Turner County Jail is a secure correctional facility that houses individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. It plays a vital role in public safety, inmate rehabilitation, and community support. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, visitation rules, communication options, and available services. This page delivers complete, trustworthy details about Turner County Jail operations, policies, and resources—ensuring you get the answers you need quickly and clearly.
Turner County Jail Location and Contact Information
Knowing where Turner County Jail is located and how to reach staff saves time and reduces stress during difficult situations. The jail is situated in Parker, South Dakota, and serves all of Turner County. Staff are available during business hours to assist with general inquiries, but emergency contacts should be used for urgent matters.
- Address: 100 E. 1st St., Parker, SD 57053
- Phone Number: (605) 297-3722
- Sheriff’s Office: (605) 297-2106
- Official Website: http://turnercounty.org/jail
- Emergency Services: 911
Visitors must use the main entrance on East 1st Street. Parking is available nearby. Always call ahead before visiting to confirm hours or policy changes. The website posts real-time updates on closures, system outages, or special procedures.
Turner County Jail Inmate Search and Roster Access
Finding an inmate at Turner County Jail is simple using the official online roster. This tool shows current inmates, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and court schedules. It updates regularly to reflect new bookings, releases, and status changes.
How to Search for an Inmate Online
Go to the Turner County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID number. Results appear instantly and include key details like mugshots, charges, and next court date. If no match shows, try alternate spellings or nicknames.
What Information Is Included in the Roster?
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and classification
- Bail or bond amount (if set)
- Court dates and jurisdiction
- Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
- Mugshot (public record)
The roster does not include sensitive data like medical history or disciplinary records. For missing persons or unclear results, call the jail directly with the inmate’s name, date of birth, and last known address.
Offline Inmate Lookup Options
If the website is down or you prefer in-person help, staff can assist during business hours. Bring a valid photo ID and any known details about the inmate. Public kiosks near the front desk may also display basic roster info.
Turner County Jail Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation helps maintain family bonds and supports inmate well-being. Turner County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits, but all must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
Visits occur Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Each session lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors are permitted per inmate per visit. All visitors must:
- Show a valid government-issued photo ID
- Pass through metal detectors and bag checks
- Follow strict dress code rules
Prohibited clothing includes shorts, tank tops, hats, sunglasses, and clothing with offensive language or images. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No cell phones, bags, or food are allowed in the visitation room.
Virtual Visitation Options
Video visits are available through the jail’s approved platform. These require pre-registration and scheduling. Sessions last 20 minutes and cost a small fee paid by the visitor. Virtual visits are ideal for those who live far away or have mobility issues.
How to Schedule a Visit
Use the online portal on the Turner County website or call (605) 297-3722. Provide your name, relationship to the inmate, and preferred date and time. Confirmations are sent via email or phone. Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance.
Turner County Jail Phone Calls and Communication Policies
Inmates can make outgoing calls only to pre-approved numbers. All calls are monitored and recorded for security. Calls last 15–20 minutes and cannot be extended.
How Inmate Phone Calls Work
Inmates fund calls through a prepaid account managed by a third-party provider. Family members add money online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Rates vary by time of day and destination. International calls are not permitted.
Approved Call Recipients
Only numbers listed on the inmate’s approved contact list may receive calls. New numbers must be submitted in writing and processed within 48 hours. Legal representatives are automatically approved.
Email and Messaging Services
Turner County Jail offers secure email through a monitored platform. Messages are screened before delivery. Inmates can reply using the same system. Attachments are not allowed. This service speeds up communication compared to traditional mail.
Turner County Jail Mail Policy for Inmates
Mail is a key way for inmates to stay connected. All incoming and outgoing letters are inspected for contraband. Follow these rules to ensure delivery:
- Use plain white paper and standard envelopes
- Write the inmate’s full name and ID number on the envelope
- Do not include stickers, tape, glue, or Polaroid photos
- Send books and magazines only from publishers or retailers (no used items)
- Avoid cash, checks, or personal photos with writing on the back
Mail should be addressed as:
Inmate Full Name & ID#
Turner County Jail
100 E. 1st St.
Parker, SD 57053
Rejected mail is returned to sender with an explanation. Inmates receive notification if mail is withheld.
Sending Money to Inmates at Turner County Jail
Inmates can use funds for commissary purchases, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Family and friends have three secure ways to send money:
| Method | How It Works | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Online Deposit | Use the jail’s payment partner website with credit/debit card | $3.95 per transaction |
| Kiosk Payment | Pay with cash or card at the lobby kiosk | $2.50 per transaction |
| Money Order by Mail | Send a U.S. Postal Service money order payable to the inmate | Postage only |
Personal checks and cash sent by mail are rejected. Always include the inmate’s full name and ID number. Funds appear in the account within 1–2 business days.
Turner County Jail Commissary Services
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly and delivered directly to cells. Common items include:
- Chips, candy, and soft drinks
- Toothpaste, soap, deodorant, and shampoo
- Pens, paper, and envelopes
- Extra socks and undershirts (jail-approved only)
Prices are posted on the jail’s website. Inmates cannot share items. Unused funds remain in the account until release or transfer.
Turner County Jail Booking and Release Procedures
When someone is arrested in Turner County, they are brought to the jail for booking. This process includes fingerprinting, mugshot capture, health screening, and record creation. Bail may be set at the first court appearance.
Bail and Bond Information
Bail amounts depend on the charge severity and flight risk. To post bail:
- Call the Booking Office at (605) 297-3722 to confirm the amount
- Pay with cash, credit card, or through a licensed bail bondsman
- Complete release paperwork at the jail
Once processed, the inmate is released within one hour. Failure to appear in court results in bond forfeiture and a warrant.
Release Dates and Status Checks
Sentenced inmates receive a projected release date based on their judgment and credit for time served. This appears on the inmate roster. For exact timing, contact the jail 24–48 hours before expected release.
Turner County Jail Inmate Programs and Rehabilitation
Turner County Jail focuses on reducing repeat offenses through education and skill-building. Programs include:
- GED preparation classes
- Vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, and basic IT
- Substance abuse counseling and detox support
- Anger management and life skills workshops
- Mental health evaluations and therapy sessions
Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Certificates earned can help with job applications after release. Local nonprofits and state agencies partner with the jail to offer these services.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
All inmates receive a medical screening upon intake. Chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension are managed with prescribed medications. Emergency care is available 24/7.
Mental health staff conduct assessments and provide individual or group therapy. Crisis intervention is offered for suicidal thoughts or severe anxiety. Prescription medications are dispensed under supervision.
Dental and vision care are available by request. Routine cleanings and eye exams occur quarterly. Serious issues are referred to outside providers.
Security Measures and Facility Operations
Turner County Jail uses layered security to protect staff, inmates, and visitors. Systems include:
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring with recorded footage
- Electronic door controls and motion sensors
- Inmate classification by risk level (minimum, medium, maximum)
- Daily headcounts and random cell inspections
- Staff trained in de-escalation and emergency response
Fire drills and medical emergency protocols are practiced monthly. The facility complies with state and federal correctional standards.
Community Partnerships and Public Resources
Turner County Jail works with local law enforcement, courts, and social services to support reentry. Programs include:
- Job placement assistance through county workforce centers
- Housing referrals for released inmates
- Victim advocacy and notification services
- Public tours for schools and civic groups
These efforts aim to strengthen community safety and reduce recidivism. The Sheriff’s Office publishes annual reports on jail operations and program outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turner County Jail
People often have similar questions about inmate lookup, visitation, and jail policies. Below are clear, direct answers based on current procedures and official guidelines.
How do I find out if someone is in Turner County Jail?
Use the inmate roster on the Turner County Sheriff’s website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. If no results appear, call (605) 297-3722 with their name, date of birth, and last known address. Staff will verify status during business hours. The roster updates multiple times daily and includes booking date, charges, and court information.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits—in-person and virtual—must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not permitted. Use the online portal or call the jail to reserve a time slot. Visits are limited to 30 minutes for in-person and 20 minutes for video. Late arrivals may lose their slot.
What items can I send to an inmate by mail?
You can send plain letters on white paper. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Do not include cash, checks, stickers, or Polaroid photos. All mail is inspected. Rejected items are returned with a note explaining the violation.
How much does it cost to add money to an inmate’s account?
Online deposits cost $3.95 per transaction. Kiosk payments cost $2.50. Money orders by mail have no fee beyond postage. Funds are available within 1–2 days. Keep your receipt for tracking.
Are inmates allowed to make phone calls?
Yes, but only to pre-approved numbers. Calls last 15–20 minutes and are monitored. Inmates pay using their commissary account. Family members fund the account online, by phone, or at the jail kiosk. International calls are not allowed.
What happens if bail is posted?
Once bail is paid, staff process release paperwork immediately. The inmate is freed within one hour, assuming no holds from other agencies. Confirm the bail amount by calling (605) 297-3722 before sending payment.
Does Turner County Jail offer rehab programs?
Yes. Inmates can join GED classes, vocational training, substance abuse counseling, and mental health therapy. Programs are free and led by certified instructors. Participation may reduce sentence length in some cases.
Official Website: http://turnercounty.org/jail
Phone: (605) 297-3722
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM