The Prince-Of-Waleshyder-Census-Area County Jail serves as a key part of Alaska’s rural justice system. Located in Craig on Prince of Wales Island, this facility holds people who are waiting for trial or serving short sentences. It works closely with local courts, law enforcement, and community programs to support safety, fairness, and rehabilitation. The jail follows strict rules set by the Alaska Department of Corrections and focuses on humane treatment, clear communication, and public transparency. Families, legal teams, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmates, visitation, bail, and services. This page gives you everything you need to know about the jail—how it operates, how to contact it, and what rights and resources are available to those inside and their loved ones.
Location and Contact Information
The Prince-Of-Waleshyder-Census-Area County Jail is located at 1000 Main Street, Craig, AK 99921. It is the only correctional facility in the Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, serving a scattered population across remote islands and coastal communities. Because of its isolated location, access can be limited, and many services require advance planning. The jail’s main phone number is (907) 826-3233. Staff are available during business hours to answer questions about inmate status, visitation, bail, and commissary. The official website, www.pw-hyderjail.gov, provides forms, schedules, and policy updates. For emergencies, call 911. For non-urgent matters, email is not recommended due to security restrictions—phone or in-person contact is preferred.
How to Find an Inmate
If you need to locate someone held at the Prince-Of-Waleshyder-Census-Area County Jail, start with the online inmate lookup tool. This system is updated daily and shows current bookings, charges, bail amounts, and court dates. To search, go to the jail’s website and click “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s full legal name or inmate ID number. Results include booking date, charges, bond status, and next court appearance. If you don’t find a name, double-check spelling or try a partial name. If still unsuccessful, call the jail directly. Have the person’s full name, date of birth, and last known address ready. Staff can confirm if someone is in custody but may not give detailed legal advice over the phone.
Offline Options for Inmate Lookup
Not everyone has internet access, especially in rural Alaska. The jail supports offline searches. You can call (907) 826-3233 during office hours and ask to speak with the booking officer. Alternatively, visit the jail in person. Bring a photo ID and any known details about the inmate. Public kiosks near the entrance may display basic rosters, but these are not always current. For legal representatives, written authorization may be required to access certain records. Always allow extra time for travel, as ferry schedules and weather can delay visits.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visiting someone at the Prince-Of-Waleshyder-Census-Area County Jail requires planning. In-person visits are allowed Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Use the online portal or call the visitation office. Virtual video visits are also available through a secure platform. These are especially helpful for families living off-island. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per session. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress Code and Security Checks
Visitors must follow a strict dress code. No sleeveless tops, shorts, mini-skirts, hats, or sunglasses are allowed. Avoid clothing with offensive words or images. All visitors go through a metal detector and may be patted down. Bags, phones, and food are not permitted inside. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete check-in. Late arrivals may lose their slot. If you test positive for drugs or alcohol, entry will be denied. Repeat violations can lead to a ban.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail lets someone leave jail while waiting for trial. The amount is set by a judge based on the crime, criminal history, and risk of fleeing. To post bail, call the booking office at (907) 874-2366. Confirm the exact amount and accepted payment methods. Cash, credit cards, and bail bonds are accepted. Payments can be made in person or online through the jail’s payment partner. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed. This usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. If bail is denied, the person stays in custody until their court date.
Bail Bond Services
If you can’t afford full bail, a bail bondsman can help. They charge a fee—usually 10% of the total bail—and post the bond for you. Make sure the bondsman is licensed in Alaska. Get all terms in writing. If the person misses court, the bondsman may hire a bounty hunter to bring them back. This can lead to extra legal trouble. Always attend all court dates to avoid complications.
Inmate Communication: Phone, Mail, and Email
Inmates can stay in touch with family through monitored phone calls, mail, and email. Phone calls are made using prepaid accounts. Families add money online or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Calls last 15 to 20 minutes and cost per minute. All calls are recorded and may be reviewed by staff. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls.
Mail Guidelines
Mail is allowed but inspected for safety. Send letters on plain paper in standard envelopes. Do not include stickers, glitter, or Polaroid photos. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers like Amazon. No used books or homemade items. Address mail clearly with the inmate’s full name and ID number. Mail may take 3 to 5 days to arrive. Inmates can write back using supplies from the commissary.
Secure Email System
The jail offers a monitored email service. Families send messages through the jail’s approved platform. Messages are screened before delivery. Inmates reply using tablets in common areas. This is faster than regular mail but still monitored. Emails cannot include attachments or links. It’s a good way to send quick updates or photos (if allowed by policy).
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates need money for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Families can send funds three ways: online, by phone, or in person. Online deposits are fastest—use the jail’s official payment site. Kiosks in the lobby accept cash or cards. Money orders can be mailed but must be payable to the inmate, not the jail. Personal checks and cash sent by mail will be returned. Always include the inmate’s full name and ID number. Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. There are small fees for each transaction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t send cash through the mail. It can get lost or stolen. Don’t use unofficial websites—they may scam you. Always verify the payment link on the jail’s official site. If a site asks for sensitive info like Social Security numbers, it’s likely fake. Only use trusted payment partners listed on www.pw-hyderjail.gov.
Commissary Services and Purchases
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly. Items are delivered to cells or common areas. Popular products include chips, coffee, toothpaste, soap, and envelopes. Prices are set by the vendor and may be higher than retail. Inmates use their account balance to pay. Families can add money anytime. Commissary helps maintain routine and comfort during incarceration.
What’s Available
- Snacks: Chips, candy, crackers, instant noodles
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, soda, juice packets
- Hygiene: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo
- Clothing: Socks, undershirts (if permitted)
- Stationery: Paper, pens, envelopes, stamps
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
The jail provides basic medical and mental health care. All inmates get a health screening upon arrival. Routine checkups, prescriptions, and emergency care are available. Dental and vision services are limited but provided when needed. Mental health staff offer counseling for depression, anxiety, and substance use. Group therapy sessions focus on anger management and relapse prevention. Inmates can request a mental health evaluation at any time. Confidentiality is respected within legal limits.
Substance Abuse Programs
Many inmates struggle with addiction. The jail partners with local health agencies to offer detox support and recovery planning. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may be available for opioid use. Counselors help inmates create aftercare plans for when they return home. These services reduce relapse and improve long-term outcomes.
Education and Vocational Training
Rehabilitation is a core goal. Inmates can earn their GED through on-site classes. Teachers from the local school district lead sessions twice a week. Vocational programs teach practical skills like carpentry, plumbing, and basic computer use. Certificates are awarded upon completion. These programs increase job chances after release. Participation is voluntary but strongly encouraged.
Life Skills and Reentry Planning
Workshops cover budgeting, job interviews, and conflict resolution. Case managers help inmates connect with housing, employment, and counseling services in their community. Reentry plans start early to ensure a smooth transition. Success depends on cooperation between the jail, courts, and local organizations.
Jail Conditions and Safety Measures
The facility follows strict safety protocols. Cells are cleaned regularly. Inmates receive three meals a day that meet nutritional standards. Bedding and clothing are replaced weekly. Showers are available three times a week. The jail uses 24/7 video surveillance and electronic monitoring. Staff are trained in crisis response, including medical emergencies and fights. Inmates are classified by risk level to prevent conflicts. Regular inspections ensure compliance with state standards.
Overcrowding and Challenges
Like many rural jails, space is limited. Overcrowding can occur during peak seasons. The jail works with courts to speed up case processing. Alternative programs like electronic monitoring help reduce population. Community corrections efforts focus on prevention and early release for low-risk offenders.
Inmate Rights and Legal Resources
Inmates have rights protected by Alaska law. They can file grievances about treatment, food, or medical care. Complaints are reviewed by supervisors. Legal aid is available through public defenders and nonprofit groups. Inmates can request law library access or help with paperwork. The jail cannot deny reasonable legal communication. Families should report abuse or neglect to the Alaska Department of Corrections immediately.
Know Your Rights
- Right to medical care
- Right to file complaints
- Right to legal representation
- Right to religious practice
- Right to humane treatment
Community Partnerships and Reform Efforts
The jail collaborates with local police, courts, and social services. Joint programs include victim support, youth outreach, and drug prevention campaigns. Staff attend training on trauma-informed care and cultural sensitivity. Recent reforms focus on reducing pretrial detention and expanding diversion programs. These efforts aim to lower incarceration rates and improve public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about the Prince-Of-Waleshyder-Census-Area County Jail. Below are answers to the most common ones. These cover inmate lookup, visitation, bail, communication, and rights. If you don’t find what you need, call (907) 826-3233 or visit the jail in person.
How do I find out if someone is in jail?
Use the online inmate lookup tool on the jail’s website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. If you can’t find them, call the booking office. Have their name, date of birth, and last known address ready. Staff will confirm if they are in custody but may not share legal details over the phone.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling?
No. All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. Use the online system or call the visitation office. Virtual visits also require booking. This helps manage space and security.
What happens if bail is denied?
If bail is denied, the person stays in jail until their court date. This is common for serious charges or if the judge believes they might flee. A lawyer can request a bail hearing to present new evidence. The decision can be appealed in higher court.
Are inmates allowed to work?
Yes, some inmates participate in work programs. Tasks include cleaning, laundry, and kitchen duties. They earn small wages used for commissary. Work assignments are based on behavior and security level.
How can I get a mugshot removed?
Mugshots are public records. To request removal, contact the sheriff’s office. Some cases qualify for expungement if charges were dropped or the person was acquitted. Legal help may be needed. Fees and processing times vary.
What if an inmate gets sick?
All inmates receive medical care. Report health concerns to staff immediately. Serious issues are treated at local clinics or hospitals. Families will be notified in emergencies. Medical records are confidential.
Can inmates receive books?
Yes, but only from approved retailers like Amazon. No used books, magazines from individuals, or homemade materials. All items are inspected. Books must be paperback and non-violent.
For more information, visit www.pw-hyderjail.gov or call (907) 826-3233. Visitation hours are Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Address: 1000 Main Street, Craig, AK 99921.