Contra Costa County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Contra Costa County?
Inmate records in Contra Costa County are official government documents maintained by the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals who are incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, these records constitute an official accounting 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 the physical custody and supervision of individuals
- Court records are maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa
- Inmate records are maintained by the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office
The creation and maintenance of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial record creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Information is updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Records document housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Records are administratively closed upon release but maintained according to retention schedules
The California Public Records Act establishes the legal framework for public access to these records, with specific provisions regarding inmate information found in Government Code § 6254(f).
Are Inmate Records Public In Contra Costa County?
Inmate records in Contra Costa County are partially public under California law. The California Public Records Act (CPRA) establishes that certain information about individuals in custody must be disclosed to the public, while other information remains confidential. Specifically, Government Code § 6254(f) mandates disclosure of basic information while protecting sensitive personal data.
Information that is publicly accessible includes:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Full name and booking number
- Date and time of booking
- Charges filed against the individual
- Bail/bond amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (if determined)
- Current housing facility
Information that is generally not publicly accessible includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Detailed visitation logs
- Personal identification information (SSN, driver's license)
- Detailed criminal history beyond current charges
- Juvenile records (subject to special confidentiality under Welfare and Institutions Code § 827)
The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate locator system that provides public access to basic custody information in compliance with state disclosure requirements. Members of the public seeking additional information beyond what is publicly available may submit formal requests, which will be evaluated according to applicable privacy laws and disclosure exemptions.
What's Included Inmate Records in Contra Costa County
Inmate records in Contra Costa County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. The following categories of information are typically maintained:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Date of birth
- Booking number and other identification numbers
- Fingerprints and biometric data
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Classification status and housing assignments
- Disciplinary incidents and actions taken
- Program participation (education, work, rehabilitation)
- Visitation records
- Commissary and account information
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute numbers)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor/felony)
- Arresting circumstances
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount set by court
- Bond type (cash, surety, property)
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case numbers
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders affecting custody
Sentence Information (if convicted):
- Length of sentence
- Credit for time served
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole or probation eligibility dates
- Special conditions imposed by court
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in compliance with Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations, which establishes minimum standards for local detention facilities.
Contra Costa County Prison System
The Contra Costa County correctional system operates under the authority of the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office, which maintains jurisdiction over local detention facilities pursuant to California Penal Code § 4000. This system is distinct from the state prison system operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
The county detention system primarily houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanors
- Individuals serving felony sentences of one year or less
- Persons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals in custody for probation or parole violations
Following the implementation of California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109) in 2011, county facilities also house certain non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders who would previously have been sent to state prison.
The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office maintains multiple detention facilities with varying security levels and specialized housing units. The system operates under the direct supervision of the Sheriff-Coroner, an elected official responsible for the administration of all county detention facilities.
Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office
651 Pine Street, 7th Floor
Martinez, CA 94553
(925) 335-1500
Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County operates several detention facilities, each serving specific functions within the county correctional system:
Martinez Detention Facility (MDF)
1000 Ward Street
Martinez, CA 94553
(925) 646-4670
Martinez Detention Facility
The Martinez Detention Facility serves as the main booking and intake center for the county. This maximum-security facility houses primarily male inmates of all classification levels. The facility includes:
- Booking and intake processing areas
- General population housing units
- Administrative segregation units
- Medical and mental health housing
- Court holding facilities
West County Detention Facility (WCDF)
5555 Giant Highway
Richmond, CA 94806
(510) 262-4200
West County Detention Facility
The West County Detention Facility is a medium-security facility that houses both male and female inmates. This facility emphasizes rehabilitative programming and includes:
- Dormitory-style housing units
- Educational and vocational training spaces
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- Work alternative programs
- Transitional housing units
Marsh Creek Detention Facility (MCDF)
12000 Marsh Creek Road
Clayton, CA 94517
(925) 646-5700
Marsh Creek Detention Facility
The Marsh Creek Detention Facility is a minimum-security facility that primarily houses:
- Low-risk sentenced inmates
- Work alternative program participants
- Inmates nearing release who are transitioning back to the community
Each facility operates under the standards established by the Board of State and Community Corrections and is subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations for local detention facilities.
Who's in Prison In Contra Costa County
The Contra Costa County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals who fall under local correctional jurisdiction. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Persons who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- These detainees comprise approximately 60-70% of the county jail population
Sentenced Offenders:
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (up to one year)
- Persons serving sentences for certain felony convictions under one year
- "Realigned" offenders serving sentences locally under AB 109 (non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders)
- Individuals serving split sentences (partial incarceration followed by mandatory supervision)
Technical Violators:
- Probation violators awaiting hearings or serving sanctions
- Parole violators awaiting revocation proceedings
- Individuals who violated court orders or conditions of release
Special Populations:
- Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
- Persons with medical conditions requiring enhanced care
- Protective custody inmates (those who cannot safely be housed in general population)
- Immigration detainees awaiting proceedings (limited numbers under current county policy)
The demographic composition of the jail population fluctuates but generally reflects patterns documented by the California Board of State and Community Corrections in their quarterly jail population reports. The average daily population across all Contra Costa County facilities typically ranges between 1,200-1,500 inmates, though this number varies based on criminal justice policies, court processing times, and seasonal factors.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Contra Costa County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Contra Costa County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains multiple systems for public access to inmate data:
Online Inmate Locator System:
- Visit the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Custody Services" or "Inmate Information" section
- Select the "Inmate Locator" or "Who's in Jail" function
- Enter search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
- Additional identifiers such as first name, date of birth, or booking number will narrow results
- Review the information displayed, which typically includes:
- Full name
- Booking number
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Next court date
- Bail amount
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Records Division at the Sheriff's Office headquarters
- Complete a public records request form
- Provide identifying information about the inmate
- Present valid identification
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office Records Division
651 Pine Street, 7th Floor
Martinez, CA 94553
(925) 335-1570
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
Written Records Request:
- Submit a written request citing the California Public Records Act
- Include specific information about the records sought
- Provide return contact information
- Mail to the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Allow up to 10 business days for initial response as permitted under Government Code § 6253(c)
For state prison inmates who may have been transferred from Contra Costa County custody, the California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS) provides a statewide database of individuals in CDCR custody.
How To Find an Inmate in Contra Costa County for Free?
Contra Costa County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody within the county detention system:
Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Locator" section
- Enter the inmate's last name (required)
- Add first name or date of birth if known (recommended for common names)
- Review search results showing current inmates matching search criteria
- This service is available 24/7 at no charge
Telephone Information System:
- Call the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office Custody Bureau
- Main information line: (925) 335-1500
- Martinez Detention Facility: (925) 646-4670
- West County Detention Facility: (510) 262-4200
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Receive basic custody status information
- This service is available during business hours at no charge
Court Records Search:
- Visit the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa website
- Access the online case information system
- Search by defendant name
- Review case information, which may include custody status
- Note that this method provides case information but may not have real-time custody status
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the public lobby of any Contra Costa County detention facility
- Speak with the reception staff
- Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
- Receive basic information about custody status
- Available during normal visiting hours at no charge
These free resources provide basic information including:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Booking number
- Facility location
- Scheduled court dates
- Charges
- Bail amount
- Projected release date (if applicable)
For more detailed information beyond these basic elements, a formal records request may be required, which could involve fees for document reproduction.
How To Visit an Inmate In Contra Costa County
Visitation with inmates in Contra Costa County detention facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all facilities, though specific procedures may vary by location:
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 Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office website
- Visitors with criminal records may require special approval
- All visitors are subject to search upon entry
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
Visit Schedule:
- Martinez Detention Facility: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- West County Detention Facility: Saturday-Wednesday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Marsh Creek Detention Facility: Saturday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) available daily during extended hours
- Schedule subject to modification during holidays or facility emergencies
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Visiting registration confirmation
- Vehicle keys (no other personal items permitted in visiting area)
- If bringing a minor: birth certificate or legal guardianship documentation
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 (for vending machines where available)
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire required
- No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut tops, see-through materials)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate attire
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
- Contact visits (limited physical contact allowed, available only for certain classifications)
- Video visitation (available at some facilities)
- Special visits (extended duration, requires advance approval)
Visit Restrictions:
- Maximum of two adults per visit
- Visit duration typically limited to 30-60 minutes
- Number of visits per week limited based on facility and inmate classification
- Visits may be terminated for rule violations or security concerns
These procedures are established pursuant to Title 15, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 4 of the California Code of Regulations, which governs minimum standards for local detention facilities.
How To Send Money to a Contra Costa County Inmate
Individuals in Contra Costa County custody are permitted to maintain inmate trust accounts for purchasing commissary items and services. Several methods exist for depositing funds into these accounts:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Services" section
- Select "Deposits to Inmate Accounts"
- Create an account with the third-party service provider
- Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
- Select deposit amount and payment method
- Complete transaction and retain confirmation number
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit any Contra Costa County detention facility during lobby hours
- Locate the automated kiosk machine
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Enter inmate information (name and booking number)
- Insert cash or credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt as proof of deposit
Mail-In Deposits:
- Obtain a money order or cashier's check (personal checks not accepted)
- Make payable to "Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office"
- Write inmate's full name and booking number in memo line
- Include sender's full name and return address
- Mail to:
Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office
Inmate Accounts
1000 Ward Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Deposit Limits and Fees:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Online/credit card deposits: 5-8% service fee (varies by method)
- Kiosk deposits: $2.50 flat fee
- Mail-in money orders: No fee
Prohibited Transactions:
- Cash sent through mail (will be returned to sender)
- Personal checks (will be returned to sender)
- Third-party checks
- Transfers between inmate accounts
- Deposits from other incarcerated individuals
Authorized Fund Uses:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone account funding
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts and other personal services
- Restitution and fine payments
- Release funds
Unauthorized Fund Uses:
- Payments to staff or other inmates
- Gambling or betting activities
- Purchase of contraband items
- Payment for unauthorized services
Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. Detailed policies regarding inmate funds are established in compliance with California Penal Code § 4025, which governs inmate welfare funds.
How To Send Jail Mail In Contra Costa County
Correspondence with individuals in Contra Costa County custody follows specific guidelines to ensure security while maintaining important communication channels. All mail is subject to inspection pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 15, Section 1063.
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes with complete information:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate's booking number (if known)
- Facility name
- Facility address
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Use standard white or manila envelopes
- Write in blue or black ink only
- Mail will be delivered after security screening
Mailing Addresses for Facilities:
Martinez Detention Facility
[Inmate Name & Booking Number]
1000 Ward Street
Martinez, CA 94553
West County Detention Facility
[Inmate Name & Booking Number]
5555 Giant Highway
Richmond, CA 94806
Marsh Creek Detention Facility
[Inmate Name & Booking Number]
12000 Marsh Creek Road
Clayton, CA 94517
Permitted Mail Contents:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
- Money orders (see previous section on sending money)
- Legal documents (marked "Legal Mail" on envelope)
- Religious materials (subject to security review)
Prohibited Mail Contents:
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Packages (without prior approval)
- Any items creating a security, safety, or health concern
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Confidential Legal Correspondence"
- Must be sent by attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
Books and Publications:
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Paperback books only (hardcover not permitted)
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Subject to content review for security concerns
E-Messages (where available):
- Register with the approved third-party service via the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office website
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages through the online system
- Messages are printed and delivered to inmates
- Responses may be scanned and returned electronically
All mail procedures are subject to change based on security needs and facility operations. Current policies are available through the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office Inmate Services Division.
Lookup Inmate Records in Contra Costa County
California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS)
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation