Shelby County Main Jail

Shelby County Main Jail Information

The Shelby County Main Jail is a 2813 bed jail in the city of Memphis, Shelby County, Tennessee.

This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 901-222-4700, 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: 901-222-4700

Physical Address:
201 Poplar Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Booking number & Location where housed (if known)
Shelby County Main Jail
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Booking number & Location where housed (if known)
Shelby County Main Jail
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Shelby County Main Jail?

To search for an inmate in the Shelby County Main 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 901-222-4700 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up a Shelby County offender's Criminal Court Case online, or any offender that was arrested in the state of Tennessee.

Tennessee also keeps a public database of all their felony offenders.

Shelby County Main Jail Inmate Search

The Shelby County Main Jail maintains an average of 2813 offenders in custody on any given day. The Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 68,480 offenders.

The following charts of Shelby 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 Shelby County Corrections Department, the state of Tennessee Department of Corrections, as well as the United States Department of Justice and Census Bureau records. It represents every person in custody in Shelby 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 Shelby 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 Shelby County and Tennessee state prisons, click the button below.
Shelby County INMATE DEMOGRAPHICS

Shelby County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 3/29/2024

Race Inmates % Total
White 7 0.27%
Black 2,148 82.43%
Hispanic or Latino 332 12.74%
American Indian/Native Alaskan 10 0.38%
Asian 90 3.45%
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian 6 0.23%
Other 13 0.50%
Total 2,606 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Shelby County Inmate Criminal Charges - 3/29/2024

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Charge Inmates % Total
Felony (3rd Degree) 431 16.54%
Felony (2rd Degree) 581 22.29%
Felony (1st Degree) 289 11.09%
State Jail Felony 203 7.79%
Felony (Uncategorized) 778 29.85%
Misdemeanor (Class A) 324 12.43%
Misdemeanor (Class C) 0 0.00%
Holds 0 0.00%
Uncategorized 0 0.00%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Shelby County Inmate Sex - 3/29/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 2,317 88.91%
Female 289 11.09%
Total 2,606 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Shelby County Inmate Age - 3/29/2024

Age Inmates % Total
Under 18 13 0.50%
18-20 111 4.26%
21-24 232 8.90%
25-30 615 23.60%
31-35 339 13.01%
36-40 522 20.03%
41-45 221 8.48%
46-50 203 7.79%
51-55 162 6.22%
56-60 129 4.95%
61-65 42 1.61%
66-75 17 0.65%
76-85 0 0.00%
Total 2,606 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.
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About the Shelby County Main Jail

Shelby County has two detention facilities and house male inmates in the Shelby County Main Jail and female inmates in the Shelby County Jail East.

Falling under the responsibility of the Sheriff’s Office, Shelby County Main Jail stands six stories high and was completed in 1981 with a top capacity of 1200, and has been further renovated and maintained so it now has a capacity of 2,813 beds.

It is built with a brick base and metal accents, allowing it to fit in with the surrounding architecture when it was built, but now seems a bit out dated on the exterior despite the upgrades to the cells, common areas, and the security. It operates with a camera system that allows views of both the inside and the outside of the building, and this allows for inmates to be monitored around the clock.

Many programs are offered including a library, education that includes alcohol and drug use, anger management, creative arts, domestic violence awareness, religious services, parenting, life skills, and religious programming. Recreation time and activities are available and encourage improving social skills and remaining active even during incarceration.

A contract is in place with a local health care provider to ensure that all inmates receive medical care as needed, and that all ongoing care is provided for existing conditions. The mental health unit provides mental health support and counseling for all residents, and upon release resources are provided that can be accessed for ongoing treatment. 

Mail: Only fully addressed letters that have a complete return address will be accepted. Paperback books or magazines are only accepted directly from the publisher.

The inmate’s full name
Booking number
Floor and pod where housed if known
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103

Phones: Phones are located within common areas of all housing units and allow inmates to call their family or friends daily, maintaining relationships that are key to reduced recidivism and successful rehabilitation.  

Visitation:  All visits are video and can be accessed onsite or remotely for all approved visitors. Visits must be scheduled in advance, at least one full day, and they are 10 or 25 minutes long at a cost of $2.50 and $6.25 respectively. Visiting hours are not published or shared by the facility, and will show only when a visit is being scheduled for that specific inmate.

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Shelby County Main Jail?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Shelby County Main Jail, call the jail’s booking line at 901-222-4700.

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.

Shelby County Main Jail Booking Roster

What happens during booking in Shelby 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 Shelby 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County and other Tennessee 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail
Inmate Bail and Bonding

Bonding an Inmate

The 24-Hour Court Clerk’s office is also located in the Jail Annex visitation area.
You may post a cash bond or use the services of a licensed bonding company of your choice.


The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office does NOT make recommendations as to which bonding company you use.
You can call the Shelby County Sheriff at 901-222-4700 24 hours a day to find out the bond amount.

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Inmate Visitation

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

Shelby County Main Jail at-the-jail Inmate Video Visitation Schedule, Registration & Guidelines

201 Poplar Avenue
Memphis, TN 38103
For scheduling Issues call 901-222-4928
For technical support call 855-208-7349

  • First you must register with GTL / ViaPath to visit an inmate. And you have to be approved by the Shelby County Sheriff's office.
  • IOS users will need to ensure the default Apple device browser is set to Safari. 
  • Android Users will need to update to the latest version of the applications GTL – Schedule Visits (1 of 2) and GTL – Internet Visits (2 of 2). Users will also need to change auto-update to enabled instead of disabled.
  • For Technical Support : call GTL / ViaPath at 855-208-7349.
  • All Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance, although walk-ups are accepted if a slot is available.
  • Visits are allowed between the hours of 8:00AM and 12:00noon, and between 3:00PM and 7:00PM.
  • One visitor per inmate, although this may change soon.  Call 901-222-4928 to confirm.
  • If you have any outstanding warrants, pending cases or have a 'no contact order' with your visitor, the visit is not happening.
  • Arrive 30 minutes prior to check-in. Check-in is 30 minutes prior to your scheduled visit.

MAIN JAIL VISITING SCHEDULE

INMATES DAY TIMES
4th fl. Northside
(k, l, m, n, p,
q, r, s)
---
6th fl
(a, b, c)
MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
3rd
Northside
(k, l, m, n, p,
q, r, s)
---
JM housing
---
4th floor
H Cell 1, 3
TUE 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
4th Southside
(a, b, c, d,
e, f, g)
---
5th fl (a, b, c)
WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
3rd fl Southside
(a, b, c, d,
e, f, g)
---
2nd fl (a, b, c, d,
e, f, g, h, p, q)
---
4th floor
H Cell 2, 4
THU 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
1st fl A-Pod
---
3rd fl H-Pod
---
LL H-pod
---
4th fl A-Pod
FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
1st fl B-Pod SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM


MAIN JAIL ANNEX VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Trustees that work in the morning, can get visits in the afternoon and evening.
  • Trustees that work in the afternoon, can get visits in the morning.
  • Trustees that have the day off, can get visits either morning or afterrnoon or evening.
INMATE'S
LAST NAME
DAY TIMES
S, T, U, V MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
O, P, Q, R MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
A, B, C TUE 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
W, X, Y, Z TUE 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
H, I, J, K WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
D, E, F, G
---
Trustees &
Rockmen
WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
O, P, Q, R THU 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
L, M, N THU 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
W, X, Y, Z
---
Trustees &
Rockmen
FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
S, T, U, V FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
D, E, F, G SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
A, B, C SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
L, M, N SUN 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
H, I, J, K
---
Trustees &
Rockmen
SUN 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM


MAIN JAIL TRUSTEES & ROCKMEN SCHEDULE

  • Trustees that work in the morning, can get visits in the afternoon and evening.
  • Trustees that work in the afternoon, can get visits in the morning.
  • Trustees that have the day off, can get visits either morning or afterrnoon or evening.
Trustees &
Rockmen
INMATE'S
LAST NAME
DAY TIMES
G, J MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
G, J WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
G, J FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
G, J SUN 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM


MAIN JAIL LOWER LEVEL (after the first 3 days)

INMATE'S
LAST NAME
DAY TIMES
S, T, U, V MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
O, P, Q, R TUE 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
A, B, C WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
W, X, Y, Z THU 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
H, I, J, K FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
D, E, F, G SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
L, M, N SUN 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM



Shelby County Main Jail REMOTE (from your home) INMATE VISITATION SCHEDULE, REGISTRATION & GUIDELINES

For scheduling Issues call 901-222-4928
For technical support call 855-208-7349

  • First you must register with GTL / ViaPath to visit an inmate. And you have to be approved by the Shelby County Sheriff's office.
  • IOS users will need to ensure the default Apple device browser is set to Safari. 
  • Android Users will need to update to the latest version of the applications GTL – Schedule Visits (1 of 2) and GTL – Internet Visits (2 of 2). Users will also need to change auto-update to enabled instead of disabled.
  • For Technical Support : call GTL / ViaPath at 855-208-7349.
  • All Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance.
  • Visits are allowed between the hours of 8:00AM and 12:00noon, and between 3:00PM and 7:00PM.
  • Three visitors per inmate.
  • If you have any outstanding warrants, pending cases or have a 'no contact order' with your visitor, the visit is not happening.
  • No remote visiting from your bedroom, bathroom or a bar.
  • Arrive to your computer and sign in 15 minutes prior to your scheduled visit.
  • COST: 10 Minute Internet Visit is $2.50... and a 25 Minute Internet Visit cost is $6.25.

MAIN JAIL REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

INMATES DAY TIMES
ALL SUN 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL TUE 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL THU 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM

Shelby County Main Jail uses GettingOut for their Remote Video Visitation and/or Visit Scheduling. 

There are three ways to remotely visit your inmate:

1.  Using the GettingOut/GTL Kiosk at the jail.
2. Using your computer from home.
3. Using your phone on the GettingOut or GTL apps.

How it Works with GettingOut
1.  Register an account.
2. Select Shelby County Main Jail
3. Choose either an INMATE ACCOUNT or FRIENDS & FAMILY ACCOUNT.   

  • **NOTE** Friends and Family must have funds in their "Friends & Family Account" to respond to inmate messages. 
  • If you deposit money online in the INMATE ACCOUNT, than they have the freedom to spend the money on visits or phone calls to anyone, or any other communications services available at Shelby County Main Jail.
  • With the FRIENDS & FAMILY ACCOUNT, you control all communication services such as phone calls, video visits and messaging. Your inmate can only call the phone number you want.

4. You will then receive prompts to validate both your identity and phone number .
5. Again, choose your inmate's facility, then type their name and select your inmate.

GettingOut will then guide you through the steps needed to arrange your remote visit.

Customer Service for GettingOut
If you have any questions, you can call them at 866-516-0115.
GettingOut online contact form
Frequently Asked Questions
The GettingOut App is available on Google Play and Apple Store.

How Do You Visit an Inmate in Shelby County Main Jail?

To visit an inmate in Shelby County, whether by video or in person 'at the jail', follow these steps:

Other than 'at the jail' visits between you and your inmate, which is explained and outlined in detail on our Visit Inmate Page, Shelby County remote video inmate visitation can be done using the services of GettingOut

There are three ways to remotely visit your inmate in Shelby County Main Jail:
1.  Using the GettingOut Kiosk at the jail.
2. Using your computer from home.
3. Using your phone on the GettingOut apps.

To remotely visit an inmate in Shelby County follow these steps:
1.  Start by confirming that Shelby County Main Jail's Video Visitation is working correctly by looking up Shelby County here.

2.  The next step is to create an account here for GettingOut.
3. Then add funds to your account.
4. Last, select Shelby County Main Jail, and then the inmate you wish to communicate with.

Other Shelby County Services provided by GettingOut:
 - Phone Calls & Voicemail 
 - Email, Photo & Video Sharing
-  Inmate Tablet Rental
-  Deposits

Customer Service
If you have any questions about the Shelby County Main Jail Visitation Services you can call them at 866-516-0115.
Frequently Asked Questions

* All the information you need to have complete knowledge about inmate visitation; policies, rules, fees, schedules, tips, dress codes, and children, lawyers and clergy visitation in Shelby County, can be found on our Visit Inmate Page.

Shelby County Main Jail Phone: 901-222-4700

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Shelby County Main Jail’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 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 Shelby County Main Jail?


Shelby County Main Jail REMOTE (from your home) INMATE VISITATION SCHEDULE, REGISTRATION & GUIDELINES

For scheduling Issues call 901-222-4928
For technical support call 855-208-7349

  • First you must register with GTL / ViaPath to visit an inmate. And you have to be approved by the Shelby County Sheriff's office.
  • IOS users will need to ensure the default Apple device browser is set to Safari. 
  • Android Users will need to update to the latest version of the applications GTL – Schedule Visits (1 of 2) and GTL – Internet Visits (2 of 2). Users will also need to change auto-update to enabled instead of disabled.
  • For Technical Support : call GTL / ViaPath at 855-208-7349.
  • All Visits must be scheduled at least one day in advance.
  • Visits are allowed between the hours of 8:00AM and 12:00noon, and between 3:00PM and 7:00PM.
  • Three visitors per inmate.
  • If you have any outstanding warrants, pending cases or have a 'no contact order' with your visitor, the visit is not happening.
  • No remote visiting from your bedroom, bathroom or a bar.
  • Arrive to your computer and sign in 15 minutes prior to your scheduled visit.
  • COST: 10 Minute Internet Visit is $2.50... and a 25 Minute Internet Visit cost is $6.25.

MAIN JAIL REMOTE VISITATION SCHEDULE

INMATES DAY TIMES
ALL SUN 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL MON 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL TUE 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL WED 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL THU 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL FRI 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM
ALL SAT 8:00AM-12:00PM
3:00PM-7:00PM

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Shelby County Main Jail’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County

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

  • Register with correctpay by creating an account.
  • Select Tennessee, then select Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Shelby County Main Jail’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

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

How Do You Communicate with an Inmate in the Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

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

Shelby County Main Jail Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 & Booking number & Location where housed (if known)
Shelby County Main Jail
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Booking number & Location where housed (if known)
Shelby County Main Jail
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103



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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 & Booking number & Location where housed (if known)
Shelby County Main Jail
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103

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

For inmates receiving mail in the Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail:
Inmate's Full Name & Booking number & Location where housed (if known)
Shelby County Main Jail
201 Poplar Ave.
Memphis, TN 38103


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 Shelby County Main Jail’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

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

Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

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

Emailing and Texting Messages, Photos & Videograms

Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail Inmate by Mail and by Email

To mail or email an inmate in Shelby 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main 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 Shelby 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 Shelby 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 Shelby County Main Jail’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

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

Shelby County Main Jail allows inmates access to tablets to use for the services provided by 'gettingout'.


The devices are similar to common handheld tablets, but are made exclusively by GettingOut, a GTL / Viapath company.
Tablets offer specialized content and services for inmates to use during their stay at Shelby County Main 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 Shelby County Main Jail.
-  Subscription services are funded separately by family and friends with deposits made into an inmate’s Debit Link account.
-  Shelby County Main Jail Inmates will then be able to purchase subscription services and premium content to enjoy.

What Does a Tablet Cost?

  • 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 Shelby County Main Jail charges.

To estimate costs for phone calls, sign in to your account and click “Rate & Fees Calculator” in the footer (bottom of the page) or call 866-516-0115 for assistance.

How Inmates Can Use a Tablet to Access Services at Shelby County Main Jail

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

1.  First, Register or Sign In to GettingOut/GTL

2.  Purchase the services you want for your Shelby County Main Jail inmate.
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 Shelby County Main Jail’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 901-222-4700 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the Shelby County Main Jail? What does it look like?
Other Jails in Shelby County

What are the other City and County Jails in Shelby County?

Shelby County County Jails
Shelby County City Jails
Shelby County Juvenile Facilities
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Other Jails Nearby

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

Shelby Crittenden Marshall DeSoto Fayette Tipton
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US State Prison Population Demographics

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024 - 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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 3/29/2024

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 "Shelby County Main Jail" is also known as Shelby County Jail - Memphis, Criminal Justice Complex, Shelby County Jail - Memphis, Tennessee, Shelby.