Corrections

Overview

Services

Important Notes

The Sheriff’s Department Temporary Holding Facility serves as a secure, short-term detention space for individuals taken into custody by law enforcement officers. This facility is also used by the West Virginia Department of Corrections to hold inmates awaiting court hearings, trials, or other legal proceedings. It is designed to provide a safe environment while ensuring the well-being and security of detainees, staff, and the public. The facility is equipped with modern security features, including surveillance cameras, reinforced cells, and controlled access points to maintain order and prevent unauthorized entry.

The temporary holding area is utilized for inmates who are temporarily detained before their court dates or trial, ensuring they are securely housed while awaiting further legal processing.

In addition to holding, the facility is responsible for basic corrections procedures, including the initial intake process, identification, and record-keeping of detainees. The Correctional Officers employed by the Sheriff’s Department are certified by the State of West Virginia.

This facility plays a critical role in the Sheriff’s Department’s broader commitment to public safety, supporting the judicial system by securely holding inmates for their court hearings and trials while contributing to the overall effectiveness of law enforcement and corrections operations.

Contact Us

For questions or to learn more about the Corrections Division, please contact the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

Additional Resources

West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation

A. R. Gravely, Mercer County Sheriff's Department Corrections Officer

A. R. Gravely

Corrections Officer

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Frequently Asked Questions



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What is the purpose of the Temporary Holding Facility?

The Temporary Holding Facility is used by the Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia Department of Corrections to securely house individuals temporarily, primarily those awaiting court hearings, trials, or other legal proceedings.

Can I visit a detainee in the Temporary Holding Facility?

No, visitation is not permitted at the Temporary Holding Facility. Detainees are not allowed visits while they are in temporary detention. All communications are handled through authorized legal channels or court proceedings.

Can I meet with a detainee's lawyer at the facility?

No, lawyer conferences are not allowed at the Temporary Holding Facility. If a detainee requires legal counsel, they should arrange for their attorney to meet with them at a later stage, outside of this facility.

How can I retrieve a detainee’s property?

Provide valid government-issued identification. Present either a notarized statement from the detainee granting permission to release the property or a letter from the detainee’s Attorney of Record. These documents are required to ensure the proper handling of the detainee’s belongings.

Can I send personal items or packages to a detainee?

No, detainees are not allowed to receive personal items or packages while they are housed at the Temporary Holding Facility. They will have access to basic necessities provided by the facility.

How long will a detainee remain at the Temporary Holding Facility?

Detainees typically stay in the Temporary Holding Facility for a short period, usually until they are either transferred to a long-term facility or brought before a court for hearings or trial.

How can I find out about the status of a detainee?

To inquire about a detainee’s status, please contact the Sheriff’s Department. Due to privacy concerns and regulations, information regarding the specific status or location of a detainee may be limited.

Are detainees allowed to receive medical care?

Yes, detainees are provided access to medical care if needed. If a detainee requires medical attention, the facility ensures they receive appropriate treatment.

Is there a way to communicate with a detainee while they are in the facility?

Detainees are not permitted to communicate directly with family members or loved ones while at the Temporary Holding Facility. All communication is processed through official legal channels or during scheduled court proceedings.

What happens after a detainee’s court hearing or trial?

After their court hearing or trial, detainees are either transferred to a long-term detention facility or released, depending on the outcome of the legal proceedings. The Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia Department of Corrections oversee this process.