Men's Central Jail

Men's Central Jail Information

The Men's Central Jail is a 6750 bed jail in the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 213-974-4082, directions to the facility, and inmate services such as the visitation schedule and policies, funding an inmate's account, mailing them a letter, receiving phone calls from an inmate, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary purchases.

Phone: 213-974-4082

Physical Address:
441 Bauchet Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Men's Central Jail?

To search for an inmate in the Men's Central Jail, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 213-974-4082 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up a list of criminal courts for Los Angeles County and every other county in California.

Men's Central Jail Inmate Search

The Men's Central Jail maintains an average of 6750 offenders in custody on any given day. The Men's Central Jail has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year Los Angeles County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 529,180 offenders.

The following charts of Los Angeles County inmate population demographics are updated daily. The information shown is for today. For research purposes we have broken down the inmates by sex, age, ethnicity, and criminal charges.

The information is compiled from the Los Angeles County Corrections Department, the state of California Department of Corrections, as well as the United States Department of Justice and Census Bureau records. It represents every person in custody in Los Angeles County.

For complete information on how to get directions, bond, visit, mail, send and receive email and texts, receive phone calls, and send money or commissary to an inmate, find arrest information for Los Angeles County and other counties surrounding this one, scroll down this page. We have a section for each.

We also provide photos of the jail that we have collected over the years.

For a collection of over 20 additional graphs and charts of the demographic and criminal arrest information of the inmates in Los Angeles County and California state prisons, click the button below.
Los Angeles County INMATE DEMOGRAPHICS

Los Angeles County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 3/28/2024

Race Inmates % Total
White 0 0.00%
Black 3,165 15.24%
Hispanic or Latino 14,567 70.14%
American Indian/Native Alaskan 0 0.00%
Asian 2,982 14.36%
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian 0 0.00%
Other 55 0.26%
Total 20,769 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Los Angeles County Inmate Criminal Charges - 3/28/2024

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Charge Inmates % Total
Felony (3rd Degree) 10,883 52.40%
Felony (2rd Degree) 7,596 36.57%
Felony (1st Degree) 3,608 17.37%
State Jail Felony 5,656 27.23%
Felony (Uncategorized) 6,444 31.03%
Misdemeanor (Class A) 9,967 47.99%
Misdemeanor (Class C) 0 0.00%
Holds 1,492 7.18%
Uncategorized 820 3.95%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Los Angeles County Inmate Sex - 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 18,634 89.72%
Female 2,135 10.28%
Total 20,769 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Los Angeles County Inmate Age - 3/28/2024

Age Inmates % Total
Under 18 124 0.60%
18-20 1,260 6.07%
21-24 2,046 9.85%
25-30 3,799 18.29%
31-35 3,834 18.46%
36-40 3,955 19.04%
41-45 2,708 13.04%
46-50 1,044 5.03%
51-55 833 4.01%
56-60 689 3.32%
61-65 269 1.30%
66-75 208 1.00%
76-85 0 0.00%
Total 20,769 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.
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About the Men's Central Jail

in Los Angeles County, California was designed in 1965 to have a maximum capacity of 6,750 inmates, but even after two expansions, it has consistently been overcrowded, sometimes handling up to 19,000 prisoners. It is one of the largest jails in the country.

The phone number for the facility is 213-974-4082. It is located at 441 Bauchet Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Visits to inmates take place Thursdays through Sundays, and Visitation Information can be obtained by scrolling down or clicking here.

Men's Central Jail supervises inmates of all security levels. The structure of the jail places cells in long corridors, and because of its age and lack of maintenance, the physical structure is deteriorating. Plumbing problems and flooding have been reported in the facility, and the public and even public officials would like to see it closed down.

These are helpful links for all Los Angelese County Jails:

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Men's Central Jail?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Men's Central Jail, call the jail’s booking line at 213-974-4082.

There may be an automated method of looking them up by their name over the phone, or you may be directed to speak to someone at the jail. Sometimes the jail staff may ask you the offender’s date of birth to ensure privacy of the offender’s status.

Keep in mind that after an arrest, the information on an offender may not be publicly available for several hours.

If you don’t want to check up on an offender by calling the jail, you can also try looking up people recently booked online.

Men's Central Jail Booking Roster

What happens during booking in Los Angeles County?

After being arrested and taken into custody, and after being read their Miranda Rights, an offender will next be transported to the local police or department or the Sheriff’s Department in Los Angeles County for booking.

Booking is very involved and requires multiple steps in the process, however, keep in mind that most attorneys will advise that an offender remain silent and not offer any additional information about the crime they have been arrested for because anything they do say may be recorded and may very well be used against them in court.

What is the booking process like at the Men's Central Jail?

Booking includes having their photo (mugshot) and fingerprints taken, as well as being asked a lot of questions about their personal history and state of mind. If it’s a serious felony, their DNA may also be taken. They will also be checked for warrants in Los Angeles County and other California and USA jurisdictions.

If the offender was arrested for a DUI offense, and has refused a breathalyzer test, they may also be forced to have blood drawn by a doctor or nurse.

It is also very likely that the offender will undergo a humiliating full body search while in the nude. This includes bending over, spreading their cheeks in the direction of an officer, and coughing. They will also be walked through a metal detector or x-ray machine, like those used at an airport.

What kind of questions are asked during booking?

The arresting jurisdiction will ask about gang affiliations, tattoos, medical conditions, prescribed medication they are taking, recreational drugs they are on or addicted to, allergies, if they are suicidal, and other relevant information that will help with determining their cell assignment and special needs.

What happens to an offender’s personal property during booking?

During the arrest and booking process an offender will also have all their personal property confiscated and held for either their release from jail, or with the offender’s approval, released to a friend or family member.

Personal property includes the clothing they are wearing, money, wallets, purses, cell phones, jewelry, body rings, earrings, watches, and even glasses if they are deemed a security risk. If they are allowed to keep their shoes or sneakers, the laces are removed.

What happens after booking?

At this point the offender will be allowed to make a free phone call to a person of their choice to notify them of their arrest, and/or arrange a bond or bail for their release.

If the offender is being detained and housed while awaiting arraignment, the Men's Central Jail will provide a jail garment and slip-on shoes, a blanket, sheets, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel.

Often, before they are dressed in the jail outfit and brought to their housing location, they will be forced to take a shower and undergo a disinfectant treatment for body and hair lice, scabies or other pests that may be residing on their person.

How long does the Men's Central Jail Booking process take?

Booking can take anywhere from an hour to 24 hours or more. It all depends on the number of people that are awaiting processing, the number of staff on duty at the time, and the behavior of the offender.

If the offender is heavily intoxicated and/or violent, the Booking Officer may decide to stick the offender in a holding cell for several hours until they become more manageable.

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Directions / Map to the Men's Central Jail
Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail? What is the Schedule?

Men's Central Jail Inmate Visitation Schedule and Visitation Rules

All visits must be made online with GTL
No registration and no appointment = No Visit

Using the GTL Online App to first register, then selecting an inmate and then making an appointment can be confusing, so if you are having trouble call the Inmate Video Visitation System Help Desk at 213-680-4887 (Monday thru Friday) between 7:00AM and 2:00PM. That said, if you follow the instructions that follow each step of the registration process, it's quite simple.

For those who prefer to ask questions using email.

     VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Each inmate is allowed one 30 minute visit per scheduled visiting day with a maximum of three (3) persons at a time. Each child counts as one (1) person.
  • Due to COVID restrictions, this may be limited to one adult and one child per visit. Call 213-680-4887 (Monday thru Friday) between 7:00AM and 2:00PM to confirm.
  • Arrive at least one hour before your scheduled visit.
  • IMPORTANT: Because of the large number of people that arrive to visit, you may want to plan on arriving at least one hour ahead of your scheduled visit time!
  • Because visiting hours are subject to change without notice, it is a good idea to call the visitor’s line prior to making a visit. The best number to call for this is 213-680-4887.
  • Bring your confirmation number/receipt and a valid, government-issued photo ID.
  • Visits take place at the Lynwood Jail Visitation Center - aka The Men's Central Jail
    441 Bauchet Street - Los Angeles, CA 90012
DAY TIME
THURSDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
FRIDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
SATURDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
SUNDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
HOLIDAYS** 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM

** Holidays are: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (the 4th of July), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. NOTE: Holiday visits are subject to change.

Attorneys and Clergy Visitation

  • Attorneys may visit inmates at the Men's Central Jail Monday - Friday from 8:00AM to 7:00PM, or outside of those hours with prior approval from the Watch Commander.  
  • Clergy members may make their own arrangements with the Chaplain’s office by calling 323-526-5390. Clergy can visit any time, 24 hours a day.

     VISITATION RULES - Read them all. Failure to follow these may result in not getting a visit.... and you wasting a day.

  • All visits must be scheduled in advanced. There will be no walk-in appointments allowed nor scheduled at Men's Central Jail.
  • All Visits to the Men's Central Jail are arranged on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • The absolute minimum time you should plan on, from arriving to leaving from the visit, is approximately three (3) hours.
  • You must have proof of vaccine, proof of a recent (3 days) COVID test, or have proof of recovery in order to visit. NOTE: You can pre-register for free Covid testing at the Men's Central Jail.
  • You must have a California state or US government issued ID card.
  • Visitors must wear a mask at all times and maintain at least six feet of distance.
  • Only one adult visitor or one adult with one child will be allowed at a time. (Note: During normal visitation, up to three visitors - which includes three children - are allowed per inmate. This may change once the pandemic panic is over). Call 213-680-4887 or 661-295-8074 to confirm prior to leaving for your visit.
  • If you are a convicted felon or currently on parole or probation, you need a preapproval to visit. Fill out and submit this form, and you can expect to receive a letter within about a month granting or denying permission.
  • Minors 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian unless legally emancipated. Appropriate paperwork is required as proof of status, including guardianship or emancipation.
  • Children must show some form of a photo ID and remain closely supervised at all times.
  • Personal belongings should be left behind or will be stored in lockers. Strictly prohibited items include cell phones/electronic devices/cameras, tobacco products, waterless hand sanitizers containing alcohol, medications (including homeopathic) hygiene products, stationery, carabiner shackle tools, plastics of all kinds.
  • Do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (or with contraband in your possession) or you may be subject to arrest.
  • Persons causing a disruption will be ejected from the visitation area
  • There is also a strictly enforced dress code for visitors at the Men's Central Jail. The following may deny you entry:
     - Revealing clothing, such as strapless and midriff-baring tops, see-through material or display of cleavage
     - Skirts, shorts or dresses that are higher than mid-thigh
     - Gang-affiliated clothes and accessories
     - Bare feet
     - Swimsuits
     - Bare torsos or muscle/sleeveless shirts
     - Clothing with graphics depicting nudity, violence, drugs or gang themes

Men's Central Jail Visitation Page - Find more of the the Rules, Policies and Guidelines regarding Inmate Visitation below.
Read carefully and save yourself a trip, and a wasted day sitting around waiting, for nothing.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Remote Video Visitation

Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail?

Men's Central Jail Inmate Visitation Schedule and Visitation Rules

All visits must be made online with GTL
No registration and no appointment = No Visit

Using the GTL Online App to first register, then selecting an inmate and then making an appointment can be confusing, so if you are having trouble call the Inmate Video Visitation System Help Desk at 213-680-4887 (Monday thru Friday) between 7:00AM and 2:00PM. That said, if you follow the instructions that follow each step of the registration process, it's quite simple.

For those who prefer to ask questions using email.

     VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Each inmate is allowed one 30 minute visit per scheduled visiting day with a maximum of three (3) persons at a time. Each child counts as one (1) person.
  • Due to COVID restrictions, this may be limited to one adult and one child per visit. Call 213-680-4887 (Monday thru Friday) between 7:00AM and 2:00PM to confirm.
  • Arrive at least one hour before your scheduled visit.
  • IMPORTANT: Because of the large number of people that arrive to visit, you may want to plan on arriving at least one hour ahead of your scheduled visit time!
  • Because visiting hours are subject to change without notice, it is a good idea to call the visitor’s line prior to making a visit. The best number to call for this is 213-680-4887.
  • Bring your confirmation number/receipt and a valid, government-issued photo ID.
  • Visits take place at the Lynwood Jail Visitation Center - aka The Men's Central Jail
    441 Bauchet Street - Los Angeles, CA 90012
DAY TIME
THURSDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
FRIDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
SATURDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
SUNDAY 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM
HOLIDAYS** 10:00AM - 3:00PM
5:00PM - 7:00PM

** Holidays are: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (the 4th of July), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. NOTE: Holiday visits are subject to change.

Attorneys and Clergy Visitation

  • Attorneys may visit inmates at the Men's Central Jail Monday - Friday from 8:00AM to 7:00PM, or outside of those hours with prior approval from the Watch Commander.  
  • Clergy members may make their own arrangements with the Chaplain’s office by calling 323-526-5390. Clergy can visit any time, 24 hours a day.

     VISITATION RULES - Read them all. Failure to follow these may result in not getting a visit.... and you wasting a day.

  • All visits must be scheduled in advanced. There will be no walk-in appointments allowed nor scheduled at Men's Central Jail.
  • All Visits to the Men's Central Jail are arranged on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • The absolute minimum time you should plan on, from arriving to leaving from the visit, is approximately three (3) hours.
  • You must have proof of vaccine, proof of a recent (3 days) COVID test, or have proof of recovery in order to visit. NOTE: You can pre-register for free Covid testing at the Men's Central Jail.
  • You must have a California state or US government issued ID card.
  • Visitors must wear a mask at all times and maintain at least six feet of distance.
  • Only one adult visitor or one adult with one child will be allowed at a time. (Note: During normal visitation, up to three visitors - which includes three children - are allowed per inmate. This may change once the pandemic panic is over). Call 213-680-4887 or 661-295-8074 to confirm prior to leaving for your visit.
  • If you are a convicted felon or currently on parole or probation, you need a preapproval to visit. Fill out and submit this form, and you can expect to receive a letter within about a month granting or denying permission.
  • Minors 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian unless legally emancipated. Appropriate paperwork is required as proof of status, including guardianship or emancipation.
  • Children must show some form of a photo ID and remain closely supervised at all times.
  • Personal belongings should be left behind or will be stored in lockers. Strictly prohibited items include cell phones/electronic devices/cameras, tobacco products, waterless hand sanitizers containing alcohol, medications (including homeopathic) hygiene products, stationery, carabiner shackle tools, plastics of all kinds.
  • Do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (or with contraband in your possession) or you may be subject to arrest.
  • Persons causing a disruption will be ejected from the visitation area
  • There is also a strictly enforced dress code for visitors at the Men's Central Jail. The following may deny you entry:
     - Revealing clothing, such as strapless and midriff-baring tops, see-through material or display of cleavage
     - Skirts, shorts or dresses that are higher than mid-thigh
     - Gang-affiliated clothes and accessories
     - Bare feet
     - Swimsuits
     - Bare torsos or muscle/sleeveless shirts
     - Clothing with graphics depicting nudity, violence, drugs or gang themes

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail?

How to Deposit Money in a Men's Central Jail Inmate's Account

There are two ways to deposit money in an inmate's account in the Los Angeles County Jail system:
1.  Mailing a Payment - $200 maximum

Mailing Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

2.  Dropping off a payment - $200 maximum
When dropping off an inmate's money in person, the Men's Central Jail will only accept:

  • Cash
  • US Postal Money Orders, or
  • Certified Bank Cashier Checks from banks in California for deposit into an inmate’s account.

Locations to drop off inmate money:

Inmate Reception Center
450 Bauchet Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

or

Century Regional Detention Facility
11705 S. Alameda Street
Lynwood, CA 90262

For complete information and guidelines for sending an inmate money including: the maximum you can send, what form the payment has to be, the maximum an inmate can have in their account and more, check out our Inmate Money page.


 

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail?

How Do You Communicate with an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail by Phone

Follow these instructions on how to open an account with GTL Connect Network (aka Viapath Technologies)

  • Advance Pay - This phone account allows you to prepay so that your inmate can call you (and only you) whenever he/she wants and the cost of each call is deducted from your balance. You can even be notified by text when your balance gets low. You still have the option of accepting or rejecting each call.
  • Pin Debit  -  This option allows you to fund an inmate's commissary account and lets him pay for phone calls to you and others with the money. You will have no control over who your inmate calls.
  • Voicemail  -  You can leave a secure voicemail without having to contact the facility. When you call the local phone number for a facility offering Inmate Voicemail (call Customer Service at 877-650-4249 to get the local voicemail number for Men's Central Jail, you will be informed of the cost for leaving a message. To leave your message, simply select the inmate by ID number. Then, record your voicemail.

For full instructions on the Men's Central Jail Inmate Phone System, what the costs are, how it works, and tips and guidelines on rules, regulations and saving money on calls, check out our Inmate Phones Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail, and what can I send them?

The Men's Central Jail has a very strict set of rules and policies regarding mail that is delivered to inmates.

The purpose of these rules are not to make life difficult for you or to ‘punish’ incarcerated inmates further, but are here for the safety and security of all the inmates and staff who reside and work in what can be a very dangerous place.

 For the time being, Men's Central Jail is still allowing inmates to receive physical mail, however many jails and prisons around the country are starting to go full-on digital; only allowing electronic messages and digital images to be accessible by inmates through kiosks or jail provided handheld devices.

All LA County Jail Inmates are made aware of the following Rules and Policies and these are also posted in the lobbies of each of the facilities to educate friends and loved ones.  

Many items that are needed by inmates that you may want to mail but can’t, can be purchased directly from the LA County Jail’s Commissary. Even indigent inmates, those without any funds, are provided basic hygiene items and other items necessary for their physical and mental health.

Men's Central Jail Inmates are allowed mail in envelopes and on postcards.

They are also allowed to receive books, magazine and newspapers directly from trusted publishers and businesses.

Mailing Address:

Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

The following is a list of prohibited items: 

If any of these items are mailed to an inmate in the Men's Central Jail, they will be returned intact to the sender (provided there is a return address) and the inmate will NOT be notified. 

Read and follow this list carefully. There are NO EXCEPTIONS to this policy.

ENVELOPES & POSTCARDS

*All envelopes and paper must be free of debris and/or any illegal substances, perfume/cologne, powders, lip stick, food or cosmetic items or dried liquids. 

*Blank envelopes, envelopes with a metal clasp, postage stamps, envelopes with gang or suggestive drawings/artwork

*Cash, personal or second-party checks, payroll checks, out-of-state checks

*Blank money order(s) (money orders must be signed and made payable to the inmate)

*Money order(s) that would increase the inmate's trust funds in excess of the $900 limit

*Out-of-state money order(s)

*Money order in amount exceeding $200 limit

*Musical, plastic, or blank greeting card(s)

*Identification card(s) or copies of ID cards

*Paper clip(s), staple(s), pen(s), pencil(s), glitter, sticker(s), glued or gummed label(s)

*Postcard(s) larger than 6''x 9''

*Rosary bead(s), balloon(s), string bracelet(s), or jewelry item(s)

*Lottery ticket(s) or pre-paid telephone card(s)

*Cellophane tape or any type of tape on letters

*Audio, CDs, or cassette tapes

BOOKS, NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES

*Item(s) not sent directly from an accepted bookstore or publisher such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc.

*Item(s) of explicit sexual nature or that depict full or partial frontal nudity

*Item(s) that depict or describe how to create weapons or commit crimes, or contains content that has been determined to compromise jail security

*Item(s) exceeding the limit of three (3) books per week

*Item(s) exceeding the limit of three (3) periodicals or publications per week

*Item(s) has metal or plastic binding

*Item(s) has a hard cover (only paperback books are allowed)

PHOTOGRAPHS & COMPUTER PRINTED IMAGES 

*Item(s) does not conform to size requirements: Minimum of 3"x 5" / Maximum of 4"x 6" 

*Item(s) that depict nudity, sexually-suggestive content, or gang imagery

*Item(s) that depicts content which has been determined to compromise jail security

*Polaroid photos

POLICY REGARDING COMPLAINTS & APPEALS OF A RETURNED ITEM

If you do send a book, a magazine or a publication and is returned, yet you believe that it should have been accepted by the jail and given to your inmate, you can file an appeal, as long as you appeal it within 15 days of receiving notification that the item was returned.

The LA County Jail will then provide you with their decision of your appeal within 15 days.

You can appeal the return of a book, newspaper, magazine or publication by filing a complaint here.
 

Your appeal MUST INCLUDE ALL the following information or it will be automatically denied: 

(1)  The involved inmate's name and booking number; 
(2)  The form's reference number; 
(3)  The sender's contact information; 
(4)  A description of the withheld/returned item; 
(5)  The date the item was sent to the inmate; 
(6)  The date the sender received this Returned Mail Notification; 
(7)  The reason(s) the sender disagrees with the LASD’S decision to withhold/return the item.

**If you have any questions about any of these rules, policies, guidelines and/or the appeal process, please contact the Mail Room Supervisor at 213-893-5874.

These rules, policies and guidelines are subject to change any time.

How to Send Mail to an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail

Men's Central Jail Inmates are allowed mail in envelopes and on postcards. They are also allowed to receive photos.

They are also allowed to receive books, magazine and newspapers directly from trusted publishers and businesses.

Mailing Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

To learn all the rules, policies and guidelines, and they are extensive, for sending anything in the mail to an inmate at any of the Los Angeles County Jails, check out our Inmate Mail Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail, and what can I purchase?

Men's Central Jail contracts with Access Securepak (aka MyCarePak) for families to send pre-determined packages of commissary items to your inmate.

Access Securepak carries over 1,000 different items in the following categories:
- Food and Snacks
- Personal Hygiene Products
- Electronics
- Apparel

Registration Process:
1. Register here.
2. Select California.
3. Select Men's Central Jail.
4. Find your Inmate.
5. Deposit Funds.
6. Order Commissary Items.
Once you are logged in, you will receive instructions on how much (and what products) you can send your inmate.
Contact Information:
* If you have any questions, you can call Access Securepak at 800-546-6283.
* You can email My Care Pack at [email protected].
* You can write them at:
    Access Securepak
    10880 Linpage Place
    St. Louis, MO 63132

* You can Live Chat with a Representative online: (bottom left corner of page)
   Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m. CST, 
   and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. CST.

*Note* Access Securepak will issue a refund for or replace broken, damaged, or missing products reported by Men's Central Jail staff. They will not honor reports of discrepancies from inmate's families or friends.
My CarePack is the Men's Central Jail's outside vendor for Commissary Items. They have a very good mix of Chips, Snacks, Candy, Meat, Seafood, Hygiene products, Letter writing materials, Electronics and Apparel items for sale on their website.


*NOTE* -- Once you are fully registered and have selected the inmate you wish to send commissary to, you will receive instructions on how much you can deposit, how much (and what) you can purchase for your inmate, and how often you can send commissary.

How to Send a Carepack Commissary Package Directly to an Inmate in Los Angeles County

To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Men's Central Jail follow these steps:

  • Select California, then select Men's Central Jail, and then select the 'Send a Package Order' option.
  • Register and create an account with Access Securepak, for Los Angeles County.
  • Choose the inmate and the products you want shipped to them, and input your payment method. 
  • NOTE: There may be a limit on how much product you can send your inmate in Los Angeles County at any one time.

For all information, tips and available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Men's Central Jail check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Los Angeles County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Men's Central Jail using an Online Messaging Service?

No.

As of January 2023, LA County Jails do not yet contract with a service that allows email or messaging services. 

A growing number of jails now offer email services to inmates and their families.

  • This can save you time by letting you view your email from your smart phone, computer, or tablet, whenever you wish. 
  • You don't have to deal with envelopes, stamps or the post office.
  • Inmates like it because the emails eliminate delays so they can get your correspondence quickly and send responses immediately.
  • Jail staffs like it as it eliminates concerns about contraband entering the facility in envelopes and on paper. It also allows the jail to have an electronic record that can be called upon at any time.

Anything you or your inmate writes in an email service is put through a filtering program that looks for certain words related to criminal and/or gang activities. There have been multiple cases in which emails between inmates and their friends or loved ones have been used as evidence in criminal court cases to convict them or to file new charges.

How do Inmates at the Men's Central Jail Communicate using Email?

As of January 2023, LA County Jails do not yet contract with a service that allows email or messaging services.  For the time being the only communication with inmates by US Mail, By Phone or by Visiting them at the facility.

For more information on how jails across America are using third-party email services to allow communication between inmates and their loved ones, check out our Inmate Email page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Men's Central Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Men's Central Jail either allows, or may soon be allowing inmates access to tablets to use for the services provided by GTL (aka Viapath Technologies)

Follow the instructions below to get a tablet for your inmate at Men's Central Jail

The devices are similar to common handheld tablets, but are made exclusively by GTL and Viapath.
Tablets offer specialized content and services for inmates to use during their stay at Men's Central Jail, such as:

  • Music
  • Books
  • Games
  • Education
  • News
  • Radio
  • Television
  • Read mail and messages
  • Video visits

Free services are already available for use on the device at Men's Central Jail.
Subscription services are funded separately by family and friends with deposits made into an inmate’s Debit Link account.
Men's Central Jail Inmates will then be able to purchase subscription services and premium content to enjoy.

What It Costs
Tablet devices include some services and the content is free.
The subscription services require additional funding.
There may be multiple options such as 7-day or 30-day subscriptions.
Costs are dependent upon the available services and what the Men's Central Jail charges.

To estimate costs for tablets and other services such as phone calls, sign in to your account and click “Rate & Fees Calculator” in the footer (bottom of the page).

How to use a Tablet to Access Services at Men's Central Jail

To find out how to get access to a tablet for an inmate read the following:

1.  First, Register or Sign In to GTL / Viapath Services.

2.  In the top menu, click on 'Services', then on 'Inmate Devices & Content'.
3. All inmates have free access to the tablets to read their letters from family & friends, but there are many other services available to keep your inmate busy while incarcerated... such as Games, Books, Music and Movies. These other services come with fees that you can pay for when you pay for phone service.

To learn more about Tablet Rentals for inmates, including the cost, all the services available and everything else you need to know, check out our Tablet Rental Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Men's Central Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-974-4082 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the Men's Central Jail? What does it look like?
Other Jails in Los Angeles County

What are the other City and County Jails in Los Angeles County?

Los Angeles County County Jails
Los Angeles County City Jails
Los Angeles County Juvenile Facilities
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Other Jails Nearby

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Los Angeles County?

Los Angeles Orange Ventura Kern San Bernardino
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US State Prison Population Demographics

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 973,343 93.26%
Female 70,362 6.74%
Total 1,043,705 100.0%

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 327,300 35.27%
Black 345,500 37.23%
Hispanic 226,800 24.44%
American Indian / Alaska Native 15,900 1.71%
Asian 12,500 1.35%
Total 928,000 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 622,200 95.46%
Female 31,700 4.86%
Total 653,900 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 178,600 29.23%
Black 234,500 38.38%
Hispanic 179,500 29.38%
American Indian / Alaska Native 9,600 1.57%
Asian 8,800 1.44%
Total 611,000 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 147,500 93.95%
Female 10,000 6.37%
Total 157,500 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,600 26.04%
Black 63,000 43.63%
Hispanic 39,100 27.08%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,300 1.59%
Asian 2,400 1.66%
Total 144,400 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 16,000 86.02%
Female 2,600 13.98%
Total 18,600 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 5,400 43.90%
Black 3,600 29.27%
Hispanic 2,900 23.58%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.63%
Asian 200 1.63%
Total 12,300 100.0%

Violent Rape & Sexual Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 159,800 98.95%
Female 2,200 1.36%
Total 162,000 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 125,800 96.18%
Female 5,400 4.13%
Total 131,200 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 18.64%
Black 66,800 56.85%
Hispanic 26,500 22.55%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,200 1.02%
Asian 1,100 0.94%
Total 117,500 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 137,000 94.74%
Female 8,100 5.60%
Total 145,100 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,500 23.28%
Black 53,300 33.09%
Hispanic 65,300 40.53%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,800 1.74%
Asian 2,200 1.37%
Total 161,100 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 36,100 91.86%
Female 3,300 8.40%
Total 39,400 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 12,200 32.45%
Black 14,200 37.77%
Hispanic 9,700 25.80%
American Indian / Alaska Native 800 2.13%
Asian 700 1.86%
Total 37,600 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 127,900 90.64%
Female 13,600 9.64%
Total 141,500 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 60,500 50.46%
Black 37,800 31.53%
Hispanic 18,100 15.10%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,100 1.75%
Asian 1,400 1.17%
Total 119,900 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 75,900 95.11%
Female 4,200 5.26%
Total 80,100 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 30,500 44.40%
Black 24,200 35.23%
Hispanic 12,300 17.90%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,100 1.60%
Asian 600 0.87%
Total 68,700 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 22,300 84.47%
Female 4,200 15.91%
Total 26,500 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 13,800 58.97%
Black 6,800 29.06%
Hispanic 2,200 9.40%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 1.28%
Asian 300 1.28%
Total 23,400 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,400 91.43%
Female 600 8.57%
Total 7,000 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,500 48.08%
Black 1,500 28.85%
Hispanic 1,000 19.23%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.92%
Asian 100 1.92%
Total 5,200 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 9,800 75.97%
Female 3,200 24.81%
Total 13,000 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,900 63.30%
Black 2,600 23.85%
Hispanic 900 8.26%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 2.75%
Asian 200 1.83%
Total 10,900 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,600 90.67%
Female 1,400 9.33%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 6,700 58.26%
Black 2,700 23.48%
Hispanic 1,700 14.78%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.74%
Asian 200 1.74%
Total 11,500 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 114,600 87.08%
Female 17,400 13.22%
Total 132,000 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 49,500 47.50%
Black 37,300 35.80%
Hispanic 14,600 14.01%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,700 1.63%
Asian 1,100 1.06%
Total 104,200 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 28,500 84.57%
Female 5,300 15.73%
Total 33,800 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 14,800 56.27%
Black 7,900 30.04%
Hispanic 3,000 11.41%
American Indian / Alaska Native 400 1.52%
Asian 200 0.76%
Total 26,300 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 86,100 88.04%
Female 12,000 12.27%
Total 98,100 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 34,700 44.54%
Black 29,400 37.74%
Hispanic 11,600 14.89%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 1.67%
Asian 900 1.16%
Total 77,900 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 102,500 93.95%
Female 6,900 6.32%
Total 109,400 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 35,900 40.84%
Black 34,500 39.25%
Hispanic 13,800 15.70%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,500 2.84%
Asian 1,200 1.37%
Total 87,900 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 37,800 97.93%
Female 900 2.33%
Total 38,700 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 7,200 22.86%
Black 16,900 53.65%
Hispanic 6,500 20.63%
American Indian / Alaska Native 500 1.59%
Asian 400 1.27%
Total 31,500 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,400 89.33%
Female 1,600 10.67%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,800 59.65%
Black 2,000 17.54%
Hispanic 1,800 15.79%
American Indian / Alaska Native 700 6.14%
Asian 100 0.88%
Total 11,400 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 51,200 92.25%
Female 4,400 7.93%
Total 55,600 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 48.45%
Black 15,700 34.73%
Hispanic 5,600 12.39%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 2.88%
Asian 700 1.55%
Total 45,200 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,100 89.71%
Female 800 11.76%
Total 6,900 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,700 52.94%
Black 1,500 29.41%
Hispanic 700 13.73%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.96%
Asian 100 1.96%
Total 5,100 100.0%
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This facility, known as "Men's Central Jail" is also known as Los Angeles County Jail, LA COUNTY JAIL - Men's Central Jail.