You can support your loved ones at Roger D Wilson Detention on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 865-281-6700.
When someone you care about gets arrested, it can be overwhelming. This webpage aims to ease your concerns by providing information about Knox County TN Detention Facility. From visitation guidelines to contacting jail staff, we're here to support you as you navigate this challenging time. Take a look around and let us help you understand how to best support your family member or friend in custody.
The Roger D Wilson Detention, located at 5001 Maloneyville Rd in Knoxville, TN, is a secure detention center operated by the Knox County Sheriff's Office. This facility primarily houses individuals awaiting trial or sentencing, typically for less than two years. It accepts inmates from various jurisdictions, including surrounding towns, municipalities, the US Marshal's Service, and the Knoxville Police Department.
New detainees are regularly admitted to the jail, with some being released on bail or placed under pretrial services caseloads. Others await their court appearances at the facility, receiving necessary accommodations such as bedding and meals. View all arrest records here.
Individuals who do not post bail within the first twenty-four hours are required to appear before a judge. During this first appearance, conducted either in person or via telephone, the judge informs the arrested person of the charges against them and sets the bond amount.
Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.
After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.
The jail is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.
The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.
Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.
Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.
Reporting Family Emergencies -If there is an emergency, call (865) 281-6700 (Detention Facility) or (865) 342-9620 and advise the operator of the situation. When the emergency is verified, then the call can go through.
Adding Funds to an Inmate Account -Jail ATMs are located in the lobby of the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility and the Knox County Jail. You may place cash into the ATM for the inmate for a $4.95 surcharge. ATMs will also accept credit cards for a 10% surcharge. You may also add funds to inmate accounts by visitingjailatm.com.
Money Orders and Cashier’s Checks will be accepted by MAIL ONLY. A $2.50 surcharge will automatically be placed on all Money Order and Cashier’s Check received. Do not include any letters or correspondence with the Money Order or Cashier’s Check, as it will not be given to inmates.
Personal Property -Personal property will not be accepted unless prior approval has been obtained from the Facility Commander or his/her designee.Inmates may release personal property 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.Money will only be released Monday through Friday during normal business hours. A “Property Transfer Receipt” must be completed prior to the money or property being issued.
Release of Funds to Inmates -All inmates being released from a Knox County Correctional Facility will be issued a debt card for the balance of their “Inmate Money Account.” Inmates may pick up funds if not available upon release at the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.
Note:All monies not claimed within one year will be cancelled and the funds transferred to the State of Tennessee as unclaimed funds.
