Benton County OR Jail

County Jail

Last Updated: February 16, 2025
Address
190 NW 4th St, Corvallis, OR 97330
Beds
40
County
Benton
Phone
541-766-6866
Fax
541-766-6011
Mailing Address
PO Box 788, Corvallis, OR 97339

Benton Co Jail is for County Jail offenders sentenced up to twenty four months.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Inmate Calling Solutions (ICSolutions), to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are seeking to send your inmate money for commissary, one recommended for this facility is InmateCanteen.com. There is a fee for sending money, see their rates and limitations.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Satellite View of Benton County OR Jail

You can support your loved ones at Benton Co Jail on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 541-766-6866.

When someone you care about gets locked up, it's tough to figure out all the ins and outs of jail life. From sending mail to visiting, there are a lot of things to sort out. And getting info about the arrest? Not always easy. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get a handle on how things work here so that you can stay connected and support your loved one behind bars.

The Benton Co Jail is a detention center located at 190 NW 4th St Corvallis, OR which is operated locally by the Benton County Sheriff's Office and holds inmates awaiting trial or sentencing or both. Most of the sentenced inmates are here for less than two years. Benton County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, Corvallis Police Department, and the US Marshal's Service.

New detainees arrive at the jail regularly, with some being released on bail, placed under pretrial services caseloads, supervised by probation agencies, or released on recognizance with a court appearance agreement. Those who are not released await their court appearances at the jail, receiving accommodations including bedding and meals.

You can see all the arrest records for Oregon here.

The Benton County Jail, situated adjacent to the historic Benton County Courthouse in downtown Corvallis, was originally constructed in 1976. Spanning approximately 8,000 square feet, the facility was initially designed to hold 27 adults in custody. Over time, it has been remodeled to increase its capacity to 40 beds. However, the jail rarely reaches this full capacity due to the need to separate inmates based on legal and safety requirements. Statutes mandate the segregation of men and women, as well as the separation of individuals based on the nature of their crimes and any mental or behavioral health issues. As a result, the facility typically operates at full capacity when housing between 28 and 34 inmates.

To manage the constraints of space, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office has employed various strategies over the years. These include renting beds at other facilities, releasing inmates early, and occasionally closing the jail to new arrestees. In some cases, individuals who would otherwise be held in the Benton County Jail may be released due to the lack of available bed space. These measures help the facility navigate its limitations while maintaining operational efficiency and compliance with statutory requirements.

The Benton County Jail faces ongoing challenges with limited capacity, unable to accommodate all offenders ordered to be held in custody. To address this, the Sheriff’s Office rents 40 additional jail beds in neighboring facilities, contracting with Linn and Polk counties for pre-trial detainees and NORCOR (Northern Oregon Regional Correctional Facility) for sentenced individuals. NORCOR, located in Wasco County, offers cost-effective bed rentals and valuable inmate programs, including substance abuse treatment, parenting classes, and anger management courses.

However, the use of NORCOR, located 180 miles away, has not been without controversy. Despite its video conferencing capabilities, defense attorneys have raised concerns that the distance hinders effective communication with clients. A 2017 court ruling clarified that pretrial detainees must be housed locally when beds are available unless the individual or their attorney specifically requests placement at NORCOR. Some inmates opt for NORCOR to take advantage of the programs unavailable at the local jail.

To manage overcrowding, Benton County Jail staff frequently transport inmates between the jail and the contracted facilities. In 2022, transport deputies covered over 32,000 miles, moving nearly 614 inmates. The decision to transport individuals is based on a complex assessment of factors, including bed availability, whether the inmate is pretrial or sentenced, the length of stay, the nature of their crime, and upcoming court appearances. This intricate system helps alleviate overcrowding while ensuring that inmates' legal and rehabilitative needs are met.

Individuals who do not post bail within the first twenty-four hours are required to appear before a judge. During this first appearance, conducted either in person or via telephone, the judge informs the arrested person of the charges against them and sets the bond amount.

Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

The jail is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.

The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in Oregon. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at Benton County OR Jail.

The second section features the InmateAid Inmate Search tool, providing a user-generated database of inmates. You can access this resource to utilize any of InmateAid's services. If you require assistance in creating an inmate profile to maintain communication, please contact us at aid@inmateaid.com, and we'll gladly help you locate your loved one.

As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason, they charge to access it.

Visitation Information

Social visits at the Benton County Jail must be scheduled in advance by calling 541-766-6866 between 8:00-9:00 a.m. or 6:00-7:00 p.m. daily. In order to be eligible for visits, Adults in Custody (AICs) must first complete the orientation and classification process. AICs are responsible for submitting a visitor list that includes the full name, date of birth, address, and phone number of each person they wish to visit. Additions to this list must come from the AIC directly, as jail staff will not make changes on behalf of visitors. Visitor eligibility is determined through a screening process based on the individual’s criminal history or prior conduct during incarcerations or visits.

A parent or legal guardian must accompany visitors under 18 unless they are legally married to the AIC. Minor children of an AIC are permitted to visit only when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All visitors are required to present valid photo identification that verifies their date of birth. Personal belongings, including cell phones, are prohibited in the visiting area, and visitors may be subject to searches under jail policies. Proper attire is required, with restrictions on suggestive clothing and items that resemble AIC attire, such as mini skirts, spandex, see-through clothing, and low-cut or midriff-baring tops. Visitors showing signs of intoxication from alcohol or drugs will be denied entry. Additionally, any adult or child causing a disturbance may have their visit terminated.

Visits must be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis with at least two hours' notice and are limited to 30 minutes per session. AICs are permitted only one visit per day, with the number of visits per week determined by their classification level.

Professional visits, such as those with attorneys, ministers, or counselors, do not require appointments, though appointments are encouraged. Tuesdays and Thursdays are reserved specifically for professional visiting. These visits take place in rooms designed to maintain jail security while ensuring privacy and compliance with legal requirements. Professional visitors are screened before their visits and are encouraged to download, read, and sign disclosure forms before arrival. These forms will be kept on file for future visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Benton County OR Jail - 25 FAQs

  1. How can I find out if someone is in jail at Benton County OR Jail?
    To determine if someone is currently incarcerated at Benton County OR Jail, start by checking the facility’s online inmate search database, which is typically updated with recent booking information. If your search does not yield results, try using VINELink, a nationwide inmate locator that provides custody status for individuals in participating correctional facilities. If online searches are unsuccessful, calling Benton County OR Jail directly and providing the individual’s full name and date of birth is another reliable way to confirm their custody status. If all else fails, you can use the Arrest Record Finder for a small fee, which can provide broader search results across multiple jurisdictions. 

  2. What are the visitation hours at Benton County OR Jail?
    Visitation schedules vary by facility and housing unit. Some jails offer in-person visits on specific days, while others have transitioned to video visitation. Always check with the jail in advance, as visits may require scheduling and approval.

  3. How do I send money to an inmate at Benton County OR Jail?
    Inmates can receive funds through various methods, including online deposits via jail-approved services, kiosks at the facility, or by mailing a money order. Some jails require funds to be added by specific family members or approved contacts.

  4. Can I call an inmate at Benton Co Jail?
    Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they may initiate collect calls or use a prepaid account provided by the jail’s phone service provider. Calls are generally recorded and monitored, and inmates must adhere to time limits. Communication gets costly, you might qualify for discounts on inmate calls if your inmate is calling you a lot.

  5. What items can I send to an inmate at Benton Co Jail?
    Approved items typically include letters, legal documents, and photographs. Some jails also permit care packages from authorized third-party vendors. Items such as greeting cards with glitter, stickers, or Polaroid photos may be prohibited.

  6. Are books and magazines allowed at Benton Co Jail?
    Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from approved vendors such as Amazon or InmateAid. Hardcover books and explicit content are typically prohibited to maintain facility security. Some jails also have restrictions on the number of reading materials an inmate can possess at one time.

  7. What is the mailing address for inmates here?
    Each facility has a designated mailing address for inmate correspondence. It is important to include the inmate's full name, booking number (if applicable), and facility-approved format to ensure proper delivery. Mail containing contraband, including staples or stickers, may be rejected.

  8. What is the process for bonding someone out of Benton County OR Jail?
    Bail or bond amounts can be paid at the facility’s designated payment location, online, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Some jails accept cash, cashier’s checks, or credit card payments, while others require payments to be made at a county clerk’s office.

  9. How do I deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account at Benton Co Jail?
    Commissary funds allow inmates to purchase personal hygiene products, snacks, and other approved items. Deposits can be made online, at facility kiosks, or through phone services. Some facilities limit the amount that can be added per week.

  10. What clothing and personal items can an inmate have at Benton Co Jail?
    Inmates are generally issued standard jail clothing. Personal items are often restricted, and necessary hygiene products must be purchased through commissary unless the inmate is deemed indigent. Some jails allow inmates to have religious items, such as prayer beads or a Bible.

  11. How long do inmates stay at Benton County OR Jail before being transferred?
    The length of stay varies based on the nature of their charges, sentencing, and case status. Some inmates serve their full sentences in county jail, while others may be transferred to a state or federal facility after sentencing.

  12. Can an inmate at Benton Co Jail receive visits from children?
    Most jails allow minors to visit inmates but require them to be accompanied by a legal guardian. Some facilities impose restrictions based on the nature of the inmate's charges or have specific visitation hours for families with children.

  13. How can I schedule a visit with an inmate at Benton Co Jail?
    Many jails require visitation to be scheduled in advance through an online portal or by phone. Some facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others enforce strict scheduling rules and background checks for visitors.

  14. What happens if an inmate gets sick or needs medical care at Benton Co Jail?
    Jails provide basic medical care, and inmates can request medical attention as needed. Emergency cases are treated immediately, while routine care is provided through medical staff. Some jails charge small medical co-pays deducted from an inmate’s commissary funds.

  15. Can inmates work while incarcerated here?
    Some inmates qualify for work programs within the facility, such as kitchen duty, janitorial work, or laundry services. In some counties, low-risk inmates may participate in work-release programs that allow them to work in the community and return to jail afterward.

  16. How can I find court dates and case information for an inmate at Benton Co Jail?
    Court dates and case details can usually be found through the county court website, public records, or by contacting the court clerk. Inmates are typically transported to court on scheduled hearing dates.

  17. What are the rules for inmate phone calls at Benton Co Jail?
    Inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes. Calls must be made through facility-approved phone services, and any attempt to arrange three-way calls or circumvent restrictions may result in loss of phone privileges.

  18. Can an inmate be released early from Benton Co Jail?
    Early release may be granted through good behavior, completion of rehabilitative programs, or at the discretion of the court. In some cases, inmates may qualify for electronic monitoring or house arrest programs.

  19. What types of rehabilitation programs are available at here?
    Many county jails offer educational programs, GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to help inmates reintegrate into society after release.

  20. What are the consequences of bringing contraband into the jail?
    Introducing contraband, such as drugs, weapons, or cell phones, is a criminal offense and can lead to legal charges, visitation bans, or enhanced security measures within the jail.

  21. Are there special accommodations for disabled inmates at Benton County OR Jail?
    Yes, jails are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and medical care.

  22. How do I report an issue or concern about an inmate at Benton County OR Jail?
    Family members and advocates can report concerns to jail administration, a prisoner rights organization, or a legal representative. Some jails have grievance procedures inmates can follow if they experience mistreatment.

  23. Can an inmate at Benton Co Jail receive religious services or counseling?
    Yes, most jails provide chaplain services, religious counseling, and access to faith-based programs. Some facilities have multi-denominational services or allow clergy members to visit inmates upon request.

  24. What are the disciplinary procedures at Benton Co Jail?
    Inmates who violate jail rules may face disciplinary actions such as loss of privileges, placement in solitary confinement, or additional charges. Disciplinary hearings are typically conducted before penalties are imposed.

  25. How do I obtain an inmate’s release records from Benton County OR Jail?
    Release records may be available through the facility’s records department, the sheriff’s office, or the county clerk. Requests may require an application and a processing fee.

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