The J. Reuben Long Detention Center functions as the primary adult correctional and pre-trial holding facility for Horry County, South Carolina. Situated in Conway on the road bearing its name, this facility handles the intake, booking, and housing of individuals arrested across the Myrtle Beach region and surrounding municipalities. Operated by the Horry County Sheriff's Office, the institution manages a high-volume inmate population consisting of pre-trial detainees, individuals awaiting bond hearings, and offenders serving short local sentences. Navigating the operations of this facility requires understanding its booking protocols, inmate search options, and visitation guidelines.
Operating within the state's 15th Judicial Circuit, the detention center links local law enforcement actions with the court system. When an arrest occurs anywhere from North Myrtle Beach down to Surfside Beach, the individual is transported to the Conway facility for processing. Understanding how to locate an inmate, post bond, or schedule a visit helps families and legal representatives manage the administrative hurdles associated with the county's criminal justice system.
Facility Overview and Operational Scope
Located at 4150 J. Reuben Long Avenue in Conway, South Carolina, the detention center serves as the centralized hub for county law enforcement intake. The facility was established to consolidate municipal and county arrests into a secure, professionally managed environment.
The physical complex includes housing units designed for varying security classifications, intake and booking bays, administrative offices, and a magistrate bond court on-site. This colocation of the bond court streamlines initial hearings, allowing magistrates to review charges and determine release conditions without requiring immediate transport to the main county courthouse.
The daily population fluctuates based on tourism seasons, local law enforcement sweeps, and court backlogs. Because Horry County encompasses major coastal tourist destinations, the facility frequently handles high arrest volumes during peak vacation months, placing heavy demands on booking and medical staff.
Conducting an Inmate Search in Horry County
Locating someone housed within the facility involves several official channels. Because arrest and booking logs update continuously, families can verify custody status through specific procedures.
- Reviewing Booking Records: The Horry County Sheriff's Office maintains records of individuals booked into the facility. Daily booking sheets capture names, mugshots, charges, and bond amounts.
- Direct Phone Inquiry: Staff can be reached directly at (843) 915-5140 for immediate inquiries regarding an inmate's current housing status or bond conditions.
- Checking Magistrate Court Status: Since the bond court operates out of the same complex, initial appearance details can often be verified by contacting the magistrate division to see when a hearing is scheduled.
When calling or checking records, having the individual's full legal name and date of birth ensures accurate identification, as common names frequently appear on the daily roster.
Visitation Policies and Scheduling Rules
The J. Reuben Long Detention Center permits both on-site video visits and remote video visits, governed by strict administrative rules. To maintain facility security, every visitor must complete an approval process before scheduling a session.
- Registration: Visitors must register through the facility's designated third-party visitation vendor (such as NCIC Correctional Services) either online or via on-site kiosks. A valid photo identification card is mandatory.
- Visitation Limits: Inmates are generally permitted a set number of visits per week, combining both on-site and remote options. Standard visits last for 30 minutes.
- Cost Structure: On-site video visits conducted at the facility are typically free of charge, whereas remote video visits accessed via personal computers, tablets, or smartphones incur per-minute or flat-rate fees.
- Scheduling Windows: Remote visits require advance scheduling, usually at least 24 hours prior to the appointment.
Visitor Dress Code and Conduct Rules
Facility staff enforce a strict dress code to maintain order. Visitors wearing revealing clothing, see-through fabrics, tank tops, short shorts, or mini-skirts are denied entry. Clothing must be modest and appropriate for a secure correctional environment.
Furthermore, any attempt to record video or audio, take screenshots, or photograph the visitation screen results in immediate termination of the session and potential suspension of visitation privileges. Intoxication, disruptive behavior, or failure to follow staff directives leads to temporary or permanent bans from the property.
Mail, Commissary, and Funding Accounts
Friends and family members often need to send funds or correspondence to individuals housed inside the facility. Rules regarding mail and money are rigidly enforced to prevent contraband introduction.
- Sending Mail: All incoming letters must follow specific addressing formats including the inmate's full name and booking identification number. Packages and unauthorized items are rejected. Letters are inspected for contraband.
- Adding Commissary Funds: Inmates use commissary accounts to purchase hygiene items, stationery, and snacks. Deposits can be made online through approved vendor portals or via kiosks located in the jail lobby.
- Property Drop-offs: General property drop-offs are typically not allowed. Exceptions are rarely made unless an inmate requires specific court-ordered medical devices or approved civilian clothing for a jury trial, which must be coordinated directly with jail administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the J. Reuben Long Detention Center located?
The facility sits at 4150 J. Reuben Long Avenue, Conway, SC 29526, just outside downtown Conway.
How do I find out if someone was arrested in Myrtle Beach?
Because municipal arrests within Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas are transferred for central processing, you can check the Horry County booking records or call the detention center directly at (843) 915-5140. Official resources can also be reviewed via the Horry County Government Official Site.
Are on-site visits at the jail free?
Yes, on-site video visits conducted at the Conway facility are free, though they must be scheduled in advance and require prior visitor approval. Remote video sessions accessed from home carry service fees.
What is the primary phone number for inmate information?
You can reach the main administration and booking desk at (843) 915-5140. For broader legal case information, you can consult the South Carolina Judicial Department to track related court dates in the 15th Judicial Circuit.
