Stearns County MN Jail

The Stearns County Jail, under the direction of Jail Captain Mark Maslonkowski, is a medium to maximum-security facility located two blocks from the Mississippi River, is licensed by the State of Minnesota to house inmates for up to one year following final disposition. It primarily accommodates individuals who are in the pretrial phase, having been arrested but not yet convicted or sentenced. The facility also houses Huber/Work Release inmates, who are permitted to work during the day but return to the jail at night and on weekends. All arrests made within Stearns County, including those by local law enforcement, result in booking at the Stearns County Jail.

The jail's housing capacity of 151 inmates which includes 135 general population beds spread across eight housing units, 16 secure beds designated for Huber inmates, 22 holding cells, 8 segregation cells, and 2 medical cells. Notably, holding, separation, and medical cells are not included in the licensed capacity calculation.

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.

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 workers are selected for community service programs based on their demonstrated good conduct, cooperation with facility staff, and adherence to institutional rules. These criteria ensure that only individuals who exhibit responsibility, reliability, and a commitment to positive behavior are allowed to participate. Participation in these programs not only benefits the community through valuable labor contributions but also offers inmates the chance to develop a strong work ethic, learn transferable job skills, and build a sense of accountability.

In certain cases, involvement in community service programs can contribute to a reduction in an inmate's sentence. This incentive reinforces the importance of maintaining good behavior while incarcerated and highlights the program's dual role in supporting both the community and the inmate's journey toward reintegration.

Stearns County Jail is committed to accessibility, ensuring that deaf and hard-of-hearing inmates receive equal access to its services and accommodations. Auxiliary aids and services, such as free sign language and oral interpreters, TTY devices, and other communication tools, are provided to facilitate effective communication. Inmates requiring assistance can request help or contact the Jail Program Coordinator for support. The facility strives to maintain a secure, inclusive, and equitable environment for all individuals in its custody.