Multnomah County Detention Center Overview

The Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) in Portland, Oregon, is a key facility within the county’s correctional system. Managed by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, it primarily holds male and female inmates awaiting trial, sentencing, or those serving short sentences. The facility operates at a capacity of 676 inmates and focuses on providing both pretrial and sentenced prisoners a secure environment. MCDC is known for its downtown location, which provides convenient access to court services, making it central to the local justice system.

Multnomah County Detention Center, Portland, OR

Contact Information for Multnomah County Detention Center

  • Address:
    1120 SW Third Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
  • Phone Number:
    (503) 988-3689
  • Email:
    [Not publicly available]
  • Emergency:
    Dial 911
  • Non-Emergency Line:
    (503) 823-3333

Visiting Information at Multnomah County Detention Center

Visiting an inmate at Multnomah County Detention Center requires careful planning due to specific guidelines and time slots.

  • Visiting Hours:
    • In-person visits:
      Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings starting at 9:30 AM
      Saturday visits: 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM
    • Video visits (for Inverness Jail inmates):
      Available throughout the week but must be scheduled online at least 24 hours in advance.
  • Visit Duration:
    Visits are typically 30 minutes long, with a maximum of two visits per week allowed.
  • Requirements:
    All visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list and are subject to background checks. It’s recommended to arrive at least 60 minutes before the visit starts.
  • What to Bring:
    Government-issued ID is required, and personal items like phones or bags are not permitted inside the facility.

How to Book a Visit at Multnomah County Detention Center

Booking a visit at Multnomah County Detention Center can be done through their online visitation portal. For video visits, reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance via Securus Technologies.

  • Requirements to Book:
    You will need the inmate’s booking number, your government-issued ID, and to be on the inmate’s approved visitor list.
  • Group Size:
    Up to three visitors can attend a kiosk video visit at a time. On-site visits allow for a maximum of four people, including children.
  • Contact for Bookings:
    Call the jail’s main number at (503) 988-3689 for assistance with booking and scheduling.

Directions and Parking for Multnomah County Detention Center

Multnomah County Detention Center is located in downtown Portland, easily accessible by public transit and car.

  • Address:
    1120 SW Third Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
  • Directions:
    From I-5, take exit 300B and follow signs to SW Third Avenue. The detention center is situated within walking distance of Portland’s main justice buildings.
  • Parking:
    Limited street parking is available, but visitors are encouraged to use nearby public parking garages or take public transportation to avoid delays.

What is Multnomah County Detention Center Like for Inmates?

Life inside Multnomah County Detention Center focuses on security, rehabilitation, and maintaining order. Inmates undergo routine intake procedures, including searches and medical assessments. They are housed in various units based on their security risk and needs, with opportunities for work programs, legal aid, and mental health services. However, overcrowding remains a concern, leading to the potential for early releases when the facility reaches full capacity.

Famous Prisoners at Multnomah County Detention Center

Over the years, the Multnomah County Detention Center has housed a variety of notable inmates, including those involved in high-profile cases. Some have faced charges ranging from political protests to serious felonies. Given Portland’s active social justice movements, the jail has seen figures involved in civil disobedience and protests.

FAQs About Multnomah County Detention Center

  1. How can I locate an inmate at Multnomah County Detention Center?
    Use the inmate lookup tool on the sheriff’s office website or call the main jail number at (503) 988-3689.

  2. What are the visiting hours at Multnomah County Detention Center?
    Visiting hours vary by day, with on-site visits available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

  3. Can I schedule a video visit at Multnomah County Detention Center?
    Yes, video visits are available through Securus Technologies for Inverness Jail inmates, and they must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.

  4. Is parking available at the Multnomah County Detention Center?
    Parking is limited, but nearby public parking garages offer an alternative. Public transit is recommended.

  5. What is the capacity of Multnomah County Detention Center?
    The detention center has a capacity of 676 inmates.

  6. How do I deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account?
    Funds can be deposited via TouchPay kiosks, phone, or online.

  7. How do I post bail for an inmate at Multnomah County Detention Center?
    Bail can be posted at the Justice Center Public Desk or through TouchPay’s online system.

  8. Can inmates make phone calls?
    Inmates can make outgoing collect calls or use Correctional Billing Services to set up an account.

  9. What should I bring to a visit at Multnomah County Detention Center?
    Visitors must bring a government-issued ID and leave personal items outside the facility.

  10. What security level does the Multnomah County Detention Center hold?
    The facility houses inmates ranging from minimum to medium security levels.


For further details, you can visit the official Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office website.

Visit Montgomery County Jail