Whitley County Jail

Search for an Inmate in Whitley County

Whitley County Jail Information

Whitley County Jail is a 225-bed jail in Columbia City, Whitley County, Indiana. You can contact the facility for inmate information anytime at 260-244-7119.

This jail processes individuals arrested for misdemeanors and felonies. After booking and processing, inmates may be held until they are either bonded out, released on their own recognizance, or remain in custody until their trial is concluded.

The inmate search tool allows you to check the jail's roster and find out who is currently in custody.

Offenders serving less than one year will do their time here, while those sentenced to longer terms will be sent to either the Indiana State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

This page provides essential information, including the visitation schedule, how to fund an inmate's account, send mail, receive phone calls, voicemail, email and texting, tablet rentals, bail bonds, and commissary purchases.

Remember to save the inmate's jail ID or booking number for any communication needs. If you cannot locate it online, call Whitley County Jail at 260-244-7119 for assistance.

Phone: 260-244-7119

Physical Address:
101 West Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Whitley County Jail?

To search for an inmate in the Whitley 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 260-244-7119 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.

Whitley County Jail Inmate Search

The Whitley County Jail maintains an average of 225 offenders in custody on any given day. The Whitley 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 Whitley County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 4,500 offenders.

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About the Whitley County Jail

The red brick building that houses the 225-bed Whitley County Jail is traditional to the area and fits well with its surroundings. It houses all inmates for Whitley County as they wait for their trial, both misdemeanor and felony, and accepts male and female inmates.

An online list of current inmates is updated frequently and staff are able to provide updates and information on procedures and regulations by calling 260-244-7119.

In addition to basic care, including medical, mental health, nutrition, and exercise, inmates are also provided with social interactions, and the ability to stay in contact with their family and their friends who are not incarcerated.

An account is created for each inmate after booking where they can have others deposit money for their expenses, commissary purchases, and phone calls during their incarceration. Money may be added to this account in person with cash at the jail lobby, or online.

Mail is permitted but it must be on white paper in a white envelope that has only the address of the jail...

Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725

... and a full return address on the envelope.

All mail must be through the USPS only.

All visits are completed online and can be accessed from home. An account is created online. 

Legal mail, money orders, books and newspaper and magazine subscriptions are mailed to:

Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

What should you know about the booking process at Whitley County Jail?

Once arrested, the person is taken to Whitley County Jail for booking, a process that confirms identity, assesses charges, and determines if they will be released on their own recognizance, posted for bail, or held until court.

Staying silent is key during this process, as anything spoken can be used as evidence in court. It’s best to wait for legal counsel before responding to questions.

Steps involved in booking at Whitley County Jail include:

  • Confirming identity.
  • Taking mugshots for record.
  • Medical, mental health, and substance history questioning.
  • DNA collection if applicable.
  • Comprehensive physical search.
  • Seizing personal property.
  • Access to a free phone call.

Booking can range from an hour to 48 hours depending on the circumstances. To check on an offender’s bond amount, contact Whitley County Jail at 260-244-7119.

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Directions / Map to the Whitley County Jail
Inmate Bail and Bonding

Steps to pay bail in Whitley County

After an arrest, individuals are brought to Whitley County Jail in Columbia City for processing. Following this, three possible outcomes exist:

1. The individual may be released without posting bail, with a promise to appear in court.
2. The individual could be held in jail until their court date.
3. Bail or bond can be posted for release; for more information, contact 260-244-7119.

Bail payment can be handled through various means.

  • Payment methods include cash, credit cards, and money orders.
  • Licensed bail bond agents in Whitley County are available for assistance.
  • Property within the county can be offered as collateral for bail.

To learn more about the bail process in Whitley County, Indiana, visit the Whitley County Jail Bail Page.

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Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Whitley County Jail? What is the Schedule?

The Whitley 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 Whitley County Jail

Whitley 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?

Whitley 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, Whitley 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 Video Tutorials

HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Whitley County Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 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 Whitley County Jail?

The information below provides complete instructions regarding Homewav Video Visitation for Whitley County Jail:

Visiting Hours and Visitation Schedule,
Visitation Rules,
Application & Registration
Inmate Video Visits, and
Jail Visitation Process for the Whitley County Jail

Whitley 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?

Whitley 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, Whitley 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 Video Tutorials

HomeWAV Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Whitley County Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Whitley County Jail?

You can deposit money four different ways:

correctpay.com Assistance:

24/7 Customer Service - 855-836-3364
Frequently Asked Questions

How to Send Money to an Inmate in Whitley County

To send commissary money to an inmate in Whitley County Jail follow these steps:

  • Register with correctpay by creating an account.
  • Select Indiana, then select Whitley 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.
  • You can deposit money four ways:
  • Deposit online at correctpay.com.
  • Deposit at the VendEngine kiosk in the Whitley County Jail lobby.
  • Deposit over the phone 24/7 at 855-836-3364
  • Deposit through their iOS or Android app.

For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account, what the fees are, how long it takes to hit their account and more, check out our full money and commissary guide for Whitley County Jail.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Whitley County Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Whitley County Jail?

How Do Inmates in Whitley County Jail Make Phone Calls?

To receive phone calls from inmates in Whitley County, or to assist them in making phone calls to other people, follow these steps:

  • Whitley 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 Whitley County inmates and their families and friends include Collect Calling, PIN Debits or Purchasing Calling Cards.

For all the information regarding phone calls with Whitley 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 Whitley County Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Whitley County Jail, and what can I send them?

Whitley County Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The Whitley County Jail allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. They may also allow certain photo postcards as long as they have not been tampered with or contain images that may be considered to be obscene or violent in nature. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address.

Envelopes
The Whitley 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 #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725



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
The Whitley County Jail allows books to be mailed directly to the jail from a reputable source such as AmazonBarnes & 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 Whitley County Jail standards will be disposed of. 
Hard cover books will not be accepted by the jail due to their potential to be used as a weapon.


All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725

Whitley County Jail Inmate Mail Policies and Address - What Can You Send, and Where?

For inmates receiving mail in the Whitley 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 Whitley County Jail:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID #
Whitley County Jail
101 W Market Street
Columbia City, IN 46725


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 Whitley County Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Whitley County Jail, and what can I purchase?

Whitley County Jail uses the services of correctpay.com (aka JailFunds) for you to deposit funds into your inmate’s account so that they can purchase Commissary and/or Gift Packs from this jail’s commissary service.

You can deposit money four different ways:

correctpay Contact, Help and FAQ

24/7 Customer Service - 855-836-3364
Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Whitley County Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Whitley County Jail using an Online Messaging Service?

Emailing and Texting Messages, Photos & Videograms

Whitley County Jail contracts with GTL GettingOut, the same service that handles Inmate Phone Systems and Video Visitation, for sending secure messages and photos between you and your inmate.


If you are not already registered, do so here, or Log in.

Then use the Facility Finder to:
1.  Select Whitley County Jail,
2. Add your inmate to your list of contacts,
3. Add a credit or debit card to cover your costs.

How Messaging Works
Watch this video on how to send a message.
1.
  Messages can be up to 500 characters long, including punctuation. At the bottom of your message there is a 'character countdown' feature.  
2. After you click the “CONTINUE” button, you can review the cost to send your message to your inmate. You can also attach credits for your inmate to reply to your message.  Be sure to accept the Terms and Conditions and click the “SEND” button for your message to be successfully delivered to your inmate.

How Uploading Photos Works
Watch this video on how to upload a photo.
1.
  Select the Photos Tab.
2. Select “Take New Photo” or “Upload New Photo”.
3. Take a new photo with your webcam, or select "Choose File" to upload a photo from your computer.
4. Give your photo a Title or add it to the "Gallery" of your choice.
5. Select the "Share" button.
6. Select your inmate(s) and then select "Share".
7. Once the photo is approved, it will be shared with your inmate(s).

Customer Service Questions
'Online' Contact Form, or
Call   866-516-0115

How to Communicate with an Whitley County Jail Inmate by Mail and by Email

To mail or email an inmate in Whitley County follow these steps:

When mailing a letter or postcard to an inmate, please follow these instructions:

  • All mail sent to an inmate at the Whitley County Jail must include the sender's name and mailing address in the top left corner of the envelope or postcard.
  • All mail must include the facility's address, as well as the inmate's name and assigned number.
  • Failure to include your return address will most likely result in your mail NOT being delivered and your letter destroyed.
  • The Whitley County Jail has a zero-tolerance policy regarding mail violations. 
  • All the information you need to understand mail and email policies can be found on our Inmate Mail Page and our Text/Email an Inmate Page.

Emailing Messages & Photos

Facility_name_1} contracts with GTL GettingOut, the same service that handles iInmate Phone Systems and Video Visitation, for sending secure messages and photos between you and your inmate.
 
If you are not already registered, do so here, or Log in.

Then use the Facility Finder to:
1.  Select Whitley County Jail,
2. Add your inmate to your list of contacts,
3. Add a credit or debit card to cover your costs.

  • Messages can be up to 500 characters long, including punctuation. At the bottom of your message there is a 'character countdown' feature.  
  • After you click the “CONTINUE” button, you can review the cost to send your message to your inmate. You can also attach credits for your inmate to reply to your message.  Be sure to accept the Terms and Conditions and click the “SEND” button for your message to be successfully delivered to your inmate.
  • You can also send your Whitley County inmate photos and videos.

Customer Service Questions
'Online' Contact Form, or
Call   866-516-0115

Go here to this FAQ to get answers to how the transition to ViaPath from GTL and gettingout will affect your account.

All the information you need to understand mail and email policies for Whitley County can be found on our Inmate Mail Page and our Text/Email an Inmate Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Whitley County Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Whitley County Jail have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Whitley 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:

Whitley 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:

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 Whitley County Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 260-244-7119 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the Whitley County Jail? What does it look like?
Other Jails Nearby

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Whitley County?

Whitley Huntington Wabash Allen Noble Kosciusko
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Search for an Inmate in Whitley County

This facility, known as "Whitley County Jail" is also known as Whitley County Sheriff's Office, Whitley County Jail , Whitley County Jail , Indiana, Whitley.