Navigating the correctional system can feel overwhelming when you're trying to locate a friend or family member. If someone has been taken into custody in central Kentucky, they are typically processed through the Bourbon County Regional Detention Center located in Paris. Knowing how to find current inmate data, fund a commissary account, and schedule visits will save you time and confusion.
The Bourbon County Regional Detention Center houses local pretrial detainees, individuals serving county sentences, and sometimes federal or state inmates. Finding an individual quickly depends on knowing the correct official channels, utilizing the right online databases, and adhering strictly to facility guidelines for communication and financial deposits.
Locating an Inmate on the Bourbon County Jail Roster
Finding someone in custody starts with checking official online records. You don't need to drive to the facility or make frantic phone calls just to confirm a booking.
The primary tool for tracking individuals is the live inmate database hosted on the official Bourbon County Detention Center portal.
When you use the online roster, keep these practical steps in mind:
- Enter the individual's full legal first and last name to narrow down common matches.
- Have the exact booking number ready if you received it from local law enforcement.
- Review listed charges, bond amounts, and court dates associated with the profile.
If the online system experiences technical downtime or you can't find a recent arrest, call the facility directly at 859-987-2137. Staff members can verify booking status, though they won't share sensitive medical or classification details over the phone.
Managing Finances: Commissary and Phone Deposits
Inmates rely on personal funds to purchase hygiene items, writing supplies, snacks, and extra clothing through the facility commissary. They also need funds loaded onto their accounts to place phone calls or use electronic messaging systems.
The facility partners with third-party vendors to handle financial transactions securely. You can deposit money online, over the phone, or via kiosks located in the jail lobby.
Commissary Accounts
To add money to an inmate's commissary balance, visit the portal linked through the official detention center website. You'll need the inmate's ID number and full name. Depositing funds early in the week ensures the inmate can place orders during the designated weekly ordering window.
Phone and Messaging Services
Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they can make outgoing calls during designated day and evening hours outside of lockdown periods. To ensure uninterrupted communication, set up a prepaid account through the facility's approved telecommunications provider. This allows the inmate to call your mobile number directly. Many facilities also support secure digital messaging, often referred to as "chirping," which functions similarly to text messaging for a small per-message fee.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling Procedures
Maintaining contact with loved ones is vital, but you must follow every rule enforced by the Bourbon County Regional Detention Center to avoid losing your privileges.
Visitation is handled primarily through Inmate Sales, which manages both remote video visits and facility-based video options.
On-Site vs. Remote Visits
- On-Site Video Visitation: The jail provides video visitation terminals. These visits are generally free of charge, but you must reserve a time slot in advance on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Remote Video Visitation: You can connect from your own computer or smartphone using the Inmate Sales platform. Remote visits typically cost around $0.20 per minute.
- Visitor Limits: Each inmate is permitted a specific number of visits, but rules dictate that all visitors must be pre-approved by facility administration.
Strict Dress Code and Conduct
Correctional facilities enforce strict standards for anyone entering the property or appearing on camera. If you violate the dress code, staff will cancel the visit immediately.
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders, chest, and midriff.
- Avoid tank tops, low-cut blouses, short skirts, tight spandex, or clothing with offensive language.
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport.
- Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times.
Bail, Bonds, and Legal Representation
If an inmate is eligible for release prior to their trial, posting bond is the fastest way to secure their return home. The jail roster typically displays the required bond amount next to the charges.
Types of Bonds
- Cash Bond: You pay the full bond amount in cash to the court or jail clerk. This money acts as a guarantee that the defendant will appear at all future court dates.
- Property Bond: Real estate equity is used to secure the release. This requires a formal property evaluation and court approval.
- Surety Bond: Most families work with a licensed bail bondsman. The bondsman charges a non-refundable fee (usually a percentage of the total bond) and guarantees the full amount to the court if the defendant skips a hearing.
If you can't afford a private attorney, the court will appoint a public defender during the defendant's initial arraignment. Make sure the inmate requests legal counsel immediately if they don't already have representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I send mail to an inmate?
Mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service using the inmate's full legal name and booking ID, followed by the jail's physical address in Paris, KY. Avoid sending cash, polaroids, or greeting cards with glitter or electronic elements, as these are typically confiscated. Books and magazines must ship directly from an approved retailer like Amazon.
Why isn't an arrest showing up on the roster yet?
Newly arrested individuals must go through booking, fingerprinting, and medical screening before appearing on the public roster. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day depending on how busy the intake department is.
Can I drop off clothing or medications in person?
The facility does not accept outside clothing drops for inmates, except for specific court-approved attire for trials. Prescription medications must be coordinated directly through the jail's medical staff and cannot be dropped off casually at the front desk.
What happens to personal property taken during booking?
When someone is booked, their personal belongings—such as wallets, keys, and phones—are cataloged and stored in a secure property locker. Inmates can sign a property release form to transfer these items to a designated family member.
