Santa Clara County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Santa Clara County?

Inmate records in Santa Clara County are official government documents maintained by the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals who are incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. These records are distinct from court records, which are maintained by the Santa Clara County Superior Court and document case proceedings, judgments, and legal actions.

Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, law enforcement agencies are required to maintain comprehensive records of arrests and bookings. The creation of inmate records begins at the time of booking and intake into a detention facility, where personal information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge details are documented. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, and program participation.

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state regulations and departmental policies. Inmate records serve multiple purposes, including:

• Ensuring proper identification and classification of incarcerated individuals
• Tracking custody status and location within the facility
• Documenting medical needs and treatment
• Recording visitation history and communications
• Maintaining security and safety within detention facilities
• Facilitating appropriate release planning and reentry services

Upon an individual's release from custody, their inmate record is closed but retained according to the county's record retention schedule as established under California Government Code § 26202.

Are Inmate Records Public In Santa Clara County?

Inmate records in Santa Clara County are partially accessible to the public under the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, access is limited by specific exemptions designed to protect privacy, safety, and security interests.

Under Government Code § 6254(f), certain law enforcement records, including some components of inmate records, may be exempt from disclosure. Additionally, California Penal Code § 13300 restricts access to criminal history information.

The following inmate record information is generally available to the public in Santa Clara County:

• Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
• Booking information (date and time of booking)
• Charges filed
• Bail/bond amounts
• Expected release dates (for sentenced inmates)
• Facility housing location (general information)

Information that is typically restricted from public access includes:

• Detailed medical records
• Mental health information
• Disciplinary records
• Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Juvenile records
• Information that would compromise facility security
• Records sealed by court order

Members of the public seeking inmate information may access the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office online inmate locator system or submit a formal public records request for specific information. The Sheriff's Office evaluates each request in accordance with applicable laws and regulations to determine what information may be released.

What's Included Inmate Records in Santa Clara County

Inmate records in Santa Clara County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county's detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Fingerprints and other biometric data
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification level
• Disciplinary incidents and actions
• Program participation

Charge Information:

• Current charges (including statute numbers)
• Case numbers
• Warrant information
• Criminal history (prior bookings and charges)
• Probation or parole status

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount
• Bond type
• Bond status
• Court-ordered conditions of release

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court orders
• Protective orders or restraining orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Length of sentence
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Eligibility for early release programs
• Post-release supervision requirements

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Notification requirements

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in compliance with state regulations and departmental policies. Access to specific components of these records varies based on the requestor's relationship to the inmate and applicable privacy laws.

Santa Clara County Prison System

The Santa Clara County correctional system operates under the jurisdiction of the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration and operation of the county's detention facilities. It is important to note that Santa Clara County operates jail facilities, not prisons. Jails are county-operated facilities that primarily house individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences of one year or less, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) operates the state prison system, which houses individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year. Individuals sentenced to state prison from Santa Clara County courts are transferred to CDCR custody after sentencing.

The Santa Clara County jail system is one of the largest in California, with multiple facilities designed to accommodate various custody levels and specialized populations. The system processes approximately 40,000 bookings annually and has an average daily population of approximately 3,500 inmates.

The administration of the county jail system falls under the Custody Division of the Sheriff's Office:

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office
55 West Younger Avenue
San Jose, CA 95110
(408) 808-4900
Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office operates under the authority granted by the California Constitution and various state laws, including the California Penal Code § 4000, which establishes the sheriff's responsibility for keeping the county jail and the prisoners in it.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County maintains several detention facilities, each serving different populations and security needs within the county's correctional system:

Main Jail Complex
150 West Hedding Street
San Jose, CA 95110
(408) 299-2306
Main Jail Information

The Main Jail Complex consists of two facilities:

• Main Jail North: A high-security facility that opened in 1988, housing primarily maximum and medium-security male inmates. This facility contains approximately 1,125 beds and includes specialized housing for administrative segregation, protective custody, and inmates with mental health needs.

• Main Jail South: Constructed in 1956 and renovated multiple times, this facility houses approximately 675 inmates, primarily medium and minimum-security male inmates. It also contains the booking and release center for the entire jail system.

Elmwood Correctional Complex
701 South Abel Street
Milpitas, CA 95035
(408) 957-5300
Elmwood Correctional Complex

The Elmwood Complex consists of two primary facilities:

• Elmwood Men's Facility: Houses approximately 2,000 minimum and medium-security male inmates. This facility includes dormitory-style housing units and offers various rehabilitative programs, educational opportunities, and vocational training.

• Correctional Center for Women (CCW): Houses approximately 600 female inmates of all security classifications. This facility provides gender-responsive programming and services designed to address the specific needs of incarcerated women.

Juvenile Hall
840 Guadalupe Parkway
San Jose, CA 95110
(408) 278-5800
Juvenile Hall

While not operated by the Sheriff's Office but rather by the Santa Clara County Probation Department, Juvenile Hall houses youth under 18 who are detained pending juvenile court proceedings or serving commitments ordered by the juvenile court.

Each facility operates with specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options appropriate to its population and security level. The facilities are staffed by sworn correctional deputies, civilian support staff, medical personnel, and program providers.

Who's in Prison In Santa Clara County

The Santa Clara County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. It is important to note that these individuals are housed in county jail facilities, not state prisons. The jail population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals may be in custody because:

• They are awaiting arraignment
• They have been denied bail due to public safety concerns
• They have been granted bail but are unable to post the required amount
• They are being held on a no-bail warrant

Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of one year or less in county jail. Following the implementation of California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109), this category also includes:

• Non-violent, non-serious, non-sex offenders serving felony sentences in county jail rather than state prison
• Individuals convicted of certain felonies who would have previously been sent to state prison

Parole/Probation Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their supervised release and are being held pending hearings or serving sanctions for these violations.

Transfer Inmates: Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions, including:

• Those sentenced to state prison awaiting transport to CDCR facilities
• Those with holds from other counties or states
• Federal detainees being temporarily housed under contract

According to data from the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, the jail population demographics generally reflect:

• Approximately 90% male and 10% female inmates
• Diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds representative of the county's population
• Various age groups, with the majority between 18-45 years old
• Varying educational backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses
• High prevalence of individuals with substance use disorders and mental health conditions

The average length of stay varies significantly based on case status, with pre-trial detainees potentially remaining in custody for months or even years depending on the complexity of their cases, while those serving misdemeanor sentences may be released after days or weeks.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Santa Clara County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals in custody in Santa Clara County may utilize several methods to access inmate records. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate searches:

Online Inmate Locator System

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate locator system that provides basic information about individuals currently in custody:

1. Visit the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office Inmate Locator
2. Enter the individual's name or booking number (if known)
3. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Full name
   • Booking number
   • Booking date
   • Current charges
   • Next court date
   • Facility location
   • Bail amount (if applicable)

In-Person Records Request

Individuals may request inmate information in person at:

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office Records Division
55 West Younger Avenue
San Jose, CA 95110
(408) 808-4717
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

When requesting records in person, requestors should:

1. Complete a Public Records Act request form
2. Provide specific information about the inmate (full name, date of birth)
3. Specify the information being requested
4. Present valid identification
5. Pay applicable fees for copies of records

Written Records Request

Written requests for inmate information may be submitted by mail to:

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
55 West Younger Avenue
San Jose, CA 95110

Written requests should include:

1. Requestor's full name and contact information
2. Specific information about the inmate (full name, date of birth if known)
3. Detailed description of the records being requested
4. Date range for the requested records
5. Preferred method of receiving the records

Pursuant to the California Public Records Act, the Sheriff's Office must respond to requests within 10 calendar days, though complex requests may require additional time. Some information may be redacted or withheld based on privacy laws and security considerations.

For information about individuals who have been transferred to state prison, the California Incarcerated Records and Information Search (CIRIS) system provides details about individuals in CDCR custody.

How To Find an Inmate in Santa Clara County for Free?

Santa Clara County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody within the county jail system. These resources are available to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public:

Online Inmate Locator

The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool:

1. Access the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office Inmate Locator
2. Enter the individual's first and last name (no middle name required)
3. For more precise results, include additional information if known:
   • Date of birth
   • Booking number
4. Review the search results, which provide:
   • Current custody status
   • Facility location
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Next court date
   • Bail information (if applicable)

This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody.

Telephone Information Line

For those without internet access, the Sheriff's Office maintains a telephone information line:

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line
(408) 299-2311
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

When calling, be prepared to provide:

• Inmate's full name (first and last)
• Date of birth (if known)

In-Person Inquiry

Individuals may inquire about an inmate's status in person at either of the county's detention facilities:

Main Jail Information Desk
150 West Hedding Street
San Jose, CA 95110
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Elmwood Correctional Complex Information Desk
701 South Abel Street
Milpitas, CA 95035
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

For individuals who may have been transferred to state prison custody, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation provides the California Incarcerated Records and Information Search (CIRIS) system, which allows free searches for individuals in state custody.

It is important to note that information about individuals who have been released from custody, had charges dismissed, or transferred to other jurisdictions may not appear in the current inmate database. Historical custody information may require a formal records request.

How To Visit an Inmate In Santa Clara County

Visitation with inmates in Santa Clara County detention facilities is governed by specific procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures

• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• Visitors must pass through security screening, including metal detectors
• Visitors with outstanding warrants may be subject to arrest
• Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting current inmates
• Individuals on probation or parole must obtain written permission from their supervising officer and facility administration before visiting

Visit Schedule

Visitation schedules vary by facility and housing unit:

Main Jail Complex:

• Non-contact visits only
• Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Visits limited to 30 minutes
• Inmates may receive up to two visits per week

Elmwood Men's Facility:

• Non-contact visits only
• Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Visits limited to 30 minutes
• Inmates may receive up to two visits per week

Correctional Center for Women:

• Non-contact visits only
• Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Visits limited to 30 minutes
• Inmates may receive up to two visits per week

What to Bring

• Valid government-issued photo identification
• Locker key (if storing personal items)
• Visiting paperwork/appointment confirmation
• Medical devices (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring

• Weapons of any kind
• Illegal substances
• Alcohol
• Tobacco products
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches)
• Cameras or recording devices
• Excessive cash (over $50)
• Food or beverages
• Purses, backpacks, or large bags
• Keys (except car keys)

Dress Code

• Conservative attire required
• No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, cleavage, or undergarments)
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No law enforcement or security-type uniforms
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
• Shoes must be worn at all times

Visit Types

Non-Contact Visits:

• Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
• No physical contact permitted
• Available to all eligible inmates

Professional Visits:

• Available to attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
• May be contact or non-contact depending on facility and security level
• Require professional credentials and prior approval

Video Visitation:

• Available at select facilities
• Must be scheduled in advance
• Fees may apply for remote video visitation

Visit Restrictions

Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended under the following circumstances:

• Facility lockdown or emergency
• Inmate disciplinary action
• Visitor violation of rules
• Court order restricting contact
• Medical quarantine

For additional information or to schedule visits, contact:

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office Inmate Visitation
(408) 299-2311
Inmate Visitation Information

All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations. Visitors are advised to verify current policies before arriving for a visit.

How To Send Money to a Santa Clara County Inmate

Santa Clara County provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. The following options are currently available:

Online Deposits

The most convenient method for sending money is through the county's contracted service provider:

1. Visit the Access Corrections website
2. Create an account or log in
3. Select "Santa Clara County" as the facility
4. Enter the inmate's information (full name and booking number)
5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card

Fees: A service fee applies based on the deposit amount:

• $0.01 - $20.00: $3.95 fee
• $20.01 - $100.00: $6.95 fee
• $100.01 - $300.00: $9.95 fee

Processing time: Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours.

Kiosk Deposits

Self-service kiosks are available in the lobby areas of both the Main Jail and Elmwood facilities:

Main Jail Lobby Kiosk
150 West Hedding Street
San Jose, CA 95110
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Elmwood Correctional Complex Lobby Kiosk
701 South Abel Street
Milpitas, CA 95035
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Kiosks accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. A receipt is provided for all transactions.

Fees: A service fee of $3.00 applies to all kiosk deposits.

Processing time: Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 1-2 hours.

Mail Deposits

Money orders may be sent by mail to:

Santa Clara County Department of Correction
Inmate Accounting Unit
180 West Hedding Street
San Jose, CA 95110

Important mail deposit guidelines:

• Money orders must be made payable to the inmate's full name and booking number
• Personal checks and cash are not accepted
• Include sender's full name and return address on the envelope
• Do not include letters or other items with money orders

Fees: No fee is charged by the Sheriff's Office for processing money orders.

Processing time: Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 3-5 business days after receipt.

Amount Limits

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
• Maximum account balance: $1,500

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds

Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Video visitation fees
• Medical co-pays
• Restitution payments (if court-ordered)
• Release money (funds available upon discharge)

Prohibited Uses

Inmate funds may not be used for:

• Purchasing items for other inmates
• Paying for unauthorized services
• Gambling or betting activities
• Bribes or payments to staff or other inmates

For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:

Santa Clara County Inmate Accounting Unit
(408) 808-3775
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

How To Send Jail Mail In Santa Clara County

Maintaining communication with incarcerated individuals through mail is an important way to provide support and maintain connections. The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office has established specific guidelines for sending mail to inmates in county facilities:

Mailing Address Format

All mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Facility Name
Facility Address
City, State ZIP

Specific facility addresses:

Main Jail Complex
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
150 West Hedding Street
San Jose, CA 95110

Elmwood Men's Facility
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
701 South Abel Street
Milpitas, CA 95035

Correctional Center for Women
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
701 South Abel Street
Milpitas, CA 95035

Acceptable Mail Items

The following items are permitted:

• Letters (on plain white, lined, or colored paper)
• Greeting cards (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum size 4" x 6", no Polaroids)
• Money orders (in separate envelope addressed to Inmate Accounting)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only)
• Drawings from children (no crayon or marker)

Prohibited Mail Items

The following items are not permitted and will be rejected:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Plastic, metal, or wooden items
• Stickers or adhesive labels
• Perfumed or scented items
• Crayon or marker writings/drawings
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Polaroid photographs
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related materials
• Items larger than 8.5" x 11"
• Construction paper or cardstock
• Glitter, glue, or tape
• Food items or candy

Mail Inspection Procedures

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate.

Mail may be rejected if it:

• Contains contraband
• Threatens the safety or security of the facility
• Contains plans for escape or criminal activity
• Violates facility rules
• Contains gang-related content
• Is written in code or unintelligible writing
• Contains threats or extortion attempts

Books and Publications

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor such as Amazon. These items must be paperback only. Hardcover books are not permitted.

Publications may be rejected if they:

• Contain instructions for manufacturing weapons or drugs
• Advocate violence or hatred
• Contain sexually explicit material
• Present a threat to facility security

E-Messages

Santa Clara County also offers an electronic messaging system through its contracted service provider:

1. Visit Access Corrections
2. Create an account
3. Select "Santa Clara County" as the facility
4. Enter the inmate's information
5. Purchase message credits
6. Compose and send messages

Fees apply for electronic messages, typically $0.50 per message. Character limits and attachment restrictions apply.

For questions regarding mail policies, contact:

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office Mail Room
(408) 808-3790
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

Lookup Inmate Records in Santa Clara County

Criminal Case Records - Santa Clara County Superior Court

California Incarcerated Records & Information Search

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

California Incarcerated Records and Information Search on CA.gov