Washington County Iowa Jail is a secure facility located in Washington, Iowa. This building serves as the primary spot for holding people who have been arrested within the county. The facility began its work in March 2009. This followed a construction period that lasted three years. The project started in September 2006. It is located at 2185 Lexington Boulevard. County voters helped pay for this building by approving a 4.2 million dollar bond in 2005. The jail has 28 cells for people in custody. It includes a state-of-the-art control room and a 3,500-square-foot medical wing. Staff members follow security standards set by the Iowa Department of Corrections. The building uses energy-efficient lights and modern cameras to keep everyone safe. Records are kept in electronic files to help with court cases and public transparency.
Washington County Iowa Jail History and Construction
The Washington County Iowa Jail was built to replace an old facility from the early 1990s. The community needed a larger space for public safety. Construction teams worked from 2006 until 2009 to finish the new site. The 4.2 million dollar cost covered many new features. These features include a large medical area for people who feel sick. The cells are strong and meet modern safety rules. A new fence was put up around the yard. Surveillance cameras watch all parts of the building at all times. This helps the deputies manage the people inside. The jail uses a special portal for the public. This portal lets people see government notifications and pay fees online. The jail is a key part of the local justice system. It helps the police and the courts work together. The building stays open 24 hours a day to take in new arrests. Staff members work in shifts to keep the facility running. They use computers to track every person who enters the jail. This makes sure the records stay accurate and clear for the public.
Washington County Iowa Jail Inmate Locator Details
To locate a person in the Washington County Iowa Jail, you can use the online search tool. This tool lets you look for people by their full name or their last name. You can use a first initial if you do not know the full name. Every person in the jail has a unique identification number. Entering this number will show you the exact records for that person. The locator tool gives you many details. It shows where the person is staying inside the building. It lists the date they might get out. It shows what crimes the person is accused of doing. You can see if they have any active warrants from other places. The system updates every hour. This means you see the newest data about transfers and releases. If someone just arrived at the jail, their name should appear on the list quickly. This helps families stay in touch with their loved ones. It helps lawyers see where their clients are held. The website is easy to use on a computer or a phone. You do not need a password to look at the public roster.
Washington County Iowa Jail Roster and Mugshots
The Washington County Iowa Jail maintains a public roster. This list shows every person currently held in the cells. To see the list, you can visit the jail at 2185 Lexington Boulevard. You can call the staff at 319-653-5902 to ask for names. The roster includes a mugshot for each person. A mugshot is a photo taken when a person is booked into the jail. The list shows the date the person was booked. It shows the bond amount. The bond is the money needed to let someone leave before their court date. It also lists the charges against the person. These charges are the crimes the police think the person committed. The roster refreshes every morning at 6 a.m. This ensures the records are current for the day. You can print a copy of the roster from the online portal. This helps people keep track of who is in custody. The jail follows Iowa laws about public records. These laws say the public has a right to see who is being held by the police. The mugshots help confirm the identity of the people in the jail.
Iowa Department of Corrections Search Tools
The Iowa Department of Corrections offers a tool to search for people across the whole state. This includes people in the Washington County Iowa Jail and state prisons. You can use this tool to look for people on parole or probation. It works by typing in a name or a birth date. You can choose a date range of five years to narrow down the results. The tool uses a special system to match names that sound the same. This is helpful if you do not know the exact spelling of a name. The search results show the current facility where the person stays. You can see the details of their sentence and when they might be eligible for parole. It provides the name of the officer who supervises them. There is a map that shows where each facility is located in Iowa. This tool is useful for victims of crimes. They can sign up for alerts to know if a person is moving to a new jail or getting out. The data comes from official state records and is kept up to date for public safety.
Public Records and Legal Details
Records at the Washington County Iowa Jail are public under Iowa Code. This means anyone can look at the records of people in the jail. These files include the dates of convictions and the types of crimes. The Department of Corrections manages the main portal for these files. They try to keep the records correct at all times. Sometimes the data can take 48 hours to update after a court change. Users should check with the local court to get the most certain details. These records help with background checks for jobs or housing. The Washington County Records Division helps people get these files. They are located at 2181 Lexington Boulevard. You can go there from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. They can give you criminal history reports for a small fee. You can mail a request to PO Box 6 in Washington, Iowa. The staff will process your request in about five business days. These records are vital for people who need to prove their legal status or check on a case.
Washington County Sheriff and Patrol Operations
The Washington County Sheriff oversees the jail and the deputies who patrol the area. There are fifteen full-time deputies on the team. Chief Deputy Shawn Ellingson helps lead the staff. Lieutenant Chad Ellis supervises the patrol unit. Sergeants Kirk Bailey and Aaron Gould manage the daily work. Every deputy goes to the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. They learn about criminal law and how to use tools for safety. They learn how to help people in a crisis. The patrol team answers about 3,200 calls every year. They drive on State Highway 28 and through the rural townships. They help with car crashes and emergency calls. Their goal is to keep the county safe for everyone. They work closely with the jail staff to move people from the scene of a crime to the facility. This team provides security for the courthouse too. They make sure the jail stays orderly and that the rules are followed. Having a strong patrol unit helps prevent crime in the local community.
Washington County Iowa Jail Visiting Rules
Visiting a person at the Washington County Iowa Jail requires following strict rules. Visitation happens on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Each visit lasts for 30 minutes. You must bring a photo ID issued by the government. This could be a driver’s license or a passport. You must schedule your visit ahead of time by calling 319-653-5902. There is a dress code you must follow. You cannot wear clothes that are too revealing or have bad words. You cannot bring cell phones or bags into the visiting area. The staff will check you for items that are not allowed. These items are called contraband. If you try to bring in contraband, you could be arrested. The jail uses a window to keep visitors and inmates apart. This keeps everyone safe. Children can visit if they are with an adult. The jail wants to help families see each other, but safety comes first. Following the rules makes sure visits can continue for everyone.
Washington County Iowa Jail Mailing Procedures
Sending mail to the Washington County Iowa Jail is a good way to stay in touch. You must address the letter correctly. Put the inmate’s first and last name on the envelope. Write “Washington County Jail” and the address “2185 Lexington Boulevard, Washington, IA 52353.” All letters go through a screening process. Staff members open the mail to look for dangerous items. They check for drugs, weapons, or secret messages. Do not put stickers or perfume on the letters. Do not send cash in the mail. If you want to send money, use the official portal or the kiosk in the lobby. You can send photos if they are not inappropriate. Polaroids are often not allowed because they can hide things inside the layers. Personal letters help people in jail feel better. It keeps them connected to their friends and family. The jail delivers mail once a day, except on weekends and holidays. If a letter has something bad in it, the staff will keep it as evidence. Always follow the rules so your mail gets delivered on time.
Security and Medical Services at the Jail
Security at the Washington County Iowa Jail is very high. The building has a central control room. Staff in this room watch monitors that show video from all over the jail. They control the electronic locks on every door. This keeps people in the right areas. The jail has 28 cells that are very strong. The medical wing is 3,500 square feet. It provides care for people who have health problems. Nurses and doctors visit the jail to check on the inmates. They give out medicine and help with injuries. This is important for the human rights of the people in custody. The jail uses energy-efficient lights to save money for the taxpayers. The perimeter fence is tall and has wire on top to prevent escapes. High-quality cameras record everything that happens. This helps if there is a fight or a problem. The staff trains for emergencies like fires or medical issues. They know how to act fast to keep everyone alive and well.
Washington County Iowa Jail Fees and Payments
People in the Washington County Iowa Jail may have to pay fees. These fees cover the cost of staying in the jail. There are also fees for medical visits. Families can put money on an inmate’s account. This money is used for the commissary. The commissary is a small store inside the jail. Inmates can buy snacks, soap, and stamps there. To pay fees or add money, you can use the kiosk in the lobby. You can also pay online through the jail’s website. You will need the inmate’s ID number to make a payment. If someone is granted bond, you must pay that amount to the court. The bond helps make sure the person comes back for their trial. If they show up to court, the money might be returned. If they do not show up, the county keeps the money. The jail staff can tell you the bond amount over the phone. They accept cash or credit cards in most cases. Keeping an account balance helps inmates stay comfortable during their stay.
Washington County Iowa Jail Contact and Location
The Washington County Iowa Jail is easy to reach. It is in the city of Washington, Iowa. The area is rural but the jail is near the main roads. The staff is ready to answer questions about the facility or the people inside. You can find more details on the official county website. The sheriff’s office is in the same building area. This makes it easy for the police to move people from patrol cars into the jail cells. The records office is next door for people who need legal papers. Public safety is the main goal of this location.
Official Website: washingtoncounty.iowa.gov/175/Jail
Phone Number: 319-653-5902
Address: 2185 Lexington Boulevard, Washington, IA 52353
Visiting Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I locate a person held in the Washington County Iowa Jail?
To search for someone in this facility, you should use the official inmate locator tool. You can find this tool on the county website. You need to type in the last name of the person you are looking for. If you know their first name, you can add that too. The system will then show you a list of matches. Each entry includes the person’s full name and their booking photo. You will see the charges they are facing. You will also see their bond amount. If you cannot use a computer, you can call the jail directly at 319-653-5902. The staff can tell you if the person is currently in a cell. They can tell you the date the person arrived. They update the list every hour to make sure it is right. This helps everyone stay informed about who is in custody. You should have the correct spelling of the name to make the search faster. The identification number is the best way to be sure you have the right person. This number stays the same for that person every time they go to jail. It is a very reliable way to track records.
What are the rules for visiting someone at the Washington County Iowa Jail?
Visits happen on weekdays during the day. You must plan your visit before you arrive. You do this by calling the jail staff. You must show a valid photo ID when you get to the building. This proves who you are to the deputies. Visits are limited to 30 minutes for each visitor. You must follow the dress code rules. Do not wear clothes that the staff might find offensive or distracting. You cannot bring items like bags, cameras, or phones into the room. There is a secure area to leave your things. You will talk to the inmate through a glass window. This is for the safety of everyone in the building. You must act in a calm way during the visit. If you yell or cause a problem, the staff will end the visit. You might not be allowed to come back if you break the rules. Children are allowed to visit if a parent is with them at all times. This process ensures that inmates can see their families while the jail stays secure. Always check the official website for any changes to the times or rules before you go.
How do I send money to an inmate at the Washington County Iowa Jail?
Inmates need money to buy things from the commissary. They use it for snacks, hygiene items, and phone calls. You can add money to their account in a few ways. There is a kiosk in the jail lobby. This machine takes cash or credit cards. You just follow the steps on the screen. You will need the inmate’s name or ID number. You can also send money through a secure website. This is helpful if you live far away. Do not send cash through the mail. It might get lost or stolen. The jail does not take personal checks for inmate accounts. When you put money in the account, it is available for the inmate to use right away. There is usually a small fee for using the kiosk or the online service. The staff can help you if you have trouble with the machine. This money stays in the inmate’s account until they spend it or leave the jail. If they have money left when they get out, the jail will give it back to them. Usually, they give it back as a debit card or a check. This helps the person have some money when they go home.
How can I send letters to someone in the Washington County Iowa Jail?
Writing letters is a great way to support someone in jail. You must use the correct address. Write the inmate’s name on the first line. Write the jail’s address on the next lines. The address is 2185 Lexington Boulevard, Washington, IA 52353. Every piece of mail is checked by the staff. They look for things that should not be there. These things include drugs, weapons, or contraband. You should not use staples or paper clips in your letters. Do not send cards that have glitter or electronics in them. You can send plain photos. Do not send photos that show illegal acts or nudity. If you send something that is not allowed, the inmate will not get the letter. The staff might throw it away or keep it as evidence. You cannot send packages with food or clothes. Those items must be bought through the commissary. Letters are delivered to the inmates once a day during the week. There is no mail delivery on Sunday. Writing letters helps the person in jail feel connected to the outside. It can help them stay positive while they wait for their court date. Always put a return address on your envelope.
What services does the Washington County Iowa Jail medical wing provide?
The jail has a large medical wing that is 3,500 square feet. This area is dedicated to the health of the people in custody. When someone arrives at the jail, staff ask them about their health. If they have a medical problem, they can see a nurse. The jail has medical staff who come in to treat sick people. They can give out medicine that a doctor has prescribed. If someone has a serious emergency, they will be taken to a hospital. The medical wing has special rooms for people who need to be watched closely. This includes people who might be contagious or very ill. The jail also helps people who have mental health needs. They can talk to a counselor or a doctor about their feelings. Providing medical care is a legal requirement for jails. It ensures that everyone is treated fairly and stays healthy. The cost of some medical care might be charged to the inmate. They can use the money in their account to pay for these services. The goal of the medical wing is to keep the jail safe and healthy for inmates and staff alike.
Who manages the law enforcement and the Washington County Iowa Jail?
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the jail. The Sheriff is an elected official. This means the people of the county vote for the Sheriff. The Sheriff picks a Chief Deputy to help run the office. There are also fifteen deputies who work for the county. These deputies are trained at the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. They learn how to catch criminals and how to keep the peace. Some deputies work in the jail as correctional officers. They watch the inmates and make sure the rules are followed. Other deputies drive patrol cars around the county. They respond to 911 calls and traffic accidents. The staff works together to make sure the jail is secure. They use a central control room to monitor cameras and locks. The records division helps by keeping track of all the paperwork for arrests and court cases. The county board of supervisors helps by providing the budget for the jail. This money pays for food, electricity, and the salaries of the workers. The community supports the jail because it keeps the streets safe. The Sheriff’s office is open to the public for reports and records during the day.
How are the jail records and roster updated in Washington County?
Records at the Washington County Iowa Jail are updated very often. The digital roster changes every hour. This happens because people are always entering or leaving the jail. When the police bring someone in, the staff types their data into a computer. They take a mugshot and record the charges. This data goes onto the public website right away. The main roster is also updated every morning at 6 a.m. This creates a fresh list for the day. Legal changes from the court are added to the files as soon as the jail gets the paperwork. This might include a new bond amount or a release order. The Iowa Department of Corrections also keeps a database. Their records might take a little longer to show changes. It can take up to 48 hours for the state records to match the local jail records. This is why it is good to check the local roster first. The electronic system helps prevent mistakes. It makes sure that the right people are released at the right time. The public can view these records to see if a friend or family member is still in custody. Transparency is a big part of how the jail works with the public.