San Mateo County Jail: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The San Mateo County Jail, located in Redwood City, California, is the primary detention facility for San Mateo County. It houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility is operated by the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office and consists of three main buildings: the Maguire Correctional Facility, the Maple Street Correctional Center, and the Women's Correctional Center.
Contact Information
Address: 300 Bradford Street, Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 599-1536
Website: https://www.smcsheriff.com/divisions/custody-services
Email: Not publicly available
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate in the San Mateo County Jail system, you can use the online inmate locator tool available on the Sheriff's Office website. Alternatively, you can call the jail directly at (650) 599-1536 for inmate information.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the facility and inmate housing unit. Generally, visits are conducted on weekends and some weekdays. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance through the online visitation system or by calling the facility. All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification.
How to Send Money
Inmates can receive money through several methods:
- Online: Through the TouchPay system
- Kiosk: Available in the lobby of each facility
- Mail: Send money orders to the inmate's name and booking number
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to collect calls and pre-paid phone services. Video visitation is available at the Maple Street Correctional Center. Family and friends can set up accounts through the jail's contracted phone service provider.
Inmate Services and Programs
The San Mateo County Jail offers various programs and services, including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Library services
History of the Facility
The San Mateo County Jail system has evolved over the years. The Maguire Correctional Facility opened in 1988, while the newer Maple Street Correctional Center began operations in 2016 to address overcrowding and provide more modern facilities.
Security and Management Information
The jail is managed by the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division. It employs various security measures, including perimeter security, surveillance systems, and trained correctional officers to maintain a safe environment for inmates and staff.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can meet with their attorneys during designated hours. They also have the right to receive visitors, make phone calls, and send and receive mail, subject to jail policies and security procedures.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrival, inmates go through a booking process that includes fingerprinting, photographing, and a health screening. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's situation (e.g., posting bail, completion of sentence, or court order).
Frequently Asked Questions
What items are inmates allowed to have?
Inmates are generally allowed to have basic hygiene items, writing materials, and approved reading materials. All items must be purchased through the jail commissary or approved vendors.
How often can inmates receive mail?
Inmates can receive mail daily, except on weekends and holidays. All incoming mail is inspected for contraband and must follow the jail's guidelines.
Are there medical services available in the jail?
Yes, the San Mateo County Jail provides medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates. Medical staff are available 24/7 to address inmate health concerns.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about famous prisoners is not readily available for the San Mateo County Jail, the facility has housed various notable individuals over the years, primarily those awaiting trial or serving short sentences for local offenses.
