Lewiston-Metro-Area County Jail is a secure detention facility operated by the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office in Lewiston, Maine. It houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to state prison. The jail ensures public safety while providing essential services to inmates, including medical care, education, and rehabilitation programs. Families, legal professionals, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, visitation rules, and facility operations. This page delivers comprehensive, current details about the jail’s location, contact methods, inmate lookup tools, booking procedures, and support services—all verified with the latest official data from Androscoggin County and the Maine Department of Corrections.
Official Location and Contact Details
The Lewiston-Metro-Area County Jail is located at 27 Court Street, Lewiston, ME 04240. This central address places it near key city landmarks, including the Androscoggin County Courthouse and local law enforcement agencies. The facility operates under the direct supervision of the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office, which manages daily operations, security protocols, and inmate services.
For general inquiries, call (207) 753-8285. The inmate information line is (207) 753-8286. Emergency contacts should be directed to 911. The official website is www.androscoggincountyso.org. All calls are recorded for security and training purposes. Staff are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. After-hours emergencies are handled by on-duty correctional officers.
Visitation occurs at scheduled times and requires advance registration. Visitors must present valid photo ID and follow strict dress codes. Virtual visitation is available through the jail’s approved video platform. All visits are subject to cancellation due to security concerns or facility emergencies.
Inmate Search and Roster Access
Finding an inmate at Lewiston-Metro-Area County Jail starts with the online inmate lookup tool. This free service is updated daily and accessible 24/7. Users can search by full name, date of birth, or booking number. Results show current custody status, charges, bond amount, court dates, and housing location.
To use the system, visit the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Enter the required details and review the results. If no match appears, the person may not be in custody, or the name may be misspelled. Double-check spelling and try alternate names or nicknames.
For offline searches, call the jail’s public information line. Provide the inmate’s full legal name and date of birth. Staff will confirm custody status and basic details. In-person inquiries are accepted during business hours at the front desk. Bring a valid ID and any known booking information.
The inmate roster includes names, booking dates, charges, and bond amounts. It does not display mugshots or personal health data due to privacy laws. Mugshots may be requested through a formal public records application. Processing fees may apply.
Booking Process and Arrest Procedures
When someone is arrested in Lewiston, they are transported to the county jail for booking. This process begins with fingerprinting using live-scan technology. Fingerprints are sent to state and federal databases for identity verification and background checks.
A digital mugshot is taken and stored in the jail’s records system. Personal belongings are inventoried and secured. Inmates receive a health screening within 24 hours. This includes questions about medical conditions, medications, and mental health history.
All new inmates undergo a classification assessment. This determines housing placement based on behavior, offense type, and risk level. High-risk individuals are placed in secure units with increased supervision.
Bail is set during the first court appearance, typically within 48 hours of arrest. Judges consider the severity of charges, criminal history, and flight risk. If bail is granted, payment can be made in cash, via credit card, or through a licensed bail bondsman.
Inmate Communication: Phone, Mail, and Email
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved contacts. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and cost $0.21 per minute. Funds must be added to the inmate’s phone account in advance. Family members can deposit money online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby.
All calls are monitored and recorded. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Emergency messages are relayed by staff when necessary. Phone privileges may be restricted for disciplinary reasons.
Mail is allowed but must follow strict rules. Letters must be on plain white paper in standard envelopes. No stickers, drawings, or colored ink. Polaroid photos are prohibited. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or retailers.
Email is available through a secure messaging system. Messages are screened before delivery. Inmates can reply using the same platform. This service is faster than traditional mail and helps maintain family connections.
Sending Money to Inmates
Family and friends can send money to inmates through three secure methods. Online deposits are made via the jail’s commissary partner website. Payments are processed instantly and added to the inmate’s account.
Kiosk payments are accepted at the jail entrance. Cash, credit, and debit cards are supported. Receipts are provided for all transactions. Money orders can be mailed to the jail’s address. Make checks payable to the inmate’s full name and include their ID number.
Personal checks and cash are not accepted by mail. Funds are used for commissary purchases, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Balances remain on the account until release. Refunds are issued upon discharge.
Commissary Services and Available Items
The commissary allows inmates to buy snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to housing units. Popular items include chips, candy, coffee, and soft drinks.
Personal care items include toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and deodorant. Writing supplies feature envelopes, paper, and pens. Basic clothing like socks and undershirts is also available.
Prices are set by the commissary vendor and may change. Inmates receive a price list upon intake. Funds must be available before ordering. Items are distributed within 48 hours of purchase.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
In-person visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Use the online portal or call the visitation office. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visit per week. Up to two adults may visit at once.
Visitors must arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Valid photo ID is required. Security screening includes a metal detector and bag inspection. Prohibited items include phones, bags, and food.
Dress code rules ban revealing clothing, hats, and offensive graphics. Sleeveless shirts and shorts above the knee are not allowed. Failure to comply results in denied entry.
Virtual visits are conducted via video link. Sessions last 20 minutes and cost $7.50. Book online through the approved provider. Technical support is available during operating hours.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
All inmates receive a medical evaluation within 24 hours of arrival. This includes vital signs, medication review, and screening for infectious diseases. Chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension are managed with regular monitoring.
Mental health services include individual counseling and group therapy. Substance abuse programs offer detox support and relapse prevention. Licensed clinicians conduct assessments and create treatment plans.
Dental and vision care are available for urgent needs. Prescription medications are dispensed by on-site medical staff. Emergency care is provided 24/7 with access to local hospitals.
Education and Vocational Training Programs
Inmates can earn a GED through the facility’s education program. Classes are held weekdays and led by certified instructors. Materials and testing are provided free of charge.
Vocational training includes carpentry, plumbing, and computer skills. These programs prepare inmates for employment after release. Certificates are awarded upon completion.
Life skills courses cover budgeting, job searching, and conflict resolution. Participation is encouraged but not mandatory. Programs aim to reduce recidivism and support successful reintegration.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail amounts are set by judges during arraignment. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after processing paperwork.
Release times vary based on staffing and court schedules. Most releases occur within 2 hours of bail payment. Inmates receive their personal belongings and a release summary.
Those serving short sentences are released directly from the facility. Transfer to state prison requires coordination with the Maine Department of Corrections. Families are notified when possible.
Security Measures and Facility Operations
The jail uses 24/7 surveillance with high-definition cameras. Electronic monitoring tracks inmate movement. Staff undergo regular training in crisis response and de-escalation techniques.
Emergency protocols cover fires, medical crises, and security breaches. Inmates are classified by risk level to ensure appropriate housing. Regular inspections maintain safety and sanitation standards.
Community Partnerships and Public Resources
The jail collaborates with local police, courts, and social services. Educational tours are offered to schools and civic groups. Victim assistance programs provide support and information.
Public awareness campaigns explain jail operations and rehabilitation efforts. Community input is welcomed through advisory boards and public meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if someone is in Lewiston-Metro-Area County Jail? Use the online inmate lookup tool on the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s website. Search by name or booking number. If no results appear, call (207) 753-8286 for assistance.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling in advance? No. All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours ahead. Walk-in visits are not permitted due to security and staffing requirements.
Are mugshots publicly available? Mugshots are part of booking records and may be requested through a public records application. Submit a written request to the Sheriff’s Office. Fees may apply.
What happens if an inmate gets sick? Medical staff evaluate all health concerns promptly. Serious conditions are treated at local hospitals. Inmates receive necessary medications and follow-up care.
How long does the booking process take? Booking usually takes 1 to 3 hours. It includes fingerprinting, health screening, and classification. Delays may occur during high-volume periods.
Can inmates use social media? No. Inmates do not have access to the internet or personal devices. All communication is monitored and restricted to approved methods.
What programs help inmates prepare for life after jail? The facility offers GED classes, vocational training, and life skills courses. These programs aim to reduce reoffending and support successful reentry.