Inmate Protocols

Guidelines for Items and Procedures in Police Holding Cells

Important Notice

Individual police stations may exercise discretion regarding what items are permitted in holding cells. These guidelines provide general information, but final decisions rest with the station commander or officer in charge. Always contact the specific station for their current policies before bringing items for an inmate.

Generally Permitted Items

Basic Clothing
  • underwear 
  •  t-shirts
  • Socks 
  • Prescription glasses (plastic frames preferred)
Personal Hygiene
  • Toothbrush (without handle modifications)
  • Toothpaste (small tube, in clear packaging)
  • Soap (unwrapped, in clear container)
  • lotion (plastic container)
  • roll-on (small tube, plastic container)
  • Comb/brush (plastic, without sharp edges)
Reading Materials
  • Religious texts (Bible, Quran, etc.)
  • Paperback books (subject to content review)
  • Newspapers/magazines (current issues only)
Food & Medication
  • Prescription medication (in original packaging)
  • Sealed, unopened food items
  • Home cooked meals will be tasted by you
  • Bottled water (sealed, clear plastic)

Generally Prohibited Items

Clothing & Accessories
  • Belts, shoelaces, or ties
  • Hats, caps, or headwear
  • Jewelry (except wedding bands in some cases)
  • Clothing with strings or cords
Electronics & Personal Items
  • Mobile phones or communication devices
  • Electronic devices of any kind
  • Watches or clocks
  • Cameras or recording devices
Hazardous Items
  • Sharp objects (knives, scissors, razors)
  • Matches, lighters, or flammable materials
  • Drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products
  • Aerosol containers or pressurized cans
Miscellaneous
  • Cutlery (no forks, spoons, Knives of any kind)
  • nail cutters, games, cards, dice
  • Pens, pencils, or writing instruments
  • Glass containers or mirrors
  • Metal, glass or wooden objects of any kind
  • Plastic bags or wrapping materials

Delivery Procedures

Required Documentation

When bringing items for an inmate, you must present valid identification and may be required to complete a visitors register. All items will be inspected and logged before being given to the inmate.

Only immediate family members are typically permitted to deliver items, and you may be required to demonstrate your relationship to the inmate.

 

Inmates have the right to refuse visitaion and items from anyone. You will be required to wait for confirmation before leaving when you drop off any items.  

Inspection Process

All items are subject to thorough inspection by police personnel. This may include:

  • Visual inspection of all items
  • Removal from packaging
  • Testing of substances
  • Examination for contraband

Officers reserve the right to refuse any item they deem potentially hazardous or inappropriate, regardless of whether it appears on permitted lists.

Delivery Times

Items are typically only accepted during designated visiting hours, which vary by station. It's recommended to call ahead to confirm:

  • Current visiting hours
  • Specific item restrictions
  • Required documentation
  • Any special procedures

Most stations do not accept item deliveries outside of regular business hours unless under exceptional circumstances.

Need More Information?

For specific questions about what items are permitted at a particular station, or to inquire about special circumstances, please contact the police station directly. Station contact information can be obtained by calling the NAMPOL  Switchboard at 061 209 4111