Buncombe County NC Detention Center

The Buncombe Detention Facility is a comprehensive detention center comprised of a main jail and an annex, providing critical services to the community by safely housing inmates. The main facility has a bed capacity of 524, recently expanded by an additional 148 beds in October 2008, bringing the total capacity of the main facility to 604 inmates when combined with the 80 beds in the Annex. The Detention Facility requires the dedication of 160 officers to ensure the smooth operation and care for the inmates, who average about 459 daily. Intake and release operations are ongoing 24 hours a day, with an average of 100 inmates processed daily, dependent on court proceedings.

Inmates at the Buncombe Detention Facility are allowed to write and receive letters, and may also receive up to 10 photographs. All mail is thoroughly searched for contraband before being delivered to inmates Monday through Friday, except on holidays. The commissary serves as an in-house store, offering inmates the opportunity to purchase health and comfort items, as well as snacks and writing materials, funded by money deposited into their accounts by family and friends either online via JailATM or at the lobby kiosk.

Inmates can also make phone calls during their designated free time, provided they have funds available in their accounts. For those on work release, the facility provides a dedicated application process. As for personal property, the Detention Facility does not typically accept additional items for inmates, as their needs are met through provided clothing and commissary purchases.

cepting 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.