Dillon County Detention Center is a medium-security facility located at 1027 Old Latta Highway in Dillon, South Carolina. Built in 1934, it sits on a 5-acre campus near the Dillon County Courthouse and Interstate 95. The jail holds up to 140 inmates after a 1998 expansion added a modern intake wing, medical unit, and recreation yard. Staff includes 37 correctional officers, a full-time nurse, a deputy sheriff, and administrative personnel who manage records, court liaison, and family communications. Daily meals are served at 6:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 5:30 p.m. The center offers GED preparation and vocational workshops through Dillon County Community College. All mail and calls are monitored under South Carolina Department of Corrections rules.
Location and Contact Information
The main entrance to Dillon County Detention Center is at 1027 Old Latta Highway, Dillon, SC 29536. The administrative office and parking lot are listed at 1033 Old Latta Highway in some county records. The primary phone number is 843-774-1435, available during business hours for inmate status, visitation, and records requests. An emergency contact line operates after hours for urgent matters. The facility is a half-mile from the courthouse and three minutes from I-95 Exit 7, making it accessible for families and legal professionals.
Inmate Capacity and Facility Details
The detention center was originally built to house 80 inmates. A major expansion in 1998 increased capacity to 140. The campus includes three main housing units with 40 bunks each, a central kitchen, a medical clinic, and a secure recreation yard. The medical unit is staffed by a registered nurse and a part-time physician. Inmates receive health screenings upon intake. The facility operates 24 hours a day and serves as a short-term holding center with an average stay of 22 days. Most inmates are charged with misdemeanors, non-violent felonies, or county-level violations.
Staffing and Operations
Dillon County Detention Center employs 37 correctional officers, a deputy sheriff, a full-time nurse, and administrative staff. The team manages inmate records, court coordination, food service, maintenance, and transportation. Staff undergo training in crisis intervention and use body cameras during duties. Weekly safety drills ensure readiness for emergencies. The sheriff’s office oversees operations and collaborates with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety for compliance and training.
Inmate Programs and Services
The center provides educational and vocational opportunities. Inmates can enroll in GED preparation classes and vocational workshops offered in partnership with Dillon County Community College. A library and computer lab support limited educational activities. Structured work programs include kitchen duties and facility maintenance. These programs aim to reduce idleness and support skill development during incarceration.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation is scheduled through an online portal and requires a valid photo ID. Visitors must submit a request at least 48 hours in advance. Each visit lasts 30 minutes and takes place in a supervised room with privacy partitions. Saturday and Sunday slots run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with additional Wednesday evening hours from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A strict dress code prohibits revealing clothing, gang-related symbols, and excessive jewelry. All visitors pass through metal detectors and undergo background checks.
Inmate Search and Roster Access
The inmate roster is available online and by calling 843-774-1435 during business hours. The list includes current bookings, arrest dates, and mugshots. Family members can verify an inmate’s status, bond amount, and court dates through the front desk. The online search tool is updated regularly and supports quick lookups by name or booking number. Records requests must include the inmate’s full legal name and booking number.
Mail, Phone, and Email Policies
All inmate mail is monitored and must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and the correct postal code 29536. Phone calls are billed at $0.15 per minute through McDaniel Supply Company’s JailPackStore platform. Family members create prepaid accounts to fund inmate phone privileges after a three-day waiting period. Email communication is available via a secure messaging service. Each message is limited to 200 characters, costs $0.25, and must be approved by staff before delivery. Senders must provide their name, address, and valid email.
Booking and Intake Process
The jail processed 3,858 bookings in 2023. The intake process includes fingerprinting, photographing, and a health screening by the on-site nurse. Inmates are classified based on offense type and risk level. The facility primarily holds adults awaiting trial or transfer to state prisons. Short-term felony detentions, misdemeanors, and traffic violations are common. The average length of stay is 22 days, reflecting its role as a temporary holding center.
Security Measures and Compliance
Dillon County Detention Center follows South Carolina Department of Corrections standards. The perimeter is secured with chain-link fencing and razor wire. Security protocols include metal detectors, background checks, and surveillance systems. The facility is classified as a “County Facility” and must meet state requirements for housing, staffing, and equipment. Regular audits ensure compliance with safety and operational guidelines.
Virtual Visitation Option
The center offers virtual visits through a secure video-conferencing platform. Approved family members can schedule sessions for $2.50 per visit. This service provides an alternative for those unable to visit in person. Requests must be submitted in advance and are subject to staff approval. Virtual visits follow the same rules as in-person visits, including ID verification and background checks.
Commissary and Money Orders
Inmates can purchase commissary items through McDaniel Supply Company’s online portal. Family members send prepaid money orders to fund accounts. Orders are shipped directly to the facility and processed within three business days. Approved items include hygiene products, snacks, and stationery. Spending limits apply to prevent misuse. Detailed guidelines are posted in the housing units and available from staff.
Medical and Mental Health Services
The medical unit provides basic care, including routine checkups, medication management, and emergency response. A registered nurse is on duty daily, with a physician available part-time. Mental health support is offered through referrals to county services. Inmates can request medical attention through staff. All treatments are documented and follow state health regulations.
Legal Rights and Grievance Procedures
Inmates have the right to file grievances regarding conditions, treatment, or policies. Forms are available from staff and must be submitted in writing. Responses are provided within a set timeframe. The facility’s operating policies, including inmate rights and disciplinary procedures, are outlined in a downloadable PDF on the County Office website. Legal assistance can be arranged through public defenders or private attorneys.
Transportation and Court Appearances
The detention center coordinates inmate transport to court hearings at the nearby Dillon County Courthouse. Staff ensure timely arrivals for scheduled appearances. Transportation is managed by trained officers and follows safety protocols. Inmates are secured during transit and returned promptly after proceedings. This system supports efficient case processing and reduces delays.
Community and County Context
Dillon County has a population of approximately 32,000, with a median household income of $49,500. The county’s economy includes agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics. The detention center plays a key role in local public safety. Community programs like “Dillon County Family First” support families affected by incarceration. The county government website provides access to public records, ordinances, and meeting minutes.
Sheriff’s Office Oversight
The Dillon County Sheriff’s Office manages the detention center and ensures compliance with state laws. The public liaison handles media inquiries and provides statistics on inmate demographics and staffing. The office conducts regular safety drills and uses modern technology for monitoring and communication. Collaboration with state agencies supports training and operational standards.
Historical Background
The facility was constructed in 1934 to meet the growing need for a secure holding center in Dillon County. Over the decades, it has undergone several upgrades, with the most significant expansion in 1998. These improvements modernized intake procedures, expanded medical services, and increased housing capacity. The center remains a vital part of the county’s criminal justice system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if someone is in jail at Dillon County Detention Center? You can search the online inmate roster or call 843-774-1435 during business hours. Provide the person’s full name or booking number for accurate results.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment? No. All visits must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance through the online portal. Walk-in visits are not permitted due to security and scheduling requirements.
What items can I bring to a visit? Only a valid photo ID is allowed. Bags, phones, and personal items must be left in your vehicle. The facility provides lockers for small belongings if available.
How do I send money to an inmate? Use the JailPackStore website by McDaniel Supply Company. Create an account, enter the inmate’s booking number, and fund their commissary account with a credit or debit card.
Are phone calls from inmates free? No. Inmates must use prepaid phone accounts. Family members can add funds online. Calls cost $0.15 per minute and are limited to approved numbers.
What happens during intake? Inmates are fingerprinted, photographed, and screened for health issues. They receive a bunk assignment and facility rules. Personal belongings are stored or returned upon release.
Can inmates receive books or magazines? Yes, but only if sent directly from publishers or bookstores. No used books or materials from individuals are allowed due to security policies.
Official Website: https://www.dilloncountysc.org/
Phone: 843-774-1435
Visiting Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Address: 1027 Old Latta Highway, Dillon, SC 29536