Crow Wing County Jail Message Line: Voicemail & Phone Guide

Crow Wing County Jail Message Line offers families and friends a simple way to stay in touch with inmates through voicemail, phone calls, and text messages. The system uses Reliance Telephone to manage all communication. Callers can leave a free voicemail at 218‑203‑9544. Inmates hear these messages at no cost. However, they must use prepaid minutes to return calls. Each call lasts up to five minutes to keep the network running smoothly. The jail also supports text messaging and online account management for families who want to send money or check balances. This guide covers everything you need to know about using the message line, buying minutes, and staying connected.

How the Crow Wing County Jail Message Line Works

The message line at Crow Wing County Jail is designed for easy use. Anyone can call 218‑203‑9544 to leave a voicemail for an inmate. The message is saved in the inmate’s personal account. Inmates can listen to these messages anytime during approved phone hours. There is no charge for receiving voicemails. However, inmates must have prepaid minutes to make outbound calls. These minutes are purchased through Reliance Telephone’s website or dashboard. Each call is limited to five minutes. This helps prevent network overload and ensures fair access for all inmates. The system is secure, monitored, and follows county rules.

Buying Prepaid Minutes for Inmate Calls

Families can buy prepaid minutes in $5 blocks. Each block gives about 30 minutes of talk time. Payments are made online through the Reliance Telephone portal. Users create an account, add a credit card or PayPal, and assign minutes to a specific inmate. The system sends an alert when the balance gets low. This helps avoid missed calls. Minutes do not expire quickly, but users should check the terms. All calls are recorded and may be reviewed by jail staff. Only approved phone numbers can receive calls. Inmates cannot call blocked or international numbers.

Text Messaging and Email Options

Inmates can send and receive text messages through secure tablets in their housing units. Messages are delivered via the Jail Exchange platform. Families must sign up, verify their ID, and link to the inmate’s ID number. All texts are saved in the inmate’s file and may be used in legal cases. Email is not direct. Instead, messages are printed and delivered like regular mail. This process takes 1–2 business days. Both text and email services require prepaid accounts. Support is available at 218‑822‑7050 for help with setup or issues.

Current In-Custody List and Inmate Search

The Crow Wing County Jail posts a live In-Custody List online. Visitors can search by name, booking date, or charge type. The list shows mugshots, bond amounts, and court dates. It links to the public records portal for deeper searches. The jail holds up to 276 adults in five housing units. It serves both pretrial and sentenced individuals. The facility is located at 313 Laurel Street in Brainerd, MN. For quick help, call 218‑824‑1067. The website also offers maps, payment tools, and permit requests.

Inmate Phone Service Details

Reliance Telephone manages all inmate calls at Crow Wing County Jail. The system supports voice calls, voicemail, and text messaging. Voicemail is free for inmates to receive. Return calls require prepaid minutes. Calls are capped at five minutes to protect network capacity. The web dashboard lets families buy minutes, view call history, and set low-balance alerts. All calls are monitored and logged. Inmates can only call numbers approved by the jail. International and toll-free calls are not allowed. For billing or technical support, contact Reliance at 218‑822‑7050.

Medical and Dental Care for Inmates

The jail has an on-site clinic staffed by nurses and a licensed dentist. Services include routine checkups, dental cleanings, mental health screenings, and minor procedures like sutures or extractions. Emergency cases are sent to a local hospital. All inmates are charged a one-time $25 booking fee. This covers intake processing and administrative costs. The fee is set by the Crow Wing County Board. Medical records are confidential and follow state laws. Inmates can request care through staff at any time.

Facility Overview and Security

The Crow Wing County Jail is a direct-supervision facility in Brainerd, MN. It houses adult men and women in five secure units. The jail is licensed for 276 inmates. Staff work 24 hours a day, including correctional officers, mental health workers, and support personnel. Security includes electronic locks, headcounts, and controlled movement. The goal is safety for inmates, staff, and visitors. The jail follows Minnesota state standards and undergoes regular inspections.

Inmate Mail Guidelines

All mail sent to inmates must go through the jail’s mailroom. Address letters to: Crow Wing County Jail, 313 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401. Legal mail is opened in front of the inmate but not read. Regular mail is checked for contraband. Stickers, stamps, or coded language may cause rejection. Do not send cash, drugs, or weapons. Packages must be approved in advance. Inmates can send outgoing mail using jail-provided envelopes. For questions, call 218‑822‑7050.

Visiting Hours and Rules

Visits must be scheduled in advance. Check the jail’s website or call 218‑824‑1067 for current hours and rules. Visitors must bring ID and pass a background check. Only approved visitors are allowed. No cell phones, bags, or food are permitted inside. Visits may be monitored or recorded. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Dress modestly—no revealing clothing. Failure to follow rules can result in denied visits.

Bail and Bond Information

Bail amounts are listed on the In-Custody Roster. Payments can be made online or at the jail. Accepted methods include cash, credit card, or money order. Bond agents are also available. Once paid, inmates are released after processing. This may take a few hours. For urgent cases, call 218‑822‑7050. The jail does not set bond—judges do. Always confirm details with the court or a lawyer.

How to Request Mugshots

Official mugshots are not posted online for privacy. To request one, mail a written request to: Crow Wing County Jail, 313 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401. Include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and reason for the request. Processing takes up to 10 business days. You may receive a printed copy or a secure download link. For faster help, call the Media Relations office at 218‑822‑7050.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have the same questions about the message line and jail services. Below are the most common ones with clear answers. This section helps families save time and avoid confusion. Always check the official website or call the jail for the latest updates.

Can I leave a voicemail without the inmate calling me back?

Yes. You can leave a voicemail at 218‑203‑9544 anytime. The inmate will hear it for free. They do not need to call you back. This is useful if you just want to send a message or update. However, if you need a reply, the inmate must have prepaid minutes. Make sure your number is approved for calls. Voicemails are stored for a limited time, so inmates should check regularly.

How do I know if my phone number is approved for inmate calls?

Inmates must add your number to their approved list. They do this through the phone system or staff. Only numbers on this list can receive calls. If your number is not approved, the inmate cannot call you. You can ask the inmate to add you or contact the jail at 218‑822‑7050 for help. Approved numbers are usually family, friends, or lawyers.

What happens if the inmate runs out of minutes?

If the balance reaches zero, the inmate cannot make calls. They can still receive voicemails. Families should monitor the account and add funds before the balance gets low. The system sends an alert when minutes are running out. You can check balances online or by phone. Adding $5 gives about 30 minutes of talk time. Plan ahead to avoid missed connections.

Are text messages private?

No. All text messages are saved in the inmate’s file. Jail staff may review them. Messages can be used in court or investigations. Do not send sensitive or illegal content. The system is not encrypted. Use simple, respectful language. Avoid sharing personal details about others. Remember, anything sent can be seen by officials.

Can I send money to an inmate?

Yes. Use the Reliance Telephone dashboard to add funds for phone minutes. For commissary items like snacks or hygiene products, use the jail’s online payment system. Both services require an account. Funds are added to the inmate’s trust account. They can use it for approved purchases. Processing may take 1–2 days. For help, call 218‑822‑7050.

What if I have trouble with the online system?

Call the support line at 218‑822‑7050. Staff can help with login issues, payments, or technical errors. Have the inmate’s full name and ID ready. Support is available during business hours. You can also email the jail using the protected link on their website. Avoid sharing passwords or personal info with strangers.

How often is the In-Custody List updated?

The list is updated in real time as inmates are booked or released. It is accurate as of the last system refresh. Check the website daily for changes. For urgent questions, call 218‑824‑1067. The list includes names, charges, bond amounts, and mugshots. It does not show release dates unless already processed.

Contact Information

For more details about the message line or jail services, use the following contacts:
Jail Address: 313 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
Main Phone: 218‑824‑1067
Message Line: 218‑203‑9544
Support Line: 218‑822‑7050
Official Website: https://www.crowwing.gov

Related Services and Resources

Final Tips for Families

Stay connected by using the message line, buying minutes early, and checking the inmate roster often. Keep your contact info updated. Follow all jail rules to avoid issues. If you have questions, call the support number. The system is designed to help, not hinder, communication. With a little planning, you can stay in touch safely and legally.