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St. Joseph County IN Jail

County Jail

Last Updated: March 24, 2025
Address
401 W Sample St, South Bend, IN 46601
Beds
700
County
St. Joseph
Phone
574-245-6500
Fax
574-245-6574
Email
rdolmstead@sjcpd.org
View Official Website

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St Joseph Co Jail 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 Inmate Calling Solutions (ICSolutions), 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 CorrectPay | jailfunds.com 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

Looking for an inmate at this facility? Visitation Information, Times and Rules
Satellite View of St. Joseph County IN Jail

You can support your loved ones at St Joseph Co Jail on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 574-245-6500.

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 St Joseph Co Jail is a detention center located at 401 W Sample St South Bend, IN which is operated locally by the St. Joseph 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. St. Joseph County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, South Bend 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 Indiana here.

The St. Joseph County Jail serves as the central detention facility for individuals arrested by the eleven police departments within the county. Upon arrival, arrestees may either post bond or remain in custody to await charges and prosecution. In certain cases, inmates are sentenced to serve their time at the jail rather than being transferred to the Indiana Department of Corrections. This decision is at the discretion of the sentencing judge and is influenced by bed availability.

The facility is operated by a dedicated team of 102 Corrections Officers committed to ensuring the safety and fair treatment of inmates, visitors, and staff. These officers adhere to rigorous training standards set by the state of Indiana, maintaining professionalism in all interactions. The jail features a state-of-the-art security system with pneumatically controlled doors and locks, a computerized touch-screen security interface, and over 130 surveillance cameras recording around the clock. Additionally, the facility employs a video arraignment system widely utilized by county judges and magistrates, enhancing efficiency and security in judicial proceedings.

Individuals who do not post bail within the first twenty-four hours are required to appear before a judge. During this first appearance, conducted either in person or via telephone, the judge informs the arrested person of the charges against them and sets the bond amount.

Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.

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.

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 workers are selected for community service programs based on their demonstrated good conduct, cooperation with facility staff, and adherence to institutional rules. These criteria ensure that only individuals who exhibit responsibility, reliability, and a commitment to positive behavior are allowed to participate. Participation in these programs not only benefits the community through valuable labor contributions but also offers inmates the chance to develop a strong work ethic, learn transferable job skills, and build a sense of accountability.

In certain cases, involvement in community service programs can contribute to a reduction in an inmate's sentence. This incentive reinforces the importance of maintaining good behavior while incarcerated and highlights the program's dual role in supporting both the community and the inmate's journey toward reintegration.

Table of Contents for St Joseph Co Jail

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in Indiana. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at St. Joseph County IN Jail.

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

St. Joseph County Internet Visitation Policy

All nonprofessional internet visitations at the St. Joseph County Jail are closely monitored and recorded for the duration of the scheduled visit. To maintain a safe and secure environment, strict rules govern the conduct of both visitors and inmates during internet visitations. Any violation of these rules will result in the immediate termination of the visit without a refund, and the visitor will be permanently removed from the approved visitation list.

Log into InmateSales to schedule a visit.

Dress Code: The dress code for visitors to the St. Joseph County Jail emphasizes modesty and appropriateness to ensure a respectful environment. Visitors must avoid wearing V-neck, low-cut, tight-fitting, see-through, or clothing with holes. Hooded garments, yoga pants, leggings, spandex, bare midriffs, and excessively short skirts or shorts are prohibited. Clothing must have sleeves, and coats, wraps, or sweaters (other than pullovers) are not allowed. Hats are not permitted, and females are required to wear bras, including sports bras, fully covered by clothing. Adhering to these guidelines is essential for maintaining visitation privileges.

Prohibited Conduct:

  1. Unlawful Activity: Any action or communication perceived as intending to commit an illegal act is strictly forbidden.
  2. Gang-Related Conduct: The display of gang-related images, symbols, or gestures is not permitted.
  3. Drug-Related Activity: The use or display of drugs during a visit is strictly prohibited.
  4. Recording or Third-Party Communication: Visitors are not allowed to record audio or video of the visit or engage in third-party communication, including sharing content on social media.
  5. Pornography or Nudity: The display of pornographic content, nudity, or sexual acts will result in the termination of the visit.
  6. Dress Code Violations: Visitors must adhere to the facility’s dress code, which prohibits the removal of clothing to expose undergarments, breasts, buttocks, or genitalia.
  7. Use of Devices: The use or display of cellular devices, telephones, or other unauthorized electronics is prohibited.
  8. Threats or Harassment: Any threats or harassment directed at inmates, visitors, or staff will not be tolerated.
  9. Child Supervision: All children present during a visit must remain under the supervision of a parent or guardian who has confirmed the visit.
  10. Multiple Inmates: Visits involving multiple inmates on a single terminal are not allowed and will result in a loss of visitation privileges.
  11. Scheduled Inmate Only: Visitors must conduct the visit only with the inmate listed on the scheduled visitation. Any attempt to visit with an inmate, not on the schedule will result in permanent removal of visitation privileges.
  12. Visitor Presence Requirement: The individual who schedules the visit must be present during the entire session.

Consequences for Violations:

  • Immediate termination of the visitation session without a refund.
  • Permanent removal of the visitor from the approved visitation list.

These rules are in place to ensure the safety, security, and professionalism of the visitation process. Visitors and inmates are expected to uphold the guidelines at all times. Failure to comply will result in the loss of visitation privileges and may lead to further penalties.

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Frequently Asked Questions

St. Joseph County IN Jail - 25 FAQs

  1. How can I find out if someone is in jail at St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    To determine if someone is currently incarcerated at St. Joseph County IN Jail, 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 St. Joseph County IN Jail 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 St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    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 St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St. Joseph County IN Jail 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 St Joseph Co Jail 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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    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 St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    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 St Joseph Co Jail 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 St Joseph Co Jail?
    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 St. Joseph County IN Jail?
    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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