Merced County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Merced County?

Inmate records in Merced County are official government documents maintained by the Merced County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records are created and maintained pursuant to California Penal Code § 4024, which establishes requirements for the documentation of persons in custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While the Superior Court of California, County of Merced maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and court appearances, the Merced County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records that document an individual's physical presence within correctional facilities. These parallel but separate record-keeping systems serve different governmental functions.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual first enters custody. During this process, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, record medical information, and note the charges for which the person is being held. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical treatments, court appearances, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with release date information and conditions, though the record remains permanently on file with the Sheriff's Office.

Are Inmate Records Public In Merced County?

Inmate records in Merced County are partially public under California law. The California Public Records Act (CPRA), specifically Government Code § 6250-6270, establishes the public's right to access government records, including certain information about individuals in custody. However, this access is balanced against privacy concerns and security considerations.

Under current law, the following inmate information is generally available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (listing of individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information (name, date of birth, gender)
• Booking photographs (mugshots)
• Charges filed
• Bail or bond amounts
• Scheduled court dates
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

Certain information within inmate records is explicitly exempt from public disclosure under Government Code § 6254, including:

• Medical and mental health information
• Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
• Information that would endanger the safety of a person involved in an investigation
• Records related to juvenile offenders
• Information that would compromise institutional security

Members of the public seeking inmate information may access the Merced County Inmate Inquiry System or contact the Sheriff's Office directly for information that is publicly available under state law.

What's Included Inmate Records in Merced County

Inmate records in Merced County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
• Disciplinary records during incarceration
• Visitor logs

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges (both pending and adjudicated)
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Jurisdiction of charges

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount (if eligible)
• Bond type
• Bond status (posted or not)
• Conditions of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court outcomes and dispositions
• Sentencing information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Length of sentence
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Parole or probation eligibility dates
• Good time/work time credits earned

Release Information:

• Actual release date and time
• Type of release (completion of sentence, bail/bond, transfer to another facility)
• Release conditions (probation, parole)
• Destination upon release (if transferred)

This information is maintained in secure databases by the Merced County Sheriff's Office in accordance with state record-keeping requirements and law enforcement best practices.

Merced County Prison System

The Merced County correctional system operates under the authority of the Merced County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who are awaiting trial or serving sentences of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in California.

The county jail system, operated by the Sheriff's Office, primarily houses:

• Individuals awaiting trial who have not been released on bail
• Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
• Individuals serving certain felony sentences under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109)
• Persons temporarily held for other agencies

In contrast, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) operates the state prison system, which houses individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms longer than one year. Merced County does not operate state prisons within its boundaries.

The Merced County Sheriff's Office oversees all county correctional facilities and can be contacted at:

Merced County Sheriff's Office
700 W. 22nd Street
Merced, CA 95340
(209) 385-7445
Merced County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Merced County

Merced County operates two primary correctional facilities to house individuals in custody:

Merced County Main Jail
700 W. 22nd Street
Merced, CA 95340
(209) 385-7419
Jail Information

The Main Jail is a secure detention facility located in downtown Merced. This facility primarily houses individuals who:

• Are awaiting arraignment
• Have been classified as maximum security
• Have special housing needs
• Are awaiting transfer to other facilities

John Latorraca Correctional Center
2584 W. Sandy Mush Road
Merced, CA 95341
(209) 385-7550
Jail Information

The John Latorraca Correctional Center is a medium-security facility that primarily houses:

• Sentenced inmates serving terms in county custody
• Pre-trial detainees classified as minimum or medium security
• Work program participants
• Individuals participating in rehabilitative programs

In addition to these physical facilities, Merced County also operates alternative custody programs under the Sheriff's authority, including:

Electronic Monitoring Program
700 W. 22nd Street
Merced, CA 95340
(209) 385-7419

This program allows certain low-risk offenders to serve their sentences while remaining in the community under electronic supervision.

Work Release Program
700 W. 22nd Street
Merced, CA 95340
(209) 385-7419

This program permits eligible inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences, reporting to custody during non-working hours.

Who's in Prison In Merced County

The Merced County jail system houses several categories of individuals under the authority of the Sheriff's Office. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
• Persons who have not posted bail or were denied bail
• Those deemed to present a flight risk or danger to the community

Sentenced Offenders:

• Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
• Persons serving certain felony sentences under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109), which allows some non-violent, non-serious, non-sexual offenders to serve their sentences in county facilities rather than state prisons

Special Population Inmates:

• Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
• Persons with medical conditions requiring enhanced care
• Protective custody inmates who cannot safely be housed with the general population

Short-term Holds:

• Individuals being temporarily held for other jurisdictions
• Persons awaiting transfer to state prison or other facilities
• Parole or probation violators awaiting hearings

According to data from the Merced County Sheriff's Office, the daily average population in Merced County correctional facilities fluctuates between 500-700 inmates. Demographic information, including age, gender, race/ethnicity, and offense categories, is maintained by the Sheriff's Office and may be available through public records requests pursuant to the California Public Records Act.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Merced County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently in custody in Merced County may utilize several methods to access publicly available inmate records. The following procedures are currently in effect:

Online Inmate Search:

1. Visit the Merced County Inmate Inquiry System
2. Enter the required search criteria (at least one field must be completed):
   • Last name (required)
   • First name (optional, but recommended for more precise results)
   • Date of birth (optional, but helpful for common names)
3. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Inmate name
   • Booking number
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Housing location
   • Expected release date (if available)

In-Person Records Request:

1. Visit the Merced County Sheriff's Office Records Division during public counter hours:

   Merced County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   700 W. 22nd Street
   Merced, CA 95340
   (209) 385-7445
   Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

2. Complete a Public Records Request form

3. Provide identifying information about the inmate (full name and date of birth if known)

4. Present valid government-issued photo identification

5. Pay any applicable fees for copies of records

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Contact the Merced County Sheriff's Office Jail Division at (209) 385-7419
2. Provide the full name and date of birth (if known) of the individual
3. Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate and reason for inquiry
4. Note that limited information may be provided by telephone in accordance with privacy laws

When searching for inmate records, it is important to note that certain information may be restricted due to privacy laws, ongoing investigations, or security concerns. All requests are processed in accordance with the California Public Records Act and applicable state and federal laws governing the release of criminal justice information.

How To Find an Inmate in Merced County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Merced County custody can be accomplished through several no-cost methods available to the public. The following resources provide free access to basic inmate information:

Merced County Online Inmate Locator:

1. Access the Merced County Inmate Inquiry System
2. Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (recommended)
3. Review the results, which include current custody status, charges, and facility location
4. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at no charge

Telephone Information Line:

1. Call the Merced County Sheriff's Office Jail Information line at (209) 385-7419
2. Request information about a specific inmate by providing their full name
3. Receive basic information about custody status and facility location
4. This service is available during regular business hours at no charge

Visiting the Sheriff's Office:

1. Go to the public counter at the Merced County Sheriff's Office:

   Merced County Sheriff's Office
   700 W. 22nd Street
   Merced, CA 95340
   Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

2. Request inmate location information from the reception staff

3. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about

4. This service is available at no charge during regular business hours

Court Records Search:

1. Visit the Superior Court of California, County of Merced online records system
2. Search for the individual's court case, which may contain information about custody status
3. Note that while court records may indicate if someone is in custody, they do not provide detailed facility information
4. This service is available at no charge

When using these free resources, members of the public should be aware that the information provided is limited to what is legally available under public records laws. More detailed information may require formal records requests and associated fees. Additionally, information about recently arrested individuals may not be immediately available in online systems until the booking process is complete.

How To Visit an Inmate In Merced County

Visitation with inmates housed in Merced County correctional facilities is governed by specific rules and procedures established by the Merced County Sheriff's Office. Individuals wishing to visit an inmate must adhere to the following guidelines:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be 18 years of age or older with valid government-issued photo identification
• Minors (under 18) must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proper documentation
• Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance for most visits
• Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
• A maximum of two visitors are allowed per visiting session
• All visitors are subject to search prior to entering the facility
• Visitors with outstanding warrants or on active probation/parole may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

• Main Jail: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• John Latorraca Correctional Center: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Special housing units may have restricted visiting hours
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) are conducted during separate hours

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Visitor registration confirmation
• Vehicle keys (all other personal items must be secured in lockers)
• Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, medical devices)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Drugs or alcohol
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, recording devices)
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $50
• Letters, messages, or any items for inmates

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire is required
• No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
• No see-through clothing
• Shoes must be worn at all times
• No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)

Visit Types:

• Contact visits: Available only for certain classification levels and special circumstances
• Non-contact visits: Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
• Video visitation: Available at both facilities for pre-scheduled visits

Visit Restrictions:

• Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
• Violation of rules may result in suspension of visiting privileges
• The number of visitors may be limited due to space constraints
• Visits may be canceled due to facility lockdowns or emergencies

Visitation policies are established pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1062, which governs visiting in local detention facilities. For the most current information on visitation procedures, the public is encouraged to consult the Merced County Jail Information page or contact the facility directly.

How To Send Money to a Merced County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Merced County correctional facilities have several options for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used by inmates to purchase items from the commissary, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.

Methods for Sending Money:

1. Online Deposits:

   • Visit Access Corrections
   • Create an account or log in
   • Select "Merced County" as the facility
   • Enter the inmate's name and ID number
   • Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
   • Service fees apply (typically $2.95-$9.95 depending on deposit amount)

2. Kiosk Deposits:

   • Visit either the Main Jail or John Latorraca Correctional Center during lobby hours
   • Use the self-service kiosk located in the lobby
   • Follow on-screen instructions
   • Cash, credit, or debit cards accepted
   • Receipt provided upon completion
   • Service fees apply (typically $2.00-$8.00 depending on deposit amount)

3. Money Order by Mail:

   • Purchase a money order from a post office or financial institution

   • Make payable to "Merced County Inmate Trust Fund"

   • Write inmate's full name and booking number on money order

   • Do not send cash, personal checks, or letters with the money order

   • Mail to:

     Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Merced County Sheriff's Office Inmate Accounts 700 W. 22nd Street Merced, CA 95340

   • No service fee for this method

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00 per inmate
• Maximum account balance: $1,500.00

Fees:

• Online deposits: $2.95-$9.95 depending on amount
• Kiosk deposits: $2.00-$8.00 depending on amount
• Money orders: No fee

What You Cannot Send:

• Cash through the mail
• Personal checks
• Cashier's checks
• Third-party checks
• Foreign currency
• Cryptocurrency

Permitted Uses of Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Electronic messaging where available
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Release funds

Prohibited Uses of Funds:

• Payment for services not approved by the Sheriff's Office
• Transfers to other inmates
• Payment of fines or restitution (must be handled separately through the courts)
• Purchase of contraband items

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review by the Merced County Sheriff's Office. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and could result in administrative or criminal penalties. Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned to the inmate via debit card or check.

How To Send Jail Mail In Merced County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Merced County correctional facilities is permitted but subject to specific regulations to maintain facility security and safety. The following guidelines apply to all mail sent to inmates in Merced County custody:

Addressing Mail Properly:

• All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service

• Address envelopes as follows:

  Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Merced County Sheriff's Office 700 W. 22nd Street Merced, CA 95340

• Include your complete return address on the envelope

• Mail without proper addressing may be returned to sender

Permitted Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages, single-sided)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, electronic, or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6", no Polaroids)
• Money orders (must be separate from letters, see money sending instructions)
• Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
• Religious materials (subject to review)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages of any kind
• Cash, personal checks, or cashier's checks
• Stamps, envelopes, or stationery
• Stickers, labels, tape, or glue
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Lipstick marks or other cosmetics
• Cards larger than 5"x7"
• Polaroid photographs
• Nude or sexually explicit photographs
• Gang-related materials or symbols
• Hardcover books (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Food items or candy
• Clothing or personal items
• Contraband of any kind

Mail Inspection Procedures:

• All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
• Mail may be read by staff to ensure it does not contain plans for illegal activities
• Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
• Mail containing prohibited items will be rejected and returned to sender
• Mail suspected of containing contraband may be held as evidence

Electronic Messaging (where available):

• Available through Access Corrections
• Create an account and select Merced County as the facility
• Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
• Fees apply for electronic messages
• Messages are typically delivered more quickly than physical mail

Publications and Books:

• Must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
• Paperback books only (no hardcover)
• Subject to review for appropriate content
• Maximum of 3 books per mailing
• Excessive accumulation of reading materials may result in limitations

All mail procedures are established pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15, § 1063, which governs correspondence in local detention facilities. The Merced County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to reject any mail that poses a threat to security, contains contraband, or violates facility rules.

Lookup Inmate Records in Merced County

Merced County Inmate Inquiry System

Jail Information Portal

Merced County Sheriff's Office

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

Superior Court of California, County of Merced Online Records