Albemarle County Regional Jail serves as a secure detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences in central Virginia. The jail operates under strict state guidelines and provides essential services for inmates, families, victims, and legal professionals. With a design capacity of 600 beds and an average daily population of 540, the facility manages intake, housing, medical care, visitation, and record-keeping with transparency and accountability. It partners with state systems like VINE to ensure victim safety and public access to custody information. Whether you’re searching for an inmate, planning a visit, or requesting official records, this page delivers accurate, up-to-date details directly from jail operations and verified sources.
Facility Overview and Operational Details
Albemarle County Regional Jail, also known as Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail (ACRJ), is a regional detention center serving Albemarle County and surrounding jurisdictions. Classified by the Virginia Department of Corrections, it functions as a secure custody facility for adult offenders. The jail houses male and female inmates across multiple specialized units, including general population, protective custody, and medical isolation sections. It maintains compliance with state standards for safety, sanitation, and inmate rights. Staffed by trained correctional officers and administrative personnel, the facility operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Daily routines include headcounts, meal service, medical checks, and supervised recreation. Security protocols are enforced through surveillance systems, controlled access points, and routine inspections. The jail also supports reentry programs, educational opportunities, and religious services to promote rehabilitation during incarceration.
Contact Information and Location
The main telephone number for Albemarle County Regional Jail is (434) 977-6981. Calls are answered during business hours from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For written inquiries, the fax number is (434) 977-5312. The physical address is 160 Peregory Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22902, located adjacent to the Albemarle County Courthouse. Visitors can access the site via US-29 North, turning left onto Peregory Lane at mile marker 2.3. Public transportation is available on Route 12, which stops near the facility. Parking is provided in a nearby municipal garage. All visitors must present valid photo identification and pass through security screening before entering. The jail’s parcel number is 2024-145-001, and it falls under the jurisdiction of the Albemarle County Sheriff’s Office. Emergency communications should be directed to local law enforcement or 911.
Inmate Search and Custody Status Tools
To locate an inmate at Albemarle County Regional Jail, use the official online roster updated every 30 minutes. The roster lists full legal name, date of birth, booking number, charge description, bond amount, housing unit, and projected release date. Users can search by name or booking ID. For those without internet access, call (434) 977-6981 during business hours. Staff will verify requester identity and inmate consent before releasing information. The Virginia VINE system offers 24-hour access to custody status via phone (1-800-711-8457) or online portal. Registered users receive automatic alerts for status changes such as release, transfer, or court appearances. VINE integrates data from the Virginia Department of Corrections, county jails, and state courts to ensure accuracy. More than 150,000 Virginians rely on VINE annually for real-time offender tracking.
Visitation Policies and Scheduling
Visitation at Albemarle County Regional Jail follows a structured schedule based on housing units. Male inmates in units WRC-1, WRC-2, and WRC-3 receive visits on Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and evenings on other days from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Female inmates in units JA, JB, JC, and JD are visited on Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Each inmate may have two 30-minute visits per month. Visitors must be on the approved list and show valid photo ID. Appointments are scheduled by housing unit, not by individual request. All visitors undergo security screening, and bags or personal items may be searched. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Prohibited items include cell phones, weapons, drugs, and recording devices. Visits may be denied or terminated for rule violations.
Communication Services: Email, Text, and Mail
Since January 4, 2023, Albemarle County Regional Jail has offered secure digital messaging through a certified vendor. Families can send emails and text messages via a web portal for $1.25 per outgoing message. Attachments up to 2 MB are allowed, including photos and scanned documents. Messages are scanned for prohibited content before being printed and delivered to inmates. Inmates reply using jail-issued tablets on a restricted network. All communications are monitored and logged. Traditional mail is also accepted but must include the inmate’s full name and booking number. Packages are inspected for contraband. Incoming mail should be addressed to: Inmate Name, Booking Number, 160 Peregory Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22902. Stamps, envelopes, and writing materials are available through commissary. No cash or personal checks are accepted in mail.
Money and Commissary Services
Inmates at Albemarle County Regional Jail can receive money through three methods: kiosk deposits at the facility, telephone payments using a credit card, or mailed money orders. The finance office accepts only money orders—no cash or personal checks. Deposits are added to the inmate’s account within 24 hours. Funds can be used to purchase commissary items such as snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and phone time. Commissary orders are processed weekly, and balances carry over unless the inmate is transferred or released. Families can check account balances by calling (434) 977-6981 or using the online inmate locator tool. Refunds upon release are issued via check within ten business days. All financial transactions are recorded and available for review upon written request.
Sentence Credits and Records Management
The Records Department at Albemarle County Regional Jail applies “jail credits” on a day-for-day basis for time served in custody. These credits reduce the total sentence imposed by the court unless a judge specifies otherwise. Credits are automatically calculated and recorded in the inmate’s disciplinary file. If an inmate previously served time for a related offense, the department cross-references court orders to prevent double-counting. Official records such as booking sheets, disciplinary reports, and release documents can be requested in writing. Requests are fulfilled within ten business days. The jail maintains digital and physical archives compliant with Virginia record retention laws. Inmates or their legal representatives may obtain copies for court, parole, or personal use. Fees may apply for extensive document reproduction.
Legal and Court-Related Information
Albemarle County Regional Jail coordinates closely with local courts for inmate transfers, hearings, and sentencing. Inmates may appear via video conference for certain proceedings to reduce transport risks. Court dockets and sentencing memoranda are accessible through the Virginia State Courts portal. For federal inmates transferred from ACRJ, records are available on the Federal Bureau of Prisons website (www.bop.gov). Attorneys can schedule confidential meetings with clients by contacting the Administrative Office. Legal mail is processed separately and not opened in front of inmates. Bond amounts vary by charge severity, ranging from $500 for misdemeanors to $25,000 for felonies. Bond hearings are conducted promptly after booking. Inmates have the right to legal representation, and public defenders are assigned if needed.
Health and Safety Protocols
Medical care at Albemarle County Regional Jail is provided by licensed healthcare professionals. Inmates receive initial health screenings upon intake and ongoing treatment for chronic conditions, injuries, or mental health needs. Prescription medications are administered under supervision. Emergency medical services are available 24/7, with transport to local hospitals if necessary. The facility follows CDC and Virginia Department of Health guidelines for disease prevention, including sanitation, isolation procedures, and vaccination programs. Mental health support includes counseling, crisis intervention, and medication management. Suicide prevention measures include regular welfare checks and restricted access to hazardous materials. Staff are trained in first aid, CPR, and de-escalation techniques. All incidents are documented and reviewed for policy improvements.
Reentry and Support Programs
Albemarle County Regional Jail offers reentry programs to help inmates transition back into the community. These include GED preparation, vocational training, substance abuse counseling, and life skills workshops. Religious services are available for all faiths, led by approved volunteers or chaplains. Inmates can participate in volunteer-led programs such as anger management, parenting classes, and job readiness training. Upon release, individuals receive a discharge packet with community resources, including housing assistance, employment services, and medical referrals. The jail collaborates with local nonprofits and government agencies to support successful reintegration. Participation in programs is voluntary but encouraged to reduce recidivism and promote personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Albemarle County Regional Jail handles thousands of inquiries each year from families, attorneys, victims, and researchers. Common questions involve inmate location, visitation rules, communication options, and record requests. This section answers the most frequent and important queries with clear, factual responses based on current policies and procedures. Each answer is designed to resolve confusion quickly and accurately, reducing repeat calls and improving public access to information.
How do I find out if someone is in Albemarle County Regional Jail?
Use the official online inmate roster, updated every 30 minutes, or call (434) 977-6981 during business hours. You’ll need the person’s full legal name or booking number. The Virginia VINE system also provides 24-hour access by phone (1-800-711-8457) or online. VINE shows custody status, court dates, and parole eligibility. Always verify your identity when requesting information. The roster includes charges, bond amount, and housing unit. If the person was recently arrested, allow 2–4 hours for processing. Transfers to state or federal facilities may delay updates. For privacy reasons, staff cannot confirm an inmate’s presence without proper verification.
Can I send money to an inmate at Albemarle County Regional Jail?
Yes, you can send money via three methods: deposit at the jail kiosk, pay by phone using a credit card, or mail a money order to the finance office. Do not send cash or personal checks. Money orders must be made payable to the inmate and include their full name and booking number. Deposits appear on the account within 24 hours. Funds can be used for commissary purchases, phone time, or medical co-pays. Account balances can be checked online or by phone. Refunds are issued by check upon release. All transactions are recorded and available for review. There is no fee for kiosk deposits, but phone payments may incur a service charge.
What are the visitation rules at Albemarle County Regional Jail?
Visits are scheduled by housing unit. Male inmates receive visits on Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and evenings on other days from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Female inmates are visited on Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Each inmate gets two 30-minute visits per month. Visitors must be on the approved list and show valid photo ID. Children under 18 need an adult present. All visitors pass through security screening. Prohibited items include phones, weapons, drugs, and recording devices. Visits may be denied for rule violations. Appointments are not required but must follow the unit schedule. Late arrivals may lose their slot.
How does the inmate email system work?
Since January 2023, the jail uses a secure vendor for digital messaging. Families send emails or texts through a web portal for $1.25 per message. Attachments up to 2 MB are allowed. Messages are scanned for banned content before printing and delivery. Inmates reply using jail tablets on a monitored network. All communications are logged and may be reviewed. The service is not real-time—delivery takes 1–2 business days. Only approved contacts can send messages. Inmates cannot initiate contact. The system blocks links, codes, and certain keywords. Photos must not show violence, drugs, or illegal activity. Failure to follow rules may result in account suspension.
How are sentence credits calculated at Albemarle County Regional Jail?
Jail credits are applied day-for-day for time served in custody on the current conviction. The Records Department automatically calculates and records these credits. Judges may order otherwise in rare cases. If an inmate served time for a related offense, the department checks court orders to avoid double-counting. Credits reduce the total sentence length. For example, 100 days in jail equals 100 days off the sentence. Release dates are updated accordingly. Inmates can request a credit review in writing. Official records are provided within ten business days. This system ensures fairness and compliance with Virginia law.
What should I do if I’m a victim of a crime involving an inmate?
Register with Virginia’s VINE system at 1-800-711-8457 or online. You’ll receive automatic alerts when the offender’s status changes—such as release, transfer, or parole. VINE pulls data from jails, courts, and state prisons for accuracy. Over 150,000 Virginians use VINE yearly. You can also contact the jail’s victim liaison or the Albemarle County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. They provide court updates, safety planning, and support resources. Never approach an inmate directly. If you feel unsafe, notify law enforcement immediately. VINE notifications are free and confidential.
How do I request official records from the jail?
Submit a written request to the Records Department at 160 Peregory Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22902. Include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and specific documents needed (e.g., booking sheet, disciplinary report). Requests are processed within ten business days. Fees may apply for copying or certification. You can also email or fax requests using the contact numbers listed. Legal representatives must provide authorization. Records are released only to authorized parties. Digital copies may be available. The jail complies with Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) for public records.
Official Website: https://www.acrj.org/ Phone: (434) 977-6981 Fax: (434) 977-5312 Address: 160 Peregory Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22902 Visiting Hours: Sundays 7:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. (males), 12:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. (females); evenings 6:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (males only) VINE Hotline: 1-800-711-8457