phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv refers to the publicly available arrest records, mugshot database, and inmate information system for the Potomac Highlands Regional Jail (PHRJ) located in Augusta, West Virginia. This facility serves five counties—Grant, Hampshire, Hardy, Mineral, and Pendleton—and maintains daily updated booking logs that include names, charges, dates of arrest, and custody status. The official sources for these records include the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Offender Information System (OIS), Arre.st’s public arrest archive, and the jail’s own media relations office. Residents, legal professionals, and family members use this data to verify incarceration status, track court proceedings, request mugshots, or coordinate visitation. All information is derived from government-maintained databases and is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy. The following sections provide a full breakdown of how to access, interpret, and act on phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv data.
How to Search for Inmates and Mugshots at Potomac Highlands Regional Jail
To locate an inmate or view a mugshot from phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv, start with the West Virginia OIS portal. Enter either the first four digits of the Offender ID (OID) number or the first three letters of the person’s first and last name. The system returns matching profiles with current custody status, sentencing county, projected release date, and facility assignment. For mugshot requests, contact the jail’s Media Relations team at 304-496-1275 or email using the official form on their website. You must provide the inmate’s full name and date of birth. Mugshots are released only for individuals currently in custody and may take 1–3 business days to process. Third-party sites like Arre.st also publish recent bookings but may not include images due to privacy policies. Always verify details through official channels before making decisions based on arrest data.
Daily Booking Logs and Recent Arrest Data
The phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv dataset includes real-time booking logs compiled from West Virginia State Police reports and Hampshire County Clerk records. Recent entries show a range of offenses including drug possession, DUI, theft, assault, and parole violations. For example, Kimberly Brafford was booked on April 12, 2023, for possession of a controlled substance, while Pablo Barreto was arrested on May 23, 2023, for driving while intoxicated. These logs are paginated and updated daily, with navigation links allowing users to browse multiple pages. Each entry lists the arresting agency, booking date, charge description, and inmate name. Researchers and journalists can export CSV files for trend analysis. However, charges listed are allegations and do not imply guilt. Always cross-reference with court dockets for case outcomes.
Facility Overview: Location, Capacity, and Services
Potomac Highlands Regional Jail sits on a 15-acre campus at 13 Dolin Drive, Augusta, WV 26704, just six miles from Virginia and eight miles from Maryland. The facility houses up to 300 inmates and employs 120 staff members under Superintendent Travis Myers. It provides detention, classification, and rehabilitation services for five counties. Inmates have access to educational programs, vocational training, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. Visitation is non-contact only, conducted via telephone or video conference to maintain security. The jail operates under strict protocols set by the West Virginia Regional Jail Authority, including zero-tolerance policies for sexual misconduct and mandatory incident reporting. All operations comply with state statutes and federal oversight standards.
Visitation Rules, ID Requirements, and Scheduling
Visitation at phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv follows strict rules to ensure safety and order. Each inmate receives one visitation session per scheduled day, with a maximum of five visitors allowed at once. All visitors must register upon entry and present two forms of government-issued ID. One must include a photo, such as a driver’s license, and the second can be a birth certificate, passport, or military ID. Personal belongings are stored in lockers, and everyone passes through a metal detector. Visits occur in a controlled lobby with no physical contact permitted. Schedules vary by housing unit and are posted on the jail’s website. Families can call the 24-hour information line to confirm times or check commissary balances. Late arrivals may be denied entry.
Reporting Sexual Abuse and Whistleblower Protections
The West Virginia Regional Jail Authority mandates immediate reporting of any sexual abuse or harassment involving inmates at phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv. Incidents must be logged in the official system and reported to the facility Administrator or the central office at (304) 558-2110. Reports should include the date, location, and identity of the alleged perpetrator if known. A dedicated victim-services team initiates investigations, preserves evidence, and coordinates with law enforcement. Confidentiality is protected under state law, and whistleblowers are shielded from retaliation. The Authority’s website offers a downloadable reporting form and detailed protocol guidelines. This process ensures compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and maintains inmate safety standards.
Third-Party Mugshot Aggregators and Social Media Presence
Several third-party platforms republish phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv data, including Arre.st and BustedNewspaper’s Facebook page. Arre.st compiles booking records from public sources and organizes them by date and charge. BustedNewspaper’s page has over 4,300 followers and posts thumbnail mugshots with arrest details and links to county dockets. Community members often comment with updates on bail amounts, court dates, or release conditions. While these sites increase transparency, they may publish outdated or unverified information. Always confirm custody status through official OIS searches. Some sites charge fees for mugshot removal, which is not endorsed by the jail or state authorities. Use caution when sharing or acting on third-party data.
Legal Rights, Privacy Concerns, and Public Record Accuracy
All phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv data comes from public records maintained by state and county agencies. However, arrest does not equal conviction, and charges may be dropped or reduced. Individuals have the right to request corrections if information is inaccurate. The West Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allows access to most jail records, but mugshots may be withheld if release poses a security risk. Employers, landlords, and lenders should verify records through official channels before making decisions. Misuse of mugshot data for harassment or discrimination violates state laws. Always treat arrest information as allegations until proven in court.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For direct inquiries about phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv, contact the Potomac Highlands Regional Jail at 304-496-1275. The administrative office is located at 13 Dolin Drive, Augusta, WV 26704. Media Relations handles mugshot requests and public information. The 24-hour information line provides visitation schedules, commissary balances, and medical appointment confirmations. For offender searches, use the official OIS portal at apps.wv.gov/OIS. Arre.st offers supplemental booking logs at arre.st/Arrests/WestVirginia/PHRJ/. Always rely on government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv, answered with clarity and authority based on current policies and procedures.
How often are inmate records updated in the OIS system?
The West Virginia OIS system refreshes inmate data nightly from internal case management databases. This ensures that custody status, facility assignments, and release dates reflect the most recent changes. However, real-time updates may lag by up to 24 hours during high-volume booking periods. For urgent verification, call the jail directly at 304-496-1275. Third-party sites like Arre.st update less frequently and should not be relied upon for time-sensitive decisions.
Can I get a mugshot removed from public websites?
No, the Potomac Highlands Regional Jail does not control third-party mugshot publishers. Once a booking photo enters the public domain, it may appear on news sites, social media, or background check platforms. Some sites charge fees for removal, but these services are not affiliated with the jail or state. If you believe a mugshot was published in error or violates privacy laws, consult an attorney. The jail only releases photos for current inmates upon verified request.
What happens if someone is mistakenly listed as incarcerated?
If an individual appears in phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv records but is not actually in custody, they should contact the jail’s administrative office immediately. Provide full name, date of birth, and any supporting documents such as release papers or court orders. The jail will investigate and correct the record within 3–5 business days. Errors can occur during data entry or system syncs between agencies. Always follow up in writing to create a paper trail.
Are juvenile records included in public inmate searches?
No, juvenile arrest and booking records are sealed under West Virginia law and are not part of phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv public databases. Only adults aged 18 and older appear in OIS and Arre.st listings. If a minor was processed at PHRJ, their information is accessible only to law enforcement, legal guardians, or court officials with proper authorization.
How do I send money or care packages to an inmate?
Inmates at Potomac Highlands Regional Jail can receive money orders through the mail or via approved electronic services like JPay. Care packages must comply with facility guidelines—only pre-approved items are allowed. Visit the jail’s website for a printable guide listing permitted foods, hygiene products, and clothing. All packages are inspected upon arrival. Do not send cash or prohibited items, as they will be confiscated.
What charges typically lead to booking at PHRJ?
Common charges in phrj-mugshots-augusta-wv include drug possession, driving under the influence, theft, assault, burglary, parole violations, and disorderly conduct. The jail also holds individuals awaiting trial or transfer to state prisons. Charge severity varies, but most bookings involve misdemeanors or low-level felonies. Serious violent crimes are usually transferred to regional correctional facilities outside Hampshire County.
Can I visit an inmate if I have a criminal record?
Possibly. Visitors with criminal records are evaluated case by case. Felony convictions or recent incarcerations may result in denial. All visitors must pass background screening during registration. If approved, you must still follow standard ID and conduct rules. Contact the visitation coordinator in advance to discuss eligibility. Minors under 18 require a parent or legal guardian present.