El Dorado County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In El Dorado County?

Inmate records in El Dorado County are official government documents maintained by the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that chronicle an individual's history within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation of a person's incarceration from initial booking through release. Pursuant to California Government Code § 6254(f), these records serve both administrative and public safety functions.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects:

• Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
• Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
• Court records are maintained by the El Dorado County Superior Court
• Inmate records are maintained by the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:

• Initial record creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
• Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
• Documentation includes classification assessments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
• Records are administratively closed upon release, though maintained according to retention schedules

The California Penal Code § 4016.5 establishes requirements for maintaining accurate inmate records, including proper identification and tracking of all persons in custody.

Are Inmate Records Public In El Dorado County?

Inmate records in El Dorado County are partially accessible to the public under the California Public Records Act (CPRA). However, access is limited to specific information categories while protecting sensitive personal data. The California Government Code § 6254(f) explicitly addresses law enforcement records, including those pertaining to incarcerated individuals.

Information that is generally available to the public includes:

• Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
• Booking information (date and time of arrest)
• Charges filed against the inmate
• Mugshots (subject to certain restrictions)
• Bond/bail amounts
• Scheduled court appearances
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

Information that is typically restricted from public access includes:

• Medical and mental health records
• Social Security numbers
• Detailed personal identifying information
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
• Information that would compromise institutional security
• Records sealed by court order

The El Dorado County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate locator system that provides basic custody information to the public. For more comprehensive records, formal requests may be submitted pursuant to CPRA guidelines.

What's Included Inmate Records in El Dorado County

Inmate records in El Dorado County contain multiple categories of information documenting an individual's interaction with the county detention system. The following elements are typically included:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Classification status
• Housing assignment
• Custody level
• Disciplinary records
• Program participation

Charge Information:

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

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount
• Bond type
• Bond status
• Conditions of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Case numbers
• Court of jurisdiction
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Sentence length
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Parole eligibility date
• Good time/work time credits earned

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Post-release supervision requirements (if applicable)

El Dorado County Prison System

The El Dorado County correctional system operates under the jurisdiction of the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody and care of individuals detained pre-trial or serving sentences of up to one year. The system is distinct from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), which manages state prisons for individuals serving longer sentences.

Key distinctions between county and state facilities include:

• County jails house individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of one year or less
• State prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year
• County facilities are operated by the Sheriff's Office
• State facilities are operated by CDCR

The El Dorado County jail system currently consists of two primary facilities: the Placerville Jail and the South Lake Tahoe Jail. These facilities provide varying levels of security and programming based on inmate classification and needs.

El Dorado County Sheriff's Office
300 Fair Lane
Placerville, CA 95667
(530) 621-5655
El Dorado County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In El Dorado County

El Dorado County maintains multiple correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's detention system.

Placerville Jail (Main Detention Facility)
300 Forni Road
Placerville, CA 95667
(530) 621-6000
El Dorado County Jail

The Placerville Jail serves as the primary detention facility for El Dorado County. This medium to maximum-security facility houses:

• Pre-trial detainees
• Sentenced inmates serving terms up to one year
• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison
• Federal detainees (through intergovernmental agreements)

Facility features include:

• Multiple housing units with varying security levels
• Medical and mental health services
• Educational and vocational programs
• Religious services
• Recreation areas

South Lake Tahoe Jail
1051 Al Tahoe Boulevard
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 573-3000
South Lake Tahoe Jail

The South Lake Tahoe Jail is a smaller facility serving the eastern portion of El Dorado County. This facility primarily houses:

• Recently arrested individuals awaiting arraignment
• Pre-trial detainees
• Low-risk sentenced inmates

El Dorado County Juvenile Hall
299 Fair Lane
Placerville, CA 95667
(530) 621-5585
El Dorado County Probation Department

The Juvenile Hall is operated by the El Dorado County Probation Department rather than the Sheriff's Office. This facility houses youth offenders under 18 years of age who are:

• Awaiting court proceedings
• Serving court-ordered detention
• Participating in rehabilitation programs

Who's in Prison In El Dorado County

The El Dorado County jail population consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. Under California Penal Code § 4000, county jails are authorized to detain specific categories of individuals.

The current inmate population typically includes:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals arrested and awaiting arraignment
• Defendants who have not posted bail
• Persons deemed flight risks or dangers to the community
• Individuals awaiting trial on felony or misdemeanor charges

Sentenced Inmates:

• Persons serving sentences of one year or less (misdemeanors)
• Individuals serving sentences under California's Public Safety Realignment (AB 109)
• Low-level felony offenders serving local sentences rather than state prison terms

Special Population Inmates:

• Individuals with mental health needs
• Substance abuse treatment participants
• Work release program participants
• Weekend commitment inmates (serving time on weekends only)

Temporary Holds:

• Parole/probation violators awaiting hearings
• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison
• Out-of-county inmates held through interagency agreements
• Federal detainees (through contracts with federal agencies)

The demographic composition of the El Dorado County jail population fluctuates, with an average daily population of approximately 300-350 inmates across all facilities. Population management strategies include classification systems, alternative custody programs, and pre-trial release initiatives.

How To Search for Inmate Records In El Dorado County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in El Dorado County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Sheriff's Office maintains current systems for public record access in compliance with state transparency laws.

Online Inmate Locator:

1. Visit the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Corrections" or "Jail Information" section
3. Select the "Inmate Search" or "Custody Search" option
4. Enter search criteria (at least one is required):
   • Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
   • Booking number (if known)
   • Date of birth (if known)
5. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Inmate name
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Custody status
   • Next court date (if applicable)
   • Expected release date (if sentenced)

In-Person Record Requests:

1. Visit the Records Division at the Sheriff's Office headquarters

   El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   300 Fair Lane
   Placerville, CA 95667
   (530) 621-5703

2. Complete a Public Records Request Form

3. Provide specific information about the inmate record being requested

4. Present valid identification

5. Pay applicable fees for document reproduction (if requesting copies)

6. Allow processing time as specified by department policy

Written Record Requests:

1. Submit a formal written request citing the California Public Records Act

2. Include specific information about the records being sought

3. Mail the request to:

   El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   300 Fair Lane
   Placerville, CA 95667

4. Include contact information for response

5. Allow up to 10 business days for initial response as required by Government Code § 6253(c)

Telephone Inquiries:

1. Contact the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Custody Division

2. Provide inmate name and other identifying information

3. Receive basic custody status information

   El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Custody Division
   (530) 621-6000 (Placerville)
   (530) 573-3000 (South Lake Tahoe)

How To Find an Inmate in El Dorado County for Free?

El Dorado County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody. These resources are available to the general public without fees or subscription requirements.

Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:

1. Access the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
3. Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
4. Review results showing current custody status
5. Note that the system only displays currently incarcerated individuals

Telephone Information Line:

1. Call the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Custody Division
   • Placerville Facility: (530) 621-6000
   • South Lake Tahoe Facility: (530) 573-3000
2. Request inmate location information from the custody staff
3. Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person
4. Receive basic information about custody status and facility location

Court Records Search:

1. Visit the El Dorado County Superior Court website
2. Access the online case information system
3. Search by defendant name
4. Review case information, which may include custody status
5. Note that court records may not reflect real-time custody information

California Statewide System: For inmates who may have been transferred to state prison:

1. Access the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Inmate Locator
2. Enter the inmate's name and CDCR number (if known)
3. Review results to determine if the individual is in state custody

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the public lobby of either county jail facility during business hours
   • Placerville Jail: 300 Forni Road, Placerville, CA 95667
   • South Lake Tahoe Jail: 1051 Al Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
2. Speak with custody staff at the information desk
3. Provide the name of the person you are attempting to locate
4. Receive basic custody status information

How To Visit an Inmate In El Dorado County

Visitation with inmates in El Dorado County detention facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with California Code of Regulations Title 15, which establishes minimum standards for local detention facilities.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• Pre-registration is required for all visits at least 24 hours in advance
• Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
• All visitors are subject to search prior to entry
• Visitors with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

• Placerville Facility:
  • General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Special Housing Units: Schedule varies based on classification
• South Lake Tahoe Facility:
  • All Housing Units: Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may be scheduled during extended hours

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification
• Visitor registration confirmation
• Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
• Medications needed during visit duration (must be declared)
• Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Tools or items that could be used as weapons
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
• Recording devices
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $50

Dress Code:

• Conservative, appropriate attire required
• No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No uniforms resembling staff attire
• Shoes and shirts required at all times
• No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions may apply)

Visit Types:

• Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
• Video visitation (available at both facilities)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, probation officers)
• Special visits (requires advance approval from facility commander)

Visit Restrictions:

• Maximum of two adult visitors per inmate per session
• Visits limited to 30 minutes (general population)
• Visitors showing signs of intoxication will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
• Inmates on disciplinary restriction may have limited visitation
• Visitation privileges may be modified based on facility needs

For current visitation information and to schedule a visit, contact:

El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Visitation Scheduling
(530) 621-5625 (Placerville)
(530) 573-3031 (South Lake Tahoe)
El Dorado County Sheriff's Office

How To Send Money to a El Dorado County Inmate

El Dorado County provides multiple methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds may be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are subject to verification and processing fees may apply.

In-Person Cash Deposits:

1. Visit the kiosk located in the lobby of either detention facility:
   • Placerville Jail: 300 Forni Road, Placerville, CA 95667
   • South Lake Tahoe Jail: 1051 Al Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
2. Follow the touchscreen instructions on the kiosk
3. Insert cash into the machine (bills only, no coins)
4. Obtain and retain receipt for verification
5. Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours

Online Credit/Debit Card Deposits:

1. Visit the TouchPay Payment Services website
2. Select "El Dorado County Sheriff's Office" from the facility list
3. Create an account or proceed as a guest
4. Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
5. Enter payment amount and credit/debit card information
6. Pay the associated service fee (approximately $2.50 per transaction)
7. Retain confirmation number for reference
8. Funds are typically available within 24-48 hours

Telephone Deposits:

1. Call the automated TouchPay system at 1-866-232-1899
2. Follow voice prompts to select El Dorado County
3. Provide inmate information when requested
4. Enter credit/debit card information
5. Service fees apply (approximately $3.00 per transaction)
6. Funds are typically available within 24-48 hours

Money Order by Mail:

1. Purchase a money order payable to "El Dorado County Sheriff's Office"

2. Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order

3. Do not send personal checks or cash

4. Mail to:

   El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Inmate Accounts
   300 Forni Road
   Placerville, CA 95667

5. Funds are typically available within 5-7 business days after receipt

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
• Maximum account balance: $1,500.00

Transaction Fees:

• In-person kiosk deposits: $2.00 per transaction
• Online deposits: $2.50 per transaction
• Telephone deposits: $3.00 per transaction
• Money orders: No fee

Prohibited Financial Activities:

• Transfers between inmate accounts are not permitted
• Third-party checks cannot be accepted
• Cash sent through mail will be returned to sender
• Deposits from individuals with active criminal cases are subject to review
• Deposits suspected of being associated with illegal activity will be investigated

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Educational materials
• Release funds

Restricted Uses:

• Bail or bond payments (must be handled separately)
• Restitution payments (handled through court system)
• Payments to other inmates or their families
• Staff gratuities or services

How To Send Jail Mail In El Dorado County

Correspondence with inmates in El Dorado County detention facilities is permitted but subject to specific guidelines and security protocols. All mail is inspected for contraband and content that could compromise facility security.

General Mail Guidelines:

1. Address all mail with complete and accurate information:

   Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
   El Dorado County Jail
   300 Forni Road
   Placerville, CA 95667
   

   Or for South Lake Tahoe facility:

   Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
   South Lake Tahoe Jail
   1051 Al Tahoe Boulevard
   South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
   

2. Include a complete return address on all correspondence

3. Write clearly using blue or black ink only

4. Limit letters to standard white paper (8.5" x 11")

5. Do not use colored paper, construction paper, or cardstock

6. Do not use stickers, glitter, lipstick, perfume, or other substances on mail

7. Do not send Polaroid photographs

Permitted Mail Items:

• Personal letters (limited to 10 pages per envelope)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4" x 6")
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
• Money orders (following financial guidelines)
• Legal documents (marked as "Legal Mail")
• Religious materials (subject to review)
• Newspaper clippings (limited to 5 per envelope)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Plastic or laminated items
• Blank greeting cards, stationery, or envelopes
• Stamps or pre-stamped envelopes
• Cash or personal checks
• Clothing or fabric items
• Food items or candy
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related materials
• Materials depicting violence or weapons
• Coded messages or foreign language content (without prior approval)

Legal Mail:

1. Mark envelope clearly as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
2. Include attorney bar number on return address
3. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
4. Contents are inspected for contraband but not read by staff

Books and Publications:

1. Books must be paperback only
2. Must be sent directly from publisher or approved online retailer
3. Limited to three books per mailing
4. Subject to content review for security concerns
5. Hardcover books are not permitted

E-Messages (if available):

1. Register on the GTL ConnectNetwork
2. Purchase message credits through the online system
3. Compose and send messages through the secure platform
4. Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
5. Attachments are not permitted

All mail procedures comply with California Code of Regulations Title 15, Section 1063 regarding correspondence in local detention facilities. Violations of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges.

Lookup Inmate Records in El Dorado County

California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS)