Overview

The Burleigh County Detention Center in Bismarck is the largest county jail in North Dakota with 555-bed maximum capacity. It has worked with ICE for decades but is experiencing unprecedented strain as the national detention surge pushes more detainees into local jails for longer stays.

Key Details

• Location: Bismarck, ND (FIPS 38015)
• Maximum capacity: 555 beds
• Average daily population (2025): 320
• ICE detainees: Holding 17-30 at any given time (2025-2026)
• Per diem rate: ~$165/day (varies)
• Historical use: Short-term holds (hours to 1-2 days)
• Current pattern: Longer stays due to national bed shortage

Detention Surge Impact

The Burleigh County Sheriff’s Department has worked with ICE for decades, but the national surge in immigration enforcement has fundamentally changed the facility’s role:

• Previously held ICE detainees for hours or 1-2 days maximum
• Now holding detainees for extended periods due to bed shortages nationwide
• Peaked at ~30 ICE detainees, currently holding steady around 17
• The change is directly tied to the 75% national increase in ICE detention (Jan 2025 to Jan 2026)

Financial Context

ICE pays approximately $165/day per detainee. County officials say the county benefits financially from the arrangement, though community members have expressed concern about costs and capacity impacts on local criminal justice functions.

Sources

• KX Net: ICE detainees held in ND jail as space runs out
• KFYR TV: Burleigh Morton housing more ICE detainees
• KX Net: ICE detainees held steady in Burleigh County
• ICE facility page