Broome County Jail Visitation Hours are set by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and apply to the adult medium-security facility located at 155 Lt. Van Winkle Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905. The current visitation schedule runs Monday through Friday with specific time blocks for in-person visits. Each visit lasts up to 60 minutes, and inmates are allowed a maximum of two visits per calendar week. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID, follow strict dress code rules, and leave prohibited items like phones, vapes, and bags at the entrance. Scheduling is done online or by calling 607-778-1911. Video visits are also available and require booking at least 24 hours in advance. Holiday visits are limited to virtual sessions only, and written notice is required 72 hours ahead for holiday requests.
Current In-Person Visitation Schedule for General Housing Units
The official visitation hours for Broome County Jail’s General Housing units are posted weekly on the sheriff’s website and may vary slightly by housing section. On Mondays, visitors can attend between 8:30 AM–11:30 AM, 1:00 PM–2:30 PM, 3:30 PM–4:30 PM, and 6:00 PM–10:00 PM. Tuesdays offer two windows: 3:30 PM–4:30 PM and 6:00 PM–10:00 PM. Wednesdays include a midday slot from 1:00 PM–2:30 PM, followed by afternoon and evening times ending at 8:30 PM. These hours reflect the expanded schedule announced in January 2023, which doubled weekly visitation from 15 to 30 hours. Walk-in visits are now permitted Monday through Friday without prior appointments, provided visitors meet all entry requirements.
Video Visitation Rules and Booking Process
Video visits at Broome County Jail allow up to two guests per session and must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance through the official online portal. These virtual visits are especially important during holidays when in-person visits are not allowed. All New York State holidays—including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day—restrict physical visits to video-only format. To request a holiday video visit, families must submit a written notice 72 hours before the desired date. Video sessions follow the same 60-minute limit as in-person visits and are monitored for compliance with facility rules.
Required Identification and Dress Code Policies
Every visitor must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proper identification. The dress code prohibits revealing clothing, hats, hoodies, sunglasses, and any attire with offensive language or symbols. Shoes are required at all times. Visitors wearing inappropriate clothing will be denied entry. Prohibited items include cell phones, smartwatches, nicotine products, lighters, bags, and electronic devices. All personal belongings must be stored in lockers before entering the visitation area.
Prohibited Items and Security Screening Procedures
Broome County Jail enforces strict security measures to ensure safety during visits. Visitors cannot bring food, drinks, weapons, drugs, or any contraband into the facility. Electronic devices, including phones and tablets, must be left outside. Bags, purses, and backpacks are not allowed in the visitation area. All visitors pass through metal detectors and may be subject to pat-down searches. Anyone suspected of violating rules may be banned from future visits. The facility reserves the right to terminate a visit if behavior disrupts operations or threatens security.
How to Schedule a Visit: Online Portal and Phone Options
Visits can be scheduled using the Broome County Sheriff’s Office online visitation portal or by calling 607-778-1911 during business hours. The online system allows users to select available time slots based on the inmate’s housing unit. Walk-ins are accepted Monday through Friday but are subject to space availability. It is recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to complete check-in procedures. Late arrivals may lose their scheduled time. Cancellations should be made at least 24 hours in advance to allow others to book the slot.
Holiday Visitation Policy and Special Requests
On all New York State holidays, Broome County Jail only permits video visits. In-person visits are suspended on days like Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Independence Day. To arrange a holiday video visit, visitors must send a written request—either by mail or email—at least 72 hours before the holiday. The request should include the inmate’s name, offender ID, visitor names, and preferred time. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on staffing and system availability. Holiday schedules are published annually on the sheriff’s website.
Historical Changes: From COVID-19 Closure to Expanded Access
In March 2020, Broome County Jail suspended all in-person visits due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Face-to-face visitation remained closed for over two years. In August 2022, a New York appellate court ordered the jail to restore in-person visits, citing constitutional rights to family contact. The facility reopened on September 1, 2022, with a minimum of 15 weekly hours as required by law. On January 30, 2023, Sheriff Fred Akshar announced a 100% increase in visitation capacity, raising weekly hours to 30. This expansion added evening slots on Tuesdays and Thursdays and allowed walk-in visits without appointments, significantly improving access for families.
Inmate Locator and Roster Search Tools
To find an inmate at Broome County Jail, use the official inmate locator tool on the sheriff’s website or third-party platforms like InmateAid or New York Jail Roster. Search by the inmate’s full name, booking number, or offender ID. Results show current housing unit, charges, bond status, and projected release date. The database updates every 15 minutes to reflect new bookings and releases. Accurate spelling is essential—common names may return multiple results. Always verify details before scheduling a visit.
Contact Information and Facility Details
The Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility is located at 155 Lt. Van Winkle Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905. The main phone number is 607-778-1911, and the fax number is 607-778-1955. For visitation questions, call the corrections division directly. The facility operates as a medium-security county jail under the Broome County Sheriff’s Office. It houses adult inmates awaiting trial or serving short sentences. On-site parking is limited to 30 spaces; additional paid parking is available nearby. Public transportation routes serve the area, but schedules may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visitation
Common questions include whether children can visit, if same-day visits are allowed, and how often an inmate can receive visitors. Children under 18 must be supervised by an adult with valid ID. Same-day walk-ins are permitted Monday through Friday if space is available. Inmates are limited to two visits per week, regardless of visitor count. Video visits count toward this limit. Visitors with criminal records may be denied access depending on the offense. Always check the latest rules before arriving.
Legal Requirements and Court-Ordered Visitation Standards
New York State law mandates that county jails provide a minimum of 15 hours of in-person visitation per week. This standard was enforced after a 2022 appellate court ruling that found prolonged isolation unconstitutional. Broome County Jail complies by offering 30 hours weekly, exceeding the legal minimum. The policy ensures inmates maintain family ties, which supports rehabilitation and reduces recidivism. The sheriff’s office publishes all visitation rules in a public Table of Contents on its website, including step-by-step instructions for visitors.
Tips for a Successful Visit
Arrive early, bring only required items, and dress appropriately. Avoid discussing legal matters or passing messages through the inmate. Keep conversations positive and respectful. Follow all staff instructions during screening and visitation. If a visit is denied, ask for a written explanation and contact the sheriff’s office for clarification. Keep records of scheduled visits and confirmations. For technical issues with video visits, contact the support team listed on the booking portal.
Recent Updates and Official Announcements
In 2023, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office released a press statement confirming the permanent expansion of visitation hours. The change was made to reduce backlogs and improve family access. Media inquiries can be directed to Emmanuel Priest at 607-778-2437. All updates are posted on the official county website and social media channels. Visitors should check these sources regularly for changes due to emergencies, staffing shortages, or policy revisions.
Related Services and Support Resources
Families can access additional support through local organizations that assist with transportation, counseling, and legal aid. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office provides information on reentry programs, mail policies, and educational services for inmates. For victim support, contact the county’s victim assistance unit. Legal representatives can schedule professional visits separately from public hours. Always confirm appointment requirements in advance.
Summary of Key Visitation Facts
- Visitation days: Monday–Friday
- Maximum visits per inmate: 2 per week
- Visit duration: 60 minutes
- Required ID: Valid photo ID
- Video visits: Book 24 hours ahead
- Holiday visits: Video-only with 72-hour notice
- Walk-ins: Allowed Mon–Fri without appointment
- Prohibited items: Phones, vapes, bags, electronics
Official Resources and Direct Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office maintains the primary visitation schedule and rules on its corrections division page. Third-party sites may not reflect real-time changes. Contact the facility directly for urgent questions. Below are verified links and contact details:
Official Website: https://www.gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/corrections
Phone: 607-778-1911
Address: 155 Lt. Van Winkle Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905
Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, multiple time slots (see schedule above)
Email for inquiries: Use secure contact form on county website
Frequently Asked Questions
Visiting a loved one at Broome County Jail can raise many questions about rules, timing, and procedures. Below are detailed answers to the most common concerns based on official policies and recent updates.
Can I visit without an appointment?
Yes, walk-in visits are allowed Monday through Friday at Broome County Jail. The facility expanded its policy in 2023 to permit unscheduled visits during operating hours. However, space is limited, and priority may be given to pre-scheduled visitors. Arrive early and bring valid photo ID. If the visitation area is full, you may be asked to return later. It’s still recommended to book in advance when possible to guarantee a spot.
What happens if I arrive late for my visit?
Late arrivals risk losing their scheduled visitation time. The jail strictly enforces start and end times for each session. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, staff may cancel your visit without rescheduling. Allow extra time for parking, check-in, and security screening. Delays due to traffic or public transit are not excused. Always plan to arrive 15 minutes before your slot begins.
Are children allowed to visit inmates?
Children under 18 may visit but must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with valid photo ID. The guardian must sign a consent form at check-in. Children cannot be left unattended in the waiting area. Visits involving minors are closely monitored for safety and appropriateness. If a child becomes disruptive, the visit may be ended early. No toys, food, or electronic devices are allowed for children during the visit.
Can I bring gifts or money to an inmate during visitation?
No, visitors cannot bring gifts, cash, or personal items to inmates during visits. All mail and property must be sent through approved channels. Money can be deposited into an inmate’s account online or via kiosk in the lobby. Gifts such as books or clothing must be mailed directly from approved vendors. Bringing unauthorized items may result in denial of future visits.
What should I do if my visit is denied?
If your visit is denied, ask the staff for a written explanation. Common reasons include invalid ID, dress code violations, or prior bans. You can appeal the decision by contacting the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 607-778-1911. Provide your name, the inmate’s name, and the date of the incident. Keep records of all communications. Repeat violations may lead to permanent visitation restrictions.
How do I report a problem during my visit?
Report any issues—such as rude staff, safety concerns, or rule violations—immediately to a supervisor on duty. You can also file a formal complaint through the sheriff’s website or by mailing a letter to the corrections division. Include dates, times, names, and a clear description of the event. The office investigates all complaints and responds within 10 business days. Anonymous reports are accepted but may limit follow-up.
Is there a limit on how many people can visit at once?
Each in-person visit allows up to two visitors per inmate. Video visits also permit a maximum of two guests per session. Larger groups must split into separate visits. Only one visit per group is allowed per week due to the two-visit limit for inmates. Children count as visitors if they are present in the room. Plan accordingly to ensure everyone can participate within the rules.