The jail has an official capacity of 12 prisoners. Kotzebue is the center of government services for a number of satellite villages, and we're the holding facility for the court system, so we usually are at near-normal capacity, especially with local arrests by the Kotzebue Police.
After arraignment, most inmates are sent/transported to Anvil Mountain Correctional Center in Nome by the Alaska State Troopers (AST).
The resident "population" of the jail receive three (3) square meals a day. The meals are good and nutritious if basic, but there is no choice of fare.
Inmates are allowed the use of a pay telephone for 15 minutes a day (but usually are able to be on the phone more), if they desire. There are some books, games, and puzzles, but selections are limited to our small bookshelf. Any appropriate books can be donated to the jail library.
The jail is a 'No Smoking' facility.
For Female Inmates
2:00 to 3:00 pm
&
6:00 to 7:00 pm
For Male Inmates
3:00 to 4:00 pm
&
7:00 to 8:00 pm
You MUST provide a Photo ID AND be over the age of 18 to visit.
NOTE: No money or property will be accepted at the door. Call in phone card numbers for long distance calls. Arrange clothing exchanges ahead of time.
Attempts to bring contraband such as tobacco products will result in a ban from further visitation and possible criminal charges.
Books and games/puzzles of appropriate nature can be donated to the Jail. No Magazines or Movies.
Kotzebue Regional Jail was constructed and opened in 1995, replacing the old jail on the first floor of the old Kotzebue Police offices. The old building was demolished May 30, 2000, having been vacant since Fall 1999. On July 1, 2003, the Jail officially closed as a state contract jail, by vote of the City Council of Kotzebue, in a dispute over the financial impact and compensation for jail services. The Kotzebue Regional Jail re-opened to State Prisoners May 1, 2005.
Check out our Population Statistics since April, 1998!