Porter County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Porter County Jail, located in Valparaiso, Indiana, is a detention facility responsible for enforcing the law and maintaining public safety. It houses adults who have been arrested and are awaiting trial, sentencing, or both. These individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The facility offers comprehensive services, including inmate processing, housing, and healthcare.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

Inmate search in Porter County Jail and understanding the prison roster can be simplified into a series of steps. Information available on the roster includes Booking Number, Last Name, First Name, Date of Birth, Release Date, and Criminal Charges.

Steps to Perform an Inmate Search

Visit the Porter County Sheriff's Office Website: Navigate to the official Porter County Sheriff's Office website using this link.
Access the Inmate Search Tool: On the website, locate and click on the "Inmate Search" option from the menu.
Enter the Inmate Details: In the search bar provided, type in the Booking Number, Last Name, First Name, or Date of Birth of the individual you're searching for. Partial information can also yield results.
Initiate the Search: Click on the 'Search' button to start the process.
Browse through the Results: You'll be presented with a list of inmates matching your search criteria. Click on the relevant name to view detailed information.

Understanding the Prison Roster

The prison roster at the Porter County Jail provides a comprehensive list of all inmates currently housed in the facility. It includes essential information such as:

Booking Number: The unique identifier given to each inmate at the time of their booking.
Last Name and First Name: The legal names of the inmate.
Date of Birth: The inmate's birth date.
Release Date: The expected date of the inmate's release from the detention center.
Criminal Charges: Specific criminal charges for which the inmate has been detained.

Tips for a Successful Inmate Search

Correct Information: Always make sure the details you're entering are correct. Even a small error can yield no results or incorrect ones.
Use All Available Information: The more information you can provide, the more accurate your search results will be.
Contact the Facility: If you're unable to locate an inmate using the online tool, don't hesitate to contact the detention facility directly for assistance. The Porter County Jail can be reached at (219) 477-3050.
Check Regularly: If the inmate you're looking for has just been booked, their information might not be immediately available online. Regularly check the roster for updated information.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Visiting a detainee in the Porter County Jail is governed by certain rules and guidelines, including a set procedure for arranging visits and specific visitation hours.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

Schedule a Visit: Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance, but not more than one week ahead. You can do this by accessing the scheduling tool on the Porter County Sheriff's Office website here.
Identification: All visitors must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport.
Minors: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

Dress Code: All visitors must adhere to a dress code. Revealing or inappropriate clothing is not permitted.
Behavior: Visitors are expected to behave in a respectful and orderly manner. Disruptive behavior may result in the termination of the visit.
Search: Visitors may be subject to search upon entering the detention facility.
Contraband: Bringing contraband into the jail is strictly prohibited and could result in criminal charges.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours vary and are subject to change. It's best to verify the current visiting schedule by contacting the detention center directly at (219) 477-3050 or by checking the latest updates on the Porter County Sheriff's Office website.

Inmate Communications

Communication with inmates in the Porter County Jail is facilitated mainly through a regulated call system.

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Collect Calls: Inmates can make outgoing calls using a system that allows for collect calls. These calls are subject to monitoring and recording.
Prepaid Account: Alternatively, friends and family can set up a prepaid account with the phone service provider associated with the jail. The funds in this account can be used by the inmate to make calls.
Call Limitations: Calls have a time limit, and the inmate is restricted to a certain number of calls per day.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The Porter County Jail's main phone number is (219) 477-3050. This number can be used to reach the administrative staff for information or concerns about an inmate. It should not be used to attempt to communicate directly with an inmate. For direct communication, the established call system should be used, respecting the regulations mentioned above.

Remember, any violation of the communication guidelines can result in the suspension of calling privileges for the inmate. Always ensure to follow all rules to maintain open lines of communication.

Inmate Mail

Maintaining communication with loved ones can be critical to an inmate's morale and mental health. One of the ways to communicate is through mail. Here's how to go about it and the guidelines to follow.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

Prepare the Letter or Package: Write your letter or prepare your package for the inmate. Remember to follow the guidelines for sending mail to inmates (see below).
Address the Mail: The mail should be addressed using the inmate's full name and booking number, followed by the jail's address: Porter County Jail, 2755 State Rd 49, Valparaiso, IN 46383.
Post the Mail: Send the letter or package through the postal service. Be aware that all mail is inspected before it is given to the inmate.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

Content: All mail is inspected for contraband and inappropriate content. Any mail containing such will be rejected.
Prohibited Items: Do not send items such as polaroid photos, stamps, envelopes, and staples. These items are not allowed in the facility.
Books and Magazines: Books, magazines, or newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or retailer like Amazon. They should be new and must be soft-cover editions.
Return Address: Always include your return address on the envelope.

Sending Money to Inmates

Inmates at the detention center may need funds to purchase items from the commissary. Here are the approved methods for sending money and their regulations.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

Online Deposit: Money can be deposited online via the jail's approved money transfer agent. You will need the inmate's full name and booking number.
Money Order: Money orders can be mailed directly to the jail. They must be filled out with the inmate's full name and booking number.
In-Person Deposit: Some facilities allow in-person deposits. Contact the Porter County Jail for more information.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

Limits: There might be a limit on the amount of money that can be deposited in an inmate's account in a given time frame. Check with the jail for specific information.
Refund Policy: Money sent to an inmate is not refundable. If the inmate is transferred or released, the money will follow them to their next location or be available for disbursement upon release.
Fees: Depending on the method chosen, there may be fees associated with sending money.
No Cash: Do not send cash through the mail. It will not be accepted and will likely be destroyed.

Remember to adhere to these rules and regulations when sending mail or money to ensure your communications and funds reach the inmate without any issues.

Inmate Commissary

The inmate commissary is a store within the correction facility where inmates can purchase products using money from their accounts. The items available can vary but often include snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and approved over-the-counter medications.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can use the commissary by ordering items from a list provided by the jail. The cost of these items is deducted from the inmate's account. The ordered items are then delivered to the inmate at a scheduled time.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

Spending Limit: The jail may set a limit on how much an inmate can spend at the commissary within a certain period.
Item Limit: There may also be a limit on the quantity of a particular item that an inmate can purchase.
Account Balance: Inmates can only make purchases if they have sufficient funds in their account.
Behavioral Restrictions: Inmates with behavioral issues or those in disciplinary segregation may have their commissary privileges limited or revoked.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots provide important information about an inmate's criminal history and their time within the correctional system.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records can typically be obtained by submitting a formal request to the relevant department handling these records, often the County Clerk's Office or the Sheriff's Office. You may be required to provide certain information about the inmate (like name, date of birth, etc.) and pay a fee for the records.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

Mugshots are photographs taken of individuals when they are booked into the jail system. They typically include two angles - a front view and a side view. These images are part of an inmate's jail record and are used for identification purposes.

The availability of mugshots can vary based on jurisdiction. Some law enforcement agencies make mugshots readily available to the public, while others may not due to privacy concerns. In Porter County, you can usually find mugshots included as part of the public roster on the Porter County Sheriff's Office website. However, for a detailed and official record, you might need to follow the same process as obtaining incarceration records.

Security Level

The Porter County Jail maintains a high security level due to its role in housing a range of offenders, from those charged with minor offenses to those accused of serious crimes.

The jail implements various security measures, including constant surveillance, controlled access systems, and regular inmate checks. All areas within the detention center are monitored by CCTV. Additionally, the physical layout is designed to maintain control and limit inmate movement.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The detention facility houses pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings, sentenced offenders serving short-term sentences, and inmates awaiting transfer to other correctional institutions.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining security within the facility. They are responsible for supervising inmates, preventing disturbances, and ensuring the enforcement of rules and regulations. They also conduct regular inmate counts, manage inmate movement within the facility, and respond to emergencies.

Please note, for the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources or directly contact the Porter County Jail at (219) 477-3050.

Location and Contact Details

The Porter County Jail can be reached using the following official contact details:

Mailing Address: Porter County Jail, 2755 State Rd 49, Valparaiso, IN 46383
Phone Number: (219) 477-3050
Official Website: Porter County Sheriff's Office
Email: While there is no public email address for the detention center, queries may be made using the contact form available on the Porter County Sheriff's Office website Contact Page.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I find out if someone is in jail?

You can usually find out if someone is in jail by using an online inmate locator service provided by the county or state correctional department. These databases allow you to search for an inmate by their name, date of birth, or inmate number. For federal inmates in the U.S, you can use the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator.

2. What information do I need to search for an inmate?

Typically, you will need the inmate's full name, date of birth, and possibly their inmate identification number if you have it. Some databases may also allow you to search using other identifiers, such as race, gender, or booking date.

3. What information will the inmate search show?

An inmate search will usually provide information such as the inmate's name, identification number, date of birth, race, gender, custody status, location of the inmate, and the charges against them. Some databases may also provide a mugshot, sentence details, or projected release date.

4. How often is the inmate database updated?

The frequency of updates can vary, but many correctional facilities update their inmate databases daily. However, there may be a delay in the posting of recent arrests or transfers.

5. How can I find an inmate's arrest history?

Arrest histories can often be found through state or county court records databases. In some cases, you may be able to request this information from local law enforcement or the correctional facility where the inmate is held.

6. How can I find out about recent jail bookings?

Recent jail bookings are typically published on the local county jail or state prison's website. You can also check with local law enforcement agencies. Keep in mind that there might be a delay in the posting of booking information.

7. What information will I receive from the jail bookings search?

A jail booking search typically provides information such as the inmate's name, booking date, charges, bail amount, court date, and booking photo.

8. What happens during the booking process?

During the booking process, the arrested individual's personal information is recorded. This includes their name, date of birth, and physical characteristics. Their fingerprints and photograph (mugshot) are taken, personal belongings are cataloged and stored, and they are searched for contraband. A medical screening may also be performed.

9. Why can't I find a recently arrested person in the booking records?

There could be a few reasons for this. There might be a delay in updating the booking records. Also, the person might have been released on bail or their own recognizance, or the charges against them may have been dropped.

10. How can I set up a call with an inmate?

Inmates cannot receive incoming calls, but they can make outgoing calls. To receive a call, the inmate must add your phone number to their approved call list. They can then call you using the inmate calling system at the facility. You will likely need to create an account with the calling service and add funds to it.

11. Are there specific hours when I can call an inmate?

Inmates can only make calls during designated times, which vary by facility. Usually, calling hours are during the day and early evening. It's best to check with the specific correctional facility for their calling schedule.

12. Can an inmate call me directly?

Yes, inmates can call you directly, but they typically cannot receive incoming calls. They must callyou collect or through a prepaid phone account that you set up with the facility's phone service provider.

13. Why was my call with an inmate terminated?

Calls can be terminated for a number of reasons, including violation of the facility's phone use policy, if the call exceeds the maximum time limit set by the facility, or if the phone service's prepaid account balance runs out.

14. What is the correct procedure for sending mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, you typically need to include the inmate's full name and identification number, as well as the correct address of the correctional facility. All mail is usually inspected for contraband before it's delivered to the inmate. Certain items may not be sent through mail; check with the specific facility for their policies.

15. What items are allowed in inmate mail?

Generally, you are allowed to send letters, photos, and legal documents. Some facilities may allow books or magazines to be sent directly from the publisher. Prohibited items typically include cash, personal checks, stamps, and items that can potentially be used as weapons. Again, the rules vary by facility, so it's always best to check the specific guidelines.

16. Why was my mail to an inmate returned?

Mail could be returned if it contains prohibited items, if it was not correctly addressed, or if the inmate has been transferred to a different facility or released.

17. How can I arrange a visit with an inmate?

To arrange a visit, you typically need to be on the inmate's approved visitor list. The inmate usually needs to request to add you to their list. Once approved, you can schedule a visit according to the facility's visitation policy. Some facilities may require visitors to schedule visits in advance.

18. What are the visitation rules I should be aware of?

Visitation rules vary by facility, but generally, visitors are required to provide a valid ID, dress appropriately, and not bring contraband into the facility. Some facilities may limit the number of visitors an inmate can have at one time or the total amount of time they can visit.

19. Are there specific visitation hours?

Yes, correctional facilities typically have specific visitation hours, which can vary depending on the facility and the inmate's security level. It's best to check with the specific facility for their visitation schedule.

20. Why was my visitation denied?

Visitation can be denied for several reasons, including if the visitor is not on the approved list, if they arrive late, if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if the inmate is on lockdown or has lost visitation privileges.

21. How can I send money to an inmate?

Most facilities allow money to be sent to inmates through a money order, cashier's check, or through an approved online money transfer service. It's important to use the correct inmate identification number and to follow the facility's specific procedures.

22. Are there any restrictions on how much money I can send?

Yes, there are usually restrictions on the amount of money that can be sent to an inmate, and these can vary by facility. Some may limit the total amount an inmate can receive in a certain period, while others may limit the amount of each individual transaction.

23. How can an inmate use the money sent to them?

Inmates can use the money in their account to purchase items from the commissary, such as food, toiletries, and stationery. They can also use it to pay for phone calls or other approved services.

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