Salt Lake County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Salt Lake County?
Inmate records in Salt Lake County are official government documents maintained by the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office that track and document individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional system. These comprehensive records contain detailed information about persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Salt Lake County detention facilities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records are maintained by the Utah State Courts and document legal proceedings, hearings, and case dispositions
- Inmate records are maintained by correctional facilities and focus on custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
- While related, these systems serve different purposes within the criminal justice system
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process pursuant to Utah Code § 77-20-201, which governs arrest and booking procedures. The record creation process includes:
- Initial creation during booking/intake processing
- Documentation of personal information, charges, and initial assessment
- Ongoing updates throughout incarceration reflecting classification changes, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Closure and archiving upon release from custody
The Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Utah Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), which establishes guidelines for record retention and public access.
Are Inmate Records Public In Salt Lake County?
Inmate records in Salt Lake County are partially public under Utah state law. According to the Utah Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), certain inmate information is classified as public record and must be made available upon request. However, specific portions of inmate records may be classified as protected or private information.
Under Utah Code § 63G-2-301, which defines public records, the following inmate information is generally accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
- Basic booking information including name, date of birth, and booking photo
- Charges filed and case numbers
- Bond/bail amounts when applicable
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility
However, certain information within inmate records is restricted from public access under Utah Code § 63G-2-305, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Classification and security risk assessments
- Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
- Victim information
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
The Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides public access to allowable information while protecting sensitive data in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Salt Lake County
Inmate records in Salt Lake County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Booking number and other identifiers
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, hold for other agency)
- Classification level
- Housing assignment
- Disciplinary records
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges (felony/misdemeanor designation)
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Offense dates
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, etc.)
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Upcoming court dates
- Court case numbers
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/earned time credits
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Release type (time served, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
The Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state record-keeping requirements and jail standards established by the Utah Sheriffs' Association.
Salt Lake County Prison System
The Salt Lake County correctional system operates under the authority of the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals arrested in the county. This system primarily consists of the Salt Lake County Metro Jail and Oxbow Jail facilities, which house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Utah:
- County jails house individuals awaiting trial, serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year), or awaiting transfer to state facilities
- State prisons, operated by the Utah Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year
The Salt Lake County jail system currently has capacity for approximately 2,200 inmates across its facilities. The system operates under the direct supervision of the Salt Lake County Sheriff and adheres to standards established by the Utah Sheriffs' Association and national correctional accreditation bodies.
For information regarding the Salt Lake County jail system, contact:
Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office
3365 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Phone: (385) 468-9800
Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Salt Lake County
Salt Lake County operates multiple correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Salt Lake County Metro Jail
3415 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Phone: (385) 468-8400
Salt Lake County Metro Jail
The Metro Jail is the primary detention facility in Salt Lake County, housing approximately 2,000 inmates. This maximum/medium security facility handles intake processing for all arrests in the county and houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility includes specialized housing units for:
- General population
- Administrative segregation
- Medical and mental health needs
- Female inmates
- Protective custody
Oxbow Jail
3148 South 1100 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Phone: (385) 468-8700
Oxbow Jail
The Oxbow Jail is a medium/minimum security facility with capacity for approximately 200 inmates. This facility primarily houses:
- Minimum security male inmates
- Work release program participants
- Inmates in specialized treatment programs
- Trustees and other low-risk classifications
Salt Lake County does not operate juvenile detention facilities. Juvenile offenders are housed in facilities operated by the Utah Division of Juvenile Justice Services:
Salt Lake Valley Detention Center
3450 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Phone: (385) 468-4500
Utah Division of Juvenile Justice Services
Who's in Prison In Salt Lake County
The Salt Lake County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically includes:
Pre-trial detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These detainees may be held because:
- They have not posted bail
- They have been denied bail due to public safety concerns
- They are awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
Sentenced inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of up to one year. These typically include:
- Misdemeanor offenders (Class A, B, and C misdemeanors)
- Some non-violent felony offenders serving short sentences
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Special populations:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Individuals awaiting transfer to federal custody
- Individuals held on behalf of other counties or jurisdictions
- Probation and parole violators awaiting hearings
According to data from the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population in county correctional facilities is approximately 1,800-2,000 inmates. The demographic breakdown typically reflects:
- Approximately 80-85% male and 15-20% female inmates
- Diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds
- Ages ranging from 18 to senior citizens
- Various socioeconomic backgrounds
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case type, with pre-trial detainees averaging 23 days and sentenced inmates typically serving between 30-180 days.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Salt Lake County in 2026
Members of the public may search for inmate records in Salt Lake County through several official channels. The Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate information that is accessible through the following methods:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Inmate Lookup website
- Enter the required search criteria (at least one field is required):
- Inmate's full or partial name
- Booking number (if known)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Review the search results, which will display basic information about currently incarcerated individuals
- Select an individual record to view additional publicly available details
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Records Division during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
- Complete a GRAMA request form specifying the inmate information being requested
- Provide identification and any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Allow processing time as specified by staff (typically 5-10 business days)
Written Records Request:
-
Download and complete the GRAMA Request Form from the Salt Lake County website
-
Include specific information about the inmate record being requested
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Submit the completed form via mail to:
Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Records Division
3365 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119 -
Include applicable fees for document reproduction and postage
-
Allow 10-15 business days for processing
When requesting inmate records, be prepared to provide:
- Your full name and contact information
- The inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Booking number or case number (if known)
- Specific information being requested
- Purpose of the request (optional)
Pursuant to the Utah Government Records Access and Management Act, certain information may be redacted or withheld based on privacy protections and security considerations.
How To Find an Inmate in Salt Lake County for Free?
Members of the public may locate inmates in Salt Lake County custody at no cost through several official channels. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate location information:
Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search portal
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review search results showing current inmates matching the search criteria
- View basic information including:
- Inmate name and booking number
- Current housing location
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date (if scheduled)
Telephone Information:
- Call the Salt Lake County Jail Information Line at (385) 468-8400
- Provide the operator with the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Request current custody status and location information
- Note that telephone operators can only provide limited public information
Utah Department of Corrections Offender Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the Utah Department of Corrections Offender Search
- Enter the offender's name or offender number
- Review results to determine if the individual is in state custody
Utah State Courts XChange System: To locate inmates through court records:
- Access the Utah State Courts XChange portal
- Create an account or log in (fees may apply for detailed case information)
- Search by the individual's name
- Review case information which may indicate custody status
When searching for inmates, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including:
- Full legal name (including middle name or initial)
- Date of birth
- Booking number or case number (if known)
The information available through these free resources is limited to basic public record data as defined by Utah state law.
How To Visit an Inmate In Salt Lake County
Visitation with inmates in Salt Lake County correctional facilities is governed by specific policies established by the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office. These policies ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections for incarcerated individuals.
Visit Types:
- On-site video visitation (available at both Metro and Oxbow facilities)
- Remote video visitation (available from any internet-connected device)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Special visits (approved on case-by-case basis)
Visit Schedule:
- On-site video visits: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Remote video visits: Available 7 days a week, 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Professional visits: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (extended hours by appointment)
- Visit duration: Standard visits are 25 minutes
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must register in the Salt Lake County Jail Visitation System
- Visitors must provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must schedule appointments at least 24 hours in advance
- Visitors are limited to two 25-minute visits per week per inmate
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitation confirmation number
- Necessary medical items (medications, mobility devices)
- Money for vending machines (on-site visits only)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire required
- No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
Visit Restrictions: Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended for:
- Violation of facility rules
- Security concerns
- Disciplinary actions against the inmate
- Facility lockdowns or emergencies
For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:
Salt Lake County Jail Visitation Office
3415 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Phone: (385) 468-8400
Salt Lake County Jail Visitation
All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security requirements pursuant to Utah Administrative Code R251-705, which governs inmate visitation in Utah correctional facilities.
How To Send Money to a Salt Lake County Inmate
The Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.
Approved Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Services website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Salt Lake County Jail" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's name and booking number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Fees: $2.50 for deposits up to $50; $3.50 for deposits $50.01-$100
-
Lobby Kiosk
- Available 24/7 in the public lobby of the Metro Jail
- Touch screen kiosk accepts cash, credit, and debit cards
- Enter inmate information as prompted
- Obtain receipt for your records
- Fees: $2.00 per transaction
-
Phone Deposits
- Call TouchPay at 1-866-232-1899
- Provide inmate information when prompted
- Complete transaction using credit/debit card
- Fees: $3.50 per transaction
-
Money Order by Mail
-
Purchase money order payable to "Salt Lake County Jail"
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Write inmate's full name and booking number on money order
-
Do not send cash or personal checks
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Mail to:
Salt Lake County Jail Inmate Accounts
3415 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119 -
No fees for money orders
-
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposits per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $2,500.00
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary items (hygiene products, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts and other services
- Release funds
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bond/bail payments (separate process)
- Payments to outside vendors
- Transfers to other inmates
- Payments for fines or restitution (handled through courts)
Additional Information:
- Funds are typically available in inmate accounts within 24 hours
- Money orders may take 3-5 business days to process
- Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release
- Questions about inmate accounts can be directed to (385) 468-8400
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review pursuant to Utah Administrative Code R251-702, which governs inmate funds in correctional facilities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Salt Lake County
Correspondence with inmates in Salt Lake County correctional facilities must follow specific guidelines established by the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office. These regulations ensure security while allowing inmates to maintain important connections with family and community.
Regular Mail Guidelines:
All incoming mail must be addressed as follows:
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Salt Lake County Metro Jail
3415 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
- Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit or obscene materials
- Gang-related content
- Items containing threats or contraband
Legal Mail: Legal correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate to maintain confidentiality while ensuring security.
Electronic Messaging: Salt Lake County Jail offers secure electronic messaging through the SmartJailMail system:
- Create an account on the SmartJailMail website
- Add the inmate to your contacts using their name and booking number
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages (text only, no attachments)
- Fees: $0.50 per message
Mail Inspection: All non-legal mail is opened, inspected, and may be read by jail staff before delivery to inmates. Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in criminal charges or loss of mail privileges.
Mail Restrictions: Mail privileges may be restricted or suspended for:
- Violation of mail policies
- Security concerns
- Disciplinary actions against the inmate
- Facility lockdowns or emergencies
For questions regarding mail policies, contact:
Salt Lake County Jail Mail Room
3415 South 900 West
South Salt Lake, UT 84119
Phone: (385) 468-8400
Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office
All mail policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security requirements pursuant to Utah Administrative Code R251-704, which governs inmate mail in Utah correctional facilities.