Pleasants County Jail is a secure detention facility located in St. Marys, West Virginia. Operated by the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office, it serves as the primary holding center for individuals arrested within the county. The jail houses inmates awaiting trial, those serving short sentences, and people awaiting transfer to state prisons. It plays a key role in local law enforcement and public safety.
The facility supports community safety while offering structured programs for inmate rehabilitation. Services include medical care, mental health support, educational courses, and vocational training. Communication options such as phone calls, mail, and visitation help maintain family connections. The jail follows strict security protocols and state regulations to ensure safety for staff, inmates, and visitors.
Location and Contact Information
Pleasants County Jail is located at 301 Main Street, St. Marys, WV 26170. This central location allows easy access for families, legal representatives, and law enforcement. The facility operates under the direct supervision of the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office, which manages daily operations and inmate care.
For general inquiries, the main phone number is (304) 684-2222. The jail’s official website provides up-to-date information on inmate lookup, visitation rules, and services. Visitors should call ahead to confirm hours and policies, especially during holidays or emergencies.
| Contact Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 301 Main Street, St. Marys, WV 26170 |
| Phone Number | (304) 684-2222 |
| Website | http://www.pleasantscountywv.gov/departments/jail/ |
| Visitation Hours | Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Inmate Search and Roster Access
Finding an inmate at Pleasants County Jail is simple using the online inmate lookup tool. This system lets families, lawyers, and friends check current status, charges, and court dates. The roster is updated daily to reflect new bookings, releases, and changes in custody.
To search, visit the jail’s website and click the “Inmate Roster” section. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID number. Results show booking date, charges, bond amount, and expected release date if available. If no match appears, double-check spelling or try a partial name.
For offline searches, call (304) 684-2222 during business hours. Staff can confirm an inmate’s location and provide basic information. In-person visits to the jail lobby also allow access to public kiosks with roster data.
What Information Is Available?
The inmate roster includes key details to help track a person’s legal status. Each entry lists the inmate’s full legal name, date of birth, booking date, and housing location. Charges are described clearly, along with court dates and bond amounts when set.
Some records show mugshots taken during booking. These photos become part of the public record unless restricted by court order. Release dates appear for sentenced inmates, but pretrial detainees may not have a set date until after their hearing.
- Full name and date of birth
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and case number
- Bond amount and payment status
- Next court appearance
- Expected release date (if applicable)
Booking and Intake Process
When someone is arrested in Pleasants County, they are brought to the jail for processing. The booking process follows state standards and includes several steps to ensure safety and accuracy.
First, officers collect fingerprints and take a mugshot. These records are stored in the state database and used for identification. Personal belongings are inventoried and stored securely. Inmates receive a health screening to identify medical or mental health needs.
Next, staff record personal details like name, address, and emergency contacts. Inmates are assigned a unique ID number used for all jail transactions. They are then placed in a holding area until classification determines their housing unit.
Classification considers factors like criminal history, behavior, and health. Low-risk inmates may share dorm-style rooms, while high-risk individuals stay in single cells. This system helps prevent conflicts and supports safety.
Medical and Mental Health Screening
Every new inmate undergoes a basic health check. Nurses assess vital signs, medication needs, and signs of illness or injury. Those with chronic conditions receive ongoing care, including prescriptions and follow-up visits.
Mental health staff evaluate inmates for depression, anxiety, or substance use. Referrals are made for counseling or detox programs when needed. Early intervention helps reduce risks and supports recovery.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation at Pleasants County Jail helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. Both in-person and virtual visits are available. All visits must be scheduled in advance through the jail’s online portal or by phone.
In-person visits occur Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visitors must arrive 15 minutes early for security checks. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes, depending on demand and staff availability.
A strict dress code applies. Clothing with offensive language, logos, or revealing cuts is not allowed. Hats, sunglasses, and large jewelry may be prohibited. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID and pass through a metal detector.
Virtual visitation uses secure video calls. Families can schedule sessions online and connect from home. This option benefits those who live far away or have mobility issues. All virtual visits are monitored and recorded.
- Schedule visits at least 24 hours in advance
- Bring a government-issued photo ID
- Follow dress code and behavior rules
- No physical contact during in-person visits
- Children must be supervised at all times
Communication Options for Inmates
Inmates at Pleasants County Jail can stay in touch with family through phone calls, mail, and email. All communications are monitored for security but allow meaningful contact.
Phone calls are made using a prepaid account. Inmates dial approved numbers only. Calls last 15 to 20 minutes and cannot be transferred. Families can add money online, by phone, or at a kiosk in the jail lobby.
Mail is allowed but must follow strict rules. Letters must use plain paper and standard envelopes. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids are permitted. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or retailers like Amazon.
Email is available through a secure platform. Messages are screened before delivery. Inmates can reply, but all content is reviewed. This method is faster than traditional mail and reduces delays.
| Communication Method | Rules |
|---|---|
| Phone Calls | Prepaid only, 15–20 minutes, monitored |
| Plain paper, no contraband, screened | |
| Secure platform, reviewed before delivery |
Sending Money to Inmates
Family and friends can send money to inmates for commissary purchases, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Funds are held in a secure account and can be used immediately.
Online deposits are the fastest method. Use the jail’s official payment partner to transfer money with a credit or debit card. Receipts are emailed instantly.
Kiosks in the jail lobby accept cash, credit, and debit cards. Transactions take minutes and update the inmate’s balance right away.
Money orders can be mailed to the jail. Make them payable to the inmate’s full name and include their ID number. Do not send cash or personal checks—they will be returned.
Common mistakes include wrong names, missing ID numbers, or using personal checks. Always double-check details before sending. Funds are non-refundable once deposited.
Commissary Services and Purchases
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and small comforts. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to cells. This service improves morale and supports daily needs.
Available items include chips, candy, coffee, toothpaste, soap, and writing supplies. Some facilities offer socks, undershirts, and stationery. Prices are fixed and listed in the commissary catalog.
Funds come from the inmate’s account. Families can add money anytime. Balances roll over each week, so unused funds stay available.
Commissary supports independence and routine. It also reduces demand on jail resources by letting inmates manage personal care.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
Pleasants County Jail provides full medical and mental health services. Licensed nurses and doctors visit regularly. Emergency care is available 24/7.
Routine services include check-ups, vaccinations, and chronic disease management. Prescriptions are filled on-site. Dental and vision care are offered for urgent needs.
Mental health staff conduct evaluations and offer counseling. Group therapy covers addiction, anger management, and coping skills. Detox programs help inmates safely withdraw from substances.
All care follows state guidelines. Inmates can request medical attention at any time. Records are kept confidential and shared only with authorized staff.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. Education and job training reduce recidivism and support reintegration.
GED classes are available for those without a high school diploma. Teachers provide instruction and testing on-site. Completing a GED improves job prospects and self-esteem.
Vocational training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. These programs teach marketable abilities. Some inmates earn certificates recognized by employers.
Substance abuse counseling helps address root causes of crime. Counselors use evidence-based methods to support recovery. Peer groups encourage accountability and hope.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail allows eligible inmates to leave jail before trial. The amount is set by a judge based on charges, criminal history, and flight risk.
To post bail, contact the booking office at (304) 684-2020. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed.
Release times vary. Some inmates leave the same day, while others wait for transport or court orders. Families are notified when possible.
Sentenced inmates serve their time and are released on a set date. Parole or probation may apply. Staff provide reentry resources to support a smooth transition.
Security and Safety Measures
Pleasants County Jail uses advanced security to protect everyone inside. Surveillance cameras monitor all areas 24/7. Staff patrol regularly and respond quickly to incidents.
Electronic systems track inmate movements. Doors lock automatically, and alarms alert staff to breaches. Emergency plans cover fires, medical crises, and escapes.
Inmates are classified by risk level. This ensures proper housing and supervision. Staff receive ongoing training in de-escalation, first aid, and crisis response.
Safety drills are conducted monthly. Inmates learn evacuation routes and procedures. The goal is to prevent harm and maintain order at all times.
Community Partnerships and Outreach
The jail works with local agencies to support public safety and rehabilitation. Partnerships with police, courts, and nonprofits improve outcomes for inmates and the community.
Educational tours are offered to schools and civic groups. These visits explain how the justice system works and promote awareness.
Victim assistance programs provide resources to those affected by crime. Counseling, legal aid, and support groups are available.
Community campaigns share information about jail services and reentry efforts. Transparency builds trust and encourages cooperation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Pleasants County Jail. Below are answers to common concerns based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in Pleasants County Jail?
Use the inmate lookup tool on the jail’s website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. The roster shows current inmates, charges, and booking details. If you can’t find them online, call (304) 684-2222 for help. Have the person’s full name and date of birth ready. The roster updates daily, so recent bookings may take 24 hours to appear. This service is free and available to the public.
What are the rules for visiting an inmate?
All visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits happen Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Visitors need a valid photo ID and must follow the dress code—no revealing clothes, hats, or offensive graphics. Security checks are required. Virtual visits are also available and can be booked online. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes. Children must be supervised. Breaking rules can result in denied visits.
Can I send money to an inmate?
Yes, you can send money online, by phone, at a kiosk, or by mail. Use the jail’s official payment system for online transfers. Kiosks in the lobby accept cash and cards. Mail money orders only—do not send cash or personal checks. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number. Funds go into their account immediately and can be used for commissary, phone calls, or medical costs.
What programs does the jail offer for inmates?
The jail provides GED classes, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. Programs include carpentry, plumbing, computer skills, and anger management. Mental health services are available, including individual and group therapy. These programs help inmates gain skills and prepare for life after release. Participation is voluntary but encouraged.
How do I request a mugshot or inmate record?
Mugshots and booking records are public information. Submit a request to the Pleasants County Sheriff’s Office. You may need to file a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request. Include the inmate’s name, booking date, and specific records needed. There may be a small fee. Processing takes a few days. Some records may be withheld for privacy or legal reasons.
What happens during the booking process?
Booking includes fingerprinting, a mugshot, health screening, and personal data collection. Inmates are searched, and belongings are stored. They receive a classification based on risk and behavior. Medical and mental health staff assess needs. The process takes 1–2 hours. Inmates are then moved to their housing unit. Families are notified if possible.
Are phone calls from the jail monitored?
Yes, all inmate phone calls are recorded and monitored for security. Only pre-approved numbers can be called. Calls last 15–20 minutes and are paid through a prepaid account. Inmates cannot receive calls. Monitoring helps prevent illegal activity but allows normal communication with family and lawyers.
For more information, contact Pleasants County Jail at (304) 684-2222 or visit http://www.pleasantscountywv.gov/departments/jail/. Visitation hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Always call ahead to confirm schedules and policies.