Santa Clara County Jail - North California: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Santa Clara County Jail, located in North California, is a correctional facility operated by the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office. It consists of two main facilities: the Main Jail Complex in San Jose and the Elmwood Correctional Complex in Milpitas.
Contact Information
Main Jail Complex Address: 150 W. Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95110
Elmwood Correctional Complex Address: 701 S. Abel Street, Milpitas, CA 95035
Phone: (408) 299-2311
Website: Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office - Custody Division
Email: N/A
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate in the Santa Clara County Jail system, you can use the online Inmate Locator provided by the Sheriff's Office. You will need the inmate's name or booking number to perform a search.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the facility and housing unit. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and some weekdays. It's recommended to check the specific visitation schedule for the inmate you wish to visit by contacting the facility directly or checking the Jail Visitation Information page.
How to Send Money
There are several ways to send money to inmates:
- Online: Through Jail ATM
- By Phone: Call 1-866-345-1884
- At Kiosk: Located in the lobby of both jail facilities
- By Mail: Send money orders to the inmate's specific facility address
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through GTL (Global Tel Link). Video visitation is available at both facilities, which can be scheduled through the GTL VisitMe platform.
Inmate Services and Programs
The Santa Clara County Jail offers various services and programs, including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Library services
History of the Facility
The Santa Clara County Jail system has been in operation for several decades, with the Main Jail Complex being built in the 1980s and the Elmwood Correctional Complex dating back to the 1950s. Both facilities have undergone expansions and renovations over the years to accommodate the growing inmate population.
Security and Management Information
The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office is responsible for the management and security of both jail facilities. The jails employ various security measures, including surveillance cameras, regular cell checks, and controlled access points. The facilities house both male and female inmates of various security classifications.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Professional visits, including those from lawyers, are generally allowed during business hours on weekdays. Inmates also have the right to receive visits from family and friends, subject to the facility's visitation policies and schedules.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and collecting personal information from the arrestee. After booking, inmates are assigned to appropriate housing units based on factors such as gender, criminal history, and security risk. The release process may involve posting bail, completing a sentence, or being released on own recognizance, depending on the individual case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to visitation?
Visitors are generally only allowed to bring a valid government-issued ID and car keys. No personal items, including phones, bags, or food, are permitted in the visitation area.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Inmates are typically allowed two 30-minute visits per week. However, this may vary depending on the inmate's classification and housing unit.
Can I send packages to inmates?
Personal packages are not accepted. However, you can send books and magazines directly from approved vendors, subject to facility rules and regulations.
Are there medical services available for inmates?
Yes, both facilities provide medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates. Emergency medical care is available 24/7.
How can I report concerns about an inmate's well-being?
You can contact the facility directly or use the Sheriff's Office's online complaint form to report any concerns about an inmate's safety or well-being.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about famous prisoners is limited, some notable individuals who have reportedly served time in Santa Clara County Jail include:
- Brock Turner - Former Stanford University student convicted of sexual assault in a high-profile case.
- Reuben Foster - Former NFL player arrested on domestic violence charges (charges later dropped).
- William Lynch - Gained attention for assaulting a priest he accused of molesting him as a child.
