Brunswick County NC Detention Center

The Brunswick County Detention Center is a critical component of public safety, tasked with providing detention services for individuals charged with or convicted of various criminal and civil offenses as directed by the court. Operating under the authority of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and guided by the Detention Command Staff, the facility is dedicated to maintaining a secure, safe, and humane environment for those in its custody.

Constructed in 2005, the Brunswick County Detention Center replaced the old 75-bed facility, officially opening with a capacity of 196 beds in June of that year. As Brunswick County's population grew, the facility quickly became overcrowded, prompting the construction of a second phase in 2008, which expanded the total bed capacity to 444. The modular design of the Detention Center allows for future expansions to accommodate the continuing growth of the county's population. The facility features several administration offices, a public lobby, distinct booking and releasing areas, a medical station, and thirteen inmate housing blocks.

The Brunswick County Detention Center is committed to serving the community by providing safe, secure, and humane detention for individuals in its custody while preparing them for a successful reintegration into society. The facility is managed by well-trained personnel who uphold the core principles of integrity, loyalty, and service, ensuring a secure, efficient, and progressive environment for both staff and inmates. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Brunswick County Detention Center not only fulfills its role in public safety but also contributes positively to the rehabilitation and reintegration of those in its care.

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.