Madera County Public Records /Madera County Inmate Search

Madera County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Madera County?

Inmate records in Madera County are official government documents maintained by the Madera County Department of Corrections and the Madera County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial entry into the correctional system through their release.

Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, law enforcement agencies are required to maintain detailed records of all arrests and incarcerations. These records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

Inmate records focus on custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
Court records document case proceedings, charges, and judicial decisions
Inmate records are maintained by correctional authorities
Court records are maintained by the Madera County Superior Court

The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when individuals are processed into custody at the Madera County Department of Corrections facilities. During this intake process, correctional staff collect biographical information, conduct health screenings, document property inventories, and record the charges for which the individual is being detained. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, records are finalized with discharge information but maintained according to California Government Code § 26202, which governs records retention.

The Madera County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in county jail facilities.

Are Inmate Records Public In Madera County?

Inmate records in Madera 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, security, and ongoing investigations.

Under current law, the following inmate record information is generally available to the public:

Current custody status (whether an individual is in custody)
Basic booking information (name, date of birth, booking date)
Charges for which the individual is being held
Scheduled court dates
Expected release date (if sentenced)
Bail or bond amount (if applicable)

Information that is typically restricted from public disclosure includes:

Medical and mental health records
Disciplinary records
Detailed housing assignments
Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) maintains that certain restrictions on inmate record access are necessary for institutional security and individual privacy, as outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 15, § 3370.

Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic custody status through the Madera County Sheriff's Office online inmate locator system or by contacting the Department of Corrections directly.

What's Included Inmate Records in Madera County

Inmate records in Madera County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional 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
Booking officer
Current housing assignment
Classification level
Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
Property inventory

Charge Information:

Current charges (including statute numbers)
Warrant information (if applicable)
Case numbers
Arresting agency case numbers

Bond/Bail Information:

Bail amount (if eligible)
Bond type
Bond status
Conditions of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction charges
Sentence length
Credit for time served
Projected release date
Parole or probation eligibility dates
Special conditions imposed by the court

Release Information:

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

These records are maintained in compliance with California Penal Code § 13100-13103, which establishes standards for criminal justice record keeping throughout the state.

Madera County Prison System

The Madera County correctional system operates under a bifurcated structure that distinguishes between county-level detention facilities and state-operated prisons. The Madera County Department of Corrections, under the authority of the Madera County Sheriff's Office, administers local detention facilities primarily designed for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of one year or less.

County jail facilities in Madera County house several categories of inmates:

Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
Individuals sentenced to county jail terms (typically misdemeanors and some lower-level felonies)
Individuals temporarily held for transfer to other jurisdictions
Parole and probation violators awaiting hearings

In contrast, individuals convicted of more serious felonies with sentences exceeding one year are typically transferred to state prison facilities operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), not the county.

Following the implementation of California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109) in 2011, Madera County's correctional system has assumed responsibility for housing certain non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders who previously would have been sent to state prison, increasing the complexity of the county's inmate population.

The primary agency responsible for county corrections is:

Madera County Sheriff's Office - Department of Corrections
14191 Road 28
Madera, CA 93638
(559) 675-7951
Madera County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Madera County

Madera County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:

Madera County Department of Corrections Main Jail
14191 Road 28
Madera, CA 93638
(559) 675-7951
Madera County Department of Corrections

The Main Jail serves as the primary detention facility for Madera County, housing both male and female inmates across various security classifications. This facility processes all initial bookings and conducts intake assessments to determine appropriate housing assignments. The Main Jail contains housing units for general population inmates, administrative segregation, and special needs populations.

Madera County Juvenile Detention Facility
28219 Avenue 14
Madera, CA 93638
(559) 662-6100
Madera County Probation Department

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are detained pending juvenile court proceedings or serving terms of commitment ordered by the juvenile court. The facility is operated by the Madera County Probation Department rather than the Sheriff's Office and provides educational programming, counseling, and rehabilitation services specifically designed for youth.

Madera County Day Reporting Center
28050 Avenue 14
Madera, CA 93638
(559) 662-0126
Madera County Probation Department

While not a traditional incarceration facility, the Day Reporting Center serves as an alternative to incarceration for certain low-risk offenders. Participants report regularly for supervision, counseling, and programming while residing in the community. This facility represents part of Madera County's continuum of correctional options.

Each facility operates under specific security protocols and visiting regulations appropriate to its population and security level. All facilities maintain inmate records according to standardized county procedures and state regulations.

Who's in Prison In Madera County

The Madera County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment
Defendants who have been arraigned but are awaiting trial
Persons who have been unable to post bail or were denied bail
Individuals deemed flight risks or dangers to the community

Sentenced Offenders:

Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (up to one year)
Individuals convicted of certain lower-level felonies under California's realignment legislation
Offenders serving "split sentences" with partial jail time followed by mandatory supervision
Probation violators serving custodial sanctions

Special Populations:

Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison or other jurisdictions
Persons held on immigration detainers
Weekenders (individuals serving sentences on weekends only)
Work release program participants who return to custody during non-working hours

According to data from the California Board of State and Community Corrections, Madera County's jail population fluctuates but typically operates near capacity. The demographic composition generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in California, with disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals and certain minority populations.

The average length of stay varies significantly based on case status:

Pre-trial detainees may remain in custody for periods ranging from days to months or even years in complex cases
Sentenced misdemeanants typically serve terms of days to months
Realigned felony offenders may serve terms up to several years in county facilities

All individuals in Madera County custody are subject to classification procedures that determine housing assignments based on factors including security risk, criminal history, and special needs.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Madera County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Madera County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains multiple channels through which inmate status and basic record information may be obtained:

Online Inmate Locator System:

Navigate to the Madera County Sheriff's Office official website
Locate the "Inmate Search" or "Custody Search" function
Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or booking number)
Review the results, which generally include current custody status, charges, and next court date
Note that the online system provides limited information compared to formal record requests

Telephone Inquiry:

Contact the Madera County Department of Corrections at (559) 675-7951
Provide the name and date of birth of the individual
Staff will confirm basic custody status information
Be advised that detailed record information is not typically provided by telephone

In-Person Request:

Visit the Madera County Department of Corrections records office during business hours: Madera County Department of Corrections Records Office
14191 Road 28
Madera, CA 93638
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
Complete a Public Records Request form
Provide identification and specify the records being requested
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Allow processing time as specified by staff

Formal Written Request:

Submit a written request under the California Public Records Act to: Madera County Sheriff's Office - Records Division
14143 Road 28
Madera, CA 93638
Include the full name and date of birth of the subject
Specify the information being requested
Provide contact information for response
Allow up to 10 business days for initial response as permitted under Government Code § 6253(c)

Requestors should be aware that certain information may be redacted or withheld based on privacy protections, security concerns, or ongoing investigations. Fees may apply for document reproduction in accordance with the county fee schedule.

How To Find an Inmate in Madera County for Free?

Madera County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county correctional system. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information without requiring payment:

Madera County Sheriff's Online Inmate Locator:

Access the Madera County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
Alternatively, search using date of birth if known
Review results showing current custody status, facility location, and booking information
Note that the system updates regularly but may not reflect very recent bookings or releases

Telephone Information Line:

Call the Madera County Department of Corrections information line at (559) 675-7951
Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
Provide the full name of the individual when prompted
Receive basic custody status information
For additional details, request to speak with a records officer during business hours

California Statewide Inmate Locator Resources:

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, utilize the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Inmate Locator
Enter the individual's name and, if available, CDCR number
Review results to determine if the person is in state rather than county custody

Visiting the Facility:

Visit the public lobby of the Madera County Department of Corrections during regular business hours
Request custody verification from the reception desk
Provide the name and date of birth of the individual
Receive basic information about custody status and visiting eligibility

These free methods provide confirmation of custody status, current housing facility, booking date, and in some cases, scheduled court dates. More detailed information typically requires a formal records request and may involve fees for document reproduction.

How To Visit an Inmate In Madera County

Visitation with inmates housed in Madera County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. Prospective visitors should familiarize themselves with the following guidelines:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Pre-registration is required for all visits through the online scheduling system
Visitors with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry
All visitors are subject to search prior to entering the visitation area
Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time for processing

Visit Schedule:

General population inmates: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Special housing units: Thursday and Friday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Visit duration is typically limited to 30 minutes per session
Inmates are permitted two social visits per week

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification
Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
Medication required during visit time (must be declared)
Up to $20 in quarters for vending machines (where available)
Baby supplies if accompanied by infant (limited to one diaper, one bottle)

What NOT to Bring:

Cell phones or electronic devices
Cameras or recording equipment
Weapons of any kind
Food or beverages
Tobacco products
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Papers, documents, or mail for inmates

Dress Code:

Conservative attire required
No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, cleavage, or undergarments)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No law enforcement-style clothing
No all-blue or all-orange clothing (resembles inmate attire)
Closed-toe shoes required
No hats, hoods, or head coverings (religious exceptions may apply)

Visit Types:

Contact visits: Available for minimum security inmates under specific conditions
Non-contact visits: Standard visitation through glass partition with telephone communication
Video visitation: Available for certain housing units
Special visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with advance approval

Visit Restrictions:

Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
Passing items to inmates is strictly prohibited and may result in criminal charges
Visitors on probation or parole must obtain advance permission from their supervising officer

These regulations are established pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 15, § 1062, which governs visiting procedures in local detention facilities. For the most current information, visitors should contact the Madera County Department of Corrections at (559) 675-7951 prior to planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a Madera County Inmate

Madera County provides several approved methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds enable incarcerated individuals to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access certain services within the facility.

Approved Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits:

Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
Select "Madera County Sheriff's Office" from the agency list
Create an account or proceed as a guest
Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
Follow the prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
Retain the confirmation number for your records
Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours

Kiosk Deposits:

Visit the lobby kiosk at the Madera County Department of Corrections Madera County Department of Corrections
14191 Road 28
Madera, CA 93638
Available 24/7
Follow the touchscreen instructions
Enter the inmate's information when prompted
Insert cash or credit/debit card for payment
Collect and retain receipt
Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours

Mail-In Money Orders:

Purchase a money order payable to "Madera County Sheriff's Office"
Write the inmate's full name and ID number in the memo line
Include a brief note with sender's full name and return address
Mail to: Madera County Department of Corrections
Inmate Accounts
14191 Road 28
Madera, CA 93638
Allow 7-10 business days for processing

Deposit Limits and Fees:

Online deposits: $5.00 minimum, $300.00 maximum per transaction; service fee of $2.95 per transaction
Kiosk deposits: $5.00 minimum, $300.00 maximum per transaction; service fee of $2.50 per transaction
Money orders: $5.00 minimum, no maximum; no processing fee

Restrictions on Funds:

Inmates may not exceed $500.00 in their accounts at any time
Funds from unidentifiable sources will be returned
Deposits from other inmates or their families are prohibited
Funds from individuals with active restraining orders against the inmate are prohibited

Authorized Uses of Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Restitution payments
Release funds

Prohibited Uses of Funds:

Direct payment to other inmates
Purchase of contraband items
Payment for services not authorized by the facility
Transfer to outside accounts

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with California Penal Code § 4025, which governs inmate welfare funds. Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release or may be transferred to another correctional facility if the inmate is transferred.

How To Send Jail Mail In Madera County

Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in Madera County facilities is permitted but subject to specific regulations designed to maintain facility security and safety. All mail must comply with the following guidelines:

General Mail Requirements:

All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked)
- Inmate's identification number (if known)
- Facility name and address: Madera County Department of Corrections
  14191 Road 28
  Madera, CA 93638
Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
Mail without proper return address will be rejected
All mail is subject to inspection and scanning prior to delivery
Personal mail must arrive via the U.S. Postal Service only (no courier or delivery services)

Permitted Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (non-musical, no larger than 5"x7")
Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
Money orders (following procedures outlined in the financial section)
Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to review)
Subscription magazines sent directly from publisher

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages of any kind
Padded or oversized envelopes
Plastic or metal items
Stickers or adhesive labels
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Polaroid photographs
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related content
Materials depicting violence or weapons
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes
Food items or cosmetics
Clothing or fabric items
Hardcover books

Legal Mail Procedures:

Mail from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies must be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
Legal mail is inspected for contraband but not read by staff
Legal mail must include attorney bar number or court/agency information

Book and Publication Delivery:

Books must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
Paperback books only (no hardcover)
Maximum of 3 books per mailing
Subject to content review by facility staff
Religious texts are permitted subject to security review

E-Messages (where available):

Create an account on the GTL ConnectNetwork
Select Madera County Department of Corrections
Locate the inmate using the search function
Purchase message credits
Compose and send message (subject to review before delivery)
Messages are typically delivered within 24-48 hours

All mail procedures are established in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 15, § 1063, which governs correspondence in local detention facilities. Violation of mail regulations may result in rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges.

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