Welcome to the Inmate Information Locator Service
Welcome to the Inmate Information Locator Service provided by Who’s In Jail San Diego County Inmate Information Services. Here, you’ll discover comprehensive details about inmates within San Diego County, California, along with insights into the various correctional facilities in the vicinity. Whether you’re a concerned family member, legal representative, or simply intrigued by someone’s status, our platform facilitates easy access to pertinent information and connects you with specialists who can assist in navigating your loved one’s whereabouts and release procedures.
Effortless Inmate Information Retrieval
Our Inmate Locator tool streamlines the process of locating inmates. Simply input their name, date of birth, and other pertinent details, and within moments, you’ll gain access to comprehensive inmate information, including booking dates, charges, court appearances, and more.
In-Depth Exploration of San Diego County Jail Facilities
Delve into detailed descriptions of various San Diego County Jail facilities, such as San Diego County Central Jail, South Bay (Chula Vista) Detention Facility, Las Colinas Detention and Re-entry Facility, Vista Detention Facility, East Mesa Re-Entry Facility, George Bailey Detention Facility, and Rock Mountain Detention Facility. Learn about the amenities and services offered at each facility to gain insight into inmate management procedures.
Dependable Online Resources for Inmate Searches
Access a variety of reliable resources to aid in your inmate search. From links to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website, third-party inmate search platforms, county court websites, to the Federal Bureau of Prisons website, we offer up-to-date information to support your search efforts.
Prompt Solutions to Common Inquiries
Peruse our frequently asked questions section for quick answers to common queries regarding inmate correspondence, telephone systems, financial services, booking details, visiting schedules, and more. Should you require further assistance, our dedicated support team is only a phone call away.
Supporting Families and Legal Representatives
We recognize the importance of staying informed during challenging circ*mstances. Our platform is designed to empower families and legal representatives by providing access to crucial inmate information and support services.
Initiate Your Search Today
Whether you’re seeking information about an inmate or insights into the inmate management process in San Diego County, our service is poised to assist at every stage. Begin using our Inmate Locator tool today to effortlessly and confidently access inmate information. Stay informed, stay connected, and count on us as your dependable resource for all your inmate search requirements in San Diego County.
Welcome to the Inmate Information Center for San Diego County Central Jail provided by Who’s in Jail San Diego. If you’re seeking details about individuals arrested in San Diego County and housed in the facility, please contact our Inmate Information Center directly at (619) 313-5610. We provide comprehensive information such as booking numbers, charges, and release details.
San Diego County Central Jail
Address: 1173 Front Street, San Diego, CA 92101Contact: (619) 409-5000Detention FacilityWe’ve unified the Custody Information line for all Sheriff’s detention facilities under one central phone number. For public inquiries, dial (619) 409-5000 and select the appropriate option for your desired facility.
Key Facility Information
- Established in May 1998
- Facility Size: 417,000 sq. ft.
- Height: 230 ft.
- Situated in downtown San Diego, the San Diego Central Jail (SDCJ) serves as the primary intake center for incarcerated males in San Diego County.
Staffing comprises slightly over 200 sworn employees and nearly 200 professional staff members.SDCJ commenced operations in May 1998. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the facility heavily employs touch-screen controls and video surveillance. At its heart lies the Central Command Center, capable of electronically overseeing all jail operations during emergencies or significant system malfunctions.Standing at 230 feet, SDCJ represents the tallest construction project ever undertaken by the County of San Diego. It encompasses 11 floors with a total of 17 levels, including mezzanines and a basem*nt. The building adds to the downtown San Diego skyline aesthetically and has garnered multiple awards for architectural, interior, and lighting design.SDCJ primarily accommodates special handling inmates, newly admitted detainees awaiting transfer to other facilities, and pre-arraignment detainees. Special handling inmates include those with significant medical needs, individuals under psychiatric care, pro se litigants, and defendants involved in high-profile cases.SDCJ provides a wide range of medical and psychiatric services, including on-site dialysis, infectious disease management, and dental care. These services are administered by physicians, psychiatrists, dentists, nurses, and clinical social workers. The Psychiatric Stabilization Unit at SDCJ stands as the largest acute psychiatric treatment facility in San Diego County.
Visitor Information
To schedule in-person social visits, call (619) 409-5000 Wednesday through Sunday, between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm. Visitation is available five days a week, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Each visit permits a maximum of three visitors, including children. Minors must be accompanied by a parent, court-appointed guardian, or other legally responsible adult. Visitors aged 18 and above must present valid identification. In-person social visits are limited to 30 minutes.Video visitation is accessible seven days a week, also for 30-minute sessions. Each incarcerated individual is permitted two video visits per week. Visits are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, with no same-day appointments. Reservations, which must be made a day in advance, can only be arranged through Smart Inmate™ – Corrections Communications Services (smartjailmail.com). Prior account creation is necessary for scheduling visits. Visit arrangements are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.Attention: Due to a recent switch in the phone system provided for incarcerated individuals, calls originating from within the detention facilities now display the number 727-349-1561. Some mobile carriers may classify this number as spam, potentially filtering out calls from incarcerated persons. To ensure receipt of such calls, please save this number in your contacts or contact your phone service provider to unblock it. We are actively working on additional solutions and will provide updates on any further changes.
Video Visit Schedule
- 3rd floor- MOB & PSU, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5E, 6B-6E, 7A, 7D, 7B, 7C, 7E, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E- 30 Minute Visits
| Daily AM | Daily PM | Daily Evening |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30AM | 1:30PM | 7:30PM |
| 8:15AM | 2:15PM | 8:15PM |
| 9:00AM | 3:00PM | 9:00PM |
| 9:45AM | 3:45PM | 9:45PM |
Reservations must be made one day in advance. ALL VISITORS MUST CHECK-IN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED VISIT TIME. Cancellations require in-person verification with ID. Visits may be canceled at any time due to rule violations, inmate transfers, or for jail security reasons.
Detention Services Bureau
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department is mandated by law to oversee the welfare of individuals in County custody. It administers a network of seven detention facilities across San Diego, accommodating an average daily population exceeding 5,000 incarcerated individuals.These facilities vary considerably in size, layout, and purpose. While some are located in urban hubs, adjacent to regional court complexes to uphold stringent security measures, others serve as medium-security institutions nestled in rural landscapes, catering to the needs of lower-risk inmates serving sentences. Despite their differences, all facilities are managed by dedicated personnel committed to ensuring safe and humane conditions, adhering rigorously to legal statutes and professional detention standards.Beyond the core functions of booking, classification, housing, and release of approximately 100,000 inmates annually, the department delivers a comprehensive range of services encompassing medical care, mental health support, nutrition, counseling, recreational activities, spiritual guidance, educational opportunities, and vocational training.Stringent oversight governs every facet of jail operations. The Board of State & Community Corrections (BSCC) establishes operational benchmarks for local detention facilities, conducting routine inspections to verify adherence. Additional scrutiny is provided by entities such as the San Diego County Grand Jury, State and local Fire Marshals, County Environmental Health authorities, medical professionals, the Citizen’s Law Enforcement Review Board, and the Sheriff’s administrative personnel along with the Division of Inspectional Services (DIS). Through collaborative efforts, they instill confidence within the community that local detention facilities are managed with utmost safety and accountability.
Jail Information
Having a friend or family member detained in jail can lead to confusion and uncertainty, both for the individual in custody and their concerned loved ones. Questions may arise regarding mail, phone communication, visitation, healthcare, and more. Initially, contacting the arrested individual may prove difficult, and understanding the complexities of the jail system can impede access to vital information regarding the arrest.Attention: Following a recent shift in the phone service provider for the incarcerated population, calls originating from within the detention facilities will be displayed as coming from the number 727-349-1561. It has come to our attention that certain mobile carriers may flag this number in their spam settings, potentially blocking calls from incarcerated individuals. To ensure you receive these calls, it is recommended to save this number in your phone or contact your phone service provider to unblock it.For essential details regarding the San Diego County Jails and their incarcerated individuals, please refer to the Public Information Plan. A comprehensive directory of licensed agencies has been prominently displayed across all detention facilities.
South Bay Detention Facility / Chula Vista Jail
For information regarding individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the South Bay Detention Facility, also recognized as the Chula Vista Jail, please reach out to our Inmate Information Center directly at (619) 313-5610. We provide details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.
South Bay Detention Facility
Address: 500 Third Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910Contact: (619) 409-5000Nestled beneath the South Bay Regional Justice Center in Chula Vista, the South Bay Detention Facility (SBDF) has served the community since its establishment in 1982. This non-booking facility spans two detention levels across four stories.SBDF accommodates both high and low-level incarcerated populations. Despite being one of San Diego County’s less populated detention centers, SBDF operates efficiently with a team of a dozen deputies and a Watch Commander, supported by a dedicated professional staff. Trained medical personnel address minor ailments and illnesses among the incarcerated individuals, while Detention Processing staff oversee court appearances and assist friends and family in arranging visitations, financial transactions, and bail matters.In preparing incarcerated individuals for their eventual reintegration into society as law-abiding citizens, SBDF offers an array of services. A full-time counselor tends to individual needs and organizes recovery programs, including Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings led by certified bilingual instructors. Additionally, church services and Bible studies are available in both English and Spanish.
Important Visitor Notice
Effective December 7, 2023, SBDF introduces video visitation through the SMART Communications System. These 30-minute video visits are accessible seven days a week, with each incarcerated individual allowed up to two visits per week. Visits are scheduled in advance through SmartInmate™ – Corrections Communications Services (smartjailmail.com). Please note that reservations must be made at least one day prior, and visits are subject to change or cancellation without notice.Attention: Due to a recent change in the phone system provider, calls from incarcerated individuals may display the number 727-349-1561. Some mobile carriers may filter out calls from this number as spam. To ensure receipt of these calls, please save this number in your phone or contact your phone provider to unblock it. We are actively seeking additional solutions and will update any changes here.To reserve an in-person social visit, please dial (619) 409-5000 from Wednesday through Sunday, between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm. Visits are available five days weekly, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Each visit allows a maximum of three individuals, including minors who must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or adult with custody. Visitors aged 18 and above are required to present valid identification. Social visits are limited to 30 minutes.Reservations must be made at least one day in advance; same-day visits are not permitted. ALL VISITORS MUST ARRIVE AND CHECK-IN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED VISIT. Cancellations require in-person verification with ID. Visits may be subject to cancellation due to rule infractions, inmate transfers, or security concerns.
For information regarding individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the Las Colinas Detention Facility, also known as Las Colinas Jail, please contact our Inmate Information Center directly at (619) 313-5610. We provide details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.Address: 451 Riverview ParkwaySantee, CA 92071Phone: (619) 409-5000Situated in Santee, the Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility (LCDRF) serves as the primary intake center for female inmates in San Diego County.
Facility History and Operations
Established in August 2014, LCDRF replaced the former Las Colinas Detention Facility, originally built in 1967. Initially a juvenile center, it transitioned into a women’s facility in 1979. The new facility is operated by approximately 200 sworn officers and 200 support staff. With its inception, new operational methods were introduced.
Innovative Processes
One such innovation is the adoption of “Open Booking,” a departure from the traditional Intake/Booking process. In Open Booking, inmates wait in an open area and proceed through medical screening, booking, and other procedures. Holding cells are reserved for those requiring separation or enhanced security. After each stage, inmates return to the seating area, where they have access to telephones and restrooms.LCDRF also implements “Direct Supervision,” with deputies stationed within inmate housing areas. This fosters increased interaction between inmates and staff, facilitating conflict resolution and early intervention.
Reentry Services
Emphasizing reentry services, LCDRF offers improved facilities and educational/employment programs. By equipping inmates with skills for successful community reintegration, the facility aims to reduce recidivism rates. Additionally, LCDRF provides various housing options for inmates needing separation or specialized medical/mental health care.
Vista Detention Facility / Vista Jail
For inquiries regarding individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the Vista Jail Detention Facility, also known as the Vista Jail, please contact our Inmate Information Center directly at (619) 313-5610 for details such as booking number, charges, and release information.Address: 325 S. Melrose Dr., #200Vista, CA 92081Phone: (619) 409-5000
Overview
Commencing operations in 1978 and expanding in 1989, the Vista Detention Facility (VDF) is located in the City of Vista. Accredited as a Type II Facility by the Board of State and Community Corrections (BCC), VDF spans 170,000 square feet and accommodates up to 825 individuals. It primarily serves as the intake center for arrested individuals from northern San Diego County.
Establishment and Expansion
VDF, established in 1978 on county-owned land, underwent expansion in 1989, adding 576 beds for a total capacity of 886. Nestled within the North County Regional Center complex (NCRC), VDF shares space with various other entities, including the North County Superior Courts and the Vista Sheriff’s Station, all interconnected except for the North County Law Library.
Inmate Demographics and Services
The facility primarily detains individuals awaiting court proceedings for cases in North County. Additionally, it houses special handling populations, including those with medical and psychiatric needs, administrative detainees, and high-profile defendants. VDF offers an array of medical and psychiatric services, delivered by a multidisciplinary team comprising physicians, psychiatrists, dentists, nurses, and social workers.
Special Initiatives
In collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VDF launched the first Veteran’s Module in the San Diego jail system on November 1, 2013. Further details on this program can be found on the Sheriff’s Department website under the Veterans Moving Forward program.
Visitor Guidelines
- Social visit reservations, accommodating up to three visitors, can be arranged by phone from Wednesday to Sunday between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm, with visits available five days a week, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Video visitation, limited to two sessions per week, can be scheduled in advance through SmartInmate™ – Corrections Communications Services (smartjailmail.com).
- All visits, whether in-person or video, are subject to scheduling and potential changes without prior notice.
East Mesa Re-Entry Facility
For inquiries regarding individuals apprehended in San Diego County and transported to the East Mesa Re-Entry Facility, also known as the East Mesa Jail, you can directly reach out to our Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610. Our team can provide you with details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.Address: 446 Alta Rd., Suite 5200San Diego, CA 92158Phone: (619) 409-5000
Overview
Established under the supervision of the Sheriff’s Department in 1991, the East Mesa Reentry Facility (EMRF) has a capacity for 760 occupants and covers an area of 8 acres in Otay Mesa. Initially erected as a probation camp adjacent to the George F. Bailey Detention Facility, it was placed under the jurisdiction of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department in 1991. In 2014, it underwent expansion and a name change, aligning with its new role within the Detention Services Bureau to oversee reentry services for the Sheriff’s Department.
Facility Description
EMRF, categorized as a Type II medium-security facility, sprawls over eight acres in the southern region of San Diego County. It consists of six housing dormitories, recreational areas, a dining hall, numerous classrooms, counseling, medical, probation, and administrative offices. The facility’s landscaping and surrounding grounds are maintained by incarcerated individuals participating in the Landscaping Program. Inmates at EMRF have access to job opportunities, educational incentives, and skills training due to the lower security levels compared to other facilities. For comprehensive program details, please refer to the Reentry Services section on the Sheriff’s Department website.
Visitor Guidelines
- Starting January 8, 2024, EMRF will implement video visitation through the SMART Communications System. Video visitation is available seven days a week, with each session lasting 30 minutes.
- Inmates are allowed two video visits per week, scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis with no same-day reservations. To schedule a visit, visitors must register an account on SmartInmate™ – Corrections Communications Services (smartjailmail.com) at least one day in advance.
- Visits are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.
Please be advised: Recent changes in the phone system provided for incarcerated individuals may result in calls originating from the number (727) 349-1561 within the detention facilities. Some mobile carriers might incorrectly identify this number as spam, potentially filtering out calls from inmates. To ensure receipt of these calls, please save this number in your phone or contact your phone provider to unblock it. Additional solutions are being explored, and updates will be provided accordingly.For scheduling in-person social visits, please dial (619) 409-5000 Wednesday through Sunday between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm. Social visits are available four days a week, excluding Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Each visit allows a maximum of three visitors, including children, with minors accompanied by a parent, court-appointed guardian, or another adult with legal custody. Visitors aged 18 and above must present valid identification. Social visits last for 30 minutes (one hour for incarcerated workers).
Rock Mountain Detention Facility
If you require information about individuals arrested in San Diego County and transported to the South Bay Detention Facility, also known as the Chula Vista Jail, feel free to reach out to our Inmate Information Center directly at (619) 313-5610. We can provide you with details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.Address: 446 Alta Road, Suite 5400San Diego, CA 92158Phone: (619) 409-5000
Overview
Established in 2023, the Rock Mountain Detention Facility (RMDF) has a capacity for a maximum of 200 individuals. Situated in Otay Mesa, RMDF is classified as a maximum-security facility. Initially built in 2000, for the first 15 years, it was leased to the federal government and managed by the Corrections Corporation of America (CCA). However, in 2016, the facility was returned to the jurisdiction of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Subsequently, in 2019, renovations were initiated to modernize the facility. House 1 underwent renovations first and began operations in July 2023, providing housing for 200 individuals.
Visitor Information
- The Rock Mountain Detention Facility reservation line operates from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- To schedule in-person social visits, individuals can call (619) 409-5000 from Wednesday to Sunday. Visitation is available five days weekly, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Each visit allows up to three visitors, including children, with minors accompanied by a parent, court-appointed guardian, or another adult with legal custody. Visitors aged 18 and above must present valid identification. Social visits are limited to 30 minutes.
- Reservations require a one-day advance notice. ALL VISITORS MUST CHECK-IN 60 MINUTES BEFORE THE SCHEDULED VISIT. Cancellations can be made in person with verification of identification. All visits are subject to change without prior notice and may be canceled due to rule violations, inmate transfers, or security reasons.
- Video visitation, lasting 30 minutes, is accessible seven days a week, with inmates permitted two video visits per week. Visits are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, with no same-day reservations. Reservations can only be made through Smart Communications with an existing account. Video visitation arrangements are subject to change or cancellation without prior notification.
George Bailey Detention Facility
If you seek information regarding individuals apprehended in San Diego County and transported to the George Bailey Detention Facility, you can reach out to an Inmate Information Center directly at (619) 313-5610. Our team can provide additional details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.Address: 446 Alta Rd. Suite 5300San Diego, CA 92158Phone: (619) 409-5000
Overview
Established in 1993, the George Bailey Detention Facility (GBDF) accommodates up to 1,380 individuals and spans an impressive 189,050 square feet. Situated in Otay Mesa, GBDF stands as the largest maximum-security facility under the jurisdiction of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Construction was completed in 1991, with limited operations beginning in 1993 and full operational status achieved by 1994.The facility’s layout includes six housing units, a medical wing, a processing area for incarcerated individuals, and an administrative section housing the Detentions Processing Unit, Operational Support Unit, and Facility Command staff.GBDF employs sworn and professional staff fulfilling various operational and support roles, including Food Services, Religious Services, Medical Services, Counseling Services, Laundry and Supply Services, Administrative Support Services, Detention Processing Services, and Maintenance Support.GBDF caters to a diverse inmate population, including those with specialized housing requirements. Currently, the facility hosts three units dedicated to managing distinct special needs incarcerated individuals.
Visitor Information
- Starting January 15, 2024, GBDF will introduce video visitation services through the SMART Communications System.
- Video visitation sessions, lasting 30 minutes, are available every day of the week, with inmates permitted two visits per week. Reservations are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and require advance booking one day prior. Visits can only be scheduled through SmartInmate™ – Corrections Communications Services (smartjailmail.com).
- Visitors must create an account before scheduling a visit. Changes or cancellations to visitation arrangements may occur without prior notice.
How can I facilitate the release of my loved one who is currently incarcerated?If you’re inquiring about obtaining a copy of a San Diego Sheriff Crime, Arrest, or Accident Report, please note that access to such reports is governed by Section 6254 of the California Government Code, ensuring the confidentiality of these documents. Typically, they are accessible to “interested parties” or “victims of an incident” as defined by relevant State codes, or upon presentation of a subpoena or court order.
Information Regarding Sentencing, Trial Status, or Case Prosecution
For information regarding final sentencing, trial status, or case prosecution, it’s recommended to contact the appropriate Superior Court Location or the District Attorney’s office, depending on the circ*mstances.
Retention of Reports
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department typically retains most crime, arrest, and accident reports for a period of 10 years. However, certain cases such as homicides, unresolved escapes, missing persons/juveniles, sex crimes, and crimes against children may be retained for longer durations.
Requesting a Copy of a Report
Here’s how you can request a copy of a report:
- Begin the request process through the Public Records Center.
- Submit a request to the Sheriff’s station or substation responsible for handling the report or incident in question.
- Complete a Service Request Form and submit it to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Records & ID Division:
- Submit the Service Request Form through one of the following methods:
- Visit the San Diego County Sheriff’s Records & ID office during operating hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm; closed for lunch from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm). Note: The office is closed on holidays and weekends. The office address is 9621 Ridgehaven Ct, San Diego, CA 92123.
- Mail the request to:San Diego County Sheriff’s DepartmentAttn: Records & ID Division, Cases SectionP.O. Box 939062San Diego, CA 92193-9062
If the request is made in person, a valid, government-issued photo ID card (e.g., driver’s license, passport, military ID) must be presented. If submitted by mail, include a copy of the ID.All applicable fees must be paid before report copies are released. We aim to process all requests within 3-10 business days.
Fees
The fee for a copy of a Crime, Arrest, or Accident Report is $20.00. However, the initial copy of the crime report and the first copy of accident reports involving alcohol or drugs are provided free of charge to the victim or their representative (e.g., insurance company, lawyer).Fees can be paid via money order, certified check, or personal check from a California bank. Make checks payable to the “San Diego County Sheriff.” Cash payments are accepted in person.
General Visitation Guidelines for San Diego County Jails
Social In-Person Visits
To schedule social in-person visits, you have two convenient options:
- Book your visit online using the San Diego Sheriff’s eVisit System accessible through the Who’s in Jail website. Operating hours are from Wednesday to Sunday, spanning 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
- Reserve your social in-person visit via telephone. Call (619) 409-5000 and select the appropriate facility option to make your reservation. Phone reservations are available Wednesday through Sunday, from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm. Please note that the George Bailey Detention Facility operates within slightly adjusted hours, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Effective December 06, 2023
The Custody Information line for all Sheriff’s detention facilities has been consolidated into a single central phone number. For public inquiries, please dial (619) 409-5000 and select the relevant facility option.
Visit Reminders
- Visitation is accessible five days a week, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Each visit permits a maximum of three visitors, including children.
- Visits are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and may be subject to change without prior notice.
- Please ensure you check in 30 MINUTES prior to your scheduled visit. For visits to the George Bailey Detention Facility and the Rock Mountain Detention Facility, check-in time is 60 MINUTES prior.
- Visit reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance; same-day scheduling is not available.
- Inmates housed in the COVID-19 Positive Module or the Suspected COVID-19 (SPUI) Module are ineligible for visitation.
- Visitors under 18 years old must be accompanied by a qualified adult possessing valid photo identification and clearance for visits. A qualified adult includes a parent, court-appointed guardian, or any adult with legal custody.
Are you on PROBATION or PAROLE? Request visit authorization before scheduling your visit.
Service Animals
As defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are typically permitted during visitation for individuals with disabilities. Certain exceptions apply under federal law, and a service animal may be lawfully excluded from the facility under specific circ*mstances. If excluded, visitors have the option to proceed with the visit without the service animal. Refer to 28 C.F.R § 35.136, Service Animals, for further details.
Video Visitation
Video visits are available seven days a week, lasting 30 minutes each. Inmates are entitled to two video visits per week, scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance through Smart Communications. Prior creation of a user account is necessary for scheduling video visits.Please note that video visitation arrangements are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.Considering a recent transition in the phone service provider for the incarcerated population, calls originating from within the detention facilities will display the number 727-349-1561. Certain mobile carriers may flag this number within their spam settings, potentially filtering out calls from incarcerated individuals. To ensure receipt of these calls, it’s recommended to program this number into your phone or contact your phone service provider to unblock it. They are actively pursuing additional solutions and will communicate any further developments.
Individuals in custody have no restrictions on the volume of mail they may send or receive.When preparing mail for delivery to someone in jail, please adhere to the following guidelines:Ensure that the envelope or package includes the recipient’s name, booking number, facility, as well as the sender’s name and return address. If you lack the recipient’s booking number, consult the Who’s in Jail page.The designated mailing address for San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Jails is as follows:
Mail Processing Center451 Riverview Parkway, Building CSantee, CA 92071Effective September 1st, 2022, any mail addressed to or received directly at six of the detention facilities will be declined and returned to the sender. Please utilize the above address for swift processing and delivery to the individual in custody.All incoming and outgoing mail undergoes thorough inspection and scanning for contraband, with legal correspondence between an individual and their attorney screened for contraband but not read.
Permissible Items
- General correspondence: regular mail containing letters, money orders, checks, etc.
- Legal correspondence: must originate from a legal entity such as courts, law enforcement agencies, attorneys, government agencies, etc.
- Books and magazines directly from reputable vendors or publishers
Prohibited Items
- Food, cosmetics, and other perishables
- Homemade greeting cards or cardboard
- Any unknown substances or odors (e.g., stains, lipstick, perfume, smoke, etc.)
- Items containing foil or metal, glass, wood, hard plastic, rubber, leaves, flowers, paperclips, jewelry, staples, whiteout, colored paper, tracing paper, heavy art paper, glitter, confetti, stickers, tape, glue, paint, watercolors, tobacco products, or any items written in crayon, chalk, markers, foam cutouts, or other removable items
- Audio CDs, cassette tapes, thumb drives
- Hardcover or spiral-bound books
- Polaroid photos
- Photos, writings, or items depicting gangs, weapons, nudity/partial nudity, sexually explicit and/or unlawful activity, racially inflammatory information, or content conflicting with safety and security protocols
For detailed policies and procedures regarding mail at San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Detention Facilities, refer to the policies and procedures page.
FAQ’S
- Who’s currently in jail in San Diego County?You can find out who’s currently in jail in San Diego County by reaching out to the Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610 or visiting the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website.
- How can I locate someone in local custody?Contact the Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610 for assistance in locating someone in local custody.
- How can I determine if someone has been arrested?You can find out if someone has been arrested by contacting the Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610.
- Where can I find someone’s court date?For information on court dates, visit the San Diego County Courts website.
- How can I determine if someone is eligible for release?Contact the Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610 for information on an individual’s eligibility for release.
- How do I initiate a release process for my inmate?Contact the Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610 for assistance in initiating the release process.
- When will charges be accessible after the booking?Charges may become accessible after booking, but specific timelines may vary. For more information, contact the Inmate Information Center.
- What’s the timeframe for an inmate’s release process?The timeframe for an inmate’s release process can vary depending on various factors. Contact the Inmate Information Center for more specific information.
- What are the visiting hours for inmates?Visiting hours for inmates can vary. Contact the Inmate Information Center or visit the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website for visiting hours.
- Am I allowed to deliver reading materials to an inmate?Check with the facility or the Inmate Information Center regarding policies on delivering reading materials to inmates.
- Can I provide hygiene items for an inmate?Policies regarding providing hygiene items for inmates may vary by facility. Contact the Inmate Information Center for more information.
- Is it permissible to deliver prescription glasses or contacts for an inmate?Check with the facility or the Inmate Information Center for policies regarding delivering prescription glasses or contacts to inmates.
- How can I find out about an inmate’s court appearance?Information about an inmate’s court appearance may be available through the San Diego County Courts website or by contacting the Inmate Information Center.
- What is the maximum amount of money allowed in an inmate’s account?The maximum amount of money allowed in an inmate’s account may vary. Contact the Inmate Information Center for specific information.
- Can an inmate sign official documents while in custody?Contact the facility or the Inmate Information Center for information on whether inmates can sign official documents while in custody.
- What happens to an inmate’s personal belongings upon transfer to prison?Contact the facility or the Inmate Information Center for information on what happens to an inmate’s personal belongings upon transfer to prison.
- Is it possible to replace an inmate’s clothing?Contact the facility or the Inmate Information Center for information on replacing an inmate’s clothing.
Release Information
If you require information regarding the release of an inmate or an individual arrested in San Diego County and taken to the San Diego County Central Jail, direct inquiries to the Inmate Information Center at (619) 313-5610. They can furnish details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.For additional resources, you can visit the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website.
San Diego County Courts
For matters concerning the San Diego County Courts, including general information, judge assignments, and virtual hearings, please refer to the San Diego County Courts website at:
Jail Population
To access information about the jail population in San Diego County, utilize the following link: Jail Population.
