The 4th Ave Jail in Phoenix, AZ, also called the Saguaro Jail, is a key facility run by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). You’ll find it in downtown Phoenix. But finding reliable information about the jail can be challenging.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the 4th Ave Jail, including details on visitation policies, inmate services, and general procedures.
With a capacity of over 2,000 inmates, the 4th Ave Jail plays a significant role in the Maricopa County justice system. Here’s what you need to know.
A Quick Look at the 4th Avenue Jail
The 4th Avenue Jail, also known as the Durango Jail, is one of the main detention facilities in downtown Phoenix. Here’s what you need to know:
General Information
- Location: 201 S. 4th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003
- General Inquiries: (602) 876-1239
- Opened: April 2005 (as part of a county jail expansion)
- Capacity: 2,064 beds (including 288 high-security beds)
Services and Programs
The 4th Avenue Jail offers a few services to inmates, including:
- Video visitation
- A medical and dental clinic
- Educational and religious programs
There’s also a 4th Ave Inmate Inquiry service, but that’s only available to prospective bail clients.
Visiting an Inmate at the 4th Avenue Jail
If you need to visit someone incarcerated at the 4th Avenue Jail, here’s what you need to know.
Visitation Hours and Scheduling
Generally, visitation hours run from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm, seven days a week. However, these hours can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the jail’s website or call them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Inmates are allowed a maximum of three 30-minute visits within a seven-day period.
Visitation Procedures and Rules
Before you can visit, you’ll need to fill out a visitation form with the inmate’s information. You’ll also need to show a valid photo ID.
The number of visitors allowed at one time is limited to two or three, depending on the age of the visitors.
Keep in mind that you can’t bring personal items like jewelry or phones into the visitation area. You’ll need to store them in a locker beforehand. And remember to dress appropriately – no revealing clothing, gang-related attire, or anything that could conceal your identity.
Underage Visitation
If you’re bringing a minor with you, they must be accompanied by an adult. Children aged 14-17 will also need to provide identification.
Virtual Visitation
Video visitation is available through the Saguaro Jail system. Contact them for scheduling and other important information.
What services and procedures are available for inmates at the 4th Avenue Jail?
Here’s a quick overview of some of the services and procedures available to inmates.
Property and Money Release
Inmates can release their personal property within 72 hours of being booked into the jail. After that, they’ll need approval to release property. Funds can be deposited into an inmate’s account by other inmates or visitors using touch pay kiosks, by mail, or via checks.
Inmate Medication
The jail has policies regarding medication for inmates, but I can’t provide specific details here. Contact the jail directly for more information.
Child Custody
If an arrested person has children, the arresting officer is required to attempt to locate family members who can take custody of the children. If family members can’t be located, Child Protective Services (CPS) may be contacted. You can reach the CPS Hotline at 1-888-767-2445.
Getting Out: Bail and Release Options
Okay, so someone you care about is inside. What are the options for getting them out of the Fourth Avenue Jail?
Bail Bonds
One option is to purchase a bail bond. You’ll need to contact a bail bondsman (the jail can give you a list of recommended bondsmen) and pay a percentage of the total bail amount. This ensures the person will appear in court.
Alternative Release Options
Sometimes, the court will release a person on their Own Recognizance (OR), meaning they promise to appear in court without having to pay bail. Other options include Third Party Release, where a responsible adult agrees to supervise the person, and Pretrial Services Release, which involves supervision and monitoring by pretrial services.
Can Bail Be Reduced?
It’s also worth contacting the service provider listed earlier. They might be able to help you get the bail amount reduced or even eliminated altogether. It’s always worth exploring all your options.
In conclusion…
The 4th Avenue Jail in Phoenix is a large facility with a specific location, visitation schedule, set of inmate services, and a list of rules. Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of this facility and what to expect if you need to interact with it.
It’s important to remember that every correctional facility operates under its own rules and regulations. The information here should get you started, but contacting the jail directly for the most up-to-date information specific to your situation is always a good idea.