San Diego County Jails
Welcome to the Inmate Information Locator Service by the San Diego County Jails Inmate Information Services
Here, you’ll find all you need to know about inmates in San Diego County, California, including insights into various jail facilities in the area. Whether you’re a concerned family member, a legal representative, or simply curious about someone’s status, our platform makes it easy to access relevant information and connect with specialists to navigate your loved one’s location and release procedures.
Effortless Inmate Information Retrieval
Our Inmate Locator tool simplifies the process of finding inmates. Just provide their name, date of birth, and other relevant details, and with a few clicks, you’ll access comprehensive inmate information, including booking dates, charges, court dates, and much more.
In-Depth Look at San Diego County Jail Facilities
Explore detailed overviews of various San Diego County Jail facilities, including 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 features and services available at each facility to better understand inmate management processes.
Reliable Online Resources for Inmate Searches
Access a range of reliable resources to aid 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 provide up-to-date information to support your search efforts.
Prompt Solutions to Common Queries
Browse through our frequently asked questions section for swift answers to typical inquiries regarding inmate mail, telephone systems, cashier services, bail information, visiting hours, and more. If you need additional assistance, our dedicated support team is just a phone call away.
Supporting Families and Legal Representatives
We understand the importance of staying informed during challenging times. Our platform is designed to empower families and legal representatives by providing access to crucial inmate information and support services.
Commence Your Search Today
Whether you’re seeking details about an inmate or insights into the inmate management process in San Diego County, our service is ready to assist at every step. Start using our Inmate Locator tool today to effortlessly and confidently access inmate information. Stay informed, stay connected, and rely on us as your trusted resource for all your inmate search needs in San Diego County.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY CENTRAL JAIL
If you’re seeking information about individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the San Diego County Central Jail, you can reach out to our Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625. We provide details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.
San Diego County Central Jail
Location: 1173 Front Street
San Diego, CA 92101
Contact:
(619) 409-5000
Detention Facility
We’ve integrated the Custody Information line across all Sheriff’s detention facilities into one central phone number. For public inquiries, dial
(619) 409-5000 and select the appropriate option for your desired facility.
Key Details
- Operational since May 1998
- Facility Size: 417,000 sq. ft.
- Height: 230 ft.
- Located in downtown San Diego, the San Diego Central Jail (SDCJ) serves as the primary intake center for incarcerated males in San Diego County.
The staffing includes slightly over 200 sworn employees and nearly 200 professional staff members.
SDCJ began operations in May 1998. The facility, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, heavily utilizes touch-screen controls and video surveillance. At its core lies the Central Command Center, capable of electronically overseeing all jail operations during emergencies or major system malfunctions.
Standing at 230 feet, SDCJ represents the tallest construction endeavor ever undertaken by the County of San Diego. It encompasses 11 floors with a total of 17 levels, including mezzanines and a basement. The building contributes aesthetically to the downtown San Diego skyline and has received multiple accolades for architectural, interior, and lighting design.
SDCJ primarily houses 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 offers an extensive array 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 make reservations for 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 allows 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. Visitation 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 Schedule
- DAILY AM
- 7:30 AM
- 8:15 AM
- 9:00 AM
- 9:45 AM
- DAILY PM
- 1:30 PM
- 2:15 PM
- 3:00 PM
- 3:45 PM
- DAILY EVENING
- 7:30 PM
- 8:15 PM
- 9:00 PM
- 9:45 PM
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 be confusing and uncertain, both for the individual in custody and their concerned loved ones. You may have inquiries regarding mail, phone communication, visitation, healthcare, and more. Initially, reaching out to the arrested individual may prove challenging, and navigating the intricacies of the jail system can hinder your access to essential information regarding the arrest.
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. It’s become aware that certain mobile carriers may flag this number within their spam settings, potentially filtering out calls from incarcerated individuals. To ensure you receive these calls, it’s advised to program this number into your phone or reach out to your phone service provider to unblock it.
For crucial details concerning the San Diego County Jails and their incarcerated individuals, please consult 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
If you need information about individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the South Bay Detention Facility, also known as the Chula Vista Jail, you can contact our Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625. We provide details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.
South Bay Detention Facility
Location: 500 Third Ave.
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Contact:
(619) 409-5000
Nestled beneath the South Bay Regional Justice Center in the City of Chula Vista, the South Bay Detention Facility (SBDF) has been serving 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 efficiently operates with a team of a dozen deputies and a Watch Commander, supported by a dedicated professional staff. Trained medical personnel attend to minor ailments and illnesses among the incarcerated individuals, while Detention Processing staff oversee court appearances and aid friends and family in coordinating 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 facilitated by certified bilingual instructors. Additionally, church services and Bible studies are available in both English and Spanish.
Important Notice for Visitors
Starting 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 person 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.
Please be aware that due to a recent phone system provider change, calls from incarcerated individuals may appear with 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 a social visit in person, please dial
(619) 409-5000 from Wednesday through Sunday, between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm. Visits are open 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.
LAS COLINAS DETENTION AND RE-ENTRY FACILITY
If you’re seeking information about individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the Las Colinas Detention Facility, also known as Las Colinas Jail, you can contact our Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625. We provide details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.
Address: 451 Riverview Parkway
Santee, CA 92071
Phone:
(619) 409-5000
Located in Santee, the Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility (LCDRF) serves as the primary intake center for female inmates in San Diego County.
Established in August 2014, LCDRF replaced the former Las Colinas Detention Facility, originally constructed in 1967. Initially used as a juvenile center, it transitioned into a women’s facility in 1979. The new facility is operated by around 200 sworn officers and 200 support staff. Alongside its inception, new operational methods were introduced.
One of these innovations 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,” whereby deputies are stationed within inmate housing areas. This fosters increased interaction between inmates and staff, facilitating conflict resolution and early intervention.
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. Furthermore, LCDRF provides various housing options for inmates needing separation or specialized medical/mental health care.
VISTA DETENTION FACILITY / VISTA JAIL
If you’re inquiring about individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the Vista Jail Detention Facility, also known as the Vista Jail, you can reach out to our Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625 for details such as booking number, charges, and release information.
Vista Detention Facility
Location: 325 S. Melrose Dr., #200
Vista, CA 92081
Phone:
(619) 409-5000
Brief Overview
Beginning operations in 1978 and expanding in 1989, the Vista Detention Facility (VDF) is situated 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 Growth
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
If you need information about individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the East Mesa Re-Entry Facility, also known as the East Mesa Jail, you can contact our Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625 for details such as booking number, charges, and release information.
Address: 446 Alta Rd., Ste. 5200
San Diego, CA 92158
Phone:
(619) 409-5000
Overview
Established under the management of the Sheriff’s Department in 1991, the East Mesa Reentry Facility (EMRF) boasts a rated capacity of 760 and occupies an area of 8 acres in Otay Mesa. Initially constructed as a probation camp alongside the George F. Bailey Detention Facility, it was transferred to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department’s jurisdiction in 1991. In 2014, it underwent both an expansion and a name change, aligning with its new focus within the Detention Services Bureau to administer reentry services for the Sheriff’s Department.
Facility Description
EMRF, classified as a Type II medium-security facility, sprawls over eight acres in the southern region of San Diego County. It comprises:
- Six housing dormitories
- Recreational spaces
- A mess hall
- Multiple 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 benefit from employment opportunities, educational incentives, and skill development due to the lower security levels compared to other facilities. For detailed program information, please refer to the
Reentry Services section on the Sheriff’s Department website.
Visitor Guidelines
Beginning January 8, 2024, EMRF will introduce video visitation through the SMART Communications System. Video visitation is accessible seven days a week, with each session lasting 30 minutes. Inmates are permitted two video visits weekly, scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis with no same-day reservations. To schedule a visit, visitors must create an account on
SmartInmate™ – Corrections Communications Services at least one day in advance. Visits are subject to modification or cancellation without prior notification.
Please note: Due to recent changes in the phone system provided for incarcerated individuals, calls from within the detention facilities may come from the number 727-349-1561. Some mobile carriers might mistakenly categorize 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. They are actively exploring additional solutions and will provide updates.
For scheduling in-person social visits, please contact
(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 permits 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’re seeking information about individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the South Bay Detention Facility, also known as the Chula Vista Jail, you can contact our Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625 for details such as booking number, charges, and release information.
Rock Mountain Detention Facility
Address: 446 Alta Road, Ste. 5400
San Diego, CA 92158
Phone:
(619) 409-5000
Overview
Commencing operations in 2023, the Rock Mountain Detention Facility (RMDF) accommodates a maximum of 200 individuals. Situated in Otay Mesa, RMDF is classified as a maximum-security facility. Originally constructed in 2000, for the initial 15 years, it was leased to the federal government and managed by the Corrections Corporation of America (CCA). However, in 2016, the facility was handed back to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Subsequently, in 2019, renovations were initiated to modernize the facility. House 1 was the first section to undergo renovations and commenced 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 permits up to three visitors, inclusive of 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
For individuals arrested in San Diego County and taken to the George Bailey Detention Facility, you may contact an Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625 for more information such as booking number, charges, and release information.
George Bailey Detention Facility
Address: 446 Alta Rd. Ste. 5300
San Diego, CA 92158
Phone:
(619) 409-5000
Overview
Established in 1993, the George Bailey Detention Facility (GBDF) boasts a rated capacity of 1,380 individuals and spans an area of 189,050 square feet. Positioned in Otay Mesa, GBDF stands as the largest maximum-security facility among all under the jurisdiction of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Construction of the facility concluded in 1991, with limited operations commencing in 1993 and full operational status achieved by 1994.
The facility’s layout comprises:
- Six housing units
- A medical wing
- An area for processing incarcerated individuals
- An administrative section
Within the administrative domain lie the Detentions Processing Unit, Operational Support Unit, and the Facility Command staff.
Personnel at GBDF consist of sworn and professional staff fulfilling both operational and support roles. These include:
- Food Services
- Religious Services
- Medical Services
- Counseling Services
- Laundry and Supply Services
- Administrative Support Services
- Detention Processing Services
- Maintenance Support
GBDF accommodates a diverse population of inmates, including those with special housing requirements. Presently, the facility hosts three units dedicated to managing distinct special needs incarcerated individuals.
Visitor Information
Commencing 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, processed on a first-come, first-served basis, require advance booking one day prior and can only be made through
SmartInmate™ – Corrections Communications Services. Visitors must create an account before scheduling a visit. Changes or cancellations to visitation arrangements may occur without prior notice.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY JAILS INMATE RECORDS INFORMATION
How can I secure a release for my incarcerated loved one?
If you’re in need of a San Diego Sheriff Crime, Arrest, or Accident Report Copy, note that the San Diego Sheriff’s Department follows Section 6254 of the California Government Code, which dictates the confidentiality of these reports. Typically, they are only accessible to “interested parties” or “victims of an incident” according to relevant State codes, or upon issuance of a subpoena or court order.
For inquiries regarding final sentencing, trial status, or case prosecution, it’s advisable to reach out to the appropriate Superior Court Location or the District Attorney’s office, as applicable.
The department typically retains most crime, arrest, and accident reports for a duration of 10 years. However, certain cases such as homicides, unresolved escapes, missing persons/juveniles, sex crimes, and crimes against children may be kept for longer periods.
Here’s how you can request a report copy:
- Initiate a request via the Public Records Center.
- Submit a request to the Sheriff’s station or substation responsible for the report or incident response.
- Submit a Service Request Form to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Records & ID Division:
- Submit the Service Request Form through one of the following:
- 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.
- Submit a request by Mail:San Diego County Sheriff’s DepartmentAttn: Records & ID Division, Cases SectionP.O. Box 939062San Diego, CA 92193-9062
If the request is submitted in person, a valid, government-issued photo identification card (e.g., driver’s license, passport, military ID) must be presented. If submitted by mail, enclose a copy of the ID.
All applicable fees must be paid before report copies are released. We strive to process all requests within 3-10 business days.
Fees:
The fee for a Crime, Arrest, or Accident Report copy is $20.00. However, the initial copy of the crime report and the first copy of accident reports involving alcohol or drugs are free for 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.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY JAILS GENERAL VISITATION
Social In-Person Visits:
To schedule social in-person visits, you have two convenient options. Firstly, you can 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.
For detailed instructions on how to schedule an in-person visit online, please choose from the following links:
Alternatively, you can 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 circumstances. 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.
SENDING MAIL AND PACKAGES
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, 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 Center
451 Riverview Parkway, Building C
Santee, CA 92071
Effective 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
1. Who’s in Jail in San Diego County?
You can find out who’s currently in jail in San Diego County by contacting the Inmate Information Center at
(619) 304-9625 or visiting the
San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website.
2. Locate someone in local custody?
Contact the Inmate Information Center at
(619) 304-9625 for assistance in locating someone in local custody.
3. Know if someone has been arrested?
You can find out if someone has been arrested by contacting the Inmate Information Center at
(619) 304-9625.
4. Find out someone’s court date?
For information on court dates, visit the
San Diego County Courts website.
5. Know if someone is eligible for release?
Contact the Inmate Information Center at
(619) 304-9625 for information on an individual’s eligibility for release.
6. How do I initiate a release process for my inmate?
Contact the Inmate Information Center at
(619) 304-6925 for assistance in initiating the release process.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. Is it permissible to deliver prescription glasses or contacts to an inmate?
Check with the facility or the Inmate Information Center for policies regarding delivering prescription glasses or contacts to inmates.
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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 need information regarding the release of an inmate or an individual arrested in San Diego County and taken to the San Diego County Central Jail, you can contact the Inmate Information Center directly at
(619) 304-9625. They can provide details such as booking numbers, charges, and release information.
Additionally, you can visit the
San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website for more information.
San Diego County Courts:
For matters related to the San Diego County Courts, including general information, judge assignments, and virtual hearings, you can visit the San Diego County Courts website at:
Jail Population:
To access information about the jail population in San Diego County, you can visit the following link:
Jail Population