Washtenaw County Jail is a secure correctional facility located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It serves as the main detention center for individuals arrested in Washtenaw County who are awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. The jail operates under the authority of the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office and follows strict state and federal guidelines to ensure safety, fairness, and rehabilitation. Whether you’re looking for an inmate, planning a visit, or need to send money or mail, this page provides clear, up-to-date information on all services and procedures at Washtenaw County Jail.
How to Search for an Inmate at Washtenaw County Jail
Finding someone in Washtenaw County Jail is fast and easy using the official inmate search tool. This online system is updated daily and shows current inmates, their charges, booking dates, bond amounts, and court schedules. You can search by full name or inmate ID number. Results include mugshots, housing location, and expected release date if available. The search tool is free and accessible 24/7 through the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office website.
Steps to Use the Inmate Lookup Tool
Go to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office website and click on “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s first and last name exactly as it appears on legal documents. If you know the inmate ID, use that for faster results. Double-check spelling to avoid missing a match. If no results appear, try a partial name or nickname. The system updates every few hours, so recent bookings may take time to show.
Offline Inmate Search Options
If the website is down or you prefer phone help, call the jail’s public information line at (734) 973-4900. Staff can assist with inmate status checks during business hours. You can also visit the jail in person at 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Bring a valid photo ID and any known details like date of birth or booking number. Public kiosks near the front desk may display basic inmate lists.
Washtenaw County Jail Roster and Booking Process
The Washtenaw County Jail roster lists all individuals currently in custody. Each entry includes full name, booking date, charges, bond amount, court date, and housing unit. This roster helps families, lawyers, and the public stay informed. New inmates are added after arrest and processing. The booking process begins when someone is brought to the jail by law enforcement.
What Happens During Booking
Booking starts with fingerprinting and a digital photo (mugshot). Personal details like name, date of birth, address, and emergency contact are recorded. A health screening checks for medical needs, mental health concerns, or substance use. Inmates receive a wristband with their ID number. Belongings are stored securely. The entire process takes 1–2 hours.
Bail and Release Information
Bail is set by a judge based on the charges and risk level. If bail is granted, it can be paid in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Payments are accepted at the jail or online via the sheriff’s payment portal. Once bail is posted, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed. Release times vary but usually happen within 1–4 hours.
Visiting Hours and Rules at Washtenaw County Jail
Visitation is allowed Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. All visits must be scheduled in advance using the online system or by calling the visitation office. Walk-in visits are not permitted. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per session. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
Visitors must show a valid government-issued photo ID. Security checks include metal detectors and bag inspections. Dress code rules ban sleeveless shirts, shorts, mini-skirts, hats, sunglasses, and clothing with offensive words or images. No phones, bags, or food are allowed in the visiting area. All conversations may be monitored.
Virtual Visitation Options
Washtenaw County Jail offers video visits for those who cannot come in person. These are scheduled online and conducted through a secure platform. Virtual visits follow the same time limits and rules as in-person visits. Technical support is available if connection issues occur. This service is especially helpful for out-of-town family members.
Sending Mail to Inmates at Washtenaw County Jail
Inmates can receive letters, photos, and approved reading materials. All mail is inspected for contraband. Send mail to: Inmate’s Full Name, Inmate ID Number, Washtenaw County Jail, 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Use standard envelopes and paper. Do not include stickers, glue, or Polaroid photos. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or retailers like Amazon.
Prohibited Mail Items
Do not send cash, checks, or money orders through mail. These must be deposited electronically or at the jail kiosk. Avoid sending anything that could hide drugs or weapons, such as tape, stickers, or altered envelopes. Inappropriate content, including gang symbols or explicit images, will be rejected. Violations may result in mail privileges being suspended.
Phone Calls and Communication Policies
Inmates can make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15–20 minutes and may be recorded. Families can add money to an inmate’s phone account online or at the jail kiosk. Incoming calls to inmates are not allowed. Legal calls with attorneys are private and not monitored. Phone service is provided by a third-party vendor with per-minute fees.
How to Set Up Phone Access
To receive calls from an inmate, your number must be added to their approved list. This is done during intake or by request through jail staff. Once approved, you can fund the account via the vendor’s website using a credit card. Call quality depends on facility systems and may vary. Technical issues should be reported to the provider, not the jail.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can receive funds for commissary purchases, phone calls, and medical co-pays. There are three ways to send money: online through the jail’s payment partner, at the lobby kiosk with cash or card, or by mailing a money order. Personal checks and cash sent by mail are not accepted. All deposits are credited within 24 hours.
Commissary Spending Limits
Each inmate has a weekly spending limit on commissary items. This helps prevent overspending and ensures fair access for all. Funds remain in the account until used or released. Unused balances are returned upon release. Families receive a receipt for every deposit. Transaction histories can be viewed online with the inmate’s ID number.
Commissary Services and Available Items
The jail commissary sells snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and basic clothing. Popular items include chips, coffee, toothpaste, soap, pens, and socks. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to inmate housing units. Prices are set by the vendor and may change. Inmates with no funds can request essential hygiene items from staff at no cost.
How to Add Funds to Commissary
Family members can deposit money using the jail’s secure online portal. Payments are processed instantly. Kiosks in the jail lobby accept cash, debit, and credit cards. Money orders must be made payable to the inmate and include their full name and ID. Always keep a copy of the receipt. Refunds are not available for unused funds.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Washtenaw County Jail provides medical and mental health care to all inmates. Upon arrival, each person gets a health screening. Routine services include treatment for chronic conditions, prescription medications, dental care, and vision exams. Emergency care is available 24/7. Mental health staff offer counseling, therapy groups, and crisis intervention.
Substance Abuse and Recovery Programs
The jail runs substance abuse programs for inmates struggling with addiction. These include detox support, group counseling, and relapse prevention education. Participants learn coping skills and receive referrals to community programs upon release. Participation is voluntary but encouraged for those with drug or alcohol-related charges.
Educational and Vocational Training Programs
Inmates can earn their GED while in custody. Classes are held on-site with certified instructors. Vocational training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. These programs prepare inmates for jobs after release. Certificates are awarded upon completion. Program spots are limited and assigned based on behavior and eligibility.
Rehabilitation and Reentry Support
Washtenaw County Jail focuses on reducing repeat offenses through rehabilitation. Inmates can join life skills workshops, anger management sessions, and job readiness training. Case managers help plan for housing, employment, and counseling after release. Community partners provide mentorship and support services.
Jail Rules, Policies, and Inmate Rights
All inmates must follow facility rules to maintain safety and order. Rules cover behavior, dress code, meal times, and cell cleanliness. Violations can lead to loss of privileges or disciplinary action. Inmates have the right to medical care, legal representation, and religious practice. They can file grievances if they feel their rights are violated.
Classification and Housing Assignments
Inmates are classified by risk level and placed in appropriate housing units. Factors include criminal history, behavior, and health status. Low-risk inmates may live in dorm-style rooms. High-risk or protective custody inmates stay in single cells. Transfers between units happen only with staff approval.
Security Measures and Facility Operations
Washtenaw County Jail uses 24/7 surveillance, electronic monitoring, and trained staff to ensure safety. Cameras cover all common areas. Emergency protocols cover fires, medical crises, and security threats. Staff receive regular training in de-escalation and crisis response. The facility undergoes routine inspections by state agencies.
Staff and Sheriff’s Office Oversight
The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office manages daily operations. Deputies, medical staff, and administrative personnel work together to run the jail. The sheriff is elected and accountable to the public. Internal affairs handle complaints and investigations. Transparency reports are published annually.
Contact Information and Location
Washtenaw County Jail is located at 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. The main phone number is (734) 973-4900. For inmate lookup, visit the official website at washtenaw.org/sheriff. Visitation hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Call ahead to confirm schedules. Emergency contacts should call 911. For non-urgent questions, use the main line during business hours.
| Service | Contact Method | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Inmate Search | Online or Phone | 24/7 (Online), 8 AM–5 PM (Phone) |
| Visitation | Online Scheduling | Mon–Fri, 9 AM–6 PM |
| Money Deposits | Online, Kiosk, Mail | Kiosk: 24/7, Online: 24/7 |
| Medical Requests | Inmate Request Form | Submitted to Staff |
Frequently Asked Questions
Washtenaw County Jail serves thousands of families each year. Common questions involve inmate location, visitation, mail, and bail. Below are detailed answers to help you get the information you need quickly and accurately. Each response is based on current jail policies and official procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in Washtenaw County Jail?
Use the free online inmate search tool on the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID. The system shows current inmates, charges, bond amounts, and court dates. If no results appear, call (734) 973-4900 during business hours. Staff can verify status over the phone with proper identification. The roster updates multiple times per day, so recent arrests may not appear immediately. Always double-check spelling and try alternate name formats if needed.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Use the online portal or call the visitation office to book a slot. Each visit lasts 30 minutes and allows up to two visitors. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Late arrivals may lose their time slot. Cancellations should be made 24 hours ahead. Virtual visits also require scheduling but offer more flexibility for distant family members.
How do I send money to an inmate?
Deposit funds online through the jail’s payment partner using a credit or debit card. You can also use the kiosk in the jail lobby with cash, card, or money order. Mail money orders to the jail address with the inmate’s full name and ID. Do not send cash or personal checks by mail. Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. Keep your receipt for tracking. Unused money is returned upon release minus any fees.
What items are not allowed in inmate mail?
Do not send cash, checks, stickers, tape, or Polaroid photos. Avoid anything that can hide contraband, like altered envelopes or glued pages. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Clothing, food, and electronics are prohibited. Inappropriate content, including gang symbols or explicit images, will be rejected. All mail is inspected. Violations can result in loss of mail privileges. Use standard white envelopes and black ink for best results.
Are inmates allowed to make phone calls?
Yes, but only outgoing calls to approved numbers. Inmates cannot receive calls. Each call lasts 15–20 minutes and may be recorded. Families must add funds to the inmate’s phone account through the vendor’s website. Legal calls with attorneys are private. Phone access depends on behavior and account balance. Technical issues should be reported to the phone service provider, not the jail staff.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates receive a health screening upon arrival. Routine and emergency care is available 24/7. Prescription medications are provided as needed. Dental and vision services are offered for serious issues. Inmates can request medical help using a form submitted to staff. Mental health support includes counseling and crisis intervention. Serious conditions may require transfer to a hospital. Families are notified in emergencies.
How can I get a copy of an inmate’s mugshot?
Mugshots are public records. Submit a FOIA request to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s full name, booking date, and your contact information. There may be a processing fee. Requests can be mailed or dropped off at the sheriff’s office. Response time varies. Some mugshots appear in the online inmate roster. Once released, individuals can petition for removal under certain conditions.
Official Website: washtenaw.org/sheriff
Phone Number: (734) 973-4900
Address: 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Visiting Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM