Lehigh County Jail Commissary serves as the primary financial and supply system for inmates housed at the facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This system allows detainees to purchase essential items like hygiene products, snacks, stationery, and phone time using funds deposited into their personal accounts. Managed through the Inmate Accounts office located in the main lobby, the commissary operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Each inmate can maintain a maximum balance of $300, ensuring controlled spending while supporting daily needs. The program also contributes to rehabilitation efforts, with revenue from over 12,000 transactions in 2023 totaling $820,000—partially funding educational and counseling programs.
How the Lehigh County Jail Commissary System Works
The commissary operates on a trust-based account model. When an individual is booked into the jail, a personal trust account is automatically created. Family members or friends can deposit money into this account using approved methods such as cash, money orders, or certified checks delivered in person. Electronic transfers cannot be processed on-site but are available online through third-party platforms. Once funds are added, inmates use a dedicated kiosk within the facility to browse and purchase items. Purchases are deducted directly from their account balance. Items available include toothpaste, soap, writing materials, snack foods, and prepaid phone cards. The system ensures transparency and accountability, with all transactions logged and accessible for review by jail staff and authorized visitors.
Depositing Money into an Inmate’s Commissary Account
Family members have multiple options to fund an inmate’s commissary account. In-person deposits can be made at the Inmate Accounts office during operating hours using cash, money orders, or certified checks. For remote deposits, the jail partners with GettingOut, a secure online platform that accepts debit and credit card payments. Each transaction incurs a $2.50 service fee. To ensure proper allocation, senders must provide the inmate’s full name, booking number, and unit designation. Funds typically post within 24 hours and become immediately available for use. It is important to note that personal checks and electronic bank transfers are not accepted on-site. All deposit methods require accurate identification to prevent errors or delays.
Items Available Through the Commissary
The Lehigh County Jail Commissary offers a wide range of approved items designed to meet basic needs and improve comfort during incarceration. Hygiene products include toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, and soap. Snack options consist of chips, cookies, crackers, and instant noodles. Stationery supplies such as pens, pencils, paper, and envelopes allow inmates to stay in touch with loved ones. Prepaid phone cards enable communication with family and legal representatives. All items are pre-packaged and inspected for safety and compliance with jail regulations. Prices are standardized and listed on the kiosk interface, allowing inmates to make informed choices based on their available balance.
Care Packs: Sending Approved Packages to Inmates
In addition to commissary purchases, the jail offers a Care Pack program administered by the Volunteer Services Department. This allows family members to send sealed packages containing approved clothing, books, or religious materials. All packages must pass a thorough contraband inspection before delivery. Items such as hardcover books, electronics, and certain fabrics are prohibited. Approved clothing includes plain t-shirts, socks, and undergarments in standard sizes. Religious texts like Bibles or Qurans are permitted if they meet content guidelines. Packages should be mailed to the jail’s official address with the inmate’s full name, booking number, and unit clearly labeled. This program provides emotional support and helps maintain connections with the outside world.
Real-Time Inmate Roster and Search Tools
The Lehigh County Jail maintains a real-time online roster that lists all currently detained individuals. Updated every fifteen minutes, the roster includes names, booking dates, custody levels, mugshots, and charge summaries. Users can search by last name, booking number, or date range to locate a specific inmate. This system complies with Pennsylvania’s Open Records Act, promoting transparency while protecting sensitive personal information. The roster is hosted on the county’s official portal and is accessible to attorneys, family members, and the general public. It serves as a reliable resource for verifying detention status without requiring direct contact with jail staff.
Contact Information and Support Services
For assistance with commissary accounts, deposits, or general inquiries, contact the Inmate Services department at 610-782-3270 or the main information desk at 610-782-3933. Both lines operate Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. After-hours messages provide emergency contact details for the county sheriff’s office. Staff can guide callers on mail procedures, visitation schedules, bail assistance, and account troubleshooting. It is recommended to have the inmate’s booking number ready when calling to expedite service. The jail also provides written instructions on its website for sending mail, photographs, and care packages.
Facility Overview: Lehigh County Jail (LCJ)
Opened in 1992, the Lehigh County Jail is a 250,000-square-foot high-rise facility located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Designed with direct-supervision housing units, it allows correctional officers to monitor inmates continuously from central control points. The jail has a licensed capacity of 1,352 inmates and processes approximately 5,000 admissions annually. It features modern fire-safety systems, energy-efficient HVAC units, and an on-site medical clinic capable of handling both acute and chronic health conditions. Leadership includes Deputy Warden Kyle Russell (Security), Deputy Warden Robert McFadden (Treatment), and Administrative Deputy Warden Steven Miller. The facility replaced an older 1960s structure and remains a key component of the county’s corrections infrastructure.
Rehabilitation and Revenue Use
Revenue generated from commissary transactions supports inmate rehabilitation initiatives. In 2023, the commissary recorded over 12,000 purchases, generating $820,000 in income. A portion of these funds is allocated to educational programs, substance-abuse counseling, mental-health services, and vocational training. This reinvestment helps reduce recidivism by equipping inmates with skills and resources for successful reintegration. The jail collaborates with local organizations to offer GED preparation, anger management courses, and job readiness workshops. These efforts align with state and federal guidelines aimed at improving outcomes for incarcerated individuals.
Mental Health and Solitary Confinement Reforms
In 2022, an average of 107 inmates per week were identified with serious mental-health diagnoses at Lehigh County Jail. A notable case involved a detainee who spent three months in solitary confinement before being transferred to a state psychiatric hospital. Following a board investigation, recommendations included implementing a 24-hour crisis response team to reduce reliance on isolation for individuals experiencing psychiatric episodes. The jail has since increased staffing for mental-health screenings and expanded access to counseling services. These changes reflect a broader commitment to humane treatment and compliance with national correctional standards.
Third-Party Platforms for Communication and Funding
The jail partners with GettingOut to facilitate electronic communication and financial transactions. This platform enables families to send money, purchase video visitation credits, and exchange secure messages with inmates. Payments are processed via debit or credit card, with a $2.50 fee per transaction. Users must create an account and verify their identity before initiating transfers. The system ensures data security and compliance with privacy regulations. Inmates can use deposited funds to buy phone minutes, send messages, or order additional commissary items. GettingOut also provides mobile apps for convenient access on smartphones and tablets.
Visitation and Communication Policies
Visitation at Lehigh County Jail follows strict schedules and security protocols. In-person visits require prior approval and adherence to dress codes and behavior guidelines. Video visitation is available through the GettingOut platform, offering flexibility for families unable to travel. All communications, including phone calls and messages, are monitored and may be recorded for security purposes. Inmates can purchase additional phone time through their commissary accounts. Mail must be addressed with the inmate’s full name, booking number, and unit, and all incoming items are screened for contraband. These policies balance safety with the right to maintain family connections.
Legal and Privacy Considerations
The jail adheres to Pennsylvania’s Open Records Act, ensuring public access to inmate information while safeguarding confidential data. Medical records, treatment plans, and legal documents are protected under state privacy laws. The Inmate/Parolee Locator maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections provides location and custody status but does not disclose health or program details. Families and attorneys can request additional information through formal channels. All policies are designed to comply with federal and state regulations, including the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money can an inmate have in their commissary account? Each inmate may maintain a maximum balance of $300. This limit ensures fair access and prevents misuse of funds. Deposits exceeding this amount will be returned or held until the balance decreases.
Can I send food or homemade items to an inmate? No. Only pre-packaged, commercially sealed items are allowed through the Care Pack program. Homemade food, baked goods, or unsealed containers are prohibited due to health and security concerns.
How long does it take for a deposit to appear in the inmate’s account? Online deposits via GettingOut typically post within 24 hours. In-person deposits made during office hours are processed the same day.
Are there fees for using the commissary? There are no fees for using the commissary kiosk. However, a $2.50 service fee applies to each online deposit made through GettingOut.
Can inmates receive books from outside? Yes, but only softcover books from approved publishers or religious texts. Hardcover books, magazines, and publications with staples or bindings are not permitted.
What happens to unused funds when an inmate is released? Inmates can close their accounts upon release and receive a check for the remaining balance. Funds must be claimed within 90 days or they may be forfeited to the jail’s rehabilitation fund.
Is video visitation free? No. Video visitation requires the purchase of credits through the GettingOut platform. Rates vary based on duration and time of day.
Official Resources and Contact Details
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Lehigh County website or contact the jail directly. The Inmate Accounts office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Phone: 610-782-3270. Main Information Desk: 610-782-3933. Address: 38 North Fourth Street, Allentown, PA 18102. Website: https://www.lehighcounty.org/Departments/Corrections/Lehigh-County-Jail
