Milwaukee County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Milwaukee County?
Inmate records in Milwaukee County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who are currently incarcerated or have previously been detained in Milwaukee County correctional facilities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the Milwaukee County Circuit Court, document legal proceedings, case filings, and judicial decisions, inmate records specifically track the physical custody status and institutional management of detained individuals. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.35, these records are considered public records subject to specific disclosure provisions and exemptions.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial creation occurs during booking/intake when an individual enters custody
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Records are administratively closed upon the individual's release from custody
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Wisconsin Statute § 302.38, which establishes requirements for the medical care and record-keeping of inmates in county jails and houses of correction.
Are Inmate Records Public In Milwaukee County?
Inmate records in Milwaukee County are generally considered public records under Wisconsin's Public Records Law, specifically Wisconsin Statute § 19.31-19.39. This statute establishes that "all persons are entitled to the greatest possible information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those officers and employees who represent them." The law creates a presumption of accessibility to government records, including most inmate records.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, as the custodian of inmate records, makes certain information publicly available while protecting sensitive data in accordance with state law. Under current Wisconsin law, the following inmate record components are typically accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking and arrest information
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshot photographs (with certain exceptions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.36(8), certain information is exempt from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social Security numbers and other personally identifying information
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Records related to juveniles in custody
The Wisconsin Department of Justice has issued guidance stating that "the public interest in protecting the safety of inmates, correctional staff, and the public generally outweighs any public interest in disclosure" of certain sensitive information contained in inmate records.
What's Included Inmate Records in Milwaukee County
Inmate records in Milwaukee County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. The following components constitute a typical inmate record:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Assigned inmate identification number
- Mugshot photograph
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Current housing assignment
- Classification level
- Disciplinary history within the facility
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Criminal history (may be limited to current incarceration)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, signature, property)
- Bond status (posted, not posted, revoked)
- Bond conditions
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Upcoming court dates
- Court appearance history
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole/probation eligibility dates
- Good time/earned time calculations
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Release type (time served, bond posted, transferred)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
These records are maintained in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.24, which establishes standards for inmate record management in Wisconsin correctional facilities.
Milwaukee County Prison System
The Milwaukee County correctional system operates as a multi-tiered structure designed to house individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The system primarily consists of county-operated detention facilities that house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year, as prescribed by Wisconsin state law.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons within Wisconsin's correctional framework. County jails, operated by the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, primarily house individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences for misdemeanors, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. State prisons, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary administrator of the county's detention facilities. The Sheriff's Office is responsible for the intake, housing, security, and release of all individuals in county custody.
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office
821 W. State Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 278-4766
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office
The Milwaukee County correctional system operates under the authority of Wisconsin Statute § 302.31, which establishes the use of county jails for the detention of persons charged with crimes and committed for trial, persons sentenced to imprisonment in the county jail, persons committed for the nonpayment of fines, and other individuals lawfully detained.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Milwaukee County
Milwaukee County maintains several distinct correctional facilities, each serving specific functions within the county's detention system:
Milwaukee County Jail
949 North 9th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 226-7070
Milwaukee County Jail
The Milwaukee County Jail, located in downtown Milwaukee, serves as the primary intake and detention facility for the county. This facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving sentences of less than one year, and those awaiting transfer to other facilities. The jail has a capacity of approximately 960 inmates and provides various services including medical care, mental health services, and limited programming.
Milwaukee County House of Correction
8885 South 68th Street
Franklin, WI 53132
(414) 427-4700
Milwaukee County House of Correction
The House of Correction, located in Franklin, primarily houses individuals serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions and some low-level felonies. This facility has a capacity of approximately 1,800 inmates and offers more extensive rehabilitative programming, including educational courses, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment.
Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility
1015 North 10th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 212-3535
Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility
While technically a state-operated facility under the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF) houses individuals who have violated terms of probation or parole, as well as some pre-trial detainees. This facility has a capacity of approximately 1,040 inmates.
Community Reintegration Center
8885 South 68th Street
Franklin, WI 53132
(414) 427-4700
Community Reintegration Center
Formerly known as the House of Correction, this facility was renamed in 2021 to reflect its enhanced focus on rehabilitation and reentry services. The Community Reintegration Center provides educational programming, job training, and transitional services to prepare individuals for successful return to the community.
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and offers varying levels of services and programming based on its designated function within the county correctional system.
Who's in Prison In Milwaukee County
The Milwaukee County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population primarily consists of:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings who have not been convicted of the charges against them
- Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of up to one year
- Persons convicted of certain low-level felonies serving sentences in county facilities rather than state prisons
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities following felony convictions
- Persons detained for probation or parole violations
- Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, or immigration authorities)
The demographic composition of Milwaukee County's incarcerated population reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system. According to data from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, the county's detention facilities house predominantly male inmates, with a disproportionate representation of racial and ethnic minorities relative to the county's general population.
Common offenses resulting in incarceration in Milwaukee County facilities include:
- Drug possession and distribution
- Property crimes (theft, burglary)
- Operating while intoxicated (OWI)
- Domestic violence
- Disorderly conduct
- Probation and parole violations
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case status:
- Pre-trial detainees: Variable, depending on case complexity and court scheduling
- Misdemeanor sentences: Typically 30-365 days
- Low-level felony sentences: Up to one year in county facilities
Milwaukee County's correctional population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and sentencing practices. The facilities operate under the regulatory framework established by Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 350, which sets standards for county jails in Wisconsin.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Milwaukee County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Milwaukee County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate records and provides multiple channels for public access:
Online Inmate Locator System:
- Visit the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office In Custody Locator
- Enter the required search criteria (at least one field must be completed):
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional, improves search accuracy)
- Date of birth (optional, improves search accuracy)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Housing location
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Record Requests:
Individuals may request inmate records in person at:
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office Records Division
821 W. State Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 278-4921
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
When requesting records in person, requesters should:
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Complete a public records request form
- Present valid identification
- Be prepared to pay applicable fees for record reproduction
Written Record Requests:
Written requests for inmate records may be submitted to:
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office Records Division
821 W. State Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
Attn: Records Custodian
Written requests should include:
- Requester's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Time period covered by the request
Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.35(4), the Sheriff's Office must respond to record requests "as soon as practicable and without delay." Complex requests may require additional processing time. Fees for record reproduction are assessed in accordance with Wisconsin's public records law.
How To Find an Inmate in Milwaukee County for Free?
Milwaukee County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county's detention system. These resources are available to the general public without fees or subscription requirements:
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
The primary resource for locating inmates at no cost is the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office In Custody Locator. This official database provides real-time information on individuals currently detained in Milwaukee County facilities.
To use this system effectively:
- Enter the inmate's last name (required)
- Include first name and/or date of birth if known (improves accuracy)
- The system updates multiple times daily
- Results include current housing location and basic case information
Wisconsin Department of Corrections Offender Locator:
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections Offender Locator provides free statewide inmate search capabilities.
Milwaukee County Circuit Court Records:
Court records can help locate individuals who may be in custody through the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access portal. While this system does not directly confirm custody status, it provides case information that may indicate incarceration.
Telephone Inquiry:
Members of the public may contact Milwaukee County detention facilities directly:
- Milwaukee County Jail: (414) 226-7070
- House of Correction/Community Reintegration Center: (414) 427-4700
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Inmate's full legal name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
These free resources provide basic custody information, including:
- Confirmation of incarceration status
- Current facility location
- Booking date
- Scheduled court dates
- Projected release date (if sentenced)
For more comprehensive records beyond basic custody information, formal public records requests may be required as outlined in the previous section.
How To Visit an Inmate In Milwaukee County
Visitation with inmates in Milwaukee County detention facilities is governed by specific protocols established to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to visits at Milwaukee County correctional facilities:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors are subject to security screening, including metal detectors and possible searches
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
Visit Schedule:
Milwaukee County Jail:
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Daily, 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Personal visits: Schedule varies by housing unit; typically Wednesday-Sunday
- Visit duration: 30 minutes per visit, one visit per day
Community Reintegration Center:
- Professional visits: Daily, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Personal visits: Thursday-Sunday, 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM
- Visit duration: 60 minutes per visit, two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitor registration confirmation (if pre-registered)
- Locker key deposit (typically $1.00, returned after visit)
- Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, medical devices)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Large bags or purses
- Cash exceeding $50
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No uniforms resembling staff attire
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
Milwaukee County facilities offer several visitation formats:
- In-person contact visits (limited availability, typically for minimum security)
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
- Video visitation (available at both facilities)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
Visit Restrictions:
Visitation privileges may be suspended or modified under the following circumstances:
- Facility lockdown or emergency
- Inmate disciplinary status
- Visitor rule violations
- Court-ordered restrictions
- Health emergencies or outbreaks
All visitation policies are established in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.06-309.12, which governs visitation in Wisconsin correctional facilities. For the most current visitation information, visitors should contact the specific facility prior to planning their visit.
How To Send Money to a Milwaukee County Inmate
Milwaukee County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access certain services within the facilities.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Milwaukee County" as the facility
- Enter inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment via credit/debit card
-
Telephone Deposits
- Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Service available 24/7
-
Mobile App Deposits
- Download the Access Corrections mobile app
- Available for iOS and Android devices
- Follow in-app instructions for deposits
-
Lobby Kiosk Deposits
- Available at Milwaukee County Jail and Community Reintegration Center
- Touch-screen kiosks accept cash and credit/debit cards
- Receipts provided for all transactions
-
Money Order by Mail
- Make money order payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to the appropriate facility address with inmate's name and ID clearly indicated
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposits: $400.00 per inmate
- Maximum monthly deposits: $1,200.00 per inmate
Transaction Fees:
- Online/phone deposits: $3.95 - $8.95 (fee varies based on amount)
- Mobile app deposits: $3.95 - $8.95 (fee varies based on amount)
- Lobby kiosk deposits: $2.95 - $6.95 (fee varies based on amount)
- Money orders by mail: No fee
Prohibited Items:
The following items cannot be sent directly to inmates:
- Cash in mail
- Personal checks
- Cashier's checks
- Third-party checks
- Cryptocurrency or digital currency transfers
Authorized Fund Uses:
Inmates may use account funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Release funds
Funds cannot be used for:
- Payment of fines or court costs (separate process required)
- Bail or bond payments
- Transfers to other inmates
- Outside purchases or bill payments
All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.45-309.52, which establishes guidelines for inmate accounts and financial transactions in Wisconsin correctional facilities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Milwaukee County
Correspondence with inmates in Milwaukee County detention facilities follows specific guidelines to ensure security while maintaining important connections with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following protocols govern mail services for Milwaukee County inmates:
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name and ID number (if known)
- Facility name and address
- Sender's full name and return address
Mailing Addresses:
For inmates at Milwaukee County Jail:
Inmate Name, ID Number
Milwaukee County Jail
949 North 9th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
For inmates at Community Reintegration Center:
Inmate Name, ID Number
Community Reintegration Center
8885 South 68th Street
Franklin, WI 53132
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following financial guidelines)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved publications directly from publishers
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Plastic or metal items
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Items depicting violence or weapons
- Contraband or illegal items
- Food or beverage items
- Clothing or fabric items
Mail Processing Procedures:
All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and prohibited content before delivery to inmates. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the inmate's presence to maintain confidentiality while ensuring security.
Mail processing typically takes 24-48 hours after receipt at the facility. Mail containing prohibited items will be rejected and either returned to sender or placed in the inmate's property for retrieval upon release.
Electronic Messaging:
Milwaukee County facilities also offer secure electronic messaging through the Smart Communications platform. This service allows for faster communication but requires:
- Account creation by outside correspondent
- Payment of per-message fees
- Adherence to content guidelines
All mail services operate in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.04-309.05, which establishes inmate mail privileges and restrictions in Wisconsin correctional facilities.
Lookup Inmate Records in Milwaukee County
Milwaukee County Sheriff's In Custody Locator
Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility Inmate Information