San Diego County Jail Overview

San Diego County Jail Overview

Did you know that the San Diego County Jail houses more than 5,000 inmates at any given time? With such a large population, it's essential to understand the current state of affairs within this complex system. This jail overview will provide you with valuable information about the San Diego County Jail, such as locating an inmate, visiting procedures, sending money, bail and bond details, communication options, tablet rentals, and much more. 

By gaining a better understanding of the jail's inner workings, you'll be better prepared to navigate this intricate system. Whether you're a family member, a friend, or just someone interested in learning about the criminal justice system in San Diego, let's dive in and explore the essential aspects of the San Diego County Jail.

Locating an Inmate

Finding an inmate in the San Diego County Jail is easy and there are a few simple ways to locate someone.

The first way to find an inmate is by using the online inmate locator tool. This tool is available here at Jail Exchange or on the San Diego jail website. 

Type in the inmate's name and click search. The tool will then show you the inmate's information. This includes their booking number, charges, and location.

Another way to find an inmate is by calling the jail. The San Diego jail staff can help you find the inmate you are looking for. 

To call the jail, you will need the inmate's full name and date of birth. This information will help the jail staff find the inmate quickly.

Visiting an Inmate

Maintaining connections with an inmate at the San Diego County Jail is crucial for emotional support. Follow these guidelines to ensure a successful visit.

You can schedule a social in-person visit online through the San Diego Sheriff's eVisit System, accessible via the Who's in Jail website. The hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Alternatively, you can schedule a visit by phone from Wednesday through Sunday, between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm, by calling the specific facility. The George Bailey Detention Facility reservation line operates from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Keep these important reminders in mind when planning your visit:

  • Visits are possible five days a week, Thursday to Monday
  • Each visit can include up to three visitors, counting children
  • Visits are on a first-come, first-served basis and might change without warning
  • Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled visit, or 60 minutes if going to the George Bailey Detention Facility
  • You must book visits at least 24 hours in advance; same-day scheduling is not allowed
  • If an inmate is housed in a COVID-19 Positive Module or Suspected COVID-19 (SPUI) Module, visits are not permitted
  • Visitors under 18 years old must be with a qualified adult who has valid photo ID and clearance for visits
  • A qualified adult can be a parent, court-appointed guardian, or another adult with legal custody

Video Visitation

Home user video visitation is available seven days a week for most housing units. Schedule video visit reservations by calling the respective facility between 6:30 am and 6:00 pm. 

Create an account on Securus - Friends and Family before scheduling a video visit. Video visits are 30 minutes long.

Sending Money to an Inmate

Supporting an inmate in the San Diego County Jail financially can help them purchase essential items and access services. Here's how you can send money to an inmate.

In-Person Deposits

You can deposit money in person by visiting the San Diego County Jail. Use the kiosk located in the facility's lobby to add funds to an inmate's account. You can make deposits using cash or a cashier's check. Be aware of any fees related to this process.

Online Deposits

For your convenience, you can also deposit money into an inmate's account online. Visit the San Diego County Sheriff's website and follow the instructions for making an online deposit. You will need the inmate's booking number and will need to use a credit or debit card to complete the transaction.

Bail and Bond Information

Understanding the bail and bond process at the San Diego County Jail is essential if you wish to help an inmate secure their release. Here's some important information to guide you through the process.

Bail Amounts and Procedures

Bail amounts are set according to the San Diego County Bail Schedule or by a judge. To find out the bail amount for an inmate, you can check the Sheriff's Department website or contact the jail directly. Bail can be posted at the jail or at any San Diego County court.

Cash Bail

Cash bail can be paid in full to the jail using cash or a cashier's check. If the inmate attends all court appearances and fulfills their obligations, the bail money will be returned, minus any administrative fees, at the conclusion of the case.

Bail Bonds

If you cannot afford the full bail amount, you can use the services of a bail bondsman. Bail bondsmen typically charge a fee, usually a percentage of the bail amount, to post a bond for the inmate's release. Once the bond’s posted, the inmate will be released, but they must attend all court dates and follow any conditions set by the court.

Inmate Communication Options

Maintaining communication with an inmate in the San Diego County Jail is crucial. It helps them stay connected to their family and friends. There are several ways to communicate with an inmate using the available services at the jail.

Inmate Telephone System

Inmates at the San Diego County Jail can make outgoing phone calls using a designated telephone system. These calls may be recorded and monitored for security reasons. All calls from San Diego County jails are free, including local, long distance, and international calls.

Sending Mail to an Inmate

You can send mail to an inmate to stay connected and share news. To send mail, you'll need to address the envelope with the inmate's name, booking number, and the jail's mailing address. Make sure to follow the rules regarding what you can send through the mail, as certain items may be prohibited.

Electronic Messaging Services

The San Diego County Jail offers an electronic messaging service to allow inmates to send and receive messages. Here are some informpation points to know before using this service:

  • Emails to inmates are not private; jail staff will review every message
  • Don't use this system for confidential or legally privileged communications
  • Send a maximum of two messages per day instead of postcards
  • Each message should be one page without pictures or attachments
  • Inmates won't receive messages electronically; they'll get printed copies
  • Inmates can't reply via email; they'll use traditional mail for responses
  • Enter your preferred address for the inmate's written return correspondence
  • Don't use the email system for advertising or soliciting business
  • Undelivered emails won't be forwarded if the inmate is no longer in custody

Inmate Tablet Rentals

Although inmates at San Diego Central Jail cannot access the internet directly, they may currently or soon be able to rent tablets inside the facility. They can use the tablets to read, play games, or watch videos.

Inmates can make private calls from their tablets at the same rates as the unit phones. These calls are still recorded and monitored. They can also communicate through text-based messages or pictures using a fee-based system.

These are some of the other services and information available through tablet rental:

  • Job Search: With JobView, a secure job search app, inmates can find available jobs upon their release
  • Education: Inmates have access to a free educational platform with thousands of resources
  • Self-Help: Mental health and addiction recovery programs are available daily
  • Music: Various music genres, including Top-40, Hip-Hop, Country, Rock, and Gospel, can be enjoyed.
  • Law Library: Inmates can conduct legal research with up-to-date case information
  • Religion: Spiritual guidance resources are provided
  • Facility Services: Inmates have digital access to forms, requests, facility documents, and staff notifications

Jail Canteen and Commissary

The San Diego County Jail offers a canteen and commissary service for inmates. This service allows inmates to purchase items such as food, personal care items, and other essentials.

Adding Money to an Inmate's Account

To help an inmate buy items from the canteen and commissary, you can add money to their account. You can deposit money online using a credit or debit card, or you can use cash or a cashier's check at the jail's kiosk.

Inmate Trust Account

The deposited money goes into an inmate's trust account. Inmates can use this account to buy items from the canteen and commissary. They can also use it to pay for phone calls or other services offered at the San Diego County Jail.

Ordering Items for an Inmate

Family and friends can order special packages for inmates through an approved vendor. These packages may include food, clothing, or hygiene items. Check with the jail for more information on how to order these packages.

Inmate Programs and Services

The San Diego County Jail offers various programs and services for inmates. These programs help inmates learn, grow, and stay busy while they are in jail.

Education and Rehabilitation Programs

Inmates at the San Diego County Jail can take part in education and rehabilitation programs. These programs include GED preparation, literacy classes, and substance abuse education. They help inmates gain knowledge and skills that will be useful after their release.

Vocational Programs

San Diego County Jail also offers vocational programs that teach inmates job skills. Inmates can learn valuable trades such as culinary arts, construction, and landscaping. These programs help prepare inmates for employment opportunities when they leave jail.

Reentry Services

The jail provides reentry services to assist inmates with their transition back into the community. These services offer support in areas such as housing, employment, and mental health.

Understanding the San Diego County Jail

Navigating the San Diego County Jail system can be challenging, but we hope this guide has made it a little easier for you. Remember, staying informed and understanding the rules and procedures can make a big difference for you and your incarcerated loved ones. 

JailExchange is committed to helping people find incarcerated loved ones and learn everything about where they're staying. If you have any remaining questions, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!