Fresno County North Annex Jail

The North Annex Jail, constructed in 1993, is one of the Fresno County Sheriff's Office’s key correctional facilities. Alongside the South Annex and Main Jails, it contributes to the county’s total inmate capacity of 2,427. The North Annex Jail operates under the same Federal Consent Decree as the other facilities, ensuring that the inmate population is maintained within strict limits to guarantee adequate bed availability and humane conditions.

Staffed by over 350 correctional personnel, including officers, sergeants, and lieutenants, the North Annex Jail plays a crucial role in the Fresno County correctional system. The facility is dedicated to upholding public safety while providing opportunities for inmate rehabilitation and personal development. Inmates at the North Annex Jail benefit from various programs aimed at supporting their reintegration into society. These include educational programs, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and religious services, all designed to promote positive behavior and reduce recidivism.

The intake process at the North Annex Jail involves medical screening, booking, and classification, ensuring that each inmate's needs are properly addressed. The classification system assigns inmates to housing based on risk factors to minimize conflicts and enhance safety within the facility. The North Annex Jail’s commitment to comprehensive inmate services and programs reflects its role in fostering rehabilitation and preparing inmates for successful reentry into the community.

The jail is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.

The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.