Alexandria Detention Center is a local jail located at 2001 Mill Road in Alexandria, Virginia. It operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The facility houses up to 423 inmates in a 60,000-square-foot building built in 1999. It includes a medical wing, segregation unit, and a visitation lobby. Security uses electronic card-key entry, RFID tracking, and 24-hour CCTV cameras. The center processes about 120 new bookings weekly, covering both misdemeanor and felony charges. An online inmate search portal updates every 15 minutes with real-time booking, release, and court movement data. The main contact number is 703‑746‑5000, and a secondary line, 703‑746‑4099, handles general inquiries and visitation scheduling.
Facility Overview and Security Operations
The Alexandria Detention Center is managed by the Detention Center Bureau under the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office. The bureau runs two security shifts. The First Division handles daytime operations from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., managing visitor check-ins, inmate movement, and emergency response. The Second Division covers overnight duties from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., focusing on lockdowns, perimeter patrols, and incident reporting. Around 45 sworn officers and 15 civilian staff work at the center. They coordinate daily with the Virginia Department of Corrections and local police agencies to ensure safety and compliance with state laws.
Contact Information and Inmate Search
For custody status, bail details, or booking questions, call 703‑746‑5000. The line is staffed around the clock by trained dispatchers. The facility also offers an online inmate search tool that refreshes every 15 minutes. Users can find arrest records, mugshots, charge details, and court dates by entering a name or booking number. The search portal provides a printable intake form with key details like arrest date, alleged offense, bail amount, and next court appearance. For complex requests, the Records Division can be reached during business hours at the same number.
Visitation Rules and Procedures
Visitation requires a 24-hour advance call to 703‑746‑5000. Visitors must present a government-issued photo ID and pass through metal-detector screening. Anyone with a felony conviction is denied entry, even if on probation or parole. Co-defendants in active cases are also prohibited. Visits may be canceled without notice during security alerts. The visitation lobby opens at 9 a.m. daily. Designated parking is available under the interstate ramp, with short-term spaces for up to two hours. A dress code bans clothing with offensive language or graphics.
Medical and Emergency Response
The detention center includes a medical wing staffed by licensed professionals. Inmates receive basic healthcare, mental health screenings, and emergency treatment. All medical incidents are logged and reviewed by supervisory staff. In May 2022, inmate Anthony Moaf died after being found unresponsive in a solitary cell. A joint investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and Police Department reviewed surveillance footage, medical records, and staff logs. The Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy. A review board assessed emergency response protocols to prevent future incidents.
Facility Capacity and Infrastructure
The center has an official capacity of 423 inmates, as confirmed in the 2019 Virginia Facility Capacity Review. The building spans 60,000 square feet and includes administrative offices, housing units, a kitchen, and recreation areas. Security systems use RFID tags to track inmate movement and electronic keys for controlled access. Cameras monitor all common areas, hallways, and entry points. The segregation unit isolates high-risk individuals, while the medical wing handles routine and urgent care.
Staffing and Recruitment
The Alexandria Sheriff’s Office employs about 60 personnel at the detention center. Deputy Sheriff positions start at $58,407 to $64,395 annually, with overtime pay for detention assignments. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and must pass a background check, physical test, and interview. New hires complete a 12-week academy covering law, defensive tactics, firearms, and crisis management. The office actively recruits to maintain staffing levels and ensure operational readiness.
Nearby Facilities and Regional Coordination
The Alexandria Detention Center works closely with other correctional institutions in the region. Nearby facilities include the Northern Virginia Juvenile Detention Center, DC Central Detention Facility, and Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. These partnerships support inmate transfers, medical services, and rehabilitation programs. Shared resources help manage overcrowding and improve care standards across jurisdictions.
Media Coverage and Public Transparency
In 2022, Fox 5 DC reported on the death of Anthony Moaf at the facility. The news segment highlighted the ongoing investigation and statements from the Sheriff’s Office. Officials confirmed cooperation with the medical examiner and promised a public report upon completion. The coverage referenced past incidents to highlight systemic concerns. The Sheriff’s Office maintains a news section on its website to share updates on investigations, policy changes, and community outreach.
Family and Friend Support Resources
Families can contact the Visitation Deputy at 703‑746‑5044 or 703‑746‑4099 for scheduling and questions. The facility provides clear directions via Mill Road, with signage guiding visitors to the entrance. Parking is limited and located beneath the interstate ramp. Visitors must complete a health questionnaire and follow dress code rules. The Sheriff’s Office offers guidance on mail, phone calls, and commissary options for inmates.
Official Contact and Location Details
The Alexandria Detention Center is located at 2001 Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314. The main phone number is 703‑746‑5000. For faxed documents, use 703‑746‑5033. The facility operates continuously and is accessible via I-95 and I-495. Nearby landmarks include the Alexandria Library and King Street Metro Station. Visitors should follow posted signs and stay in the right lane when approaching the entrance.
Related Public Records and Legal Resources
Residents can access court documents, arrest records, and background checks through Virginia’s public records system. The Alexandria Sheriff’s Office provides inmate search tools and visitation guidelines online. For broader searches, users may explore county archives, marriage license databases, and police report repositories. These resources support transparency and help families stay informed about legal proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the Alexandria Detention Center operates, how to visit an inmate, and what rights individuals have while in custody. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official policies, recent reports, and public records.
How do I find out if someone is held at the Alexandria Detention Center?
Call 703‑746‑5000 or use the online inmate search portal, which updates every 15 minutes. Enter the person’s full name or booking number to see custody status, charges, bail amount, and next court date. The system shows real-time data, including new bookings and releases. For privacy reasons, only basic information is available. If you need more details, contact the Records Division during business hours. Always have the inmate’s full legal name ready to speed up the process.
Can I visit an inmate if I have a felony record?
No. Anyone with a felony conviction, even if on probation or parole, is not allowed to visit. This rule applies regardless of the offense type or time passed. Co-defendants in active cases are also denied. Visitors must pass a background check at the door. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, call 703‑746‑5000 at least 24 hours before your planned visit. The staff will confirm your status and explain any restrictions.
What should I bring when visiting an inmate?
Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. You’ll also need to pass through a metal detector and may be scanned for contraband. Wear appropriate clothing—no offensive language, graphics, or revealing outfits. Leave bags, phones, and personal items in your car. The facility does not allow food, gifts, or cash during visits. Arrive on time, as late arrivals may be turned away.
What happened in the May 2022 inmate death case?
On May 18, 2022, Anthony Moaf, a 25-year-old federal inmate, was found unresponsive in a solitary cell during a routine check. Emergency responders arrived but could not revive him. The Alexandria Sheriff’s Office and Police Department launched a joint investigation. They reviewed surveillance footage, medical records, and staff logs. The Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner performed an autopsy. A review board examined emergency response procedures to ensure compliance and prevent future incidents.
How often does the inmate search portal update?
The online inmate search portal refreshes every 15 minutes. It shows new bookings, releases, and court-related movements almost instantly. This allows families, lawyers, and the public to get current information quickly. The system handles about 120 new bookings per week. Data includes arrest date, charges, bail amount, and next court appearance. For technical issues or missing records, call the main line for assistance.
What are the visiting hours and parking options?
Visitation begins at 9 a.m. daily. You must call 703‑746‑5000 at least 24 hours in advance to schedule a time slot. Parking is available under the interstate ramp, with short-term spaces for up to two hours. Follow the signs on Mill Road and stay in the right lane when approaching. The lot fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early. No overnight parking is allowed.
How can I contact the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office for job opportunities?
Visit the official website or call the main office to learn about Deputy Sheriff openings. Starting pay ranges from $58,407 to $64,395, with overtime for detention center assignments. Applicants need a high school diploma, valid license, and must pass a background check, physical test, and interview. New deputies attend a 12-week academy covering law, safety, and crisis response. The office posts updates on hiring events and application deadlines online.
Official Website: https://www.alexandriava.gov/sheriff
Phone: 703‑746‑5000
Address: 2001 Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314
Visiting Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily (by appointment only)