Bartholomew County Jail
Bartholomew County Jail
You can speak with someone at the 366-bed Bartholomew County Jail about an inmate at any hour by calling 812-379-1753.
This facility books and processes misdemeanor and felony arrestees for the county. Once booking and processing is complete, inmates are either bonded out, released on their own recognizance, or held until their trial is resolved.
See who is currently in custody by using the inmate search tool.
Those sentenced to less than one year serve their sentence at the jail. Those sentenced to more than one year are sent to the Indiana State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
This page has information about the visitation schedule, inmate account funding, mail, phone calls, voicemail, email and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary.
Keep the inmate’s booking number or jail ID close by. It’s required for most communication. If you can’t find it online, call Bartholomew County Jail at 812-379-1753.
Inmate Services
Other Jails and Prisons
To search for an inmate in the Bartholomew County 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 812-379-1753 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up information on any Adult Criminal Court Case. If you need a Public Defender, a criminal lawyer paid for by the state, check out this page that keeps updated lists of them.
Bartholomew County Jail Inmate Search
The Bartholomew County Jail maintains an average of 366 offenders in custody on any given day. The Bartholomew County 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 Bartholomew County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 7,880 offenders.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessIn Bartholomew County the main jail and housing for offenders is the 366-bed Bartholomew County Jail which can be reached at 812-379-1753 to check on the status or presence of a friend or family member, their bail, and other necessary procedures.
It is operated by the Sheriff’s Office and accepts all inmates both female and male, while they are waiting for their court date or serving their provided sentence.
As the only jail in the county all adult offenders will be processed through the booking area.
Each day of the week has a strict routine that is designed to keep inmates engaged, moving predictably around the facility attending treatments, classes, or programs.
Recreational time and activities are provided both inside and out, and each of the housing units has a full common area with books, magazines, television, and tables for eating and writing letters or playing games with other inmates.
Phones are accessible only during the daytime hours, and can only make outgoing calls. There is also access to mail through the post office to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Bartholomew County Jail
543 2nd Street
Columbus, IN 47201
... for any inmate with no limit on how much mail they may send or receive.
For those who are able, visits are provided regularly, with each visit being 30 minutes in length and the visiting hours are Saturday and Sunday 7am until 10pm. When not in class, which range from life skills to GED or adult education, in counseling or support groups, or doing work tasks around the facility, inmates are able to call, mail, or visit with their family or friends.
- Jail (Main): 812-379-1753
- Inmate Info: 812-379-1750 option #2
- Sheriff: 812-379-1650
Steps involved in booking at Bartholomew County Jail
After an arrest, the individual is brought to Bartholomew County Jail for the booking process. This procedure involves identifying the person, determining charges, and deciding whether they’ll be released on their own recognizance, posted for bail, or held until court.
Remaining silent is highly recommended, as anything said can later be used in court. Wait for legal advice before responding to questions.
The booking process typically involves the following steps at Bartholomew County Jail:
- Identification confirmation.
- Photographs (mugshots).
- Answering questions regarding health and criminal background.
- Potential DNA collection.
- Conducting a physical search.
- Seizing personal property.
- Providing a free phone call.
For details on an offender’s bail or bond, call Bartholomew County Jail at 812-379-1753.
How to pay bail in Bartholomew County for an arrestee
Once an individual is booked at Bartholomew County Jail in Columbus, options for their release include:
1. Release without paying bail, with a commitment to appear in court.
2. Continued detention until their court date.
3. Release upon paying a bail or bond. Call 812-379-1753 for the bail amount.
Bail can be paid through various methods.
- Bring the full cash bond to the jail's bonding window or the clerk of court and pay by cash, cashier's check or money order; many jails also take debit or credit cards for a fee through a lobby kiosk or an online bond vendor, and staff will need the inmate's full name and booking number (jail: 812-379-1753).
- A licensed bail bondsman in Bartholomew County can assist with the process.
- An owner can often pledge land or a home as bond collateral by proving clear title and equity worth at least the bond, frequently double the bond, with a deed and a recent tax or appraisal value; the court that set bail must approve the property before release.
For more details on the bail process in Bartholomew County, Indiana, visit the Bartholomew County Jail Bail Page.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Do You Visit an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail? What is the Schedule?
Bartholomew County Jail ON-SITE VISITATION SCHEDULE
543 2nd Street
Columbus, IN 47201
812-379-1753
ON-SITE Visiting Hours are 8:00AM to 10:00PM Saturday and Sunday
- Visits are 30 minutes.
- You must be on the inmate's visitor list.
- Visitation schedule subject to change.
- Inmates are allowed one visit per day however the weekly limit is determined by the inmates classification.
- A maximum of 2 guests are allowed per inmate.
- Visitors must have a government issued photo ID.
- Dress professionally with non-revealing clothing.
REMOTE VIDEO VISITATION SCHEDULE - ALWAYS CALL 812-379-1753 TO CONFIRM VISITATION SCHEDULE!
SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
| DAY | HOURS |
| SUN | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
| MON | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
| TUE | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
| WED | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
| THU | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
| FRI | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
| SAT | 8:00AM to 10:00PM |
The Bartholomew County Jail uses Homewav for all Video Visitation services.
The information below provides complete instructions regarding:
Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Bartholomew County Jail
Bartholomew County Jail uses HomeWAV for Inmate Video Visitation.
Off-site remote visits are simple and convenient for both inmates and you.
Outgoing calls can be initiated from the detention facility without the need for advanced scheduling.
HomeWAV is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android.
HomeWAV is compatible with most major browsers on either PC or Mac computers, but works best with Google Chrome.
Following these instructions exactly will enhance your chances of having trouble-free visits.
How Much does Homewav Cost?
Bartholomew County Jail charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.
There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.
In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.
How does HomeWAV video visitation work?
1. Sign Up Here.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Then you just wait for the inmate to call
How Do I add Funds to my account?
1. Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds
2. Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
3. Click “Update”
4. Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card.)
Can I use HomeWAV on my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, however your HomeWAV account must be first set up online from a computer.
Once you have added funds to your account, you will need to install the Homewav app onto your phone or tablet.
To receive calls you must log in through the app and wait for the inmate to initiate the call.
You cannot add funds or make any changes to your account information through the app. These options are only available through the website.
The app should be solely used for video visitation.
What are the minimum PC requirements?
1. A computer with Windows Operating System. (Note: HomeWAV works best with Chrome.)
2. Speakers or Headphones
3. Camera and microphone
Can I use HomeWAV from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?
Yes, Bartholomew County Jail has a HomeWAV kiosk in their lobby for you to use if you don’t have a computer or smartphone, however due to COVID issues you may be temporarily prohibited entrance into their lobby.
How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?
1. Make sure there are funds in your account and that you are marked as “appear online”.
2. The moment you log in, the HomeWAV screen at the facility will light up green and display the inmates name. This informs the inmate that they have a visitor that is now logged on.
3. Once the inmate sees the notification, he or she will initiate the call.
4. When the inmate initiates the call, a ringing sound will take place and a pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to accept the call.
Can I transfer funds from one inmate to another?
If you have multiple inmates and would like to transfer your funds to a different inmate, please call HomeWAV at 314-764-2872 or email support@homewav.com and include the following information:
1. Homewav account holder’s name.
2. The number of minutes to be transferred.
3. Facility Name.
4. From which inmate to who do you want to transfer funds.
How do I get a refund on leftover funds?
Email HomeWAV at refunds@homewav.com with your refund request.
REFUNDS are subject to a $7.50 processing fee. *Note* refund requests must be sent from the email address of the registered visitor.
How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?
HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:
Monday – Friday
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST
Saturday – Sunday
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.
HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessCan I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail?
The information below provides complete instructions regarding Homewav Video Visitation for Bartholomew County Jail:
Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Bartholomew County Jail
Bartholomew County Jail uses HomeWAV for Inmate Video Visitation.
Off-site remote visits are simple and convenient for both inmates and you.
Outgoing calls can be initiated from the detention facility without the need for advanced scheduling.
HomeWAV is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android.
HomeWAV is compatible with most major browsers on either PC or Mac computers, but works best with Google Chrome.
Following these instructions exactly will enhance your chances of having trouble-free visits.
How Much does Homewav Cost?
Bartholomew County Jail charges $0.50 cents per minute for video visitation and $1.00 for each video message.
There is NO minimum talk time. Each ‘call’ can be as short as one minute.
In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase. All “Talk to me Funds” can only be used between the inmate and the visitor who owns the account.
How does HomeWAV video visitation work?
1. Sign Up Here.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Then you just wait for the inmate to call
How Do I add Funds to my account?
1. Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds
2. Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
3. Click “Update”
4. Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card.)
Can I use HomeWAV on my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, however your HomeWAV account must be first set up online from a computer.
Once you have added funds to your account, you will need to install the Homewav app onto your phone or tablet.
To receive calls you must log in through the app and wait for the inmate to initiate the call.
You cannot add funds or make any changes to your account information through the app. These options are only available through the website.
The app should be solely used for video visitation.
What are the minimum PC requirements?
1. A computer with Windows Operating System. (Note: HomeWAV works best with Chrome.)
2. Speakers or Headphones
3. Camera and microphone
Can I use HomeWAV from the jail lobby if I don’t have a computer?
Yes, Bartholomew County Jail has a HomeWAV kiosk in their lobby for you to use if you don’t have a computer or smartphone, however due to COVID issues you may be temporarily prohibited entrance into their lobby.
How does the Inmate Know I am Logged in and Ready to Visit?
1. Make sure there are funds in your account and that you are marked as “appear online”.
2. The moment you log in, the HomeWAV screen at the facility will light up green and display the inmates name. This informs the inmate that they have a visitor that is now logged on.
3. Once the inmate sees the notification, he or she will initiate the call.
4. When the inmate initiates the call, a ringing sound will take place and a pop-up box will appear, asking you if you want to accept the call.
Can I transfer funds from one inmate to another?
If you have multiple inmates and would like to transfer your funds to a different inmate, please call HomeWAV at 314-764-2872 or email support@homewav.com and include the following information:
1. Homewav account holder’s name.
2. The number of minutes to be transferred.
3. Facility Name.
4. From which inmate to who do you want to transfer funds.
How do I get a refund on leftover funds?
Email HomeWAV at refunds@homewav.com with your refund request.
REFUNDS are subject to a $7.50 processing fee. *Note* refund requests must be sent from the email address of the registered visitor.
How can I contact HomeWAV if I’m having any problems?
HomeWAV Visitor Support is available 7 days a week during the following hours:
Monday – Friday
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST
Saturday – Sunday
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST
HomeWAV Customer Service: Call 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.
HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail?
There are multiple ways to add money to an inmate's account at Bartholomew County Jail, using Access Corrections Secure Deposits
1. Online - Making a deposit using a verified Visa or Mastercard online, or using their Apple or Android App.
2. By phone - Dial 866.345.1884 to reach their 24/7 Access Corrections domestic call centers.
3. Lobby kiosk - Ask the jail whether it has an Access Corrections kiosk for deposits.
4. By mail - Ask Access Corrections or the jail whether money orders can be mailed, and to what address.
Ask who the money order should be made out to, and include the inmate name and ID number on all money orders.
5. Walk-in Cash Deposits - Ask the Bartholomew County Jail whether it accepts cash deposits in person, and where.
Secure Deposits - Frequently Asked Questions
Secure Deposits - Video Tutorial on How it Works
Secure Deposits - Help Pages
Customer Service Contacts:
Phone: 866-345-1884
Email: customerservice@accesscorrections.com
Online Chat - Look for 'bubble' on bottom right of the page linked here.
How to Send Money to an Inmate in Bartholomew County
To send commissary money to an inmate in Bartholomew County Jail follow these steps:
- Register with Access Corrections by creating an account.
- Select Indiana, then select Bartholomew County Jail, and then the inmate you want to send money to.
- Choose the amount of money you want to send, and input your payment method.
For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account check out our full money and commissary guide for Bartholomew County Jail.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail?
How Do Inmates in Bartholomew County Jail Make Phone Calls?
To receive phone calls from inmates in Bartholomew County, or to assist them in making phone calls to other people, follow these steps:
- Bartholomew County Jail uses the services of HOMEWAV.
- Register with them online or call them at 844-394-6639.
- Agents are available from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and speak both English & Spanish.
- Services for Bartholomew County inmates and their families and friends include prepaid HomeWAV accounts. Ask HomeWAV which services this jail offers.
For all the information regarding phone calls with Bartholomew County inmates; rules, policies, phone calling times, video, messaging, time limits and more, visit our Inmate Phone Page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow do I Mail an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail, and what can I send them?
Bartholomew County Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines
Postcards
Ask the Bartholomew County Jail whether it accepts postcards, and what size and type, before mailing one. Always include your name and return address.
Envelopes
The Bartholomew County Jail also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. It is best to only use blue or black ink.
Postcards and envelopes MUST HAVE the sender's full name and return address on the envelope.
Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Bartholomew County Jail
543 2nd Street
Columbus, IN 47201
Legal Mail
Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Bartholomew County Jail
543 2nd Street
Columbus, IN 47201
Newspapers
Newspapers may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher.
Magazines
News, special interest or sports magazines may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher. Any magazines that contain profanity, weapons, pornography or other content that is adult in nature will be confiscated by the jail staff and will NOT be delivered to the inmate.
Books
Ask the Bartholomew County Jail whether books can be mailed in, and whether they must come straight from a publisher or retailer such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. You can order them directly from your computer and have them shipped to the inmate at the address noted.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Bartholomew County Jail standards will be disposed of.
Ask the Bartholomew County Jail whether hardcover books are accepted.
All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Bartholomew County Jail
543 2nd Street
Columbus, IN 47201
Bartholomew County Jail Inmate Mail Policies and Address - What Can You Send, and Where?
For inmates receiving mail in the Bartholomew County Jail there are different addresses and policies depending on the inmate's status, as well as what type of mail they are receiving; personal mail, legal mail, subscriptions or books sent from a third-party such as Amazon.
All mail is to be shipped to the Bartholomew County Jail:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID#
Bartholomew County Jail
543 2nd Street
Columbus, IN 47201
For complete information on mail policies, what you can send an inmate and what address to send them, check out our Inmate Mail page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessCan I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail, and what can I purchase?
How to Send Money to an Inmate in Bartholomew County
To send commissary money to an inmate in Bartholomew County Jail follow these steps:
- Register with Access Corrections by creating an account.
- Select Indiana, then select Bartholomew County Jail, and then the inmate you want to send money to.
- Choose the amount of money you want to send, and input your payment method.
For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account check out our full money and commissary guide for Bartholomew County Jail.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessHow Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Bartholomew County Jail using an Online Messaging Service?
Friends and Family can leave Video Messages for Inmates using HomeWAV Video services.
The cost is $1.00 per message. In addition, there is a $1.00 fee for any purchase.
How does HomeWAV video messaging (email) work?
1. Sign Up.
2. Complete both steps of the registration process
3. Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
4. Send your video message.
How to Visit or Email an Inmate in Bartholomew County Indiana or visiting an inmate at the jail
To visit or email an inmate in Bartholomew County follow these steps:
- In addition to visiting inmates at the jail, Bartholomew County Jail uses a video visitation service called HomeWav.
- Register and Sign Up Here.
- Complete all steps of the registration process to get full access to Bartholomew County Jail inmate communication services.
- Add ‘Talk to me Funds’ to your account using your credit or debit card.
- Then you just wait for your Bartholomew County inmate to communicate.
How do you add Funds to your account? - Once you are logged in, click “Add Talk to Me Funds".
- Type in the amount of dollars you want to add to your account.
- Click “Update”.
- Choose a way to pay (Credit, debit, or prepaid card).
Who do you contact if you are having any problems arranging the remote video visit, phoning or emailing of an inmate in Bartholomew County?
Call HomeWav support at 314-764-2872, or toll free 844-394-6639.
Monday – Friday
9:00AM to 6:00PM EST
Saturday – Sunday
8:00AM to 6:00PM EST
NOTE: All communications between you and your inmate at Bartholomew County Jail will be recorded and stored. Do not discuss your inmate's case or other sensitive information as it can be used against them (or you) in court.
For full instructions on all the benefits of using Homewav to visit a Bartholomew County inmate, visiting an inmate at the jail itself, email and texting an inmate, rates, policies, rules, dress codes, bringing children, attorney and clergy visits and more, go to our official Visit Inmate Page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessDo Inmates in the Bartholomew County Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?
Bartholomew County Jail now offers Homewav ComPAS™ (Portable Access System) tablets to their inmates.

Homewav is the same company that handles the inmate phone system, video visitations, email and texting and digital letters.
The tablets can be rented on a monthly basis and while not directly connected to the internet, the inmates can use them for the following activities:
- Phone Calls - Inmates may make calls directly from their tablet allowing for more privacy. The rates are the same as the phones in the unit, and the calls are still recorded and monitored.
- eMessaging - Communicate via a text based message or picture. Fee based system.
- Video Messages and Video Calls - Send and receive video messages and have video visits and calls with inmate.
- Job Search - Inmates have the ability to see what jobs are available when they are released.
- Education - Free educational platform and course catalog that provides thousands of educational resources, including GED courses.
- Self Help -Inmates have daily access to mental health and addiction recovery programming.
- Music - Top-40, Hip-Hop, Country, Rock, Gospel, and more.
- Law Library - Legal research with up-to-date case information.
- eBooks - Thousands of available titles.
- Religion - Religious resources for spiritual guidance.
- Games - Inmates can play their favorite games. Available through monthly subscriptions
- Facility Services - Digital access to submitted forms, requests, facility documents, and notifications from staff.
Here's how it works:
- Register here.
- You get charged a full month even if it's only used for a partial month.
- No activation or early termination fees.
- Your inmate will recieve their tablet in 3-5 business days after you pay.
Questions:
- By phone - 314-764-2872
- By email - support@homewav.com
Bartholomew County Jail now offers Homewav ComPAS™ (Portable Access System) tablets to their inmates.

Homewav is the same company that handles the inmate phone system, video visitations, email and texting and digital letters.
The tablets can be rented on a monthly basis and while not directly connected to the internet, the inmates can use them for phone, visits, messages, education, self-help and entertainment.
Questions:
- By phone - 314-764-2872
- By email - support@homewav.com
To learn more about Homewav tablets, the dozens of features, cost and how to get one delivered to your inmate, check out our Inmate Tablet page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Bartholomew County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 812-379-1753 for further assistance.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessWhat are the other City and County Jails in Bartholomew County?
Bartholomew County County Jails
Bartholomew County Juvenile Facilities
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show lessWhat are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Bartholomew County?
Nearby counties
This facility, known as "Bartholomew County Jail" is also known as Bartholomew County Jail , Bartholomew County Jail , Indiana, Bartholomew.
