Yuma County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Yuma County?
Inmate records in Yuma County are official government documents maintained by the Yuma County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the status, history, and personal information of individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. These records constitute an essential administrative function pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 31-221, which mandates the proper documentation and maintenance of prisoner records.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and supervision of detainees
- Court records are maintained by the Yuma County Superior Court or Justice Courts
- Inmate records are maintained by the Yuma County Sheriff's Office Detention Center
The creation of an inmate record begins during the booking process when an individual is first taken into custody. During intake, detention staff collect biographical information, take photographs and fingerprints, inventory personal property, and document the reason for detention. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, visitation logs, and other relevant custody information. Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document.
The Yuma County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and legal requirements.
Are Inmate Records Public In Yuma County?
Yes, certain inmate records in Yuma County are considered public information under Arizona law. The Arizona Public Records Law (A.R.S. § 39-121) establishes that "Public records and other matters in the custody of any officer shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours." This statute creates a presumption of openness for government records, including basic inmate information.
However, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly accessible. The Yuma County Sheriff's Office, in compliance with A.R.S. § 31-221 and federal privacy laws, restricts access to certain sensitive information while making other portions available to the public.
Information typically available to the public includes:
- Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed
- Mugshots/booking photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
Information typically restricted from public access includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social Security numbers
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Victim information
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Records of juveniles (with limited exceptions)
The Yuma County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search function that provides public access to basic custody information in accordance with these legal parameters.
What's Included Inmate Records in Yuma County
Inmate records in Yuma County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Visitation logs
- Phone call records
- Commissary account activity
Charge Information:
- Current charges (felony or misdemeanor)
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Arrest date and location
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned credits
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, time served, transfer)
- Conditions of release
- Probation/parole requirements
The Yuma County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in compliance with state record-keeping requirements and detention standards.
Yuma County Prison System
The Yuma County detention system operates under the authority of the Yuma County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. The system is distinct from the Arizona Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons for individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year.
The Yuma County detention system primarily consists of the Yuma County Detention Center, which serves as the main holding facility for both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to one year. This facility houses individuals arrested by various law enforcement agencies throughout Yuma County, including the Sheriff's Office, Yuma Police Department, and other municipal police departments within the county.
Key distinctions between the county jail and state prison systems include:
- County jails house pre-trial detainees and those serving sentences of less than one year
- State prisons house convicted felons serving sentences of one year or more
- County jails are operated by the Sheriff's Office
- State prisons are operated by the Arizona Department of Corrections
For information regarding the Yuma County detention system, contact:
Yuma County Sheriff's Office
141 S. 3rd Avenue
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 783-4427
Yuma County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Yuma County
Yuma County maintains several detention facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations:
Yuma County Detention Center (Main Jail)
200 W. Court Street
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 539-7800
Yuma County Sheriff's Office Detention Center
The main detention center is a secure facility that houses the majority of inmates in Yuma County. This facility accommodates both male and female inmates across various security classifications, from minimum to maximum security. The facility includes housing units, medical services, visitation areas, and administrative offices.
Yuma County Juvenile Justice Center
2795 S. Avenue B
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 314-1900
Yuma County Juvenile Justice Center
This facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are detained pending court proceedings or serving court-ordered detention. The facility operates separately from adult detention and provides specialized services for juvenile offenders, including educational programming and counseling services.
Yuma County Work Release Center
141 S. 3rd Avenue
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 783-4427
Yuma County Sheriff's Office
This minimum-security facility houses low-risk inmates who are permitted to leave the facility for employment during the day and return to custody during non-working hours. This program allows qualifying inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences.
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and housing classifications designed to maintain safety while providing appropriate levels of supervision based on inmate risk assessments.
Who's in Prison In Yuma County
The Yuma County detention facilities house several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
Sentenced Inmates:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of up to one year
- Those convicted of certain low-level felonies serving shorter sentences locally
- Persons serving time for probation violations
Special Populations:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state or federal facilities
- Those held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Individuals serving weekend sentences or participating in work release programs
Temporary Holds:
- Persons detained for court appearances from other jurisdictions
- Individuals held on out-of-county warrants awaiting transfer
- Those temporarily housed due to overcrowding in other facilities
The demographic composition of the Yuma County jail population typically reflects the broader community but with disproportionate representation of certain groups consistent with national incarceration trends. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors.
Most inmates in Yuma County facilities are local residents charged with or convicted of crimes within the county's jurisdiction. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 30 days, while sentenced inmates may serve up to one year in county facilities before release or transfer to state custody for longer sentences.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Yuma County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Yuma County may utilize several methods to access this information:
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Yuma County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Detention" section
- Enter the requested information (name, booking number, or other identifier)
- Review the results, which typically include basic custody information
- Print or save the information as needed
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Yuma County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Yuma County Sheriff's Office
141 S. 3rd Avenue
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 783-4427 - Complete a public records request form
- Provide identification and specify the records being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Receive copies of available public records
Written Records Request:
- Prepare a written request including:
- Full name of the inmate
- Date of birth or approximate age
- Approximate dates of incarceration
- Specific information requested
- Your contact information
- Mail the request to:
Yuma County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
141 S. 3rd Avenue
Yuma, AZ 85364 - Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
- Enclose any required fees (typically $5-15 depending on the records requested)
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Yuma County Sheriff's Office Detention Center at (928) 539-7800
- Provide the name of the inmate you are inquiring about
- Note that only basic information (confirmation of custody status, charges, bond amount) is typically provided by telephone
When requesting records, be aware that processing times vary based on the complexity of the request and current workload. Standard requests are typically processed within 5-10 business days.
How To Find an Inmate in Yuma County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Yuma County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources:
Yuma County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Yuma County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Detention" or "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Housing location
- Next court date
Arizona Vine System (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):
- Visit the Arizona VINE website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Choose Arizona from the state dropdown menu
- Enter the inmate's name
- Review the results, which include custody status and location
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Yuma County Detention Center at (928) 539-7800
- Request information during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday)
- Provide the full name of the person you are trying to locate
- Staff can confirm if the person is in custody and provide basic information
Court Records Search:
- Visit the Yuma County Justice Court website
- Use the public case search function
- Enter the individual's name
- Review case information, which may indicate custody status
When searching for an inmate, having the following information available will improve search accuracy:
- Full legal name (including middle name if known)
- Date of birth or approximate age
- Possible booking date or arrest date
- Any known aliases
These free search methods provide basic custody information but may not include comprehensive inmate records. For detailed records, a formal public records request may be necessary.
How To Visit an Inmate In Yuma County
Visitation with inmates at Yuma County detention facilities is governed by specific policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to visits at the Yuma County Detention Center:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor request forms during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted up to 5 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- Pre-registration is required at least 24 hours before the intended visit
Visit Schedule:
- General population: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Maximum security: Saturday and Sunday only, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Special housing units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Each inmate is allowed two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication needed during visit (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No gang-related clothing or colors
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, probation officers)
- Video visitation available at some facilities
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons with active warrants or criminal cases pending will be denied entry
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
- Disruptive behavior will result in termination of visit and possible suspension of privileges
- Visitors who have been convicted of a felony must receive special permission
For the most current visitation information, contact:
Yuma County Detention Center
200 W. Court Street
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 539-7800
Yuma County Sheriff's Office Detention Center
Visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations in accordance with Arizona Administrative Code R5-1-405.
How To Send Money to a Yuma County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Yuma County detention facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Yuma County Sheriff's Office" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using credit card, debit card, or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on deposit amount)
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Yuma County Detention Center lobby during regular business hours
Yuma County Detention Center
200 W. Court Street
Yuma, AZ 85364 - Use the TouchPay kiosk located in the lobby
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Make payment using cash, credit card, or debit card
- Obtain and keep receipt
- Service fees apply (typically $2.00-$5.00)
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make payable to "Yuma County Sheriff's Office Inmate Trust Account"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Mail to:
Yuma County Sheriff's Office
Inmate Accounts 200 W. Court Street Yuma, AZ 85364 - Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
- No service fee for money orders
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-8% of deposit amount
- Lobby kiosk: $2.00-$5.00 per transaction
- Money orders: No fee
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fines or fees
- Restitution payments
- Purchasing contraband items
- Transferring to other inmates' accounts
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Approved educational materials
- Release funds
Funds deposited into an inmate's account are typically available within 24-48 hours for online and kiosk deposits, and 3-5 business days for money orders. Upon release, any remaining balance will be returned to the inmate via debit card or check.
How To Send Jail Mail In Yuma County
Correspondence with inmates in Yuma County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following rules apply to all mail sent to inmates:
Addressing Mail Correctly:
- Address envelopes or packages as follows: Inmate's Full Name and ID Number Yuma County Detention Center 200 W. Court Street Yuma, AZ 85364
- Include your complete return address on the envelope
- Mail without proper addressing may be returned to sender
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages, standard white paper only)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Photos (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (made payable to the inmate with ID number noted)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps inside the envelope
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Contraband or illegal items
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or personal items
Mail Inspection Procedures: All non-legal mail is opened and inspected by detention staff before delivery to inmates. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate. Mail containing prohibited items will be rejected and either returned to sender, placed in the inmate's property, or destroyed if contraband.
E-Messages: Yuma County Detention Center offers electronic messaging through the SmartJailMail system:
- Create an account on the SmartJailMail website
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages to inmates
- Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
- Fees apply (approximately $0.50 per message)
Books and Publications: Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor such as Amazon. These items must be paperback only and are subject to content review by facility staff.
All mail communication is subject to monitoring and inspection in accordance with Arizona Administrative Code R5-1-411, which governs inmate mail privileges in detention facilities.
For current mail policies and procedures, contact:
Yuma County Detention Center
200 W. Court Street
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 539-7800
Yuma County Sheriff's Office