Ventura County Public Records /Ventura County Inmate Search

Ventura County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Ventura County?

Inmate records in Ventura County are official government documents maintained by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records document an individual's custody status from initial booking through release and are distinct from court records maintained by the judicial system.

Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, law enforcement agencies are required to maintain detailed records of all arrests and bookings. These records begin at the time of booking when an individual enters the custody of the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. The booking process initiates the creation of an inmate record, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and documenting personal information.

Inmate records differ from court records in several important ways:

Inmate records focus on custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
Court records document case proceedings, charges, and judicial decisions
The Ventura County Sheriff's Office maintains inmate records
The Superior Court of California, County of Ventura maintains court records

Throughout an individual's incarceration, their inmate record is continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation. Upon release, the record is updated to indicate the release date and type (e.g., completion of sentence, bail, transfer to another facility).

Are Inmate Records Public In Ventura County?

Inmate records in Ventura County are partially accessible to the public in accordance with the California Public Records Act (CPRA) and specific provisions in the California Penal Code. Under Government Code § 6253, public agencies must make non-exempt records promptly available upon request.

The following inmate information is generally available to the public:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information (name, date of birth, gender)
Current charges
Bail/bond amounts
Scheduled court dates
Expected release dates
Facility location

However, certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure to protect privacy, safety, and security interests. Pursuant to California Government Code § 6254(f), the following information may be restricted:

Medical and mental health records
Disciplinary records
Detailed housing assignments
Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
Information that would compromise institutional security

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access the Ventura County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal or submit formal public records requests for information not available through the online system.

What's Included Inmate Records in Ventura County

Inmate records in Ventura County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Gender
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Booking photograph ("mugshot")
Fingerprints
Identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
County-assigned booking number

Custody Information:

Current custody status (in custody, released, transferred)
Booking date and time
Arresting agency
Housing assignment within facility
Classification level
Disciplinary incidents and actions
Program participation

Charge Information:

Current charges (including statute numbers)
Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor)
Charge status (pending, convicted)
Warrant information (if applicable)
Probation/parole status (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bail amount (if eligible)
Bond type
Bond status (posted, not posted)
Bond conditions

Court Information:

Case numbers
Court of jurisdiction
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction date
Sentence length
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Credit for time served
Probation terms (if applicable)

Release Information:

Release date
Release type (completed sentence, bail/bond, transfer)
Release conditions
Post-release supervision requirements

This information is maintained in secure databases by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office in accordance with state record-keeping requirements and law enforcement best practices.

Ventura County Prison System

The Ventura County correctional system operates under the authority of the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who are arrested, awaiting trial, or serving sentences of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system, as they serve different populations and operate under different jurisdictions.

The Ventura County jail system primarily houses:

Individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing
Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanors (typically up to one year)
Individuals serving sentences for certain low-level felonies under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109)
Individuals temporarily held for transfer to other jurisdictions

By contrast, the California state prison system, operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, houses individuals convicted of more serious felonies with sentences exceeding one year.

Ventura County Sheriff's Office
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009
(805) 654-2380
Ventura County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains multiple detention facilities throughout the county to accommodate various custody levels and specialized populations. All facilities operate under the standards established by the California Board of State and Community Corrections and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Ventura County

Ventura County operates several distinct correctional facilities, each serving specific populations and security needs within the county's detention system:

Pre-Trial Detention Facility (Main Jail)
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009
(805) 654-3335
Ventura County Sheriff's Office

The Pre-Trial Detention Facility serves as the primary intake and processing center for all adults arrested in Ventura County. This maximum-security facility houses individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing, as well as those serving shorter sentences. The facility includes specialized housing units for various classification levels and needs.

Todd Road Jail
600 South Todd Road
Santa Paula, CA 93060
(805) 933-8501
Ventura County Sheriff's Office

Todd Road Jail is a medium-security facility primarily housing sentenced male inmates. The facility offers various rehabilitative programs, including educational courses, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and religious services. Todd Road Jail utilizes a direct supervision model where deputies interact directly with inmates in housing units.

East Valley Jail
2101 East Olsen Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
(805) 494-8242
Ventura County Sheriff's Office

The East Valley Jail is a smaller facility that primarily serves as a booking center for arrests made in the eastern portion of Ventura County. This facility processes individuals before transferring them to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility or releasing them on bail.

Ventura County Juvenile Justice Center
4333 Vineyard Avenue
Oxnard, CA 93036
(805) 981-5521
Ventura County Probation Agency

The Juvenile Justice Center houses youth who are detained pending juvenile court proceedings or who are serving terms as ordered by the juvenile court. This facility is operated by the Ventura County Probation Agency rather than the Sheriff's Office and provides educational and rehabilitative programming specifically designed for juvenile offenders.

Each facility maintains specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options based on its population and security classification.

Who's in Prison In Ventura County

The Ventura County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The jail population typically consists of the following categories:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment
Individuals who have been arraigned and are awaiting trial
Individuals who have been convicted but are awaiting sentencing
Individuals who cannot afford to post bail or are not eligible for bail

Sentenced Inmates:

Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
Individuals serving sentences for certain low-level felonies under California's Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109)
Individuals serving "split sentences" with a portion in jail followed by mandatory supervision

Special Populations:

Individuals held on immigration detainers
Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison, mental health facilities, or other jurisdictions
Individuals participating in work furlough or other alternative custody programs
Individuals held in protective custody due to safety concerns

According to data from the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population across all county detention facilities fluctuates between 1,300 and 1,500 inmates. This population is predominantly male (approximately 85-90%), with female inmates housed in designated units within the Pre-Trial Detention Facility.

The jail population reflects a range of offense types, including property crimes, drug offenses, violent crimes, and public order offenses. Many individuals in custody have co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, which the Sheriff's Office addresses through specialized treatment programs and services in collaboration with Ventura County Behavioral Health.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Ventura County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals in custody within the Ventura County jail system have several methods available to access inmate records. The Ventura County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of basic inmate information.

Online Inmate Search:

The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the Ventura County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal. To utilize this resource:

Navigate to the official Ventura County Sheriff's Office inmate search webpage
Enter the inmate's information in at least one of the search fields:
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional, but recommended)
- Booking number (if known)
Click the search button to view results
Review the list of matching records, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking number
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bail amount
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if applicable)

Telephone Inquiry:

For those without internet access or who need assistance with the online search, the Sheriff's Office maintains a dedicated information line:

Ventura County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information
(805) 654-3335
Available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

In-Person Inquiry:

Individuals may also request inmate information in person at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility:

Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009
Public Counter Hours: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, seven days a week

Public Records Request:

For more detailed information not available through the above methods, individuals may submit a formal public records request pursuant to the California Public Records Act:

Submit a written request to: Ventura County Sheriff's Office Records Unit
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009
Include the following information:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Specific information requested
- Requestor's contact information
Allow up to 10 business days for a response, as permitted under Government Code § 6253(c)

How To Find an Inmate in Ventura County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Ventura County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to help family members, friends, legal representatives, and other interested parties obtain basic information about individuals in custody.

Ventura County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search:

The primary resource for locating inmates in county custody is the Ventura County Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool. This free service provides:

Real-time information on current inmates
Basic demographic information
Current charges
Bail/bond information
Next court date
Expected release date (when available)

To use this service effectively:

Enter the inmate's last name (required)
Include first name if possible (for more precise results)
Use partial names if uncertain of spelling
Note that results only include individuals currently in Ventura County custody

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Inmate Locator:

If the person is not found in county custody, they may be in state prison. The California Incarcerated Records and Information Search (CIRIS) provides information on individuals in state custody. This free service includes:

Current location within the state prison system
CDCR identification number
Basic demographic information
Admission date
Earliest possible release date

Ventura County Superior Court Case Information:

The Ventura County Superior Court case inquiry system provides free access to basic case information, which may help determine if an individual has been arraigned, has upcoming court dates, or has been sentenced. This system includes:

Case numbers
Charges filed
Court dates
Case status
Disposition information (if case is resolved)

Telephone Resources:

For those without internet access, the following telephone resources are available at no cost:

Ventura County Sheriff's Inmate Information: (805) 654-3335
CDCR Inmate Locator Service: (916) 445-6713
Ventura County Superior Court: (805) 289-8900

When using any of these resources, having as much identifying information as possible (full name, date of birth, case number, booking number) will yield the most accurate results.

How To Visit an Inmate In Ventura County

Visiting an inmate in Ventura County requires adherence to specific procedures established by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. These procedures ensure security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

Visitation at Ventura County detention facilities operates on a scheduled basis in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 15, § 1062, which establishes minimum visitation standards for local detention facilities. The specific procedures include:

Registration as an approved visitor
Scheduling visits in advance
Arriving 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
Presenting valid government-issued photo identification
Submitting to security screening procedures

Visit Schedule:

Each facility maintains specific visitation hours:

Pre-Trial Detention Facility:

General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Special Housing Units: Schedule varies by unit

Todd Road Jail:

General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Special Housing Units: Schedule varies by unit

Visits are typically 30 minutes in duration. Inmates are permitted two visits per week.

What to Bring:

Visitors must bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
Visiting slip (provided upon scheduling)
If visiting with children: birth certificate or court documents proving guardianship

What NOT to Bring:

The following items are prohibited:

Weapons of any kind
Tools
Drugs or alcohol
Tobacco products
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches)
Cameras or recording devices
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Food or beverages
Purses, backpacks, or large bags

Dress Code:

Visitors must adhere to the following dress code:

No revealing or provocative clothing
No gang-related attire or symbols
No law enforcement or military-style clothing
No clothing resembling inmate attire
Shoes and shirts required
No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
No excessively baggy clothing

Visit Types:

Ventura County offers two primary types of visitation:

Contact Visits: Available for certain classification levels and special circumstances (attorney visits, clergy visits)
Non-Contact Visits: Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication

Visit Restrictions:

Visitation may be restricted under the following circumstances:

Inmate is on disciplinary status
Visitor appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Visitor fails to comply with facility rules
Visitor has a criminal history that poses security concerns
Court order prohibiting contact

For the most current visitation information, visitors should contact the Ventura County Sheriff's Office or call the specific facility prior to planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a Ventura County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates in Ventura County detention facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.

Approved Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the Ventura County Sheriff's Office inmate deposit portal
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's information (name and booking number)
- Enter payment information
- Confirm transaction
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit a deposit kiosk located in the lobby of the Pre-Trial Detention Facility or Todd Road Jail
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Retain receipt for verification
Mail-In Deposits:
- Send money order or cashier's check only (no personal checks or cash)
- Make payable to "Ventura County Sheriff's Office" with inmate's name and booking number in memo line
- Mail to: Ventura County Sheriff's Office Inmate Accounts 800 South Victoria Avenue Ventura, CA 93009

Deposit Limits and Fees:

Maximum single deposit: $300
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
Online deposit fee: $2.95 for deposits up to $20; $6.95 for deposits $20.01-$100; $9.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
Kiosk deposit fee: $2.95 for deposits up to $20; $6.95 for deposits $20.01-$100; $9.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
Mail-in deposit fee: No fee

Prohibited Items:

The following items cannot be sent with mail-in deposits:

Cash
Personal checks
Traveler's checks
Foreign currency
Correspondence (must be sent separately through regular mail)
Any items other than approved payment methods

Fund Usage:

Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Electronic messaging (where available)
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Restitution payments
Child support payments

Funds may not be used for:

Purchasing contraband
Paying other inmates
Gambling activities
Bribing staff or other inmates

All deposits are subject to verification and may take up to 24 hours to process. Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check.

How To Send Jail Mail In Ventura County

Correspondence with inmates in Ventura County detention facilities is subject to specific guidelines established by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 15, § 1063. These regulations ensure security while facilitating important communication between inmates and their support networks.

Mailing Address Format:

All mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Facility Name
Facility Address
City, State ZIP

Pre-Trial Detention Facility:

Inmate Name, Booking Number
Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009

Todd Road Jail:

Inmate Name, Booking Number
Todd Road Jail
600 South Todd Road
Santa Paula, CA 93060

Approved Mail Items:

The following items are permitted:

Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
Photographs (maximum 10 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6", no Polaroids)
Money orders or cashier's checks (must be in separate envelope addressed to Inmate Accounts)
Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to security review)
Periodicals and publications (must be sent directly from publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

The following items are prohibited:

Packages (without prior approval)
Padded envelopes
Plastic or wrapping materials
Stickers or adhesive labels
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Perfumed or scented items
Cash or personal checks
Postage stamps
Blank paper, envelopes, or stationery
Polaroid photographs
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related materials
Items larger than 9"x12"
Hardcover books
Food items
Clothing or fabric items
Any contraband or illegal items

Mail Inspection:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate.

Electronic Messaging:

Ventura County detention facilities also offer a secure electronic messaging system for friends and family to communicate with inmates: