Sonoma County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Sonoma County?

Inmate records in Sonoma County are official government documents maintained by the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office that document the custody status, personal information, and case details of individuals who are or have been incarcerated in county correctional facilities. These records are distinct from court records, which are maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of Sonoma and focus on case proceedings rather than custody details.

Inmate records are created at the time of booking when an individual is taken into custody. Pursuant to California Penal Code § 4024.1, these records must include specific information about each person in custody. The documentation begins with intake processing and continues throughout the period of incarceration, with regular updates reflecting changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information.

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with California Government Code § 6254(f), which governs the disclosure of law enforcement records. These records serve multiple purposes, including:

• Tracking the location and status of individuals in custody
• Documenting charges and court proceedings
• Recording visitation history
• Maintaining medical and mental health information
• Documenting disciplinary incidents
• Tracking release dates and conditions

Upon an inmate's release, their custody record is closed but maintained in the Sheriff's Office database for legal and administrative purposes.

Are Inmate Records Public In Sonoma County?

Inmate records in Sonoma 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 limited by specific exemptions outlined in Government Code § 6254(f), which protects sensitive information while ensuring transparency.

The following inmate record information is generally available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
• Booking information (date and time of arrest and booking)
• Charges filed against the inmate
• Bail or bond amounts
• Scheduled court dates
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office provides public access to basic inmate information through their online inmate lookup system. This system allows members of the public to search for individuals currently in custody or recently released.

Information that is typically not publicly available includes:

• Detailed medical or mental health records
• Disciplinary records
• Social Security numbers
• Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
• Confidential security information

Access to comprehensive inmate records may require a court order or specific authorization under California law. Law enforcement agencies, court officials, and legal representatives may have greater access to inmate records than members of the general public.

What's Included Inmate Records in Sonoma County

Inmate records in Sonoma County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. These records are maintained by the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office and typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and identifying marks (such as tattoos or scars)
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Booking number (unique identifier assigned during processing)

Custody Information:

• Date and time of arrest
• Booking date and time
• Arresting agency
• Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
• Current housing assignment
• Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
• Projected release date (if applicable)

Charge Information:

• Current charges (including statute numbers)
• Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
• Case numbers
• Warrant information (if applicable)
• Prior booking history within the county

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount (if eligible)
• Bond type
• Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
• Court-ordered conditions of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Next scheduled court appearance
• Court case numbers
• Name of assigned judge
• Public defender or private attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

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

Release Information:

• Scheduled release date
• Type of release (time served, bail/bond, transfer, etc.)
• Post-release supervision requirements
• Release conditions

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in compliance with state regulations and law enforcement standards. While some of this information is publicly accessible through the county's inmate lookup system, access to complete inmate records is restricted to authorized personnel and agencies.

Sonoma County Prison System

The Sonoma County correctional system operates under the jurisdiction of the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. It is important to note that Sonoma County operates jail facilities, not prisons. In California's correctional system, jails are county-operated facilities that typically house individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of one year or less, while prisons are state-operated facilities for individuals serving longer sentences.

The Sonoma County detention system is designed to provide secure custody while offering rehabilitation programs and services to reduce recidivism. The system includes multiple facilities with varying security levels to accommodate different inmate classifications.

The primary agency responsible for operating the county jail system is:

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office
2796 Ventura Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 565-2781
Sonoma County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office Detention Division is specifically tasked with managing the county's correctional facilities, ensuring the safety and security of inmates, staff, and the public. The division operates according to standards established by the California Board of State and Community Corrections and follows protocols outlined in Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations, which governs minimum standards for local detention facilities.

Individuals housed in Sonoma County facilities include those awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing, as well as those serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Persons convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year are typically transferred to state prison facilities operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).

Types of Correctional Facilities In Sonoma County

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

Main Adult Detention Facility (MADF)
2777 Ventura Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 565-1400
Main Adult Detention Facility

The MADF is Sonoma County's primary detention facility, housing both male and female inmates of various security classifications. This medium to maximum-security facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility includes specialized housing units for administrative segregation, protective custody, and inmates with medical or mental health needs. The MADF has a rated capacity of approximately 918 inmates and offers various rehabilitative programs, including educational services, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training.

North County Detention Facility (NCDF)
2254 Ordinance Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 565-1400
North County Detention Facility

The NCDF is a minimum-security facility primarily housing sentenced male inmates. This facility focuses on work programs and rehabilitative services, including the inmate work crews that provide services throughout the county. The NCDF has a rated capacity of approximately 561 inmates. Currently, portions of this facility may be closed or operating at reduced capacity due to budget constraints and population management strategies.

Juvenile Justice Center
7425 Rancho Los Guilicos Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
(707) 565-6300
Juvenile Justice Center

Operated by the Sonoma County Probation Department rather than the Sheriff's Office, the Juvenile Justice Center houses youth who are detained pending juvenile court proceedings or serving terms as ordered by the juvenile court. The facility provides educational services, counseling, and rehabilitation programs specifically designed for juvenile offenders.

Each facility operates according to specific policies and procedures established by the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office and in compliance with state regulations. Inmates are assigned to facilities based on factors including security classification, gender, age, medical needs, and program participation.

Who's in Prison In Sonoma County

The Sonoma County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. It is important to note that these individuals are housed in county jails rather than prisons, as prisons are state-operated facilities for longer-term sentences. The jail population typically includes:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment
• Defendants who have been arraigned and are awaiting trial
• Persons who have not been able to post bail or were denied bail
• Individuals held on warrants from other jurisdictions

According to data from the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Arrest Data, these pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the jail population.

Sentenced Inmates:

• Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
• Persons serving sentences for certain low-level felonies under California's Public Safety Realignment (AB 109)
• Inmates awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Individuals serving split sentences (partial jail time followed by mandatory supervision)

Special Populations:

• Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing and services
• Persons with medical conditions requiring enhanced care
• Immigration detainees awaiting proceedings or transfer to federal custody
• Inmates participating in specialized treatment programs or work release

The demographic composition of Sonoma County's jail population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in California, with disparities in race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status often present. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and sentencing practices.

Under California's Public Safety Realignment, certain non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders who would have previously been sent to state prison may now serve their sentences in county jail facilities. This policy, implemented in 2011, has significantly impacted the composition of county jail populations throughout California, including Sonoma County.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Sonoma County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Sonoma County have several methods available to access these records. The county provides multiple platforms for locating individuals currently in custody or recently released:

Online Inmate Lookup System:

1. Visit the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup portal
2. Enter the inmate's first and last name in the search fields
3. Alternatively, enter the booking number if known
4. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Full name
   • Booking number
   • Booking date
   • Current charges
   • Custody status
   • Next court date (if applicable)
   • Projected release date (if available)

This online system is updated regularly and provides the most current information available on individuals in custody.

In-Person Records Request:

Individuals may request inmate information in person at:

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Records Bureau
2796 Ventura Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 565-2781
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

When requesting records in person, members of the public should:

1. Bring valid government-issued photo identification
2. Complete a public records request form
3. Provide as much identifying information as possible about the inmate
4. Be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies of records

Telephone Information:

Basic inmate information is available by telephone at:

• Main Adult Detention Facility: (707) 565-1400
• North County Detention Facility: (707) 565-1400

Callers should be prepared to provide the full name and, if possible, the date of birth of the individual they are inquiring about.

Written Records Request:

Written requests for inmate information may be submitted to:

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Records Bureau
2796 Ventura Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403

Written requests should include:

1. Requestor's full name and contact information
2. Specific information being requested
3. Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
4. Any known booking numbers or case numbers

Pursuant to the California Public Records Act, the Sheriff's Office must respond to records requests within 10 days, though complex requests may require additional time.

How To Find an Inmate in Sonoma County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Sonoma County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These free resources are designed to help family members, friends, legal representatives, and other interested parties obtain basic information about individuals in custody:

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:

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

1. Access the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Arrest Data portal
2. Enter the inmate's name in the search field (last name, first name)
3. Review the results, which typically include:
   • Current custody status
   • Facility location
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Next court date (if scheduled)
   • Projected release date (if applicable)

This database is updated regularly and provides the most current information available.

Telephone Inquiry:

For those without internet access, basic inmate information is available by calling:

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Detention Division
(707) 565-1400
Hours: 24 hours daily

When calling, be prepared to provide:

• Inmate's full name (including any known aliases)
• Date of birth (if known)
• Approximate date of arrest (if known)

Court Case Portal:

If you know the individual has court proceedings, you can check their case status through the Superior Court of California, County of Sonoma Case Portal, which may indicate if they are in custody:

1. Visit the court's online case portal
2. Select the appropriate case type (criminal, traffic, etc.)
3. Enter the defendant's name or case number
4. Review case information, which often includes custody status

In-Person Inquiry:

Information about inmates can be obtained in person at no cost by visiting:

Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility
2777 Ventura Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Lobby Hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily

Staff at the facility can provide basic information about individuals in custody, including their location and visitation eligibility.

Daily Arrest Log:

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Daily Arrest Log is publicly available and can help determine if someone has been recently arrested:

1. Access the daily arrest log online
2. Review recent arrests by date
3. Note that this resource only shows recent arrests and may not reflect current custody status

These free resources provide basic information about inmates in Sonoma County custody. For more detailed information, formal public records requests may be necessary, which could involve fees for document reproduction.

How To Visit an Inmate In Sonoma County

Visiting an inmate in Sonoma County requires adherence to specific procedures established by the Sheriff's Office Detention Division. These regulations ensure security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks:

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 most visits through the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office visitation system
• Visitors must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visitation time
• All visitors are subject to search upon entry to the facility
• Visitors with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

Main Adult Detention Facility (MADF):

• General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

North County Detention Facility (NCDF):

• Saturday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Professional visits: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
• Visitation confirmation number (if pre-registered)
• Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicle or lockers)
• Medical necessities (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring:

• Cell phones or electronic devices
• Weapons of any kind
• Tobacco products or smoking materials
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $50
• Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)

Dress Code:

• No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, low-cut tops, or short shorts/skirts)
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
• Shoes and shirts required
• No excessively baggy clothing

Visit Types:

1. Non-Contact Visits: Most visits at MADF are non-contact, conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
2. Contact Visits: Limited availability for certain classifications at NCDF
3. Professional Visits: Attorneys, clergy, and authorized service providers
4. Video Visitation: Available at designated terminals within the facilities

Visit Restrictions:

Pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1062, visitation may be denied or terminated for:

• Visitor appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Insufficient identification
• Violation of facility rules
• Court order prohibiting contact
• Disruptive behavior
• Security concerns identified by staff

Visitors should verify the inmate's visitation eligibility before scheduling, as newly booked inmates, those in disciplinary status, or those with special classifications may have restricted visitation privileges.

How To Send Money to a Sonoma County Inmate

Individuals in Sonoma County custody are permitted to receive funds from approved sources, which they can use for commissary purchases and other authorized expenses. The Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing money into an inmate's account:

Methods for Sending Money:

1. Online Deposits:

   • Visit the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office inmate account deposit portal
   • Create an account or log in
   • Enter the inmate's name and booking number
   • Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
   • Funds are typically available within 24 hours

2. Kiosk Deposits:

   • Self-service kiosks are located in the lobbies of:
     • Main Adult Detention Facility (2777 Ventura Avenue, Santa Rosa)
     • North County Detention Facility (2254 Ordinance Road, Santa Rosa)
   • Kiosks accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
   • Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
   • Kiosks are accessible during lobby hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily

3. Mail-In Money Orders:

   • Money orders must be made payable to the inmate (full name and booking number)
   • Send to: Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, Inmate Accounts, 2777 Ventura Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
   • Include sender's full name and return address
   • Personal checks and cash are NOT accepted by mail
   • Processing typically takes 3-5 business days

4. In-Person Cash Deposits:

   • Cash may be deposited at the Main Adult Detention Facility
   • Bring valid government-issued photo identification
   • Know the inmate's full name and booking number
   • Receipts are provided for all transactions
   • Funds are typically available within 24 hours

Amount Limits:

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
• Maximum account balance: $1,500
• Exceptions may be granted for specific circumstances (e.g., bail, release funds)

Transaction Fees:

• Online deposits: $2.95 - $8.95 (fee varies based on deposit amount)
• Kiosk deposits: $2.95 - $8.95 (fee varies based on deposit amount)
• Money order deposits: No fee
• Cash deposits (in-person): No fee

Prohibited Items:

• Personal checks
• Cash sent through mail
• Cashier's checks
• Traveler's checks
• Foreign currency

Authorized Uses for Inmate Funds:

Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:

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

Funds may NOT be used for:

• Purchasing items for other inmates
• Paying for unauthorized services
• Gambling or betting activities
• Purchasing contraband

Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account will be returned via debit card or check. Unclaimed funds are held according to state regulations and may eventually be subject to escheatment under California Government Code § 50050.

How To Send Jail Mail In Sonoma County

Correspondence with inmates in Sonoma County detention facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following guidelines apply to all mail sent to individuals in custody:

Mailing Address Format:

All mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Sonoma County Sheriff's Office
Main Adult Detention Facility
2777 Ventura Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95403

For inmates housed at the North County Detention Facility, mail is still processed through the Main Adult Detention Facility address.

General Mail Rules:

• All incoming mail (except legal mail) is opened and inspected for contraband
• Letters must be written in blue or black ink only (no markers, crayons, colored pencils, etc.)
• Envelopes must include the sender's full name and return address
• Mail without a return address will not be delivered
• Correspondence must be in English or Spanish only
• Maximum page limit: 10 pages per envelope (excluding legal mail)
• Photographs limited to 5 per envelope (maximum size 4"x6")

Permitted Items:

• Personal letters
• Plain white paper or lined notebook paper
• Commercially printed religious materials
• Black and white photocopies of personal documents
• Photographs (non-Polaroid, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
• Pre-stamped postcards
• Greeting cards (plain, no musical or electronic components)

Prohibited Items:

• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or labels
• Perfumed or scented items
• Polaroid photographs
• Laminated items
• Crayon or marker writings
• Greeting cards larger than 5"x7"
• Cards with electronic or musical components
• Plastic, metal, or wooden items
• Bookmarks or other inserts
• Glitter, glue, tape, or correction fluid
• Lipstick marks or other substances
• Gang-related materials or symbols

Legal Mail:

Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies receives special handling:

• Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Confidential"
• Must include attorney bar number or official letterhead
• Opened only in the presence of the inmate
• Not subject to content inspection (only checked for contraband)
• No page limit restrictions

Publications:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor:

• Paperback books only (no hardcover)
• Maximum of 3 books per package
• Subject to content review for security concerns
• Must not contain maps, weapons information, or other prohibited content

E-Messages:

Sonoma County offers a digital messaging system through their inmate communication portal:

• Messages limited to 2,000 characters
• Subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
• Small fee applies per message
• Typically delivered within 24 hours
• Photos may be attached for additional fee

All correspondence is subject to monitoring and may be rejected if it contains threats, criminal activity planning, escape plans, coded messages, or other content deemed to present a security risk. Rejected mail is returned to sender with explanation, or in cases of contraband, may be held as evidence.

Lookup Inmate Records in Sonoma County

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Arrest Data

Daily Arrest Log

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Superior Court of California Case Portal

Superior Court of California County of Sonoma