Imperial County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Imperial County?

Inmate records in Imperial County are official government documents maintained by the Imperial County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody status and personal information of individuals who are incarcerated within the county jail system. These records constitute the official documentation of an individual's time in custody, from initial booking through release.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

• Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
• Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
• Court records are maintained by the Imperial County Superior Court
• Inmate records are maintained by the Imperial County Sheriff's Office

The creation and maintenance of inmate records follows a standardized process pursuant to California Penal Code § 4024, which requires sheriffs to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to county jail. The record-keeping process typically includes:

• Initial creation during booking/intake processing
• Regular updates throughout the period of incarceration
• Documentation of all movements, disciplinary actions, and program participation
• Closure and archiving upon the inmate's release

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of its statutory duty to operate the county jail system and ensure public safety through proper documentation of all individuals in custody.

Are Inmate Records Public In Imperial County?

Inmate records in Imperial County are partially public under California law. The California Public Records Act (CPRA) establishes the public's right to access government records, including certain information about individuals in custody. However, this access is balanced against privacy concerns and security considerations.

Pursuant to Government Code § 6254(f), law enforcement agencies must disclose certain information about arrests and incarcerations, while protecting other sensitive information. The following inmate record components are generally accessible to the public:

• Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
• Booking information (date and time of booking)
• Charges filed against the inmate
• Mugshot photographs (with some limitations)
• Bond/bail amounts
• Scheduled court dates
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

Information that is typically restricted from public access includes:

• Medical and mental health records
• Disciplinary records
• Detailed personal information (SSN, exact birth date)
• Victim information
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate locator system that provides public access to basic information about current inmates in compliance with state disclosure requirements.

What's Included Inmate Records in Imperial County

Inmate records in Imperial County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Date of birth (year only in public records)
• Gender
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Current housing assignment
• Classification status
• Custody level
• Disciplinary history (restricted access)
• Program participation

Charge Information:

• Current charges (including statute numbers)
• Case numbers
• Charge severity (felony/misdemeanor)
• Charge status (pending/convicted)
• Warrant information (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond/bail amount
• Bond/bail status (posted/not posted)
• Bond/bail conditions
• Bond company information (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Next scheduled court appearance
• Court location
• Judge assigned
• Public defender/attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Credit for time served
• Probation/parole eligibility dates

Release Information:

• Scheduled release date
• Release type (time served, bail, transfer)
• Post-release supervision requirements
• Release conditions

These records are maintained in compliance with California Code of Regulations Title 15, which establishes minimum standards for local detention facilities, including record-keeping requirements.

Imperial County Prison System

The Imperial County correctional system operates under the authority of the Imperial County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who are awaiting trial or serving sentences of up to one year. The system is designed to provide secure detention while facilitating rehabilitation and reentry programs.

Imperial County maintains a distinction between its local jail facilities and the state prison system:

• County jails house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of one year or less
• State prisons (operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) house individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses

The Imperial County jail system has a rated capacity of approximately 480 inmates and processes thousands of bookings annually. The facilities are operated in accordance with standards established by the California Board of State and Community Corrections.

The primary agency responsible for jail operations is:

Imperial County Sheriff's Office
328 Applestill Road
El Centro, CA 92243
Phone: (442) 265-2000
Imperial County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains custody operations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with administrative offices open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Imperial County

Imperial County operates several distinct correctional facilities, each serving different populations and security needs within the local justice system:

Imperial County Jail
328 Applestill Road
El Centro, CA 92243
Phone: (442) 265-2100
Imperial County Jail

This is the main detention facility in Imperial County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility includes maximum, medium, and minimum security housing units. It primarily holds pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year. The facility has a rated capacity of approximately 324 inmates.

Herbert Hughes Correctional Center
1115 N. Imperial Avenue
El Centro, CA 92243
Phone: (442) 265-2200
Herbert Hughes Correctional Center

This minimum-security facility houses sentenced male inmates who are classified as low-risk. The facility focuses on work programs and rehabilitation services. It has a rated capacity of approximately 156 inmates.

Regional Adult Detention Facility
328 Applestill Road
El Centro, CA 92243
Phone: (442) 265-2100
Regional Adult Detention Facility

This facility houses federal detainees through an intergovernmental agreement with the U.S. Marshals Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The facility operates separately from the county jail but is managed by the Imperial County Sheriff's Office.

Each facility operates under the guidelines established by Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations, which sets standards for local detention facilities throughout the state.

Who's in Prison In Imperial County

The Imperial County jail system houses several distinct categories of individuals, each with different legal statuses and needs:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
• Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
• Approximately 60-70% of the jail population typically consists of pre-trial detainees

Sentenced Inmates:

• Individuals serving sentences of one year or less in county jail
• Those convicted of misdemeanors or certain low-level felonies
• Inmates serving sentences under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109), which redirected certain non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders from state prison to county jails

Special Populations:

• Individuals with mental health needs (housed in specialized units)
• Those requiring medical care or observation
• Protective custody inmates (separated for their safety)
• Administrative segregation inmates (separated for institutional safety)

Federal Detainees:

• Individuals held under contract with federal agencies
• U.S. Marshals Service detainees awaiting federal court proceedings
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees

The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects patterns of law enforcement activity and socioeconomic factors within Imperial County. The average daily population fluctuates but typically ranges between 400-450 inmates across all facilities.

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office publishes regular statistical reports on the jail population as required by state reporting mandates.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Imperial County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Imperial County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Sheriff's Office currently provides multiple options for locating individuals in custody:

Online Inmate Search:

1. Visit the Imperial County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information page
2. Select the "Inmate Search" option
3. Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name) or booking number
4. Review the results, which typically include:
   • Full name
   • Booking number
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Next court date
   • Expected release date

Telephone Information:

1. Call the Imperial County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line at (442) 265-2100
2. Provide the inmate's full name or booking number to the operator
3. Basic information about custody status will be provided
4. Available 24 hours a day, though detailed information may only be available during business hours

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the Imperial County Sheriff's Office Records Division

   Imperial County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   328 Applestill Road
   El Centro, CA 92243
   Phone: (442) 265-2021

2. Complete an inmate information request form

3. Present valid government-issued photo identification

4. Pay any applicable fees for printed records

5. Records Division hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays

Written Request:

1. Submit a formal written request under the California Public Records Act

2. Include the inmate's full name, date of birth (if known), and approximate booking date

3. Specify the information requested

4. Provide contact information for response

5. Mail to:

   Imperial County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   328 Applestill Road
   El Centro, CA 92243

6. Allow up to 10 business days for a response, as permitted under state law

Requests for inmate records are processed in accordance with applicable state laws governing public records and inmate privacy.

How To Find an Inmate in Imperial County for Free?

Imperial County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county jail system:

Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:

1. Access the Imperial County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Jail Information" section
3. Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
4. Enter the inmate's last name and first name (or partial name)
5. Review the search results, which include current custody status
6. This service is available 24/7 at no charge

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Call the Imperial County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line: (442) 265-2100
2. Request information about a specific inmate by providing their full name
3. Receive basic custody information, including facility location and booking status
4. This service is available 24/7 at no charge beyond standard telephone rates

Visiting the Facility:

1. Go to the main lobby of the Imperial County Jail during regular business hours

   Imperial County Jail
   328 Applestill Road
   El Centro, CA 92243

2. Speak with the reception staff

3. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about

4. Receive basic information about their custody status

5. Lobby hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

California Statewide Inmate Locator:

1. Visit the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Inmate Locator
2. This system primarily tracks state prison inmates but may include information about county inmates who have been transferred to state custody
3. Enter the inmate's information in the search fields
4. Review results to determine if the individual is in state custody

These free resources provide basic information about an inmate's custody status, current housing location, and booking information. More detailed records may require formal requests and possibly fees in accordance with the California Public Records Act.

How To Visit an Inmate In Imperial County

Visitation with inmates in Imperial County detention facilities follows specific protocols established by the Sheriff's Office to ensure security while facilitating important family connections:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be approved through a pre-screening process
• Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent/guardian
• Proper identification (government-issued photo ID) is required
• Visitors with outstanding warrants or on probation/parole may be denied
• All visits are subject to monitoring and recording except for attorney visits

Visit Schedule:

• Imperial County Jail: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Herbert Hughes Correctional Center: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Visits are typically 30 minutes in duration
• Inmates are allowed two visits per week
• Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
• Visiting approval documentation (if pre-registration is required)
• Small clear plastic bag for authorized items
• Locker key deposit ($5.00, returned after visit)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Drugs or alcohol
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
• Food or beverages
• Purses, backpacks, or large bags
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $50.00
• Cigarettes or tobacco products

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire required
• No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no low-cut tops)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing resembling inmate attire
• No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
• Appropriate footwear required (no open-toed shoes in secure areas)

Visit Types:

• Contact visits (available for certain classification levels)
• Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
• Video visitation (available at some facilities)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)

Visit Restrictions:

• Visitors under the influence will be denied
• Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
• Passing contraband will result in criminal charges
• Visits may be canceled due to facility lockdowns or emergencies

For current visitation information and to schedule a visit, contact:

Imperial County Sheriff's Office Inmate Visitation
328 Applestill Road
El Centro, CA 92243
Phone: (442) 265-2100
Imperial County Sheriff's Office

Visitation policies are established pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15, Section 1062, which requires detention facilities to establish reasonable visiting procedures.

How To Send Money to a Imperial County Inmate

Imperial County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases and other approved expenses:

In-Person Cash Deposits:

• Visit the kiosk located in the lobby of the Imperial County Jail

  Imperial County Jail
  328 Applestill Road
  El Centro, CA 92243

• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction

• No fee for cash deposits made at the facility

• Receipt provided for all transactions

Online Deposits:

• Visit the Access Corrections website
• Create an account or log in
• Select "Imperial County" as the facility
• Enter the inmate's name and ID number
• Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
• Fees: $2.95 for deposits up to $20; $3.95 for deposits up to $100; $4.95 for deposits up to $300
• Maximum online deposit: $300 per transaction

Telephone Deposits:

• Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
• Provide the inmate's name and ID number
• Follow the automated prompts
• Pay using credit or debit card
• Fees: $4.95 per transaction
• Maximum phone deposit: $300 per transaction

Money Order by Mail:

• Make money order payable to the inmate's full name and ID number

• Do not send personal checks or cash

• Mail to:

  Imperial County Sheriff's Office - Inmate Accounts
  328 Applestill Road
  El Centro, CA 92243

• Include sender's full name and return address

• No fee for money orders

• Processing time: 5-7 business days

Amount Limits:

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit: $500
• Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500
• Additional amounts require approval from jail administration

What Money Can Be Used For:

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

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

• Bail or bond payments
• Fines or court fees (these require separate payments)
• Purchases for other inmates
• Items prohibited by facility rules

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with California Penal Code § 4025, which governs inmate welfare funds.

How To Send Jail Mail In Imperial County

Correspondence with inmates in Imperial County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery:

Regular Mail Guidelines:

• All incoming mail must include:

  • Inmate's full name and booking number

  • Sender's full name and return address

  • Facility address:

    [Inmate Full Name & ID Number]
    Imperial County Jail
    328 Applestill Road
    El Centro, CA 92243

• Letters must be on plain white, lined, or unlined paper
• Envelopes must be standard white or manila
• All mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery
• Mail without a return address will not be delivered
• Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 24-48 hours after processing

Prohibited Items:

• Polaroid photographs
• Photos larger than 4"x6"
• Photos depicting gang symbols, nudity, or criminal activity
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Crayon or marker writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Cards larger than 5"x7"
• Hardcover books or magazines (unless sent directly from publisher)
• Cash or personal checks (use approved money transfer methods)
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Any items with biohazards or unknown substances

Acceptable Items:

• Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4"x6")
• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (non-musical, no larger than 5"x7")
• Newspaper clippings (maximum 5 per envelope)
• Printed material from the internet (maximum 10 pages)

Legal Mail:

• Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
• Must come from a verifiable legal source (attorney, court, etc.)
• Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
• Is not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening

Books and Publications:

• Must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
• Paperback books only (no hardcovers)
• Maximum of 3 books per package
• Subject to content review for security concerns
• Religious texts are generally permitted subject to security screening

E-Messages (where available):

• Available through Access Corrections
• Create an account and select Imperial County
• Locate the inmate by name or ID number
• Compose message (maximum 2,000 characters)
• Cost: approximately $0.50 per message
• Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
• Subject to the same content restrictions as regular mail

All mail procedures comply with California Code of Regulations Title 15, Section 1063, which establishes minimum standards for correspondence in detention facilities.

Lookup Inmate Records in Imperial County