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San Bernardino County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In San Bernardino County?

Inmate records in San Bernardino County are official documents that contain information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated in the county's detention facilities. These records are maintained by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, which oversees the county's jail system. The records include personal information, booking details, custody status, and other relevant data about inmates.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department maintains these records through their Corrections Division, which operates multiple detention facilities throughout the county. These records serve as an important resource for law enforcement, the judicial system, and the public.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, 655 E. Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415

Are Inmate Records Public In San Bernardino County?

Yes, inmate records in San Bernardino County are considered public information under California's Public Records Act. This means that basic information about inmates is accessible to the general public. However, access to certain sensitive information may be restricted to protect the privacy and safety of inmates.

The public can access inmate information through the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's online Inmate Locator system. This system allows users to search for inmates by name or booking number and view their basic custody information.

While these records are public, it's important to note that the use of this information is regulated. The information should not be used to harass, stalk, or otherwise harm individuals. Additionally, some information may be redacted or withheld if its release would compromise an ongoing investigation or the safety of an individual.

California Public Records Act Office, 1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814

What's Included Inmate Records in San Bernardino County

Inmate records in San Bernardino County typically include the following information:

  1. Personal Information: Full name, date of birth, gender, and physical description
  2. Booking Information: Booking date, booking number, and arresting agency
  3. Charges: Current charges and case numbers
  4. Custody Status: Current location, housing facility, and custody level
  5. Court Information: Next court date, court location, and case status
  6. Release Information: Scheduled release date (if applicable)
  7. Bail Information: Bail amount (if applicable)

It's important to note that not all information may be available for all inmates, and some information may be restricted based on security concerns or ongoing investigations.

San Bernardino County Prison System

The San Bernardino County prison system is managed by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Corrections Division. This system includes several detention facilities that house inmates at various security levels, from minimum to maximum security.

The county's detention facilities are designed to house both pre-trial detainees (those who have been arrested but not yet convicted) and sentenced inmates (those who have been convicted and are serving their sentences). The system also includes specialized housing for inmates with medical or mental health needs.

The San Bernardino County prison system works in conjunction with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to manage the inmate population. While county facilities typically house inmates serving shorter sentences (usually less than one year), those with longer sentences are generally transferred to state prisons operated by the CDCR.

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 1515 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811

Types of Correctional Facilities In San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County operates several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate needs:

  1. West Valley Detention Center: This is the largest facility in the county, housing both male and female inmates of various security classifications. It includes specialized housing for inmates with medical or mental health needs. West Valley Detention Center, 9500 Etiwanda Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739

  2. Central Detention Center: Located in San Bernardino, this facility primarily houses pre-trial detainees and inmates serving shorter sentences. Central Detention Center, 630 East Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415

  3. Glen Helen Rehabilitation Center: This facility focuses on rehabilitation programs and houses minimum to medium-security inmates. Glen Helen Rehabilitation Center, 18000 Institution Road, Devore, CA 92407

  4. High Desert Detention Center: Located in Adelanto, this newer facility houses inmates of various security classifications. High Desert Detention Center, 9438 Commerce Way, Adelanto, CA 92301

Each facility offers different programs and services based on its specific purpose and the needs of its inmate population.

Who's in Prison In San Bernardino County

The inmate population in San Bernardino County consists of various individuals at different stages of the criminal justice process:

  1. Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial. They have not been convicted of the charges against them.

  2. Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving their sentences in county facilities. These typically include those serving sentences of less than one year.

  3. State Prisoners: Some state prisoners may be housed in county facilities temporarily due to overcrowding in state prisons or for court appearances.

The demographic makeup of the inmate population generally reflects the broader demographics of those involved in the criminal justice system, with overrepresentation of certain socioeconomic and racial groups. The population includes both male and female inmates of various ages, though males typically make up the majority of the inmate population.

How To Search for Inmate Records In San Bernardino County in 2025

To search for inmate records in San Bernardino County in 2025, follow these steps:

  1. Online Inmate Locator:

    • Visit the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department website
    • Navigate to the "Corrections" section and select "Inmate Locator"
    • Enter the inmate's first and last name or booking number
    • Review the search results for the inmate's information
  2. Phone Inquiry:

    • Call the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Inmate Information Center
    • Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth
    • Request the inmate's current status and location
  3. In-Person Inquiry:

    • Visit any San Bernardino County detention facility during business hours
    • Speak with staff at the information desk
    • Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth
    • Request the inmate's current status and location

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, the online Inmate Locator is recommended as it is updated regularly.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Inmate Information Center, 655 E. Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415

How To Find an Inmate in San Bernardino County for Free?

Finding an inmate in San Bernardino County can be done for free using several methods:

  1. San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Inmate Locator:

    • This free online tool allows you to search for inmates by name or booking number
    • Visit the Sheriff's Department website and navigate to the Inmate Locator
    • Enter the required information and review the results
  2. California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS):

    • This statewide database includes information on inmates in county and state facilities
    • Visit the CDCR website and access the CIRIS system
    • Search by the inmate's name and review the results
  3. Contact the Sheriff's Department:

    • Call the Inmate Information Center directly
    • Provide the inmate's name and any other identifying information
    • Request their current location and status
  4. Visit a Detention Facility:

    • Go to any San Bernardino County detention facility during business hours
    • Speak with staff at the information desk
    • Provide the inmate's information to locate them

All these methods are free of charge and provide basic information about an inmate's custody status.

California Incarcerated Records & Information Search, 1515 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811

How To Visit an Inmate In San Bernardino County

Visiting an inmate in San Bernardino County requires following specific procedures:

  1. Check Visiting Hours:

    • Each facility has designated visiting days and hours
    • Visit the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department website or call the facility directly for current visiting schedules
  2. Register as a Visitor:

    • Some facilities require pre-registration before visiting
    • Complete any required visitor application forms
    • If you have a felony conviction, you must submit a "Request for a Convicted Felon to Visit an Inmate" form and receive approval before visiting
  3. Prepare for Your Visit:

    • Bring valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
    • Dress appropriately according to the facility's dress code (no revealing clothing, gang-related attire, or clothing resembling inmate uniforms)
    • Leave prohibited items in your vehicle (cell phones, weapons, tools, drugs, alcohol, etc.)
  4. Arrive Early:

    • Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit
    • Be prepared for security screening, including metal detectors and possible searches
    • Follow all instructions from facility staff
  5. During the Visit:

    • Maintain appropriate behavior at all times
    • Physical contact may be limited or prohibited depending on the facility and inmate's classification
    • Visits typically last 30-60 minutes, depending on the facility and current policies

Note that visiting policies may change, so it's advisable to verify the current procedures before planning your visit.

How To Send Money to a San Bernardino County Inmate

There are several ways to send money to an inmate in San Bernardino County:

  1. Online Deposits:

    • Visit the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department website
    • Navigate to the inmate services section
    • Follow the links to the approved third-party payment processor
    • Create an account if you don't have one
    • Enter the inmate's information and the amount you wish to deposit
    • Complete the payment using a credit or debit card
  2. Kiosk Deposits:

    • Visit any San Bernardino County detention facility during business hours
    • Use the self-service kiosk in the lobby
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to deposit funds
    • Pay with cash or credit/debit card
  3. Money Order by Mail:

    • Purchase a money order from a post office, bank, or other authorized location
    • Make the money order payable to the inmate (include their full name and booking number)
    • Mail the money order to the facility where the inmate is housed
    • Include your name and return address on the envelope
  4. Phone Deposits:

    • Call the approved third-party payment processor's customer service number
    • Provide the inmate's information and your payment details
    • Pay the deposit amount plus any applicable fees

Note that there may be limits on how much money can be deposited and fees associated with some deposit methods.

San Bernardino County Inmate Trust Fund, 630 East Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415

How To Send Jail Mail In San Bernardino County

Sending mail to an inmate in San Bernardino County requires following specific guidelines:

  1. Addressing the Mail:

    • Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the envelope
    • Include the facility's complete mailing address
    • Include your full name and return address on the envelope
  2. Mail Content Guidelines:

    • Letters must be written on plain paper (no cardstock, construction paper, or lined paper from notebooks with spiral binding)
    • Use blue or black ink only (no markers, crayons, colored pencils, or glitter)
    • Do not include any stickers, lipstick marks, perfume, or other substances on the paper
    • Photos must be 4x6 inches or smaller and cannot contain nudity, gang signs, or other inappropriate content
    • Do not send Polaroid photos or photos on photo paper
  3. Prohibited Items:

    • No greeting cards or postcards
    • No cash, checks, or money orders in personal mail (use approved money deposit methods instead)
    • No stamps, envelopes, or stationery
    • No newspaper clippings or magazine cutouts
    • No drawings or artwork
    • No food items or hygiene products
  4. Books and Publications:

    • Books must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
    • Soft-cover books only (no hardcover books)
    • Magazines must be new and sent directly from the publisher

All mail is inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Non-compliant mail will be returned to sender or discarded according to facility policy.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Mail Room, 9500 Etiwanda Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739

Lookup Inmate Records in San Bernardino County

Inmate Locator - San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department - Access the official San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Inmate Locator to search for inmates in the county's detention facilities.

County of San Bernardino Inmate Locator - Use this search tool to locate inmates by booking number or name, and find information on projected releases and out of custody searches.

Inmate General Information - San Bernardino County - Find general information about inmates in San Bernardino County, including visiting guidelines, prohibited items, and visitor dress code.

California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS) - Access the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation tool for information about incarcerated individuals across the state, including those in San Bernardino County.

Request for a Convicted Felon to Visit an Inmate Form - Download this required form for convicted felons who wish to visit an inmate in San Bernardino County.