Washoe County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Washoe County?
Inmate records in Washoe County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Washoe County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody, pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes § 211.150, which mandates the proper keeping of jail records.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records document the judicial proceedings related to a case, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within detention facilities. Court records are maintained by the judicial system, whereas inmate records are maintained by law enforcement and correctional agencies.
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During this intake procedure, personal information is collected, photographs (mugshots) are taken, fingerprints are recorded, and initial health screenings are conducted. Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical treatments, visitation logs, and other relevant information. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as required by Nevada's record retention schedules.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Nevada Administrative Code § 289.010, which establishes standards for record-keeping in detention facilities.
Are Inmate Records Public In Washoe County?
Inmate records in Washoe County are generally considered public records under the Nevada Public Records Act (NRS Chapter 239), which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, access to these records is subject to certain limitations and exceptions designed to protect privacy, security, and ongoing investigations.
The following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
- Charges filed
- Mugshots (in most cases)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
Certain portions of inmate records may be redacted or withheld from public disclosure under exceptions provided in NRS § 239.010, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that might compromise institutional security
- Records related to juveniles
- Information that could interfere with ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records in Washoe County may submit requests through the Washoe County Sheriff's Office Records Division or utilize the online inmate search tool provided on the Sheriff's Office website. Law enforcement agencies, court officials, and legal representatives may have access to more comprehensive inmate information than is available to the general public.
What's Included Inmate Records in Washoe County
Inmate records in Washoe County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. 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 distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Participation in jail programs or work assignments
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Probation terms and conditions
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time
- Type of release (time served, bond posted, transferred)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release conditions
These records are maintained in compliance with Nevada Revised Statutes § 211.150, which requires sheriffs to keep exact and detailed records of all persons committed to county jails.
Washoe County Prison System
The Washoe County detention system operates under the authority of the Washoe County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial, as well as those serving sentences of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in Nevada.
The Washoe County Detention Facility, commonly referred to as the Washoe County Jail, primarily houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Persons held on immigration detainers
- Individuals in transit to other jurisdictions
In contrast, the Nevada Department of Corrections operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year. After sentencing for a felony, inmates are typically transferred from county custody to state custody.
The Washoe County detention system operates under the direct supervision of the elected Sheriff and is funded primarily through county tax revenues, while the state prison system is operated by the Nevada Department of Corrections and funded through state appropriations.
Washoe County Sheriff's Office
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-3001
Washoe County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Washoe County
Washoe County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific purposes within the county's detention system:
Washoe County Detention Facility (Main Jail)
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-3001
Washoe County Detention Facility
This is the primary detention facility in Washoe County, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility includes various housing units categorized by security level (minimum, medium, and maximum) and special needs populations. The main jail has a capacity of approximately 1,100 inmates and provides various services including medical care, mental health services, and educational programs.
Washoe County Work Release Facility
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-6355
Washoe County Alternative Sentencing
This facility houses low-risk inmates who are permitted to leave the facility for employment during the day but must return to custody during non-working hours. The work release program allows qualifying inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences.
Washoe County Alternative Sentencing Program
350 S. Center Street
Reno, NV 89501
(775) 328-3056
Washoe County Alternative Sentencing
While not a traditional correctional facility, this program oversees individuals sentenced to house arrest, electronic monitoring, and other alternatives to incarceration. The program supervises offenders who remain in the community but are subject to various restrictions and monitoring.
Washoe County Juvenile Detention Center
650 Ferrari McLeod Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 325-7800
Washoe County Juvenile Services
This facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) who are awaiting adjudication or have been adjudicated for criminal offenses. The juvenile facility operates separately from adult facilities and provides age-appropriate services, including education and counseling.
Each of these facilities operates under different security protocols and offers various programs designed to address the specific needs of their respective populations, in accordance with Nevada Revised Statutes § 211.030, which establishes requirements for county jail facilities.
Who's in Prison In Washoe County
The Washoe County detention system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Persons who have not posted bail or were denied bail
- Individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- These detainees make up approximately 60-70% of the jail population
Sentenced Inmates:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
- Individuals convicted of gross misdemeanors serving sentences up to 364 days
- Persons convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Sentenced inmates typically comprise 30-40% of the jail population
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- Persons held for other jurisdictions under inter-agency agreements
- Individuals serving intermittent sentences (such as weekend confinement)
- Federal detainees held under contract with the U.S. Marshals Service
Classification Categories:
- Minimum security inmates (low risk, non-violent offenders)
- Medium security inmates (moderate risk offenders)
- Maximum security inmates (high risk, violent offenders, escape risks)
- Special management inmates (those requiring protective custody, administrative segregation, or disciplinary housing)
The demographic composition of the Washoe County jail population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends, with overrepresentation of certain demographic groups. The average daily population fluctuates but typically ranges between 900-1,100 inmates. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 14-21 days, while sentenced inmates may remain in custody for up to one year.
All inmates, regardless of classification, are afforded certain rights under Nevada Revised Statutes § 211.140, which establishes minimum standards for the treatment of persons in county detention facilities.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Washoe County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Washoe County may utilize several methods to access these records. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate information that is accessible through multiple channels:
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Washoe County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Detention" or "Inmate Information" section
- Select the "Inmate Search" option
- Enter the required search criteria (at least one is required):
- Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
- Booking number (if known)
- Date of birth
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate's name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Housing facility
In-Person Record Requests:
-
Visit the Washoe County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Washoe County Sheriff's Office Records Division
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-3350 -
Complete a public records request form
-
Provide identifying information about the inmate
-
Present valid government-issued photo identification
-
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
-
Records staff will process the request according to current timelines
Telephone Inquiries:
- Contact the Washoe County Detention Facility at (775) 328-3001
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth to the operator
- Basic information may be provided over the phone, including:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Visiting hours
- Bond information
- Court dates
Written Requests:
-
Submit a written request to:
Washoe County Sheriff's Office Records Division
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512 -
Include the following information:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Specific information requested
- Your contact information
-
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
-
Allow 5-10 business days for processing
All record requests are processed in accordance with the Nevada Public Records Act (NRS Chapter 239), which establishes procedures for accessing government records. Certain information may be redacted to protect privacy and security interests.
How To Find an Inmate in Washoe County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Washoe County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to the public:
Washoe County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Search:
- Access the Washoe County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Detention" section
- Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
- Enter the inmate's information (last name is required, first name is recommended)
- The system will display current inmates matching the search criteria
- This database is updated regularly and includes:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Bond information
Telephone Information Line:
- Call the Washoe County Detention Facility at (775) 328-3001
- Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
- Provide the inmate's full name when prompted
- Basic custody information is available 24 hours a day through this service
Nevada Offender Tracking Information System (NOTIS):
- Visit the Nevada Department of Corrections website
- Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
- Enter the inmate's name or ID number
- This system only includes inmates who have been transferred to state custody
- Information provided includes current location and sentence details
Washoe County Court Records:
- Access the Second Judicial District Court website
- Select "Case Search" from the available options
- Enter the individual's name
- Review case information, which may include custody status
- Court records can indicate if an individual has been remanded to custody
In-Person Inquiry:
-
Visit the Washoe County Sheriff's Office public lobby
Washoe County Sheriff's Office
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512 -
Request basic inmate information from the reception desk
-
No fees are charged for basic custody status information
-
Lobby hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
These free resources provide basic information about an inmate's custody status, charges, and expected release date. For more detailed information, such as comprehensive incarceration records or specific housing details, a formal public records request may be required, which could involve processing fees in accordance with NRS § 239.052.
How To Visit an Inmate In Washoe County
Visiting an inmate at the Washoe County Detention Facility requires adherence to established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections. The following guidelines outline the current visitation process:
Visit Types:
- Video Visitation: The primary method of visitation, conducted via video terminals
- Professional Visits: In-person visits for attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
- Special Visits: Arranged under exceptional circumstances with prior approval
Visit Schedule:
- Video visits are available seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Each inmate is allowed two 25-minute video visits per week
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Professional visits typically occur between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays
Visit Registration and Scheduling:
- Create an account on the Washoe County Detention Facility visitation website
- Complete the required registration information
- Schedule a visit during available time slots
- Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled visit time
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be 18 years of age or older (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
- Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility
- Visits may be monitored and recorded, except for privileged attorney-client communications
- Inappropriate behavior may result in termination of the visit and suspension of visitation privileges
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, cleavage, or undergarments)
- No gang-related clothing or insignia
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats, sunglasses, or excessive jewelry
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Necessary medical items (medications, mobility devices)
- Vehicle keys
- Small amount of cash for vending machines (where available)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Electronic devices (cell phones, cameras, recording devices)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- Tobacco products
- Excessive cash or valuables
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons with active warrants or pending criminal charges
- Former inmates (within 60 days of release)
- Persons on probation or parole (without prior approval)
- Individuals who have been suspended from visitation privileges
- Persons who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
These visitation policies are established pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes § 211.060, which authorizes sheriffs to establish rules for the government of jails. For the most current information on visitation procedures, contact:
Washoe County Detention Facility
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-3001
Washoe County Sheriff's Office Detention Division
How To Send Money to a Washoe County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Washoe County Detention Facility have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds can be used by inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for other approved services.
Available Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the Washoe County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Services" or "Detention" section
- Select "Inmate Accounts" or "Commissary"
- Follow the link to the third-party payment processor
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and inmate ID number)
- Enter payment information and deposit amount
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$7.95 depending on deposit amount)
-
Kiosk Deposits
-
Visit the Washoe County Detention Facility lobby
Washoe County Detention Facility
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512 -
Locate the automated payment kiosk
-
Follow on-screen instructions
-
Enter inmate information
-
Insert cash or credit/debit card
-
Obtain and retain receipt
-
Lobby hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
-
Service fees apply for credit/debit card transactions
-
-
Money Order by Mail
-
Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
-
Make payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
-
Do not send personal checks or cash
-
Mail to:
Washoe County Detention Facility
Inmate Accounts
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512 -
Include sender's full name and return address
-
No service fees apply for money orders
-
Processing time: 3-5 business days
-
Deposit Limits and Restrictions:
- Minimum deposit amount: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit amount: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit amount: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,500.00
Approved Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for prohibited services
- Gambling or betting activities
- Purchase of contraband items
- Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)
Additional Information:
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24-48 hours of receipt
- Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release
- Deposits may be subject to collection of court-ordered obligations, including restitution, fines, and child support
- All financial transactions are monitored and recorded
The management of inmate accounts is governed by Nevada Administrative Code § 211.030, which establishes standards for inmate funds and property. For current information on deposit procedures and fees, contact:
Washoe County Detention Facility Inmate Accounts
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-6355
Washoe County Sheriff's Office
How To Send Jail Mail In Washoe County
Corresponding with inmates at the Washoe County Detention Facility requires adherence to specific guidelines designed to maintain security while facilitating communication. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with established regulations.
Mailing Address Format:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Washoe County Detention Facility
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
Letter Guidelines:
- All mail must include the sender's full name and return address
- Envelopes must be standard size (no larger than 9" x 12")
- Letters must be written in blue or black ink or pencil
- Paper must be plain white, unlined or lined
- No perfume, lipstick, stickers, glitter, or other substances on letters
- No drawings or markings in crayon, marker, colored pencil, or highlighter
- No plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
- No Polaroid photos or photos with adhesive backing
- Maximum of 5 photos per envelope (standard 4" x 6" size only)
- No sexually explicit or gang-related content
- No information related to criminal activity or security threats
Approved Mail Items:
- Personal letters
- Standard photographs (maximum 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (see previous section on sending money)
- Legal correspondence (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Soft-cover books and magazines (must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Hardcover books
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Cash or personal checks
- Greeting cards with musical, electronic, or pop-up components
- Cards larger than 5" x 7"
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or personal items
- Newspaper clippings
- Blank paper, envelopes, or writing materials
- Any items with adhesive backing (stickers, labels, tape)
- Any items containing biohazards or unknown substances
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Privileged"
- Must include attorney's name, bar number, and return address
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by facility staff but is inspected for contraband
E-Messages (if available):
- Visit the facility's approved electronic messaging vendor website
- Create an account and purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Fees apply for electronic messaging services
Mail Processing Times:
- Regular mail is typically processed within 24-48 hours of receipt
- Legal mail is processed within 24 hours of receipt
- Rejected mail is returned to sender with explanation
- Mail for released inmates is returned to sender
All mail procedures are established in accordance with Nevada Revised Statutes § 211.140, which governs the treatment of persons confined in county facilities. For current information on mail policies, contact:
Washoe County Detention Facility
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-3001
Washoe County Sheriff's Office