Tulare County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Tulare County?
Inmate records in Tulare County are official documents maintained by the Tulare County Sheriff's Office that contain information about individuals who are currently incarcerated or have previously been detained in county correctional facilities. These records are created and maintained pursuant to California Government Code § 6250-6270 and Penal Code § 13100-13326, which establish requirements for criminal justice record-keeping.
The Tulare County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of its statutory obligation to document the custody, care, and supervision of individuals remanded to county detention facilities. These records serve multiple purposes:
- Documentation of an individual's entry into and release from the correctional system
- Tracking of inmate location, status, and scheduled court appearances
- Management of facility population and resource allocation
- Provision of information to authorized agencies, family members, and in some cases, members of the public
The Sheriff's Records Division is responsible for the maintenance, security, and appropriate dissemination of inmate records in accordance with state and federal privacy laws.
Tulare County Sheriff's Office - Records Division 833 S. Akers Street Visalia, CA 93277 Phone: (559) 802-9400 Tulare County Sheriff
Are Inmate Records Public In Tulare County?
Inmate records in Tulare County are subject to limited public disclosure in accordance with the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250-6270) and specific provisions of the California Penal Code. The public accessibility of these records is governed by a balance between transparency in government operations and the privacy rights of individuals in custody.
Certain basic information about inmates is considered public record and is accessible to members of the general public:
- Inmate's full name
- Booking number and date
- Current charges
- Bail amount (if applicable)
- Scheduled court dates
- Custody status
- Expected release date (when available)
However, pursuant to California Penal Code § 13300-13305 and federal HIPAA regulations (45 CFR Parts 160 and 164), the following information is generally not available for public disclosure:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Detailed personal information (Social Security numbers, exact birth dates)
- Victim information
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions under Welfare and Institutions Code § 827)
- Information that would compromise institutional security
The Tulare County Sheriff's Office provides an online inmate search portal that allows public access to basic inmate information while protecting confidential data in accordance with applicable laws.
What's Included Inmate Records in Tulare County
Inmate records maintained by the Tulare County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records are maintained in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations and include multiple categories of information.
The standard components of an inmate record in Tulare County include:
- Booking Information: Full legal name, aliases, booking number, date and time of booking, arresting agency, and booking photographs
- Demographic Data: Date of birth, gender, race/ethnicity, height, weight, and identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Criminal Charges: Current charges with corresponding California Penal Code sections, case numbers, and court of jurisdiction
- Custody Status: Current housing assignment, classification level, and security designation
- Court Information: Scheduled court appearances, court orders, and legal documents
- Bail/Bond Information: Bail amount, if eligible, and bond status
- Sentence Details: For sentenced inmates, information regarding sentence length, credit for time served, and projected release date
- Visitation Records: Log of approved visitors and visitation history
- Property Inventory: Documentation of personal property held during incarceration
- Disciplinary Records: Documentation of rule violations and resulting administrative actions
Additional specialized records may include medical files, program participation records, and other documentation relevant to the inmate's custody and care. The Sheriff's Office maintains booking photos with restricted access based on departmental policy and applicable privacy laws.
Tulare County Prison System
The Tulare County correctional system operates under the authority of the Tulare County Sheriff's Office Detention Division, which is responsible for the safe and secure housing of pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders. This system functions in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations and applicable sections of the California Penal Code.
The county's correctional infrastructure consists of multiple facilities designed to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations:
- Bob Wiley Detention Facility: Primary detention center with capacity for medium to maximum security inmates
- Main Jail: Older facility primarily used for initial processing and short-term holding
- Adult Pre-Trial Detention Facility: Houses pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- South County Detention Facility: Newer facility serving the southern portion of the county
The Tulare County Sheriff's Office Detention Division employs approximately 450 personnel, including correctional deputies, support staff, and administrative personnel. The division operates with an annual budget of approximately $60 million, allocated from the county general fund and supplemented by state funding pursuant to Assembly Bill 109 (Public Safety Realignment).
Tulare County Sheriff's Office - Detention Division Headquarters 2404 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 636-4695 Tulare County Sheriff
Types of Correctional Facilities In Tulare County
Tulare County maintains a multi-tiered correctional system with facilities designed to accommodate various security classifications and inmate populations. Each facility operates under the authority of the Tulare County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations.
Bob Wiley Detention Facility 36712 Road 112 Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 713-2060
- Medium to maximum security facility
- Housing capacity: approximately 695 inmates
- Specialized housing units for administrative segregation, protective custody, and mental health services
- On-site medical clinic and intake processing center
- Visiting Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Main Jail 2404 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 636-4695
- Oldest facility in the county system, constructed in 1962
- Housing capacity: approximately 274 inmates
- Primarily houses minimum to medium security inmates
- Central booking facility for all county arrests
- Visiting Hours: Saturday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Adult Pre-Trial Detention Facility 2420 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 636-4550
- Medium security facility
- Housing capacity: approximately 384 inmates
- Specialized housing for female inmates
- Dedicated court transfer unit
- Visiting Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
South County Detention Facility 1960 W. Teapot Dome Avenue Porterville, CA 93257 Phone: (559) 782-9650
- Newest facility, opened in 2018
- Housing capacity: approximately 510 inmates
- Modern design with enhanced programming space
- Video visitation capabilities
- Visiting Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Additional information about these facilities and their inmate services is available through the Tulare County Sheriff's Office.
Who's in Prison In Tulare County
The inmate population in Tulare County detention facilities consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. As of January 2025, the county facilities house approximately 1,800 inmates across all detention centers, representing approximately 0.4% of the county's total population.
The demographic composition of Tulare County's incarcerated population includes:
- Legal Status: Approximately 65% pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings; 35% sentenced offenders serving terms of up to 3 years pursuant to California Penal Code § 1170(h)
- Gender Distribution: Approximately 85% male and 15% female inmates
- Age Range: Primarily adults aged 18-55, with the median age being 32 years
- Offense Categories:
- Felony charges: 72% (primarily drug offenses, property crimes, and violent offenses)
- Misdemeanor charges: 28% (primarily public order offenses, DUI, and minor property crimes)
The inmate population fluctuates based on seasonal factors, court processing times, and changes in law enforcement priorities. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 45 days, while sentenced offenders serve an average of 8 months in county custody.
Individuals seeking information about specific inmates may utilize the California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS) for state prisoners or the Tulare County inmate search portal for county detainees.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Tulare County in 2025
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Tulare County may access records through several official channels established by the Sheriff's Office. The following procedures have been implemented to facilitate public access while maintaining compliance with California Government Code § 6253 and applicable privacy regulations.
Online Inmate Locator System The Tulare County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search database that provides real-time information about currently incarcerated individuals. To utilize this system:
- Navigate to the official Tulare County Sheriff's Office inmate search portal
- Enter search criteria (last name, first name, or booking number)
- Review the results, which include:
- Full name and booking number
- Current charges and bail amount
- Next court date and location
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Record Requests For more detailed information or historical records, individuals may submit requests in person:
Tulare County Sheriff's Office - Records Division 833 S. Akers Street Visalia, CA 93277 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Phone: (559) 802-9400
Required documentation for in-person requests includes:
- Government-issued photo identification
- Completed Record Request Form (available at the counter)
- Payment of applicable fees ($15 for standard record search)
Written Requests Written requests for inmate information may be submitted via mail to the Records Division address above and must include:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific information being requested
- Check or money order for applicable fees
Processing time for written requests is typically 7-10 business days from receipt.
How To Find an Inmate in Tulare County for Free?
Tulare County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals in custody within the county correctional system. These services are available pursuant to California Government Code § 6253, which establishes the public's right to access certain government records without charge.
Online Resources The primary free resource for locating inmates is the Tulare County Sheriff's Office inmate search portal. This database is updated regularly and provides:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Charges
- Next court date
- Bail information
For individuals who may be in state custody rather than county facilities, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's CIRIS system provides free statewide inmate location information.
Telephone Information Line The Tulare County Sheriff's Office maintains a dedicated inmate information line that provides basic custody information:
- Phone: (559) 636-4580
- Hours: 24 hours daily
- Automated system with option to speak with staff during business hours
Courthouse Terminal Access Public access terminals are available at the Tulare County Superior Court locations:
-
Visalia Courthouse 221 S. Mooney Blvd. Visalia, CA 93291 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
-
Porterville Courthouse 300 E. Olive Avenue Porterville, CA 93257 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
These terminals provide access to the same information available through the online portal but may be helpful for individuals without internet access.
How To Visit an Inmate In Tulare County
Visitation with inmates housed in Tulare County detention facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitation is conducted in accordance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations § 1062.
General Visitation Requirements All visitors must:
- Be 18 years of age or accompanied by an adult guardian (minors must be immediate family)
- Present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Submit to security screening procedures
- Comply with facility dress code (no revealing clothing, gang-related attire, or clothing resembling inmate uniforms)
- Arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled visitation time
Visitation Schedule by Facility Each facility maintains specific visitation hours based on housing unit and classification:
Bob Wiley Detention Facility 36712 Road 112 Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 713-2060
- Thursday-Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Visits limited to 30 minutes
- Maximum of two adult visitors per session
Main Jail 2404 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 636-4695
- Saturday-Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Visits limited to 30 minutes
- Maximum of two adult visitors per session
Adult Pre-Trial Detention Facility 2420 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Phone: (559) 636-4550
- Thursday-Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Visits limited to 30 minutes
- Maximum of two adult visitors per session
South County Detention Facility 1960 W. Teapot Dome Avenue Porterville, CA 93257 Phone: (559) 782-9650
- Thursday-Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Visits limited to 30 minutes
- Maximum of two adult visitors per session
Detailed information about inmate visitation is available through the Tulare County Sheriff's Office website.
How To Send Money to a Tulare County Inmate
The Tulare County Sheriff's Office provides multiple methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds may be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Tulare County Sheriff's Office Policy 1200.
Electronic Deposits The preferred method for sending funds is through the TouchPay system, which offers several options:
- Online deposits via www.touchpayonline.com (Facility ID: 219)
- Mobile app deposits through the TouchPay mobile application
- Telephone deposits by calling 1-866-232-1899
- Kiosk deposits at lobby locations in each detention facility
Electronic deposits are subject to the following parameters:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum deposit: $300.00 per transaction
- Service fee: $2.95 - $8.95 (varies by deposit amount)
- Processing time: Funds typically available within 24 hours
Money Orders Money orders may be sent via postal mail to:
Tulare County Sheriff's Office - Inmate Accounts 2404 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291
Money orders must include:
- Inmate's full name
- Inmate's booking number
- Sender's full name and return address
- Money orders only (no personal checks, cash, or other items)
Lobby Deposits Cash deposits may be made in person at the following locations during regular business hours:
Bob Wiley Detention Facility 36712 Road 112 Visalia, CA 93291 Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday
Main Jail 2404 W. Burrel Avenue Visalia, CA 93291 Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday
Visitors making lobby deposits must present valid identification and complete a deposit form. Additional information about inmate financial services is available through the Sheriff's Office.
How To Send Jail Mail In Tulare County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Tulare County detention facilities is permitted subject to security protocols established by the Sheriff's Office. All mail procedures comply with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations § 1063 and facility security requirements.
Mailing Address Format All mail must be addressed using the following format:
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number Facility Name Facility Address City, CA ZIP Code
Example: John Doe, #12345678 Bob Wiley Detention Facility 36712 Road 112 Visalia, CA 93291
Mail Guidelines The following regulations apply to all incoming inmate mail:
- All mail must arrive through the U.S. Postal Service (no courier or delivery services)
- Sender's full name and return address must appear on the envelope
- Letters must be on plain white, lined, or unlined paper
- Envelopes must be standard white or manila
- Photographs limited to 4" x 6" (maximum of 5 per envelope)
- No polaroid photos, cardstock, construction paper, or colored paper
- No perfume, lipstick, stickers, labels, tape, or other adhesives
- No cash, checks, or contraband items
Prohibited Content Mail containing the following will be rejected:
- Gang-related content or symbols
- Plans for escape or illegal activities
- Threats or obscene material
- Information that could compromise facility security
- Unauthorized items or contraband
Legal Mail Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and will be opened in the presence of the inmate.
Publications Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor and are subject to content review. For additional information about inmate mail services, please contact the Tulare County Sheriff's Office.
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