessions and group therapy. Programs cover addiction, anger control, and coping skills. Emergency care is handled by local hospitals if needed.
How to Request Medical Help
Inmates submit a written request to staff. Urgent issues go straight to the nurse. Families can’t directly contact medical teams due to privacy laws. However, serious concerns should be reported to the jail administrator.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail runs programs to reduce repeat offenses. GED classes help inmates earn a high school diploma. Vocational training teaches job skills like carpentry, plumbing, and computer basics. Substance abuse counseling includes detox support and relapse prevention. These programs run weekdays and are free for eligible inmates. Completion certificates boost job chances after release.
Program Availability
Not all inmates qualify. Participation depends on behavior, sentence length, and space. Sign-up happens during orientation. Staff assess each case individually.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail lets inmates leave jail before trial if they pay a set amount. Judges decide bail during court hearings. To post bail, call the Booking Office at (252) 793-3012. Pay with cash, card, or through a bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork. Release times vary—sometimes same day, sometimes next morning.
Release Process
After bail or sentence completion, inmates return personal items. They receive a release form and any medications. Transportation home is not provided. Families should arrange pickup.
Security Measures at Tyrrell County Jail
Safety comes first. The jail uses 24/7 cameras, electronic monitors, and staff patrols. Inmates are classified by risk—low, medium, or high. Housing assignments match their level. Emergency plans cover fires, medical crises, and escapes. All staff train regularly in crisis response.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For questions, use these official contacts:
Address: 100 East Main Street, Columbia, NC 27925
Phone: (252) 796-2335
Website: https://www.tyrrellcounty.org/sheriff/
Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
Emergency Line: 911
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about inmate searches, visitation, and rights. Below are clear answers based on current jail policies and North Carolina law.
How do I find out if someone is in Tyrrell County Jail?
Use the online inmate roster on the sheriff’s website. Search by full name or ID. If no results appear, call (252) 796-2335. Provide the person’s legal name and date of birth. Staff will check their database. Note that some inmates may be transferred quickly to state prisons. Always verify with the jail, not third-party sites, for accuracy.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No. Visitation is only Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Weekend visits are not offered. Virtual visits follow the same schedule. Plan accordingly and book early—slots fill fast. Holidays may have reduced hours; call ahead to confirm.
Are mugshots public record in Tyrrell County?
Yes. Mugshots taken during booking are public records. You can request them from the Sheriff’s Office. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking date. There may be a small fee. Once released, individuals can ask to have mugshots removed from some websites, but the jail cannot control external sites.
What happens if an inmate gets sick?
Inmates receive medical care onsite. Nurses handle routine issues. Serious cases go to local hospitals. Families are notified only if the inmate consents or if it’s a life-threatening emergency. Privacy laws limit what staff can share. For urgent concerns, contact the jail administrator.
Can inmates keep personal belongings?
Only approved items are allowed. Jewelry, electronics, and extra clothing are stored or sent home. Inmates keep one set of jail-issued clothes plus basic hygiene items. Commissary purchases supplement these. All belongings are returned upon release.
How long does booking take?
Booking usually takes 1–3 hours. It includes fingerprinting, photos, health checks, and paperwork. Delays happen if the jail is full or understaffed. Once complete, the inmate appears on the roster. Families can check status online or by phone.
Is there a dress code for visitors?
Yes. Visitors must wear modest clothing. No shorts, sleeveless shirts, hats, or revealing outfits. Shoes are required. Clothing with gang symbols, profanity, or violent images is banned. Violators will be turned away. Dress like you’re going to a church or school event.