Big Horn County Jail Hardin MT is the main detention center for Big Horn County, Montana. Located at 121 W 3rd Street, Hardin, MT 59034, it holds people before trial or for short sentences up to 24 months. The jail has space for 200 inmates and usually houses about 150 each day. It is run by the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office and follows rules set by the Montana Department of Corrections. The facility offers medical care, commissary services, and programs like GED classes and woodworking. Visitors must show a government-issued photo ID and schedule visits ahead of time. The jail also provides online tools to find current inmates, view mugshots, and check arrest records. Contact the jail at 406-665-9780 or visit the official website for more details.
Location and Contact Information
The Big Horn County Jail is at 121 W 3rd Street in Hardin, Montana. The mailing address is PO Box 908, Hardin, MT 59034. The main phone number is 406-665-9780, and the fax number is 406-665-9797. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. After hours, calls go to the 24-hour dispatch center. The jail’s email is not public, but people can use the contact form on the Big Horn County website. The facility serves all of Big Horn County and works with nearby jails like Crow Creek County Jail and Yellowstone County Detention Center.
Inmate Search and Roster
Anyone can search for current inmates using the online roster on the Big Horn County Sheriff’s website. The system updates every five minutes and shows names, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and release dates. Each entry includes a high-resolution mugshot. The site also lists “Most Wanted” people with photos, last known locations, and reward information. Users can view recent arrests—over 120 in the past 30 days—and stolen vehicle reports with VIN numbers. An interactive map shows crime locations by type and exact coordinates. This tool helps families, lawyers, and the public stay informed.
Visitation Rules and Hours
Visitors must call 406-665-9792 to schedule a visit at least 24 hours in advance. A valid government-issued photo ID is required. Female inmates can be visited on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Male inmates can be visited on the same days from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Visitors must follow a dress code: no denim, hats, or revealing clothing. All visitors go through a background check. Children under 18 must be with an adult. Food, drinks, and gifts are not allowed. Only one visit per inmate per day is permitted. Late arrivals may not be admitted.
Sending Money and Commissary
Inmates can receive money through Western Union or online deposits. The jail does not accept cash or checks by mail. Funds go into a commissary account used to buy snacks, hygiene items, and phone minutes. The commissary operates weekly, and orders are delivered to cells. Prepaid phone minutes can be purchased online or by phone. Inmates can make calls from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. All calls are monitored and may be recorded. Money transfers take 24 to 48 hours to process. Refunds are not given for unused balances upon release.
Mail and Legal Correspondence
Personal mail must be sent to: Inmate Name, c/o Detention Box 908, Hardin, MT 59034. Legal mail should include “Legal Mail” on the envelope and use the same address. All mail is inspected for contraband. No books, magazines, or packages are allowed unless approved. Stamps, stickers, or drawings on envelopes are not accepted. Inmates receive photocopies of large documents. Mail delivery takes one to three business days. Return addresses are required. The jail is not responsible for lost or damaged mail.
Medical and Mental Health Services
The jail has a medical unit staffed by a registered nurse. Doctors visit weekly, and emergency care is available 24 hours a day. Inmates can request medical help at any time. Prescription medications are given as ordered. Mental health support is provided through the Montana Department of Health and Human Services. Counselors visit regularly, and crisis intervention is available. Inmates with chronic conditions receive ongoing care. All services follow state health standards.
Programs and Education
Inmates can join GED classes to earn a high school equivalency diploma. Woodworking training teaches job skills and builds confidence. Substance abuse counseling is offered in group and individual sessions. The jail partners with local agencies to provide these services. Classes run Monday through Friday. Participants must follow rules to stay enrolled. Certificates are given upon completion. These programs help prepare inmates for life after release.
Booking and Release Process
When someone is arrested, they are booked at the jail. This includes fingerprints, photos, and a background check. Personal items are stored securely. Inmates are assigned a cell and given a rulebook. Release happens after court, bail payment, or transfer. Projected release dates are listed online. Inmates must return all jail property before leaving. Transportation is not provided. Families should confirm release times by calling the jail.
Security and Staffing
The jail has about 40 full-time staff, including correctional officers, medical workers, and administrators. It opened in 1979 and holds up to 188 inmates safely. Cameras monitor all common areas. Officers patrol every hour. Cell checks happen at random times. Inmates follow a strict daily schedule. Rules are enforced fairly. The jail meets all state safety standards. Staff receive regular training on safety and rights.
Community Programs and Outreach
The jail runs a quarterly “Ride-Along” program. Citizens can observe daily operations with a sheriff’s deputy. There are also “Safety in Schools” talks for students. The sheriff’s office shares annual reports and budget details online. Public records can be requested by phone or mail. Community events build trust and transparency. Volunteers help with education and mentoring. These efforts support safer neighborhoods.
Nearby Jails and Facilities
If someone is not in Big Horn County Jail, they might be in a nearby facility. Crow Creek County Jail is in Fort Yates, ND. Yellowstone County Detention Center is in Billings, MT. Both have online search tools. Contact information is on their websites. Transfers between jails happen regularly. Families should check multiple sites or call to confirm location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if someone is in jail?
Call 406-665-9780 or use the inmate search on the Big Horn County Sheriff’s website. Enter the person’s name, booking number, or date of birth. The system updates every five minutes and shows current inmates, charges, and release dates.
Can I visit an inmate today?
No. All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance by calling 406-665-9792. Walk-ins are not allowed. Check the visitation hours: female inmates on weekends 9–11 AM, male inmates 1–4:30 PM.
How do I send money to an inmate?
Use Western Union or the online deposit system. Do not mail cash or checks. Funds go into the inmate’s commissary account within 24–48 hours. You’ll need the inmate’s full name and booking number.
Are mugshots public record?
Yes. Mugshots are posted online with the inmate roster. Media can request high-resolution images by contacting the Media Relations Office at 406-665-9792. Requests take up to five business days.
What programs are available for inmates?
Inmates can take GED classes, woodworking, and substance abuse counseling. These programs run weekdays and require good behavior. Certificates are awarded upon completion.
How long can someone stay in this jail?
Most inmates stay for pretrial detention or sentences up to 24 months. Longer sentences go to state prisons. Release dates depend on court decisions or transfers.
Can I send books or magazines?
No. Only approved legal mail and personal letters are allowed. Books, magazines, and packages are not accepted unless pre-approved by the jail administration.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, use these official sources:
– Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office: https://bighorncountymt.gov/176/Sheriff
– Inmate Search Portal: https://bighorncountymt.gov/departments/sheriff/
– Detention Center Page: https://bighorncountymt.gov/239/Detention
– Phone: 406-665-9780 (24-hour line)
– Fax: 406-665-9797
– Address: 121 W 3rd Street, Hardin, MT 59034
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Final Notes
Big Horn County Jail Hardin MT provides essential services for inmates and the public. It balances security with support through medical care, education, and community outreach. The online tools make it easy to find information quickly. Always use official sources for the latest updates. Respect all rules when visiting or contacting the jail. This helps keep everyone safe and informed.