Mendocino County Jail is a secure detention facility in Ukiah, California, run by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office. It holds people who are waiting for trial, sentencing, or serving short jail terms. The jail focuses on safety, health, and helping inmates prepare for life after release. Families, friends, and legal helpers can use online tools and in-person services to stay connected. This page gives clear, up-to-date details about inmate lookup, visitation rules, mail, phone calls, programs, and how to contact the jail. All information comes from official sources and follows current policies.
How to Search for an Inmate in Mendocino County Jail
Finding someone in Mendocino County Jail is fast and easy using the official inmate search tool. This system shows real-time data on who is currently booked. You can search by name or inmate ID. Results include booking date, charges, bail amount, court dates, and release status. The roster updates daily to keep information accurate.
Using the Online Inmate Lookup Tool
Go to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Type the person’s full legal name or ID number. Use correct spelling to avoid missing results. If you don’t find a match, try a partial name or check again later. The system only shows active inmates. People who have been released won’t appear.
Offline Search Options
If you can’t use the internet, call the jail at (707) 463-4411. Staff can help locate an inmate if you give their full name and date of birth. You may also visit the jail in person at 107 S. Oak Street, Ukiah, CA 95482. Bring a photo ID. Public kiosks near the front desk sometimes show basic inmate lists, but the online tool is the most reliable.
Mendocino County Jail Roster and Booking Information
The jail roster lists everyone currently held at Mendocino County Jail. Each entry includes name, booking date, charges, bail amount, and court schedule. This helps families track legal progress and plan visits or bail payments. The roster is public record and updated every day.
What Happens During Booking
When someone is arrested in Mendocino County, they go through a standard booking process at the jail. This includes fingerprinting, taking a mugshot, recording personal details, and a quick health check. Officers also review any medical needs or medications. The whole process usually takes 1–2 hours.
Bail and Court Dates
Bail is set by a judge based on the crime and risk of flight. If bail is posted, the person can leave jail until their court date. If not, they stay in custody. Court dates appear on the inmate roster. Families should check often, as schedules can change.
Mendocino County Jail Mugshots and Public Records
Mugshots taken during booking are public records in California. Anyone can request them from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking date. There may be a small fee for copying and mailing.
Privacy and Mugshot Removal
Some people want their mugshots removed after charges are dropped or they are found not guilty. California law allows removal requests under certain conditions. You must file a petition with the court. If approved, the Sheriff’s Office will stop sharing the photo. Third-party websites may still host it, so legal help is often needed for full removal.
Visiting Someone at Mendocino County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. Mendocino County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled ahead of time. Walk-ins are not allowed.
In-Person Visitation Rules
Visits happen Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID. Dress modestly: no shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with offensive words or images. Security will check bags and pockets. Only one visitor per inmate per slot.
Virtual Visitation
Video visits are available through a secure online platform. You need a computer or smartphone with internet. Schedule online or by phone. Sessions last 20 minutes. This option helps people who live far away or have health issues.
Scheduling a Visit
Book visits at least 24 hours in advance. Use the jail’s website or call (707) 463-4411. Confirm your time before arriving. Late arrivals may lose their slot.
Sending Mail to Inmates at Mendocino County Jail
Inmates can receive letters, photos, and approved books. All mail is opened and checked for contraband. Write clearly and include the inmate’s full name and ID number.
Mail Guidelines
Use white paper and standard envelopes. No stickers, glue, or Polaroids. Photos must be 4×6 inches or smaller. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores. Do not send cash, checks, or personal items.
Address Format
Send mail to:
Inmate’s Full Name & ID Number
Mendocino County Jail
107 S. Oak Street
Ukiah, CA 95482
Phone Calls and Email for Inmates
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15–20 minutes and cost per minute. Families can add money to an inmate’s phone account online or at a kiosk in the jail lobby.
Email Communication
The jail uses a secure email system. Families send messages through the provider’s website. Inmates read and reply on tablets in their housing units. All messages are monitored. Emails arrive faster than regular mail.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can use funds for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. There are three ways to send money:
- Online: Use the jail’s approved payment site with a credit or debit card.
- Kiosk: Pay with cash or card at the jail lobby kiosk.
- Mail: Send a money order made payable to the inmate. Do not mail cash or personal checks.
Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. Keep receipts for your records.
Commissary Services at Mendocino County Jail
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to cells. Popular items include chips, toothpaste, soap, pens, and socks.
How to Add Money
Families add funds using the methods above. Inmates see their balance on a tablet or paper statement. Prices are posted in housing units. Commissary helps inmates feel more comfortable and stay connected to daily routines.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
Mendocino County Jail provides medical and mental health care for all inmates. New arrivals get a health screening within 24 hours. Ongoing care includes check-ups, prescriptions, dental, and vision services.
Mental Health Programs
Counselors offer individual and group therapy. Topics include anger management, addiction recovery, and stress coping. Substance abuse treatment includes detox support and counseling. These services help reduce repeat offenses and support reentry.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to help inmates build skills for life after release. Education includes GED classes and basic literacy. Vocational training covers carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. Local nonprofits and colleges sometimes partner with the jail to expand offerings.
Life Skills and Reentry Support
Inmates can join workshops on job readiness, budgeting, and parenting. Case managers help plan for housing, jobs, and counseling after release. These programs aim to lower recidivism and improve community safety.
Inmate Rights and Safety
All inmates have rights protected by law. They can request medical care, file grievances, and practice their religion. The jail follows strict safety rules, including 24/7 surveillance, emergency drills, and staff training. Inmates are housed by risk level to prevent conflicts.
Grievance Process
If an inmate has a problem, they can submit a written grievance to staff. Responses are required within a set time. Serious issues are reviewed by supervisors. This system ensures fair treatment and accountability.
Contact Information and Location
Mendocino County Jail is located at 107 S. Oak Street, Ukiah, CA 95482. The main phone number is (707) 463-4411. For inmate lookup, visit the official website: mendocinocounty.org/jail. Visitation hours are Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Call ahead to confirm times or check for holiday changes.
Emergency Contacts
For urgent matters, call (707) 463-4411. The jail does not handle medical emergencies directly—call 911 for life-threatening situations. Staff will assist with coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about inmate status, visitation, and services at Mendocino County Jail. Below are clear answers based on current policies and official sources.
How do I find out if someone is in Mendocino County Jail?
Use the inmate lookup tool on the Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. The roster shows current inmates only. If no result appears, they may have been released or transferred. You can also call (707) 463-4411 for help. Have the person’s name and date of birth ready. The system updates daily, so check often if you’re unsure.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. Book online or by phone at least 24 hours before your visit. Confirm your time slot before leaving home. Late arrivals may lose their visit. Both in-person and virtual visits require scheduling. This ensures security and fairness for all inmates and visitors.
What items can I send to an inmate by mail?
You can send letters, plain photos (no Polaroids), and books from publishers. Do not include stickers, glue, or cash. All mail is inspected. Write the inmate’s full name and ID on the envelope. Books must come directly from stores or publishers. Magazines are allowed if mailed sealed. Avoid sending anything that could hide contraband. Follow the jail’s guidelines to prevent delays or rejection.
How much do inmate phone calls cost?
Calls are charged per minute. Rates vary by provider but are typically under $0.30 per minute. Families add money to the inmate’s phone account online or at the jail kiosk. Inmates can only call approved numbers. Calls last 15–20 minutes. Keep conversations brief to save money. All calls are recorded and monitored for safety.
Are rehabilitation programs available for all inmates?
Yes. Mendocino County Jail offers GED classes, vocational training, and counseling to all eligible inmates. Programs depend on space and behavior. Inmates must follow rules to stay enrolled. Topics include job skills, addiction recovery, and mental health support. These programs help prepare for life after release and reduce the chance of returning to jail.
Can I get a copy of someone’s mugshot?
Yes. Mugshots are public records. Submit a written request to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office with the person’s name and booking date. There may be a small fee. If charges were dropped or the person was found not guilty, they can ask the court to remove the mugshot from official records. Third-party sites may still show it, so legal help might be needed.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates get a health screening within 24 hours of arrival. Ongoing care includes doctor visits, medications, dental, and mental health services. Staff respond to urgent needs right away. Inmates can request care at any time. Serious cases are sent to local hospitals. Families are notified if the inmate agrees. Medical records are kept private under law.