Navigating the system to find an inmate or schedule a visit can feel overwhelming when you don't know where to look. The Blue Earth County Jail, located in Mankato, Minnesota, houses individuals awaiting trial or serving local sentences, and managing communication or records requires following specific county protocols.
Finding current inmate information, understanding visiting rules, and knowing what fees to expect will help you connect with someone inside without unnecessary frustration. The facility operates under strict guidelines managed by the Blue Earth County Sheriff's Office, and knowing these details ahead of time saves you from wasted trips or rejected applications.
Finding Someone on the Blue Earth County Jail Roster
If you need to check if someone has been booked into custody, you don't have to call the front desk right away. The county maintains an online custody tool that updates regularly to keep the public informed.
- Access the official Blue Earth County Jail Custody Roster through your web browser.
- Use your browser's search shortcut (Ctrl+F on Windows or Command+F on Mac) to type in the individual's last name or first name quickly.
- Keep in mind that new arrests go through intake processing. Individuals recently brought in might not appear on the public roster until up to 24 hours after receiving a booking number.
The roster lists essential public details including booking dates, ages, and associated charges where applicable. If an inmate was recently transferred or released, their name won't appear on the active roster.
Jail Visiting Rules and Hours
Visiting an inmate at the Mankato facility requires advance preparation and registration. The jail handles visits through both on-site video terminals and remote connections.
All visitors must register for approval online using the Inmate Canteen portal before attempting to schedule or attend any session. Visitors must be at least 18 years old or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and adults need a valid photo ID.
On-Site Video Visitation Schedule
On-site visits take place at the jail facility located at 401 Carver Road in Mankato. These visits are free of charge, but you must schedule them at least 24 hours in advance.
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:50 PM
- Monday: 6:00 PM – 8:50 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 8:50 PM
- Thursday: No on-site visits available
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 PM – 8:50 PM
A maximum of two guests can join an on-site video session. Inmates are allowed one visit per day, though weekly limits depend on their specific custody classification.
Remote Video Visitation
If you prefer calling from home, remote video visits are available every day across multiple time blocks, including early mornings and evenings. Remote visits require booking at least 24 hours ahead and carry a per-minute fee.
- Remote video visits cost $0.25 per minute plus applicable taxes.
- Sessions cannot occur during active facility mealtimes, lockdowns, or emergency lock-downs.
- Any third-party recording or auxiliary cellphone use during a visit will cause immediate termination of the session and suspension of visiting privileges.
Communication and Service Fees
Connecting with someone inside the facility involves various digital and phone services managed through third-party vendors.
- Texting and Messaging: Sending or receiving electronic messages through the tablet system costs $0.09 per message.
- Phone Calls: In-state phone calls are billed at $0.25 per minute plus taxes and regulatory fees, while state-to-state calls run around $0.21 per minute.
- Booking and Administrative Fees: Standard administrative charges, such as local fingerprinting cards or booking fees administered by the Sheriff's Office, typically cost around $30.
You can deposit funds into an inmate wallet to cover communication expenses, tablet rentals, or commissary purchases through the approved vendor platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear if I go to an on-site visit?
Dress modestly and appropriately. The facility enforces strict dress codes; clothing that is overly revealing, offensive, or displays gang-related imagery will result in the cancellation of your visit.
Why can't I find an inmate who was arrested today?
Intake processing takes time. Newly arrested individuals typically appear on the public custody roster only after completing booking and receiving an official booking number, which can take up to 24 hours.
Can attorneys visit outside standard hours?
Attorneys and legal counsel should contact the jail administration directly at 507-304-4830 to coordinate professional visits or legal consultations outside regular public visitation blocks.
How do I send money to an inmate's account?
You can deposit funds online using the approved inmate financial services portal associated with the facility. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items or pay for remote communication options.
