The J. Reuben Long Detention Center serves as the primary hub for the criminal justice system in Horry County, South Carolina. Managed by the Horry County Sheriff’s Office, this facility operates under the core principles of maintaining public safety while providing secure custody for adult male and female offenders. Located in Conway, SC, it handles a complex population ranging from individuals awaiting trial to those serving short-term sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Navigating the protocols of this medium-security jail requires a clear understanding of its administrative processes, which are designed to balance security with the rights and needs of the incarcerated population.

Understanding the Role of the J. Reuben Long Detention Center

Operating since 1999 under the sheriff's jurisdiction, the facility at 4150 J. Reuben Long Avenue has become a central point for law enforcement logistics in the Myrtle Beach and Conway areas. With a functional capacity of approximately 480 beds, the center often experiences population fluctuations that reflect the seasonal nature of Horry County’s tourism and permanent residency growth.

The detention center is more than just a holding facility; it is a structured environment where strict adherence to state and federal regulations is mandatory. The Horry County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct, ensuring that both staff and inmates operate within a framework of professional standards. For families and legal representatives, interacting with this facility means engaging with a system that prioritizes digital integration—from automated inmate rosters to video-based visitation systems.

How to Conduct a J Reuben Long SC Inmate Search

Locating an individual within the J. Reuben Long system is a straightforward process thanks to the public access provided by the Horry County Sheriff’s Office. The facility maintains a 24/7 online booking and release roster that serves as the official record for current detainees.

Accessing the Roster

The most efficient way to find someone is to consult the "Daily Bookings and Releases" tool on the official departmental portal. This digital ledger provides real-time updates on who is currently housed within the facility. When performing a search, having the correct spelling of the individual’s first and last name is essential. If the name is common, the system allows for filtering by age or booking date to narrow down the results.

Information Provided in Search Results

A successful search typically yields the following data points:

  • Full Legal Name and Age: Essential for identity verification.
  • Booking Photo (Mugshot): Taken at the time of intake.
  • Charges: A list of the specific violations or criminal charges filed against the individual.
  • Bond Amount: The financial requirement for release, if a bond has been set by a magistrate.
  • Inmate ID/Booking Number: A unique identifier necessary for all subsequent correspondence and financial transactions.
  • Arresting Agency: Identifying whether the arrest was made by the Conway Police, the Horry County Sheriff’s Office, or another local municipality.

It is important to note that the roster is a reflection of the current population and recent releases. If an individual has been transferred to a state prison or released on bond, their information may move to the "Releases" section of the log. For those without internet access, the booking office can provide basic status updates over the phone, though they cannot discuss legal strategy or specific case details.

The Booking and Intake Process

When a person is arrested in Horry County, they are transported to the J. Reuben Long Detention Center for processing. This phase is critical as it determines the inmate’s housing assignment and immediate medical needs.

Intake Steps

  1. Personal Property Collection: All personal items, including clothing, jewelry, and electronics, are inventoried and stored in a secure locker. These items are returned upon release or can be picked up by a designated contact with the inmate's written permission.
  2. Identification: Fingerprinting and mugshots are finalized to ensure an accurate criminal record.
  3. Medical Screening: Every individual undergoes a health assessment conducted by the medical department (currently serviced by Mediko, Inc.). This includes screening for chronic conditions, mental health stability, and substance abuse history.
  4. Classification: Inmates are not assigned to housing units randomly. The classification team evaluates the severity of the charges, past criminal history, and behavior during intake to determine if the individual should be placed in general population, protective custody, or a maximum-security unit.

Communication: Mail and Phone Rules

Maintaining contact with the outside world is vital for inmate morale and legal preparation, but security protocols at J. Reuben Long are rigorous to prevent the introduction of contraband.

Digital Mail Policy

The facility has transitioned to a digital mail system to enhance security. All personal correspondence must be sent to a centralized scanning facility rather than the physical address of the jail.

Mailing Address for Personal Mail: Inmate Name and Inmate ID Number
Securus Digital Mail Center – Horry County
P.O. Box 1699
Conway, SC 29528

Once received at the mail center, letters are scanned and delivered to the inmate electronically via the kiosks or tablets available in the housing units. Hard copies of the letters are generally not provided to the inmates unless they are of a legal nature.

Rules for Mail Content:

  • Prohibited Items: Glitter, stickers, perfume, lipstick, or any foreign substances on the paper will result in the mail being rejected.
  • Photos: Standard photographs are allowed but must be scanned. Explicit content or images depicting gang activity are strictly forbidden.
  • Books and Magazines: Inmates may receive new, softcover books, but these must be shipped directly from an authorized retailer like a major book chain or publisher. Inmates are usually limited to possessing one non-religious book and one periodical at a time to prevent fire hazards and clutter.

Legal Mail

Legal mail from attorneys or court officials is handled differently. It should be sent directly to the facility’s physical address (4150 J. Reuben Long Ave, Conway, SC 29526). These envelopes are opened in the presence of the inmate to check for contraband but are not read by the staff, preserving attorney-client privilege.

Telephone System

Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls. If there is a family emergency, the chaplain’s office or the shift supervisor must be contacted to verify the situation before a message is relayed. Outgoing calls are made through the Securus Technologies system. These calls are either collect (where the recipient pays) or funded through a prepaid account established by the family. All calls, except those to verified legal counsel, are recorded and monitored.

Visitation Protocols: On-Site and Remote

As of 2026, J. Reuben Long heavily utilizes video visitation. This reduces the logistical strain on the facility and allows families to connect without the need for travel.

Scheduling a Visit

All visits, whether on-site or remote, must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Visitors must create an account with the facility’s technology partner and receive approval from the administration. Each inmate is typically allowed a maximum of four visits per week, combining both formats.

On-Site Visitation

On-site visits are conducted at the visitation center located at the jail. These are video-based (you sit at a terminal in the lobby) and are free of charge.

  • Hours: Typically Monday through Saturday, with specific slots in the morning and afternoon.
  • Identification: A valid, government-issued photo ID is required for all visitors over 18. Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
  • Dress Code: This is strictly enforced. Prohibited clothing includes mini-skirts, halter tops, see-through fabrics, or any attire with offensive language. The staff has the final say on what constitutes appropriate dress.

Remote Video Visitation

For a fee (usually around $5.95 for a 30-minute session), families can visit from home using a computer or smartphone. This service is available seven days a week and offers more flexible timing, often extending into the evening hours. It is important to remember that remote visits are held to the same behavioral standards as in-person visits. Any display of nudity, drug use, or gang signs will result in the immediate termination of the session and a potential permanent ban on visitation privileges.

Financial Support: Inmate Funds and Commissary

Inmates have access to a commissary where they can purchase snacks, hygiene products, and stationery. To facilitate this, they need funds in their trust account.

Depositing Money

There are several ways to add money to an inmate’s account:

  1. Online Deposits: Using a debit or credit card through the approved third-party vendor portal.
  2. Kiosks: Located in the lobby of the J. Reuben Long Detention Center, these kiosks accept cash and cards.
  3. Phone Deposits: Automated systems allow for quick transfers via phone.

Be aware that the facility warns against "bond scams." If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a deputy demanding immediate payment over the phone via gift cards or wire transfers, it is likely a fraud. Official bonds must be processed through the Magistrate’s Office or via a licensed bail bondsman.

Healthcare and Inmate Welfare

The medical department at J. Reuben Long is responsible for the health and safety of the population. This includes access to physicians, dentists, and mental health professionals.

Medical Sick Calls

If an inmate requires medical attention, they must submit a request through the electronic kiosk in their housing unit. There is typically a co-pay for these services, which is deducted from their inmate account. However, no inmate is denied necessary medical care due to an inability to pay; if their balance is zero, the account will simply reflect a negative balance.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Given the high correlation between incarceration and mental health challenges, the facility offers various programs aimed at stabilization. This includes substance abuse counseling and crisis intervention. Specialized housing units are available for those who require more intensive monitoring or social support.

Bond, Court, and Release

For many at J. Reuben Long, the primary goal is securing release while awaiting trial. The bond process is the mechanism for this.

Posting Bond

Bonds are set by a magistrate during a bond hearing, which usually occurs within 24 to 48 hours of arrest. The bond amount depends on the severity of the crime and the individual's flight risk.

  • Cash Bond: The full amount is paid to the court and returned (minus fees) after the case is resolved.
  • Surety Bond: A bail bondsman charges a non-refundable fee (usually 10%) to guarantee the full bond amount to the court.
  • Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond: The inmate is released on their word that they will appear in court, with no financial payment required upfront.

Earned Credits and Sentences

For those serving time, South Carolina law allows for the reduction of sentences through "good time" and "work credits." Inmates can earn a specific number of days off their sentence for every month they remain incident-free or if they are assigned to a work detail within the facility, such as laundry or kitchen service.

Release Logistics

Upon release, inmates receive their stored personal property and any remaining funds in their trust account (usually provided as a debit card). For those without a ride, the facility is near the Coast RTA bus routes, which provide transportation to Conway and Myrtle Beach. It is advisable for families to coordinate pickup times closely with the booking office, as release times can be unpredictable depending on the volume of paperwork on a given day.

Navigating the Challenges of Overcrowding

Like many county facilities, J. Reuben Long has faced challenges with overcrowding. Reports from recent years indicate that the population occasionally exceeds the bed capacity, leading to the use of temporary sleeping arrangements. The administration manages this through constant re-classification and by working with the court system to expedite hearings for non-violent offenders. For families, this means that an inmate might be moved between housing units frequently to manage space and security risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a care package to the jail?
No. All items must be purchased by the inmate through the commissary or sent directly from approved vendors. You cannot drop off food, clothing, or personal hygiene items at the lobby.

What happens if an inmate is not found in the search?
If the search yields no results, the individual may still be in the intake process (which can take several hours), they may have been released, or they may be housed in a different facility. Waiting a few hours and checking again is recommended.

Are there programs for rehabilitation?
Yes, the center offers various educational and vocational opportunities, including GED preparation and life skills classes, designed to reduce recidivism and help individuals transition back into the Horry County community.

How do I report a concern about an inmate's safety?
The Sheriff’s Office maintains an emergency reporting line. If you have credible information regarding a threat to an inmate or the facility, you should contact the main jail line and ask for the shift supervisor immediately.

Summary of Contact Information

For those needing to interact with the facility, keeping these points of contact is helpful:

  • Physical Address: 4150 J. Reuben Long Ave, Conway, SC 29526
  • Main Facility Line: 843-915-5140
  • Booking Office: 843-915-6911
  • Visitation Scheduling: Accessible through the Securus website or app.

The J. Reuben Long Detention Center remains a critical institution in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Whether you are searching for an inmate, planning a visit, or seeking to provide financial support, understanding these procedures ensures a smoother interaction with the Horry County penal system. Staying informed about the latest digital transitions and security rules is the best way to support a loved one during their time in custody.