Humboldt County Public Records /Humboldt County Inmate Search

Humboldt County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Humboldt County?

Inmate records in Humboldt County are official documentation maintained by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Correctional Facility that chronicle an individual's custody status within the county jail system. These records constitute a comprehensive administrative history of a person's incarceration from initial booking through release. Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13150, local detention facilities are required to maintain accurate records of all persons booked into custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While the Superior Court of California, County of Humboldt maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and court appearances, the Sheriff's Office maintains custody records documenting the physical detention and management of individuals in custody. These parallel but separate record systems serve different administrative purposes within the criminal justice system.

The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when individuals are processed into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. During this intake procedure, personal information is collected, photographs taken, fingerprints recorded, and initial custody classification determined. 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, records are finalized with discharge information but maintained according to state records retention requirements.

The California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250-6270) establishes the framework for public access to government records, including certain aspects of inmate records, while balancing privacy concerns and security considerations.

Are Inmate Records Public In Humboldt County?

Inmate records in Humboldt County are partially public under California law. The California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6253) establishes that public records are generally open to inspection, with specific exemptions for privacy, security, and other concerns. For correctional facilities, this creates a balanced approach where certain inmate information is publicly accessible while other details remain confidential.

The following inmate record information is typically available to the public in Humboldt County:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information
Charges filed
Mugshots/booking photographs
Custody status
Scheduled court dates
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
Facility housing location (general)

However, certain information is explicitly protected from public disclosure under California law, including:

Medical and mental health records
Disciplinary records
Detailed security classification information
Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
Victim information
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Records that would endanger facility security or individual safety

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate information system that provides public access to basic custody information in accordance with state law. This system balances the public's right to information with the privacy and security needs of the correctional system.

What's Included Inmate Records in Humboldt County

Inmate records in Humboldt County contain comprehensive documentation of 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
Race/ethnicity
Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Booking number and other identifiers
Last known address (may be partially redacted in public records)

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking
Arresting agency
Booking officer
Classification status
Housing assignment
Custody level
Disciplinary incidents (not publicly accessible)
Special needs or requirements (partially confidential)

Charge Information:

Criminal charges (statute numbers and descriptions)
Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor, infraction)
Warrant information, if applicable
Probation/parole status, if applicable
Case numbers

Bond/Bail Information:

Bail amount
Bond type
Bond status
Conditions of release, if applicable

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Case numbers
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted):

Sentence length
Credit for time served
Projected release date
Sentence conditions
Good time/work time calculations

Release Information:

Release date and time
Type of release (bail, time served, transfer, etc.)
Conditions of release, if applicable
Next court appearance, if applicable

The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Custody Services Division maintains these records in accordance with state regulations and professional correctional standards. While some information is available through public records requests or online inmate search tools, access to complete inmate records is restricted to authorized personnel and agencies with legitimate need for the information.

Humboldt County Prison System

The Humboldt County correctional system operates under the authority of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, which maintains local detention facilities for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of one year or less. This county-level system is distinct from the California state prison system operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, which houses individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences.

The primary distinction between county jails and state prisons lies in their jurisdiction, population, and purpose:

County Jails: Operated by county sheriff's departments, these facilities house pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year), and some low-level felony offenders under California's realignment program (AB 109).
State Prisons: Operated by CDCR, these facilities house individuals convicted of serious felonies serving longer sentences, typically exceeding one year.

The Humboldt County correctional system focuses on local detention, rehabilitation programs, and community reintegration for individuals involved in the criminal justice system within the county. The system operates under California state regulations and standards for local detention facilities.

Humboldt County Sheriff's Office
826 4th Street
Eureka, CA 95501
(707) 445-7251
Humboldt County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Humboldt County

Humboldt County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and classifications. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:

Humboldt County Correctional Facility (Main Jail)
901 5th Street
Eureka, CA 95501
(707) 441-5159
Humboldt County Correctional Facility

The main jail facility serves as the primary detention center for Humboldt County. This facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor and eligible felony sentences, and those awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions. The facility includes:

Maximum security housing units
Medium security housing units
Minimum security housing units
Special housing for medical and mental health needs
Booking and intake processing center
Video visitation facilities
Program spaces for rehabilitation services

Humboldt County Sheriff's Work Alternative Program (SWAP)
901 5th Street
Eureka, CA 95501
(707) 441-5131
Sheriff's Work Alternative Program

The SWAP program provides alternative sentencing options for eligible low-risk offenders. Rather than traditional incarceration, participants perform community service work under supervision. This program:

Reduces jail overcrowding
Allows eligible offenders to maintain employment and family connections
Provides labor for public works projects
Offers rehabilitation opportunities through structured work experience

Humboldt County Sheriff's Electronic Monitoring Program
901 5th Street
Eureka, CA 95501
(707) 441-5131
Electronic Monitoring Program

This program allows eligible offenders to serve their sentences while remaining in the community under electronic supervision. Participants wear monitoring devices that track their location and compliance with program requirements. The program:

Provides an alternative to physical incarceration
Allows participants to maintain employment and family connections
Includes regular check-ins with program staff
May include drug and alcohol testing
Requires strict adherence to program rules and court orders

These facilities operate under the authority of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Custody Services Division, which is responsible for the safe and secure detention of individuals in county custody while providing opportunities for rehabilitation and successful community reintegration.

Who's in Prison In Humboldt County

The Humboldt County correctional system houses several categories of individuals, reflecting the facility's role in the local criminal justice system. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees

Individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing
Those unable to post bail or denied bail
Persons held on warrants from other jurisdictions
Individuals awaiting competency determinations or evaluations

Sentenced Offenders

Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (up to one year)
Individuals serving sentences for certain low-level felonies under California's realignment program (AB 109)
Offenders participating in work release or other alternative custody programs
Weekenders (serving intermittent sentences on weekends only)

Special Populations

Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
Those with medical conditions requiring enhanced care
Protective custody cases (individuals separated from general population for safety)
Administrative segregation cases (high-risk or management concerns)

According to Humboldt County jail reports, the facility population fluctuates but typically includes a diverse mix of custody classifications. The average daily population reflects local crime patterns, court processing times, and sentencing practices within the county.

The demographic composition of the Humboldt County jail population generally includes adult men and women 18 years and older. Juvenile offenders are not housed in adult facilities but are instead detained at separate juvenile detention facilities operated by the Humboldt County Probation Department in accordance with California law.

Individuals serving longer sentences for serious felony convictions are not housed in Humboldt County facilities but are instead transferred to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation state prison system after sentencing.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Humboldt County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Humboldt County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office provides multiple channels for obtaining inmate custody information:

Online Inmate Search

Visit the Humboldt County Inmate Information web portal
Select the "Inmate Search" option
Enter the requested search criteria (name, booking number, or other identifier)
Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking number
- Booking date
- Charges
- Custody status
- Next court date (if applicable)
- Bail amount (if applicable)

Telephone Information

Contact the Humboldt County Correctional Facility at (707) 441-5159
Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
Staff will provide basic custody information in accordance with public records laws
Be prepared to verify your identity if requesting information beyond what is publicly available

In-Person Records Request

Visit the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Records Division
- 826 4th Street, Eureka, CA 95501
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)
Complete a public records request form
Provide identification and specify the information requested
Records staff will process the request according to California Public Records Act requirements

Written Records Request

Submit a written request to:
- Humboldt County Sheriff's Office
- Records Division
- 826 4th Street
- Eureka, CA 95501
Include the following information:
- Your name and contact information
- Specific records requested
- Time period covered by the request
- Purpose of the request (optional)
Allow 10 business days for initial response as required by the California Public Records Act

For individuals seeking state prison inmate information rather than county jail records, the California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS) system provides public access to information about persons incarcerated in state facilities.

How To Find an Inmate in Humboldt County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Humboldt County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These free resources ensure public access to basic custody information while maintaining appropriate security and privacy protections.

Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup

Access the Humboldt County Inmate Information page
Navigate to the inmate search function
Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
Review search results showing current inmates
Access basic information including:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Next court date
- Bail information

Daily Jail Reports

Visit the Humboldt County Jail Reports page
Access daily booking sheets and population reports
Review alphabetical listings of current inmates
Check disposition of arrest lists and release reports
Reports are typically updated daily and provide a snapshot of facility population

Telephone Inquiry

Call the Humboldt County Correctional Facility at (707) 441-5159
Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
Facility staff can confirm if an individual is in custody
Basic information about charges and court dates may be provided
Available during normal business hours

VINELink Notification System

Access the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system
Register for a free account
Search for an inmate by name
Receive custody status information
Optional: Register for automated notifications about changes in custody status

Court Records Search

Visit the Superior Court of California, County of Humboldt website
Access the online case information system
Search by defendant name
Review case information, which may include custody status
Note upcoming court dates related to the case

These free resources provide the public with access to basic inmate information without requiring payment or subscription fees. Information is updated regularly but may not reflect real-time changes in custody status. For the most current information, direct contact with the Humboldt County Correctional Facility is recommended.

How To Visit an Inmate In Humboldt County

Visitation with inmates at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with facility regulations as outlined below:

Visit Schedule

General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Special Housing Units: Specific days and times vary by classification
Maximum Security: Limited visitation schedule with advance approval
Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time for processing

Visit Registration

All visitors must pre-register through the Humboldt County Inmate Information portal
Registration must be completed at least 24 hours before the intended visit
Provide complete and accurate information as required
Await approval confirmation before arriving for visit
Each inmate is permitted two visitors per session (including children)

Required Identification

Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Minors must be accompanied by an authorized adult
Proof of relationship may be required for certain inmates
Visitors under 18 must have parent/guardian approval
All identification documents must be current and unaltered

Dress Code Requirements

Conservative, appropriate attire required
No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts, etc.)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing resembling inmate attire
Appropriate footwear required (no open-toe shoes)
No excessive jewelry or accessories

Prohibited Items

Cell phones and electronic devices
Cameras and recording equipment
Weapons of any kind
Food or beverages
Tobacco products
Medications (unless medically necessary with prior approval)
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Cash exceeding $40 for vending machines

Visit Types

Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
Video visitation (available for certain classifications)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) with proper credentials
Special visits require advance approval from facility administration

Visit Restrictions

Persons with active warrants or pending criminal charges
Former inmates within one year of release
Persons on probation or parole without prior approval
Individuals who pose a security or management concern
Persons who have previously violated visitation rules

All visitation is subject to monitoring and recording except for privileged legal visits. Visitors must comply with all staff directives and facility rules. Violation of visitation regulations may result in termination of the visit and possible suspension of visitation privileges.

Pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15 § 1062, local detention facilities must provide visitation opportunities for inmates while maintaining facility security and orderly operations.

How To Send Money to a Humboldt County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other approved services.

Online Deposits

Visit the TouchPay payment portal (accessible through the Humboldt County Inmate Information page)
Create an account or log in as a guest
Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
Select payment amount
Provide credit/debit card information
Complete transaction and retain confirmation number
Funds typically post to inmate accounts within 24 hours
Service fees apply (approximately 3-5% of deposit amount)

Lobby Kiosk Deposits

Visit the Humboldt County Correctional Facility lobby
- 901 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501
- Available 24 hours daily
Use the self-service kiosk located in the public lobby
Follow on-screen instructions to complete deposit
Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
Obtain receipt for your records
Funds typically post to inmate accounts within 1-2 hours
Minimal service fees apply

Mail Money Orders

Purchase a money order from an approved provider (U.S. Postal Service, Western Union, etc.)
Make payable to "Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Inmate Trust"
Write inmate's full name and booking number in memo line
Mail to:
- Humboldt County Correctional Facility
- Inmate Accounts
- 901 5th Street
- Eureka, CA 95501
Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with money orders
Funds typically post within 3-5 business days after receipt
No service fees for money orders

Deposit Limits and Restrictions

Maximum single deposit: $300
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
Maximum account balance: $1,500
Deposits from persons with criminal histories may require approval
All deposits are subject to verification and possible hold periods
Funds from unidentifiable sources will be returned

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds

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

Prohibited Uses

Transfer to other inmates
Payment for services from other inmates
Gambling or betting activities
Purchase of contraband items
Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)

All deposits are subject to processing fees except money orders. Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. Questions regarding inmate accounts may be directed to the Inmate Accounts Office at (707) 441-5159.

How To Send Jail Mail In Humboldt County

Correspondence with inmates at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.

Mailing Address Format

Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
Inmate's booking number (if known)
Humboldt County Correctional Facility
901 5th Street
Eureka, CA 95501

Letter Requirements

White paper only (no colored paper, construction paper, or cardstock)
Black or blue ink only (no markers, crayons, colored pencils, etc.)
Maximum 10 pages per envelope
No perfume, lipstick, stickers, glitter, or other substances on paper
No drawings or artwork except simple line drawings
No polaroid photographs
No plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
No tape, glue, or adhesives of any kind

Photograph Guidelines

Maximum size: 4" x 6"
Maximum quantity: 5 photos per envelope
No Polaroid or instant photos
No sexually explicit or gang-related content
No photos depicting criminal activity
Photos must be printed on photo paper (no photocopies)
No altered or manipulated images

Prohibited Content

Plans for escape or criminal activity
Threats or extortion attempts
Gang-related materials or communications
Sexually explicit materials
Information that could compromise facility security
Contraband or instructions for creating contraband
Unauthorized business dealings or transactions
Materials that violate postal regulations

Approved Mail Items

Personal letters
Legal correspondence (marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to review)
Educational materials (subject to review)
Money orders (following proper procedure)
Greeting cards (plain paper only, no musical or electronic components)

Mail Processing

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery
Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
Mail that violates policy will be rejected and returned to sender
Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in criminal charges
Processing typically takes 24-48 hours after receipt

E-Messages The facility also offers a secure electronic messaging system through the inmate tablet program. Family and friends can send electronic messages through the approved vendor portal accessible via the Humboldt County Inmate Information page. Fees apply for this service, and all electronic communications are subject to monitoring and screening.

Pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 15 § 1063, inmates have the right to send and receive correspondence, subject to reasonable limitations necessary to maintain facility security and orderly operations.