Mendocino County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Mendocino County?
Inmate records in Mendocino County are official government documents that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records are systematically maintained by the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office in accordance with California Penal Code § 13150, which mandates the collection and maintenance of custody information.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records document the judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions maintained by the Mendocino County Superior Court, inmate records specifically track an individual's custody status and incarceration details. The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking process, when an individual is first taken into custody at a Mendocino County detention facility. During this intake procedure, personal information is collected, photographs are taken, and biometric data such as fingerprints may be recorded.
Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Changes in custody status
- Disciplinary actions
- Housing assignments
- Visitation logs
- Medical information
- Program participation
Upon release from custody, the inmate record is completed with release information but remains on file with the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office as required by state records retention laws.
Are Inmate Records Public In Mendocino County?
Inmate records in Mendocino County are partially accessible to the public under the California Public Records Act (CPRA), specifically Government Code § 6250-6270. This legislation establishes the public's right to access government records while balancing privacy concerns and security considerations.
Pursuant to California Government Code § 6254(f), certain information contained within inmate records is explicitly designated as public information. Members of the public may access the following components of Mendocino County inmate records:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed against the individual
- Mugshot photographs
- Bail or bond amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, it is important to note that not all information contained within inmate records is publicly accessible. The following categories of information are generally exempt from public disclosure:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Detailed personal information (Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers)
- Information that could compromise institutional security
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders (with limited exceptions)
The Mendocino County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate locator system that provides basic public information about current inmates.
What's Included Inmate Records in Mendocino County
Inmate records in Mendocino 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
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
Custody Information:
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency
- Booking number/inmate identification number
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary incidents and actions taken
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute numbers)
- Case numbers
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Criminal history within Mendocino County
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount (if eligible)
- Bond type
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Parole eligibility date (if applicable)
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions (if applicable)
- Probation or parole requirements
This information is maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations Title 15, which establishes minimum standards for local detention facilities.
Mendocino County Prison System
The Mendocino County correctional system operates under the authority of the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals arrested within the county jurisdiction. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in California.
Mendocino County operates local detention facilities primarily designed for:
- Pre-trial detention of individuals awaiting court proceedings
- Incarceration of individuals serving sentences of one year or less
- Temporary holding of individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
In contrast, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) manages the state prison system, which houses individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year.
The Mendocino County jail system falls under the direct administration of the Sheriff's Office Corrections Division:
Mendocino County Sheriff's Office
951 Low Gap Road
Ukiah, CA 95482
(707) 463-4411
Mendocino County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains facilities that adhere to standards established by the California Board of State and Community Corrections and operates in compliance with state regulations governing local detention facilities.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Mendocino County
Mendocino County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and classification levels. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Mendocino County Jail (Main Facility)
951 Low Gap Road
Ukiah, CA 95482
(707) 463-4116
Mendocino County Jail
The main jail facility serves as the primary detention center for Mendocino County. This medium to maximum security facility houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to one year. The facility includes specialized housing units for various classification levels and provides basic medical services, educational programs, and religious services.
Mendocino County Rehabilitation Center
951 Low Gap Road
Ukiah, CA 95482
(707) 463-4116
Mendocino County Rehabilitation Center
This minimum-security facility focuses on rehabilitation programs for low-risk offenders. Programs offered include substance abuse treatment, vocational training, and educational services designed to reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for successful reentry into the community.
Mendocino County Juvenile Hall
2789 Low Gap Road
Ukiah, CA 95482
(707) 463-4274
Mendocino County Juvenile Hall
Operated by the Mendocino County Probation Department rather than the Sheriff's Office, this facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18. The facility provides educational services, counseling, and rehabilitation programs specifically designed for youth.
Fort Bragg Substation Holding Facility
700 S. Franklin Street
Fort Bragg, CA 95437
(707) 961-2421
Fort Bragg Substation
This temporary holding facility serves the coastal communities of Mendocino County. Individuals arrested in the coastal region may be temporarily held at this facility before transport to the main jail in Ukiah.
Who's in Prison In Mendocino County
The Mendocino County jail system houses several categories of individuals who fall under local correctional jurisdiction. The inmate 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 held in custody because they:
- Have been denied bail due to public safety concerns
- Cannot afford to post bail
- Are awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
- Have violated conditions of pre-trial release
Sentenced Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanors or certain low-level felonies and are serving sentences of one year or less in county jail. Following the implementation of California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109) in 2011, this category also includes:
- Non-violent, non-serious, non-sex offenders serving multi-year sentences in county jail rather than state prison
- Individuals convicted of parole violations
Temporary Holds: Individuals who are temporarily housed in county facilities while:
- Awaiting transfer to state prison
- Awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions
- Returning to the county for court appearances from state facilities
Weekend Commitments: Individuals serving intermittent sentences that allow them to maintain employment while serving jail time on weekends or other scheduled periods.
Work Release/Alternative Custody Program Participants: Low-risk offenders who participate in work release programs or other alternative custody arrangements while technically remaining under the jurisdiction of the county jail system.
According to data from the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population of Mendocino County correctional facilities fluctuates between 250-300 inmates, with approximately 60% being pre-trial detainees and 40% serving sentences.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Mendocino County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Mendocino County may utilize several methods to access publicly available information. The Mendocino County Sheriff's Office currently provides multiple options for conducting inmate searches:
Online Inmate Locator System:
- Navigate to the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Corrections Division" section
- Click on "Jail Inmate Information"
- Enter search criteria (at least one of the following):
- Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
- Booking number (if known)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if applicable)
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Mendocino County Jail at (707) 463-4116
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Request basic custody information
- Note that telephone staff can only provide limited public information
In-Person Request:
- Visit the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Excluding county holidays
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the information being requested
Written Request:
- Submit a written request to:
- Mendocino County Sheriff's Office
- Records Division
- 951 Low Gap Road
- Ukiah, CA 95482
- Include the following information:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Specific information requested
- Your contact information
- Allow 10 business days for processing pursuant to California Government Code § 6253(c)
For more comprehensive records beyond basic custody information, individuals may need to submit a formal California Public Records Act request specifying the exact records sought.
How To Find an Inmate in Mendocino County for Free?
Mendocino County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county jail system. These free resources are accessible to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public:
Mendocino County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search portal
- No account creation or login is required
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review search results showing current inmates
- The system updates multiple times daily
California Statewide Inmate Locator: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS)
- Enter the individual's name and other identifying information if available
- Review results to determine if the person is in state custody
Telephone Information Line:
- Call the Mendocino County Jail information line at (707) 463-4116
- Request inmate location information during regular business hours
- Provide the full name of the individual you are attempting to locate
- Basic custody status information is provided at no charge
Courthouse Records Search:
- Visit the Mendocino County Superior Court
- Use public access terminals to search court records
- Identify case numbers and potential custody information
- Court records may indicate if an individual has been remanded to custody
Victim Notification System: For crime victims seeking custody information:
- Register with the California Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE)
- Receive free automated notifications about custody status changes
- Access 24/7 information about inmate location and status
When using these free resources, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, date of birth, and booking number (if known). Name searches alone may return multiple results, particularly for common names.
How To Visit an Inmate In Mendocino County
Visitation with inmates housed in Mendocino County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to in-person visitation:
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 Mendocino County Sheriff's Office visitation system
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time
- All visitors are subject to search prior to entry
- Visitors with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry
Visit Schedule:
- General Population Inmates: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Protective Custody Inmates: Wednesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Maximum Security Inmates: Tuesday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitation confirmation number
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
- Medical necessities (with prior approval)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
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
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, cleavage, or undergarments)
- No gang-related attire or colors
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats, hoods, or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
Visit Types:
- Contact Visits: Limited to certain classification levels and special circumstances
- Non-Contact Visits: Standard visitation through glass partition with telephone communication
- Professional Visits: Attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals (separate scheduling system)
- Video Visitation: Available for remote connections (fees apply)
Visit Restrictions:
- Inmates on disciplinary status may have restricted visitation privileges
- Visitors who violate rules may be permanently banned from visitation
- Visitation may be canceled due to facility lockdowns or emergencies
- Special visits outside regular hours require advance approval from facility administration
These regulations are established pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1062, which governs visiting procedures in local detention facilities.
How To Send Money to a Mendocino County Inmate
Individuals in Mendocino County custody are permitted to maintain inmate trust accounts for purchasing commissary items and services within the facility. Several methods are available for depositing funds into these accounts:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office inmate deposit portal
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
- Select deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card
- Processing fees apply (typically 5-8% of deposit amount)
- Funds are generally available within 24 hours
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the lobby kiosk at the Mendocino County Jail
- 951 Low Gap Road, Ukiah, CA 95482
- Available 24 hours daily
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt for transaction
- Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
- Smaller service fee than online deposits
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase money order from U.S. Postal Service or authorized vendor
- Make payable to the inmate's full name and booking number
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
- Mendocino County Jail
- Inmate Accounts
- 951 Low Gap Road
- Ukiah, CA 95482
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No processing fees
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
Amount Limits:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
- Maximum account balance: $1,500
- Deposits exceeding these limits may be rejected or require special approval
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging services
- Educational materials
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments (if court-ordered)
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bail or bond payments
- Transfer to other inmates
- Outside purchases
- Payment for services not approved by facility administration
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and may be investigated for suspicious activity in accordance with California Penal Code § 4025, which governs inmate welfare funds.
How To Send Jail Mail In Mendocino County
Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in Mendocino County facilities is permitted subject to specific guidelines designed to maintain facility security. All incoming and outgoing mail is processed through the facility mail room and is subject to inspection.
General Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes precisely as follows:
- Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number
- Mendocino County Jail
- 951 Low Gap Road
- Ukiah, CA 95482
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Mail lacking proper addressing will be returned to sender
- All incoming mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
- Outgoing mail is subject to inspection before leaving the facility
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters on plain paper (white or light-colored only)
- Greeting cards (no musical, oversized, or padded cards)
- Photographs (maximum 4×6 inches, limit of 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (following financial deposit procedures)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
- Religious materials (subject to security review)
- Soft-cover books and magazines (must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Hardcover books
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Personal checks or cash
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Laminated items
- Cards larger than 5×7 inches
- Items with glitter, lipstick, perfume, or unknown substances
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Any items that pose a security threat
Legal Mail:
- Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies must be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Contents are inspected for contraband but not read by staff
- Legal mail must include attorney bar number or court identification
Electronic Messaging:
- Register on the Mendocino County Jail electronic messaging system
- Purchase messaging credits
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Fees apply for each message sent
- Inmates can respond using their commissary funds
All mail procedures comply with California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1063, which establishes minimum standards for correspondence in local detention facilities.
Lookup Inmate Records in Mendocino County
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation