San Diego County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In San Diego County?
Inmate records in San Diego County are official documents maintained by county correctional facilities that contain information about individuals who are currently incarcerated or have been previously detained within the county's detention system. These records are maintained pursuant to California Government Code § 6250-6270, which establishes the California Public Records Act.
The San Diego County Sheriff's Department serves as the primary custodian of these records for county-operated detention facilities. These records serve multiple governmental purposes:
- Documentation of an individual's entry into and exit from the correctional system
- Tracking of inmate location, status, and scheduled court appearances
- Maintenance of security classification and housing assignments
- Recording of disciplinary actions and behavioral incidents
- Documentation of participation in rehabilitation and educational programs
The Sheriff's Department maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and departmental policies. Records may be stored in both electronic and physical formats, with newer records primarily maintained in the department's digital inmate management system.
San Diego County Sheriff's Department - Records Division 9621 Ridgehaven Court San Diego, CA 92123 Phone: (858) 974-2110 San Diego County Sheriff's Department
Are Inmate Records Public In San Diego County?
Inmate records in San Diego County are generally considered public information with specific limitations established by California law. The California Public Records Act (CPRA), codified in Government Code § 6250-6270, establishes the public's right to access government records, including certain inmate information.
The following aspects of inmate records are typically available to the public:
- Full name of the inmate
- Booking number and date
- Current charges
- Bail amount (if applicable)
- Scheduled court dates
- Current custody status
- Expected release date (subject to change)
However, pursuant to California Government Code § 6254 and other applicable statutes, certain information is exempt from public disclosure:
- Medical and mental health records
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
- Records related to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking inmate information may utilize the San Diego Sheriff Who's In Jail online database, which provides basic custody information. This resource is updated regularly but undergoes weekly maintenance periods each Wednesday at noon, typically lasting approximately 30 minutes.
What's Included Inmate Records in San Diego County
Inmate records maintained by San Diego County detention facilities contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. These records are maintained in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations, which establishes minimum standards for local detention facilities.
Standard inmate records in San Diego County include:
- Demographic information (name, date of birth, gender, race/ethnicity)
- Booking information (date, time, arresting agency, booking number)
- Physical descriptors (height, weight, identifying marks such as tattoos or scars)
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Criminal charges and case numbers
- Court information (scheduled appearances, sentencing details)
- Custody classification and housing assignment
- Disciplinary records from current incarceration
- Visitation logs (approved visitors, visit history)
- Commissary and financial account information
- Program participation (educational, vocational, rehabilitation)
- Medical screening information (non-diagnostic)
The level of detail available to the public versus law enforcement or corrections personnel varies significantly. While basic information is accessible through public portals, comprehensive records are restricted to authorized personnel with legitimate operational needs.
Records are maintained by the facility where the inmate is housed, with centralized oversight by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department Records Division.
San Diego County Prison System
The San Diego County correctional system operates under a multi-tiered structure that includes both county-operated detention facilities and state prison facilities located within county boundaries. This system functions pursuant to California Penal Code § 4000-4030, which establishes the legal framework for county jails.
The San Diego County Sheriff's Department administers the county detention system, which primarily houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
- Those serving sentences of less than one year
- Individuals sentenced under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109)
- Temporary holds for state and federal prisoners with local court proceedings
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) operates state prison facilities within San Diego County for individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.
The county system currently maintains an average daily population of approximately 5,000 inmates across its facilities. Operational oversight is provided by:
San Diego County Sheriff's Department - Detention Services Bureau 9621 Ridgehaven Court San Diego, CA 92123 Phone: (858) 974-2222 San Diego County Sheriff's Department
Coordination between county facilities, state prisons, and the San Diego County government ensures continuity of custody and appropriate placement of individuals within the correctional system based on security needs, sentence length, and available programming.
Types of Correctional Facilities In San Diego County
San Diego County maintains a diverse array of correctional facilities designed to accommodate various security levels and specialized populations. These facilities operate in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations and are subject to regular inspection by the Board of State and Community Corrections.
County-operated detention facilities include:
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San Diego Central Jail 1173 Front Street San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 610-1647 Primary facility for male inmates awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing
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George Bailey Detention Facility 446 Alta Road San Diego, CA 92158 Phone: (619) 671-2000 Maximum-security facility for male inmates
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Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility 451 Riverview Parkway Santee, CA 92071 Phone: (619) 402-1312 Primary facility for female inmates at all security levels
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East Mesa Reentry Facility 446 Alta Road San Diego, CA 92158 Phone: (619) 671-2000 Medium-security facility focused on rehabilitation and reentry programs
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Vista Detention Facility 325 S. Melrose Drive Vista, CA 92081 Phone: (760) 936-0014 North County facility housing both pre-trial and sentenced inmates
State prison facilities within San Diego County include:
- Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility 480 Alta Road San Diego, CA 92179 Phone: (619) 661-6500 State prison operated by CDCR housing male inmates of various security levels
Each facility maintains specialized units for inmates requiring protective custody, mental health services, medical care, or other specialized housing needs. The San Diego Police Department operates temporary holding facilities for individuals prior to transfer to county detention facilities.
Who's in Prison In San Diego County
The inmate population in San Diego County detention facilities represents a diverse cross-section of individuals with varying legal statuses, offense types, and demographic characteristics. As of the most recent reporting period, the county's detention facilities house approximately 5,000 inmates on any given day.
The current inmate population consists of:
- Pre-trial detainees (approximately 65% of the population)
- Sentenced inmates serving terms of less than one year (approximately 20%)
- Individuals sentenced under AB 109 realignment (approximately 10%)
- Federal and state prisoners temporarily housed for local court proceedings (approximately 5%)
Demographic analysis of the inmate population indicates:
- Gender distribution: Approximately 85% male, 15% female
- Age range: 18-75 years, with median age of 34
- Racial/ethnic composition: Reflective of regional demographics with consideration of systemic factors
Common offense categories among the current population include:
- Drug-related offenses (possession, sales, manufacturing)
- Property crimes (theft, burglary, vandalism)
- Violent offenses (assault, robbery, domestic violence)
- Parole/probation violations
- Public order offenses
The San Diego Sheriff Who's In Jail database provides current information about individuals in custody, though release dates displayed may not always be accurate due to ongoing recalculation processes. This resource enables members of the public to verify custody status and basic case information for specific individuals.
How To Search for Inmate Records In San Diego County in 2025
Members of the public seeking inmate information in San Diego County may utilize several official channels to access publicly available records. The primary methods for conducting inmate searches have been enhanced for 2025 with improved digital access options.
To search for inmate records electronically:
- Visit the San Diego Sheriff Who's In Jail online database
- Enter the inmate's last name and first name (middle name optional)
- Alternatively, enter the booking number if known
- Review search results for matching records
- Select the specific inmate record to view detailed information
Information typically available through electronic searches includes:
- Full name and booking number
- Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
- Current charges
- Custody status and housing facility
- Scheduled court dates
- Projected release date (subject to change)
For in-person record requests:
San Diego County Sheriff's Department - Records Division 9621 Ridgehaven Court San Diego, CA 92123 Phone: (858) 974-2110 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Requestors should note that the online database undergoes regular maintenance each Wednesday at noon for approximately 30 minutes, during which time the system is unavailable. Additionally, pursuant to California Government Code § 6253(c), requests requiring extensive research or compilation may take up to 10 business days to fulfill.
How To Find an Inmate in San Diego County for Free?
San Diego County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals within the county detention system. These resources are maintained in accordance with California Government Code § 6253, which establishes the public's right to access government records without charge for inspection.
Free inmate locator services include:
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Online Inmate Search The San Diego Sheriff Who's In Jail database provides real-time information about current inmates at no cost. Users should be aware that release dates displayed may not always be accurate due to ongoing recalculation processes.
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Telephone Information Line San Diego County Sheriff's Department Inmate Information: (619) 610-1647 Hours: 24 hours daily Automated system provides basic custody information
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In-Person Inquiry Visitors may inquire about an inmate's custody status at any San Diego County detention facility during regular business hours:
San Diego Central Jail - Information Desk 1173 Front Street San Diego, CA 92101 Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, daily
When utilizing these free services, requestors should have the following information available:
- Inmate's full legal name (first and last name required)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
For individuals without internet access, public libraries throughout San Diego County offer free computer access where the online inmate locator can be utilized. The San Diego County government maintains these public access points as part of its commitment to transparency and public service.
How To Visit an Inmate In San Diego County
Visitation with inmates in San Diego County detention facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1062, which establishes minimum visitation standards.
General visitation procedures include:
- All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitors must schedule appointments in advance through the facility's online scheduling system
- Minors must be accompanied by an authorized adult
- Visitors are subject to security screening, including metal detection and personal item inspection
- Appropriate attire is required (no revealing clothing, gang-related attire, or clothing resembling inmate uniforms)
Visitation scheduling can be completed through:
- Online scheduling system: https://www.sdsheriff.gov/bureaus/detention-services-bureau/inmate-visiting
- Telephone scheduling: (619) 610-1647
Facility-specific visitation hours:
San Diego Central Jail 1173 Front Street San Diego, CA 92101 Visiting Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility 451 Riverview Parkway Santee, CA 92071 Visiting Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
George Bailey Detention Facility 446 Alta Road San Diego, CA 92158 Visiting Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Vista Detention Facility 325 S. Melrose Drive Vista, CA 92081 Visiting Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Visitors should note that visitation schedules may be modified during holidays or facility lockdowns. Current visitation status can be verified by contacting the specific facility prior to scheduled visits.
How To Send Money to a San Diego County Inmate
San Diego County provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds may be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1069, which establishes standards for inmate funds management.
Approved methods for sending money include:
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Online Deposits The TouchPay system allows for secure credit/debit card deposits through the official website: https://sdsheriff.gov/bureaus/detention-services-bureau/inmate-services/inmate-money Processing fees apply based on deposit amount
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Kiosk Deposits Self-service kiosks are available in the public lobbies of all detention facilities Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted Available during normal lobby hours Receipts provided for all transactions
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Mail-In Money Orders Money orders must be:
- Made payable to the inmate (full name and booking number required)
- Sent to the facility where the inmate is housed
- Include sender's full name and return address
Inmate Services Division 446 Alta Road, Suite 5300 San Diego, CA 92158
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In-Person Deposits Cash deposits can be made at any detention facility during regular business hours Valid identification required Deposit slips must be completed with inmate information
Funds are typically available in inmate accounts within 24-48 hours of receipt. The maximum allowable balance in an inmate account is $1,500. Deposits exceeding this amount may be returned to the sender or held in a separate account until the inmate's release.
For questions regarding inmate accounts: Inmate Services Division Phone: (619) 661-2771 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
How To Send Jail Mail In San Diego County
Correspondence with inmates in San Diego County detention facilities must follow established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail procedures comply with California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1063, which establishes minimum standards for inmate correspondence.
General mail guidelines include:
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All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name and booking number
- Sender's full name and complete return address
- Proper facility mailing address
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Acceptable mail items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages, standard white paper only)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter or attachments)
- Money orders (see financial guidelines in previous section)
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Prohibited items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Items containing biohazards or contraband
Facility mailing addresses:
San Diego Central Jail Inmate Name, Booking # 1173 Front Street San Diego, CA 92101
Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility Inmate Name, Booking # 451 Riverview Parkway Santee, CA 92071
George Bailey Detention Facility Inmate Name, Booking # 446 Alta Road San Diego, CA 92158
Vista Detention Facility Inmate Name, Booking # 325 S. Melrose Drive Vista, CA 92081
All incoming mail is inspected for contraband and compliance with facility regulations. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and will be opened in the presence of the inmate.
For questions regarding mail policies: Detention Information Services Phone: (619) 610-1647 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Lookup Inmate Records in San Diego County
San Diego Sheriff Who's In Jail