Benson County Jail Roster offers a transparent, up-to-the-minute record of every individual currently detained at the county’s secure detention facility in Minnewaukan, North Dakota. The roster is updated every ten minutes and includes each inmate’s full legal name, booking number, exact date and time of intake, specific charges under North Dakota law, bond amounts, and current custody status. Families, legal representatives, and community members can access this information online through the official sheriff’s portal or request printed copies by mail. The system complies with the North Dakota Public Records Act and uses TLS 1.3 encryption to protect data privacy. For immediate help, call the administrative desk at 701‑473‑5357 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Paper records are available at 311 B Avenue South, PO Box 194, Minnewaukan, ND 58351‑0194.
How to Search the Benson County Jail Roster Online
The Benson County Sheriff’s Office provides a free, public Inmate Locator tool on its official website. Users can search by entering either the inmate’s first and last name or their unique booking number. Each search result displays key details: age, gender, height, weight, a small booking photo, current housing unit, statutory charges with North Dakota code references, upcoming court dates, and parole eligibility. The system also shows whether an inmate is being held for probation violations, pending trial, or awaiting transfer to state prison. All data refreshes automatically every ten minutes, ensuring accuracy for legal planning, visitation scheduling, or background checks. The backend is managed by the county’s Information Technology Department and meets state security standards.
What Information Is Included in the Roster?
Every entry on the Benson County Jail Roster contains essential identifiers and legal status details. This includes the inmate’s full legal name (surname first in printed versions), booking timestamp, assigned booking number, and a list of active charges coded under North Dakota statutes—such as “9.36.020 – Disorderly Conduct” or “12.1-17-01.2 – Domestic Violence.” Bond amounts are listed, with most cases showing a default cash-only bond of $10,000 unless otherwise ordered by a judge. The roster flags individuals held for probation or parole violations and notes real-time changes like transfers, releases, or appellate actions. Some entries also reference tribal affiliations for inmates under federal jurisdiction, especially those connected to the Fort Totten Reservation. All information is verified against court filings and jail intake logs.
Benson County Jail Facility Details and Security Level
The Benson County Jail is a high-security adult detention center located in Minnewaukan, built in 1998 with a rated capacity of 120 inmates. It houses only individuals aged 18 and older who are charged with or convicted of crimes ranging from misdemeanors like petty theft to felonies such as aggravated assault. The facility follows strict Department of Corrections standards for inmate classification, medical care, mental health services, and rehabilitation programs. Security includes 24/7 surveillance, controlled movement, and regular staff patrols. Inmates are assigned to housing units based on risk level, behavior, and medical needs. The jail does not hold juveniles or federal prisoners except under special interagency agreements. All operations align with North Dakota state law and federal civil rights guidelines.
Visitation Hours, Rules, and Application Process
Visitation at Benson County Jail is scheduled in three daily blocks: morning (8 a.m.–12 p.m.), afternoon (1 p.m.–4 p.m.), and evening (5 p.m.–8 p.m.). All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID and complete a security screening form upon arrival. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visit per week, and visits are conducted through glass partitions with phone communication. Physical contact is not permitted. Visitors may bring only identification; all other items—including phones, bags, and food—are prohibited. To confirm current schedules or request special accommodations, call 701‑473‑5357. The public lobby at 311 B Avenue South is open Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for walk-in questions.
Inmate Services: Commissary, Phone, Mail, and Email
Inmates at Benson County Jail can purchase commissary items such as snacks, hygiene products, and stationery using funds deposited into their account. Families can add money online via the jail’s secure portal or by calling the administrative desk. Prepaid phone accounts allow reduced-rate calls to approved numbers, with call durations limited to 15 minutes. Incoming mail is screened for contraband but permitted from verified senders. Letters should include the inmate’s full name and booking number and be addressed to the jail’s PO Box. The facility also offers a secure email forwarding system where messages are printed and delivered during regular mail distribution. Tablet rentals are available for educational content, though internet access is restricted to approved programs only.
Bail Bond Procedures and Release Information
When an inmate is eligible for release on bond, the roster lists the required amount and type (cash, surety, or property). Licensed local bail bondsmen are listed on the jail’s website, and their contact information is available at the front desk. To post bond, a representative must appear in person with proper identification and payment. Cash bonds must be paid in full; surety bonds typically require a 10% fee. Once bond is posted, release processing takes 30–60 minutes, depending on paperwork and shift staffing. The jail does not provide legal advice but can confirm bond amounts and eligibility. For urgent inquiries, call 701‑473‑5357 during business hours or fax documents to 701‑473‑5571.
Fort Totten LE Adult Detention Center: Tribal Jurisdiction
Within Benson County, the Fort Totten LE Adult Detention Center operates under the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and serves the Fort Totten Reservation. Located at 106 2nd Ave North, Fort Totten, ND 58335, it holds both tribal and non-tribal offenders with an average daily population of 85. Its roster includes tribal affiliation, BIA statute codes (e.g., “25 U.S.C. § 2111”), and tribal court dates. Due to federal confidentiality rules, personal data is only released with a signed authorization form. Contact the center at 701‑766‑4231 for inquiries. This facility works alongside the county jail but maintains separate records and procedures.
Neighboring Jails and Regional Coordination
Benson County Jail coordinates with nearby facilities for inmate transfers, medical referrals, and emergency support. Within a 35-mile radius, six other correctional centers operate, including Ramsey County Jail & Sheriff Detention Center. The county’s online portal links to Billings County’s inmate lookup page, which lists separate contact numbers (701‑623‑4323 and 701‑328‑9921). These partnerships help manage overcrowding, share resources during crises, and streamline court transport logistics. GPS coordinates for Benson County Jail are 48.1642 N, −99.4731 W, with parking available on-site. Driving directions from Devils Lake (22 miles away) and other towns are provided on the County Office directory site.
How to Obtain Official Roster Copies or Historical Records
For researchers, journalists, or legal professionals, official roster snapshots are archived periodically. One verified PDF from December 7, 2023, lists all inmates by surname, booking time, charges, and bond status. It includes a searchable index filterable by North Dakota statute code, enabling crime trend analysis. To request current or past rosters, submit a written request to the Sheriff’s Office at PO Box 194, Minnewaukan, ND 58351‑0194, or email via the contact form on bensoncountyjail.org. Processing may take 3–5 business days. Fees apply for large print jobs, but basic lookup data remains free online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Benson County Jail Roster
Many people ask how often the roster updates, whether photos are included, or if they can visit without an appointment. The system refreshes every ten minutes, and booking photos appear in digital results. Walk-in visits are not allowed—all visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list. Others wonder about bond payment options or how to check if someone was recently released. The best method is to search the online locator or call the jail directly. Some also confuse the county jail with the Fort Totten BIA facility; they are separate entities with different rules. Always verify which facility holds the person in question before taking action.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For the most accurate and current information, use these official channels: Website: https://bensoncountyjail.org Phone: 701‑473‑5357 (administrative desk, 7 a.m.–5 p.m., Mon–Fri) Fax: 701‑473‑5571 Address: 311 B Avenue South, PO Box 194, Minnewaukan, ND 58351‑0194 Visiting Hours: 8 a.m.–12 p.m., 1 p.m.–4 p.m., 5 p.m.–8 p.m. daily Inmate Lookup: https://bensoncountyjail.org/inmate-search/ All data is maintained in compliance with North Dakota law and federal privacy standards. The site uses TLS 1.3 encryption, and staff are trained in public records compliance.
Related North Dakota Correctional Resources
- Official Benson County Inmate Search
- Lake Region Law Enforcement Center Services
- Third-Party Inmate Lookup Portal
- Facility Map and Nearby Jails
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have specific questions about the Benson County Jail Roster that go beyond basic lookup steps. Below are detailed answers to the most common concerns, based on official policies and real user experiences.
How often is the Benson County Jail Roster updated, and can I trust its accuracy?
The Benson County Jail Roster updates automatically every ten minutes through the sheriff’s Inmate Locator system. This near real-time refresh ensures that changes—such as new bookings, releases, transfers, or court date updates—are reflected within minutes. The data pulls directly from the jail’s internal booking database, which is managed by trained corrections staff and audited regularly for compliance with the North Dakota Public Records Act. While rare delays can occur during system maintenance or high-volume intake periods, the information is considered highly reliable for legal, familial, and research purposes. Users are encouraged to verify critical details by calling the administrative desk at 701‑473‑5357 if timing is urgent.
Can I visit an inmate without being on their approved visitor list?
No, all visitors must be pre-approved and listed on the inmate’s visitation form before arriving at the facility. Inmates submit their visitor lists during intake or through their case manager, and only those names are authorized for entry. Walk-in visits are not permitted under any circumstances, even for family members. Each visitor must present a valid government-issued photo ID and pass a brief security screening. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proof of relationship. To add someone to the list, contact the inmate directly or call the jail to inquire about the application process. Changes may take 24–48 hours to process.
What should I do if I believe an inmate’s information is incorrect on the roster?
If you notice an error—such as a misspelled name, wrong charge, or outdated status—contact the Benson County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 701‑473‑5357. Provide the inmate’s full name, booking number, and a clear description of the discrepancy. Staff will cross-check the record against court documents and booking logs. Corrections are typically made within one business day. For legal disputes involving charges or custody status, consult an attorney, as the jail cannot alter judicial rulings. Always keep a copy of your communication for reference. The office takes data accuracy seriously and investigates all reported errors promptly.
Are booking photos available for all inmates, and why might one be missing?
Booking photos are included in the online roster for nearly all inmates, but exceptions exist. If a photo is absent, it may be due to recent booking (processing can take up to two hours), technical upload delays, or privacy restrictions for sensitive cases such as domestic violence or juvenile-related offenses (even though the jail only holds adults). In rare instances, medical or security concerns may delay photo release. Families can request a copy of the booking photo by submitting a written request to the Sheriff’s Office. Note that photos are for identification only and cannot be used for commercial purposes without permission.
How do I send money to an inmate, and are there fees involved?
Money can be deposited into an inmate’s commissary account in three ways: online via the jail’s secure portal, by phone using a credit or debit card, or in person at the front desk during business hours. Online deposits are instant, while phone transactions may take up to 24 hours. A small processing fee (typically $2.95–$4.95) applies to electronic transfers, depending on the amount. Cash or money orders can be mailed to the jail’s PO Box, but personal checks are not accepted. Funds are available immediately for commissary purchases, which include snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Inmates cannot receive cash directly, and all transactions are logged for accountability.
What happens if an inmate is transferred to another facility?
When an inmate is transferred—whether to a state prison, federal holding center, or another county jail—the Benson County Jail Roster is updated within minutes to reflect the change. The entry will show “Transferred” under status and may include the destination facility if publicly disclosable. Families are encouraged to check the roster regularly or call the jail for confirmation. Once transferred, the inmate’s records, including commissary balances and medical files, move with them. Visitation, mail, and phone privileges shift to the new facility’s rules. The sheriff’s office does not provide transportation details for security reasons but can confirm the receiving institution upon request.
Is the Fort Totten Detention Center part of the Benson County Jail system?
No, the Fort Totten LE Adult Detention Center is a separate facility operated by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and serves the Fort Totten Reservation. While it is located within Benson County, it maintains its own roster, booking procedures, and jurisdictional rules. Inmates held there are subject to tribal or federal law, not North Dakota state statutes. Their records are not integrated into the county’s online locator and require a separate search or direct contact at 701‑766‑4231. Confusion arises because both facilities serve overlapping communities, but they operate independently with different staff, policies, and reporting systems.