Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)

County Jail

Last Updated: February 23, 2025
Address
550 N Flower St, Santa Ana, CA 92703
Beds
1814
County
Orange
Phone
714-834-5955

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Orange Co-CMWJ is for County Jail offenders sentenced up to twenty four months.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are seeking to send your inmate money for commissary, one recommended for this facility is AccessCorrections There is a fee for sending money, see their rates and limitations.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Satellite View of Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)

You can support your loved ones at Orange Co-CMWJ on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 714-834-5955.

When someone you care about gets locked up, it's tough to figure out all the ins and outs of jail life. From sending mail to visiting, there are a lot of things to sort out. And getting info about the arrest? Not always easy. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get a handle on how things work here so that you can stay connected and support your loved one behind bars.

The Orange Co-CMWJ is a detention center located at 550 N Flower St Santa Ana, CA which is operated locally by the Orange County Sheriff's Office and holds inmates awaiting trial or sentencing or both. Most of the sentenced inmates are here for less than two years. Orange County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, Santa Ana Police Department, and the US Marshal's Service.

New detainees arrive at the jail regularly, with some being released on bail, placed under pretrial services caseloads, supervised by probation agencies, or released on recognizance with a court appearance agreement. Those who are not released await their court appearances at the jail, receiving accommodations including bedding and meals.

You can see all the arrest records for California here.

The Central Men’s and Central Women’s Jail, established in November 1968, are traditional linear-style facilities housing both sentenced and pre-trial maximum-security inmates. The Central Men’s Jail accommodates up to 1,428 inmates, while the Central Women’s Jail can house up to 386 inmates.

Inmates at these facilities have access to various amenities and services, including television, outdoor recreation, local newspapers, mail, and commissary purchases. They also receive medical, mental health, and dental care, in addition to participating in religious services, vocational, and educational programs. Public visiting is available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays each week.

Sentenced inmates may have the opportunity to work in the facility kitchen or labor crews, earning "work-time" credits to reduce their sentences. Eligible inmates may also qualify for the Community Work Program or Electronic Monitoring Program, providing alternatives to traditional incarceration.

The Central Men’s Jail is home to “CJ1,” a dedicated courtroom for arraignments located inside the facility for enhanced efficiency. This initiative represents a productive partnership between the Sheriff’s Department, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Office of the Public Defender, streamlining the arraignment process and ensuring timely judicial proceedings.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

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.

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in California. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ).

The second section features the InmateAid Inmate Search tool, providing a user-generated database of inmates. You can access this resource to utilize any of InmateAid's services. If you require assistance in creating an inmate profile to maintain communication, please contact us at aid@inmateaid.com, and we'll gladly help you locate your loved one.

As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason, they charge to access it.

Visitation Information

Central Men's and Women's Jails - Central Jail Scheduling Number: 714-647-4543

Visiting Hours: Friday - Monday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

NOTE: Certain hours are restricted based on the housing location of the inmate.

VISITING PROCEDURES

  • Visiting will be BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. No walk-ups will be accepted.
  • Visiting is limited to four (4) visits for each inmate each week (Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday) and will be continually reassessed.
  • Newly booked inmates under mandatory 14-day quarantine and those housed in medical isolation or quarantine are not be eligible for visitation.
  • Visitors with a scheduled appointment will line up outside the lobby fifteen minutes prior to their appointment and maintain physical distance.
  • The IRC lobby will be limited capacity for those with ADA considerations
  • Parking: Visitors may park in the parking structure across from the Santa Ana Police Department.

SCHEDULING A VISIT

  • To schedule a visit, call the scheduling number listed above from 7 AM to 4 PM, Monday-Friday.
  • Appointments must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
  • When calling to schedule, please have the booking number of the inmate you wish to visit. Booking numbers can be searched through the online database link: Inmate Information.
  • Visitors should be prepared to provide a contact phone number in case of housing changes or other incidents occur that may affect the visit.
  • Two adults and two minors will be permitted to visit any one inmate.
  • Face coverings are required and screening procedures are in place. Face coverings will not be provided. Non-compliance will result in denial of a visit.

VISITING RULES

  • Visitors are required to show valid photo identification before a visit. Only government-issued IDs are accepted (State Driver’s License or Identification Card, Passport, Consular Card, etc.)
  • We strongly urge inmates to coordinate their visits with their loved ones to avoid a situation where the inmate's visit is utilized by a visitor they did not wish to see.
  • Each visit will last a minimum of 30 minutes.
  • Two adults and two minors will be permitted to visit any one inmate.
  • Children must be under adult supervision at all times.
  • Upon prior request of the Watch Commander, unaccompanied minor children may visit any relative in custody.
  • Visitors who have been released from jail within the preceding sixty (60) days are ineligible to visit. However, visits between blood relatives (i.e., mother, father, sister or brother) or spouses may be allowed even though the visitor was released from our custody within the last sixty (60) days, with the Watch Commander's approval.
  • Penal Code 4571 prohibits persons convicted of a felony and who have served time in California State Prisons from entering any jail premises without prior approval. Parolees and felons can request a visit by completing the Parolee/Felon Request to Visit form available in the jail lobby.
  • Visitors may only possess identification and keys while inside the facility for their visit.
  • Due to COVID restrictions and protocols, lockers will not be available for storage to prevent gathering and mass movement in the lobby. Visitors should not bring bulk items (e.g., purses, make-up bags, day planners, books, backpacks, baby diaper bags, etc.) to visit.
  • Visitors with babies or toddlers may possess necessary items such as diapers, wipes, clothing or garment(s) for breast feeding, formula, and bottles, separate from the diaper bag. However, each item will be subject to search.
  • Nursing mothers shall be discreet and covered when breastfeeding their child in the visiting area. Failure to do so may result in termination of visiting for that day.
  • No food, drinks, candy, gum, cigarettes, matches, lighters, pepper spray.
  • Weapons or anything deemed inappropriate are not allowed in this facility.
  • Cell phones, laptops, cameras, and other electronic devices are prohibited and not allowed on the facility.
  • All documents requiring an inmate's signature require the permission of the visiting staff.
  • Clothing that is derogatory, offensive, revealing, or deemed inappropriate by the visiting staff will not be allowed.
  • Visitors under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be allowed and are subject to arrest.
  • Visitors shall proceed to their assigned seat and remain there until the inmate arrives.

Visitors who are disruptive or interfere with the normal operations of the facility are subject to removal from the facility and/or arrest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ) - 25 FAQs

  1. How can I find out if someone is in jail at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    To determine if someone is currently incarcerated at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ), start by checking the facility’s online inmate search database, which is typically updated with recent booking information. If your search does not yield results, try using VINELink, a nationwide inmate locator that provides custody status for individuals in participating correctional facilities. If online searches are unsuccessful, calling Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ) directly and providing the individual’s full name and date of birth is another reliable way to confirm their custody status. If all else fails, you can use the Arrest Record Finder for a small fee, which can provide broader search results across multiple jurisdictions. 

  2. What are the visitation hours at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    Visitation schedules vary by facility and housing unit. Some jails offer in-person visits on specific days, while others have transitioned to video visitation. Always check with the jail in advance, as visits may require scheduling and approval.

  3. How do I send money to an inmate at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    Inmates can receive funds through various methods, including online deposits via jail-approved services, kiosks at the facility, or by mailing a money order. Some jails require funds to be added by specific family members or approved contacts.

  4. Can I call an inmate at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they may initiate collect calls or use a prepaid account provided by the jail’s phone service provider. Calls are generally recorded and monitored, and inmates must adhere to time limits. Communication gets costly, you might qualify for discounts on inmate calls if your inmate is calling you a lot.

  5. What items can I send to an inmate at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Approved items typically include letters, legal documents, and photographs. Some jails also permit care packages from authorized third-party vendors. Items such as greeting cards with glitter, stickers, or Polaroid photos may be prohibited.

  6. Are books and magazines allowed at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from approved vendors such as Amazon or InmateAid. Hardcover books and explicit content are typically prohibited to maintain facility security. Some jails also have restrictions on the number of reading materials an inmate can possess at one time.

  7. What is the mailing address for inmates here?
    Each facility has a designated mailing address for inmate correspondence. It is important to include the inmate's full name, booking number (if applicable), and facility-approved format to ensure proper delivery. Mail containing contraband, including staples or stickers, may be rejected.

  8. What is the process for bonding someone out of Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    Bail or bond amounts can be paid at the facility’s designated payment location, online, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Some jails accept cash, cashier’s checks, or credit card payments, while others require payments to be made at a county clerk’s office.

  9. How do I deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Commissary funds allow inmates to purchase personal hygiene products, snacks, and other approved items. Deposits can be made online, at facility kiosks, or through phone services. Some facilities limit the amount that can be added per week.

  10. What clothing and personal items can an inmate have at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Inmates are generally issued standard jail clothing. Personal items are often restricted, and necessary hygiene products must be purchased through commissary unless the inmate is deemed indigent. Some jails allow inmates to have religious items, such as prayer beads or a Bible.

  11. How long do inmates stay at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ) before being transferred?
    The length of stay varies based on the nature of their charges, sentencing, and case status. Some inmates serve their full sentences in county jail, while others may be transferred to a state or federal facility after sentencing.

  12. Can an inmate at Orange Co-CMWJ receive visits from children?
    Most jails allow minors to visit inmates but require them to be accompanied by a legal guardian. Some facilities impose restrictions based on the nature of the inmate's charges or have specific visitation hours for families with children.

  13. How can I schedule a visit with an inmate at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Many jails require visitation to be scheduled in advance through an online portal or by phone. Some facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others enforce strict scheduling rules and background checks for visitors.

  14. What happens if an inmate gets sick or needs medical care at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Jails provide basic medical care, and inmates can request medical attention as needed. Emergency cases are treated immediately, while routine care is provided through medical staff. Some jails charge small medical co-pays deducted from an inmate’s commissary funds.

  15. Can inmates work while incarcerated here?
    Some inmates qualify for work programs within the facility, such as kitchen duty, janitorial work, or laundry services. In some counties, low-risk inmates may participate in work-release programs that allow them to work in the community and return to jail afterward.

  16. How can I find court dates and case information for an inmate at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Court dates and case details can usually be found through the county court website, public records, or by contacting the court clerk. Inmates are typically transported to court on scheduled hearing dates.

  17. What are the rules for inmate phone calls at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes. Calls must be made through facility-approved phone services, and any attempt to arrange three-way calls or circumvent restrictions may result in loss of phone privileges.

  18. Can an inmate be released early from Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Early release may be granted through good behavior, completion of rehabilitative programs, or at the discretion of the court. In some cases, inmates may qualify for electronic monitoring or house arrest programs.

  19. What types of rehabilitation programs are available at here?
    Many county jails offer educational programs, GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to help inmates reintegrate into society after release.

  20. What are the consequences of bringing contraband into the jail?
    Introducing contraband, such as drugs, weapons, or cell phones, is a criminal offense and can lead to legal charges, visitation bans, or enhanced security measures within the jail.

  21. Are there special accommodations for disabled inmates at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    Yes, jails are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and medical care.

  22. How do I report an issue or concern about an inmate at Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    Family members and advocates can report concerns to jail administration, a prisoner rights organization, or a legal representative. Some jails have grievance procedures inmates can follow if they experience mistreatment.

  23. Can an inmate at Orange Co-CMWJ receive religious services or counseling?
    Yes, most jails provide chaplain services, religious counseling, and access to faith-based programs. Some facilities have multi-denominational services or allow clergy members to visit inmates upon request.

  24. What are the disciplinary procedures at Orange Co-CMWJ?
    Inmates who violate jail rules may face disciplinary actions such as loss of privileges, placement in solitary confinement, or additional charges. Disciplinary hearings are typically conducted before penalties are imposed.

  25. How do I obtain an inmate’s release records from Orange County-Central Men's and Women's Jail (CMWJ)?
    Release records may be available through the facility’s records department, the sheriff’s office, or the county clerk. Requests may require an application and a processing fee.

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