Mower County Jail is a secure correctional facility located in Austin, Minnesota, operated by the Mower County Sheriff’s Office. It serves as the primary detention center for individuals arrested in Mower County, housing pretrial detainees and those serving short-term sentences. The jail plays a vital role in maintaining public safety while providing essential services to inmates and supporting their rehabilitation. Whether you’re searching for an inmate, planning a visit, or need information about bail, programs, or communication options, this page delivers accurate, up-to-date details directly from official sources. Everything you need to know about Mower County Jail is organized here for fast, reliable access.
How to Find an Inmate in Mower County Jail
Locating someone held at Mower County Jail is simple using the official inmate lookup tool. This system lets families, lawyers, and community members check current inmate status quickly. The roster updates regularly to reflect new bookings, releases, and court changes.
Using the Online Inmate Search Tool
Go to the Mower County Sheriff’s Office website and click on “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID number. Results show name, booking date, charges, bond amount, court dates, and expected release if sentenced. Always double-check spelling—even small mistakes can block results. If nothing appears, try a partial name or call the jail directly.
Searching by Phone or In Person
Call (507) 437-9530 during business hours to ask about an inmate. Have the person’s full name, date of birth, or booking number ready. You can also visit the jail at 201 1st Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912, and speak with staff at the front desk. Bring a photo ID. Public kiosks may display basic inmate lists, but online search is faster and more complete.
Mower County Jail Roster and Booking Details
The inmate roster lists everyone currently held at Mower County Jail. It includes key facts like full name, booking date, charges, bond status, and next court appearance. This public record helps families stay informed and plan visits or legal actions.
What Happens During Booking
When someone is arrested, they go through a standard booking process. Staff take fingerprints, photos (mugshots), and record personal details like name, birth date, and address. A quick health check identifies urgent medical needs. The person is then assigned a housing unit based on risk level and behavior history.
How to Get Mugshots
Mugshots are public records in Minnesota. Request them by submitting a formal records request to the Mower County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s name, booking date, and your contact info. There may be a small fee. Note: mugshots stay online even if charges are dropped. Some people later ask to remove them, but that requires legal help and a court order.
Visiting Someone at Mower County Jail
Staying connected with loved ones supports emotional health and successful reentry. Mower County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. Rules are strict to keep everyone safe.
In-Person Visits
All visits must be scheduled ahead of time. Call the jail or use the online booking system. Visits happen Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Arrive early for security screening. You’ll need a valid photo ID. Dress modestly—no shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with gang symbols or offensive words. Each visit lasts about 30 minutes.
Virtual Video Visits
Remote visits use a secure video platform. Schedule them online just like in-person visits. You’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet. Virtual visits cost extra and are monitored. They’re ideal for people who live far away or have mobility issues.
Rules for All Visitors
Only approved visitors can enter. Minors must be with an adult. No phones, bags, or food allowed inside. Jail staff may search you and your belongings. Breaking rules can lead to banned visits. Always check the official website before coming—hours and policies can change.
Contact Information and Location
Mower County Jail is easy to reach in downtown Austin. Here’s how to get there and who to call.
- Address: 201 1st Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912
- Phone: (507) 437-9530
- Website: https://www.mowercountysheriff.com/jail
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
Sending Money to an Inmate
Inmates can receive funds for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Family and friends have several safe ways to send money.
Online Deposits
Use the jail’s official payment partner to add money instantly. Log in with the inmate’s name and ID. Pay with credit or debit card. Funds appear in the account within minutes.
Kiosk Payments
A payment kiosk is in the jail lobby. Insert cash or swipe a card. Follow the screen prompts. Receipts are printed for your records.
Money Orders by Mail
Send a money order to the jail address. Make it payable to the inmate—not the jail. Include the inmate’s full name and ID on the envelope. Do not send cash or personal checks—they will be returned.
Phone Call Costs
All inmate calls are paid by the caller or through the inmate’s account. Rates vary, but most calls cost $0.25–$0.35 per minute. Calls are limited to 15–20 minutes. Only pre-approved numbers can receive calls.
Commissary and Inmate Accounts
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery. Orders are placed weekly. Items arrive in sealed packages.
What’s Available
Popular items include chips, coffee, toothpaste, soap, envelopes, and socks. Prices are posted online. Inmates can’t share purchases. All items must follow jail rules—no glass, aerosols, or sharp objects.
Managing the Account
Funds stay in the inmate’s account until used. Balances roll over each week. Families can check balances online or by phone. If an inmate is transferred or released, leftover funds are mailed as a check within 10 days.
Mail Rules for Inmates
Mail is a lifeline for inmates. All letters are screened for safety.
How to Send Mail
Write the inmate’s full name and ID on the envelope. Use a plain white envelope with black ink. Send to: Inmate Name, ID # Mower County Jail 201 1st Ave NE Austin, MN 55912
Allowed and Prohibited Items
Plain letters, photos (no Polaroids), and drawings are okay. No stickers, tape, or glue. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers like Amazon. No hardcovers. All mail is opened and checked. Contraband gets thrown away, and the sender may be banned.
Phone and Email Communication
Inmates stay in touch through monitored calls and secure email.
Phone Calls
Inmates make outgoing calls only. They use prepaid accounts funded by family. Calls are recorded and limited to 15 minutes. Three-way calls are not allowed. If a number isn’t approved, the call won’t go through.
Email Messages
The jail uses a secure email system. Families create an account online, add funds, and send messages. Inmates read and reply on jail tablets. Messages are screened for threats or coded language. Delivery takes 24–48 hours.
Bail and Release Process
Bail lets eligible inmates leave jail before trial by paying a set amount.
How Bail Works
A judge sets bail during the first court hearing. The amount depends on the crime, criminal history, and flight risk. To post bail, call the Booking Office at (507) 437-9450. Pay with cash, credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is done.
Release Procedures
Released inmates get their personal items back. If they owe fees, deductions are made from their account. Court dates are mailed later. Failure to appear returns them to jail.
Inmate Programs and Rehabilitation
Mower County Jail offers programs to help inmates build skills and prepare for life after release.
Education and GED Classes
Inmates can earn a high school equivalency diploma through GED classes. Lessons cover math, reading, science, and social studies. Tutors assist those who need extra help.
Vocational Training
Hands-on training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer basics. Certificates are given upon completion. These skills improve job chances after release.
Substance Abuse and Counseling
Counselors lead group sessions on addiction, anger management, and coping skills. Individual therapy is available for mental health needs. Referrals to outside programs help with long-term recovery.
Healthcare and Medical Services
All inmates receive medical care from licensed professionals.
Routine and Emergency Care
New inmates get a health screening within 24 hours. Chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure are managed daily. Prescriptions are filled on-site. Dental and vision exams are offered as needed.
Mental Health Support
Psychologists and social workers provide counseling for depression, anxiety, and trauma. Crisis intervention is available 24/7. Medications are given under supervision. Confidentiality is respected within safety limits.
Inmate Rights and Legal Resources
Inmates have rights protected by law, including access to courts and fair treatment.
Legal Access
Inmates can request law books, write to attorneys, and attend court hearings. Jail staff help with legal mail. Public defenders are assigned if someone can’t afford a lawyer.
Grievance Process
If an inmate has a complaint, they can file a written grievance. Staff respond within a set time. Serious issues go to the sheriff’s office. Retaliation for complaints is not allowed.
Security and Facility Operations
Mower County Jail uses modern systems to keep everyone safe.
Surveillance and Monitoring
Cameras cover all common areas. Motion sensors track movement. Staff patrol regularly. Emergency buttons are in every unit.
Inmate Classification
New inmates are assessed for risk level. Low-risk individuals may share dorms. High-risk or violent inmates stay in single cells. Reviews happen every 90 days.
Community Partnerships and Outreach
The jail works with local groups to support reentry and public education.
Reentry Programs
Nonprofits help inmates find housing, jobs, and counseling before release. Work release lets some inmates keep jobs during the day and return at night.
Public Tours and Education
Schools and community groups can schedule tours to learn about jail operations. The sheriff’s office hosts events on crime prevention and rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about Mower County Jail.
How do I check if someone is in jail right now?
Use the online inmate roster on the Mower County Sheriff’s website. Enter the person’s full name or ID. The list shows current inmates, charges, and court dates. If you don’t see them, call (507) 437-9530. The roster updates every few hours, so it’s the fastest way to confirm someone’s status.
Can I visit on weekends or holidays?
No. Visits are only Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving are closed. Always check the website or call ahead. Virtual visits follow the same schedule. Special arrangements are rare and require approval from the jail commander.
What happens if I send banned items in mail?
Banned items like stickers, tape, or homemade drawings will be removed. The letter may still be delivered, but the extra items are thrown away. Repeated violations can get you banned from sending mail. Books must come sealed from publishers. If a package looks suspicious, it won’t be opened at all.
How long does it take for money to show up in an inmate’s account?
Online deposits appear within minutes. Kiosk payments take 15–30 minutes. Money orders by mail can take 3–5 business days. Always keep your receipt. If funds don’t appear after a week, contact the commissary provider with your transaction ID.
Can inmates receive care packages?
No. Mower County Jail does not allow outside care packages. All personal items must be bought through the commissary. This rule prevents contraband and keeps the process fair. Families can send money instead, which inmates use to buy approved snacks, hygiene products, and clothing.
What programs help inmates find jobs after release?
The jail offers GED classes, vocational training in trades like carpentry and plumbing, and computer literacy courses. Counselors also connect inmates with local employers and reentry programs. Work release allows some inmates to keep jobs during the day while serving their sentence at night.
How do I request inmate records or booking details?
Submit a written request to the Mower County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s name, booking date, and your contact information. Some records are free; others have a small fee. For mugshots or arrest reports, specify exactly what you need. Processing takes 7–10 business days.