San Bernardino County Jail is one of the largest detention systems in California, operated by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. It houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer to state prison. The jail serves as a critical hub for public safety, inmate care, and community reintegration efforts. With multiple facilities across the county, it supports thousands of inmates and their families daily. This page delivers accurate, up-to-date information on how to locate inmates, post bail, visit loved ones, access medical care, and use commissary and communication services. All details reflect current policies and procedures verified through official sources.
San Bernardino County Inmate Search and Roster Lookup
Finding an inmate in San Bernardino County Jail starts with the official online inmate roster. This free tool lets families, attorneys, and the public view real-time custody status. The system updates every 15 minutes, ensuring accuracy. You can search by full name or booking number. Results show current location, charges, bail amount, court dates, and projected release date if applicable.
How to Use the Online Inmate Lookup Tool
Go to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department website and click “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s first and last name exactly as it appears on legal documents. Avoid nicknames unless confirmed. If no results appear, try a partial name or check alternate spellings. The roster includes only active inmates. Those recently released or transferred may not show up immediately.
What Information Is Available?
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Booking date and time
- Current facility and housing unit
- Charges and case number
- Bail amount and bond eligibility
- Next court appearance date
- Medical or mental health flags (limited detail)
Offline Search Options
If the website is down or you lack internet access, call the jail’s public information line at (909) 387-8313. Staff can confirm an inmate’s status during business hours. You may also visit the Central Detention Center in person at 630 East Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Bring a valid photo ID and the inmate’s full name or booking number.
San Bernardino County Jail Facilities and Locations
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department manages several jails. Each serves a different purpose based on security level and inmate needs.
| Facility Name | Address | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Central Detention Center | 630 East Rialto Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92415 | Main intake and short-term housing |
| West Valley Detention Center | 9500 Etiwanda Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 | Medium-security housing and programs |
| High Desert Detention Center | 9100 N. 3rd St, Adelanto, CA 92301 | Long-term and special needs inmates |
All facilities follow strict safety protocols and offer medical, mental health, and rehabilitation services. Inmates may be transferred between locations based on behavior, medical needs, or space availability.
Bail Information and How to Post Bail in San Bernardino County
Bail lets eligible inmates leave jail before trial by paying a set amount. The judge decides bail during the first court hearing. Amounts vary based on charge severity, criminal history, and flight risk.
Steps to Post Bail
- Confirm the bail amount by calling the Booking Office at (909) 387-8313.
- Choose a payment method: cash, credit card, or bail bondsman.
- Pay at the jail’s payment kiosk, online portal, or through a licensed bondsman.
- Complete release paperwork. The inmate is typically freed within 1–4 hours.
Cash bail must be paid in full. Credit cards incur a processing fee. Bail bondsmen charge 10% of the total bail (non-refundable). Only adults over 18 can post bail.
Bail Hearing and Modification
If bail seems too high, request a bail reduction hearing. A lawyer can file a motion with the court. Judges may lower bail based on new evidence, employment status, or family ties.
Visiting Hours and Rules at San Bernardino County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. San Bernardino County offers both in-person and video visits. All visits require advance scheduling.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
- Schedule online at the Sheriff’s Department website or call (909) 356-3170.
- Visits occur Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. No weekend visits.
- Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week.
- Only two visitors allowed per session.
- Valid photo ID required (driver’s license, passport, state ID).
- Dress code: no hats, sunglasses, revealing clothes, or offensive graphics.
- No cell phones, bags, or food permitted inside.
Video Visitation Option
Video visits cost $12.50 for 20 minutes. Schedule through the official jail portal. You’ll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and internet. Video calls are monitored and recorded.
Special Visits for Attorneys and Clergy
Legal and religious visits are allowed outside regular hours with prior approval. Contact the jail’s visitation office to arrange.
Inmate Communication: Mail, Phone Calls, and Email
Inmates can stay in touch through approved channels. All communications are monitored for security.
Phone Calls from Jail
Inmates make outgoing calls only. Numbers must be pre-approved. Calls last 15–20 minutes. Families pay via prepaid accounts through Securus or similar providers. Rates vary by time of day and location. International calls cost more.
Sending Mail to Inmates
Send letters to:
INMATE NAME & BOOKING NUMBER
FACILITY NAME
FACILITY ADDRESS
Use plain white paper and standard envelopes. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or Amazon. All mail is scanned and copied. Inmates receive photocopies of letters.
Email Messages
The jail offers email through a secure platform. Families create accounts, pay per message, and send texts. Inmates reply using kiosks in their housing units. Emails are not private and may be reviewed.
Sending Money to Inmates: Commissary and Phone Funds
Inmates use funds for snacks, hygiene items, phone time, and medical co-pays. Deposit money safely through these methods:
- Online: Use the jail’s payment portal with a credit/debit card.
- Kiosk: Pay with cash or card at the jail lobby kiosk.
- Money Order: Mail a U.S. Postal Service money order. Write the inmate’s full name and booking number. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Funds appear in the inmate’s account within 24 hours. There are no fees for kiosk or online deposits under $100. Larger amounts may incur small charges.
San Bernardino County Jail Commissary Services
The commissary sells food, toiletries, stationery, and clothing. Items are delivered weekly. Popular products include:
- Chips, cookies, and instant noodles
- Toothpaste, soap, deodorant
- Pens, paper, envelopes
- Thermal underwear and socks
Prices are regulated and posted online. Inmates with low balances may qualify for indigent packages containing basic hygiene items at no cost.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
All inmates receive medical care upon arrival. Doctors, nurses, and mental health staff work on-site. Services include:
- Emergency treatment
- Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension)
- Mental health counseling
- Substance abuse programs
- Dental and vision care (basic)
Inmates request care through kiosks or staff. Serious cases are sent to county hospitals. Prescription medications are dispensed daily under supervision.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
San Bernardino County Jail offers programs to reduce recidivism. Participants gain skills for life after release.
Educational Courses
Inmates can earn a GED or high school diploma. Classes are held in classrooms or via tablets. Tutors assist with reading, math, and writing.
Vocational Training
- Carpentry and construction basics
- Plumbing and electrical safety
- Computer skills and typing
- Food service certification
Life Skills and Counseling
Programs cover anger management, parenting, job readiness, and financial literacy. Group therapy helps with trauma and addiction.
Inmate Rights and Grievance Process
Inmates have rights protected by law. These include:
- Access to medical care
- Freedom from discrimination
- Right to file grievances
- Access to legal materials
- Religious practice
To file a complaint, inmates submit a form to the housing unit supervisor. Responses are required within 15 days. Serious issues can be escalated to the Sheriff’s Internal Affairs Bureau.
Release Process and Post-Release Support
When an inmate is released, staff verify identity and return personal items. Released individuals receive a summary of charges, court dates, and community resources. Some qualify for reentry programs offering housing, job placement, and counseling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about San Bernardino County Jail. Below are clear, factual answers based on current policies.
How do I find out if someone is in San Bernardino County Jail?
Use the free online inmate roster on the Sheriff’s Department website. Search by name or booking number. If no results appear, call (909) 387-8313. Provide the person’s full name and date of birth. Staff will confirm custody status during business hours. Remember that recent arrests may take a few hours to appear online.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling in advance?
No. All visits must be scheduled ahead of time. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Use the online system or call the visitation office at (909) 356-3170. Choose your time slot and bring a valid ID. Late arrivals may lose their visit. Virtual visits also require booking and payment before the session.
What happens if I send cash in the mail to an inmate?
Cash is not accepted by mail. It will be confiscated and not added to the inmate’s account. Only U.S. Postal Service money orders are allowed. Write the inmate’s full name and booking number clearly. Sending cash risks loss and delays. Use online deposits or kiosks for faster, safer transfers.
Are mugshots from San Bernardino County Jail public record?
Yes. Mugshots taken during booking are public records. You can request copies from the Sheriff’s Department Records Bureau. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking date. There may be a small fee. Note that even if charges are dropped, mugshots often remain online unless a court orders removal.
Can inmates receive packages from home?
No. Inmates cannot receive packages, clothing, or homemade items. All personal goods must be purchased through the commissary. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or approved retailers like Amazon. This rule prevents contraband and ensures safety.
How long does it take to get released after posting bail?
Most inmates are released within 1 to 4 hours after bail is posted. The time depends on paperwork, shift changes, and medical clearance. Weekend or holiday releases may take longer. Call the jail to confirm the inmate’s status after payment.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For the most accurate and current information, use these official channels:
- Main Jail Phone: (909) 387-8313
- Visitation Scheduling: (909) 356-3170
- Official Website: https://www.sbcsheriff.org
- Central Detention Center Address: 630 East Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Always verify details before traveling or sending funds. Policies can change without notice. Rely only on the Sheriff’s Department for updates.