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Kenosha County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Kenosha County?

Inmate records in Kenosha County are official government documents maintained by the Kenosha County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records document the entire custody lifecycle of an individual from initial booking through release or transfer to another facility.

Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.35, these records constitute official documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

  • Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
  • Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
  • Court records are maintained by the Kenosha County Clerk of Courts
  • Inmate records are maintained by the Kenosha County Sheriff's Office Detention Division

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, where identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge information are collected. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, visitation logs, and other relevant custody details. Upon release, final disposition information is added to complete the record.

The Kenosha County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.24, which establishes requirements for inmate record management and retention.

Are Inmate Records Public In Kenosha County?

Inmate records in Kenosha County are generally considered public information under the Wisconsin Public Records Law, with certain limitations to protect privacy and security interests. Wisconsin Statute § 19.31 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 following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

  • Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
  • Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
  • Booking date and time
  • Current charges
  • Bond/bail amounts
  • Expected release dates (when applicable)
  • Facility housing location (general information)
  • Mugshot photographs

However, certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure under Wisconsin Statute § 19.36, including:

  • Medical and mental health information
  • Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
  • Information that would compromise facility security
  • Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
  • Information related to ongoing investigations
  • Records that would endanger an individual if released

The Kenosha County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides public access to basic inmate information in accordance with state law. For more comprehensive records, formal public records requests may be submitted to the Sheriff's Office Records Division.

What's Included Inmate Records in Kenosha County

Inmate records in Kenosha County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. 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)
  • Fingerprints and other biometric data
  • Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

  • Date and time of booking/intake
  • Arresting agency and officer information
  • Housing assignment within facility
  • Classification status (minimum, medium, maximum security)
  • Disciplinary records during incarceration
  • Visitation logs and approved visitor list
  • Commissary account information
  • Program participation (education, treatment, work)

Charge Information:

  • Current charges (including statute numbers)
  • Warrant information (if applicable)
  • Probation/parole violation details (if applicable)
  • Case numbers associated with charges
  • Arresting agency case numbers

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond/bail amount set by court
  • Bond type (cash, signature, property)
  • Bond status (posted, not posted)
  • Bond conditions imposed by court

Court Information:

  • Next scheduled court appearance
  • Court location and department/division
  • Judge assigned to case
  • Court case numbers

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Length of sentence
  • Credit for time served
  • Sentence start date
  • Projected release date
  • Parole eligibility date (if applicable)
  • Good time/earned time calculations

Release Information:

  • Release date and time
  • Type of release (completed sentence, posted bond, transfer)
  • Release conditions (if applicable)
  • Destination upon release (if transferred to another facility)

The comprehensiveness of these records ensures proper management of the inmate population and provides necessary documentation for legal proceedings and public safety purposes.

Kenosha County Prison System

The Kenosha County correctional system operates under the authority of the Kenosha County Sheriff's Office, which maintains local detention facilities for pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in Wisconsin:

  • County jails house pre-trial detainees and those serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year)
  • State prisons, operated by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, house felony offenders serving longer sentences

The Kenosha County Sheriff's Office Detention Division is responsible for the operation of the county's correctional facilities. The Sheriff's Office is the third largest law enforcement agency in Wisconsin and operates one of the state's largest jail facilities.

Kenosha County Sheriff's Office
1000 55th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 605-5100
Kenosha County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office Detention Division operates under the authority of Wisconsin Statute § 302.31, which establishes that "the sheriff or other keeper of a jail shall keep all prisoners committed to the jail by legal authority until discharged by law or by order of a court."

The Kenosha County jail system currently has a capacity of approximately 1,000 inmates across its facilities and processes thousands of bookings annually. The system employs correctional officers, medical staff, and support personnel to maintain facility operations and ensure inmate welfare.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Kenosha County

Kenosha County maintains multiple correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's detention system:

Kenosha County Detention Center (KCDC)
4777 88th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53144
Phone: (262) 605-5800
Kenosha County Detention Center

The Kenosha County Detention Center is the primary correctional facility in the county, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. This modern facility includes:

  • Maximum security housing units
  • Medium security dormitory-style housing
  • Special management units for inmates requiring segregation
  • Medical and mental health services
  • Visitation areas
  • Programming spaces for education and treatment
  • Capacity for approximately 850 inmates

Kenosha County Pre-Trial Facility
1000 55th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 605-5111
Kenosha County Pre-Trial Facility

The Pre-Trial Facility is located within the Kenosha County Public Safety Building and primarily houses:

  • Recently arrested individuals awaiting initial court appearances
  • Pre-trial detainees with lower security classifications
  • Inmates with court appearances scheduled at the adjacent courthouse
  • Capacity for approximately 150 inmates

Kenosha County Work Release Center
1000 55th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 605-5100
Kenosha County Sheriff's Office

The Work Release Center houses minimum security inmates who qualify for Huber Law privileges under Wisconsin Statute § 303.08, which allows certain inmates to:

  • Maintain employment while serving their sentence
  • Attend educational programs
  • Receive necessary medical treatment
  • Provide childcare for dependent children
  • Capacity for approximately 60 inmates

These facilities operate in coordination with one another to manage the county's inmate population efficiently while maintaining appropriate security levels for different classifications of inmates.

Who's in Prison In Kenosha County

The Kenosha County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals who fall into several distinct categories based on their legal status and the nature of their confinement:

Pre-trial Detainees:

  • Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
  • Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
  • Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
  • Currently, pre-trial detainees constitute approximately 60-70% of the Kenosha County jail population

Sentenced Inmates:

  • Individuals convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
  • Persons convicted of ordinance violations with jail time imposed
  • Those serving sentences for probation or parole violations
  • Inmates awaiting transfer to state prison after felony conviction

Specialized Populations:

  • Huber Law inmates who leave the facility for work, education, or treatment
  • Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
  • Inmates with mental health needs requiring specialized housing and services
  • Those requiring protective custody due to the nature of their charges or other factors

Temporary Holds:

  • Individuals arrested by municipal police departments awaiting booking
  • Persons detained on warrants from other jurisdictions awaiting transfer
  • Probation/parole holds pending revocation hearings
  • Inmates returning from state prison for court appearances

It is important to note that the Kenosha County jail system does not house:

  • Juveniles (except in rare cases where juveniles are waived to adult court)
  • Federal prisoners (except temporarily while awaiting transfer)
  • Long-term felony inmates (those serving more than one year)

According to data from the Kenosha County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population across all county correctional facilities is approximately 800 inmates, with demographic patterns generally reflecting arrest patterns within the county.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Kenosha County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Kenosha County have several methods available to access these records. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate record searches:

Online Inmate Search:

  1. Visit the Kenosha County Inmate Search portal
  2. Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (optional)
  3. Click "Search" to view results
  4. Review the list of matching inmates currently in custody
  5. Select an individual record to view additional details including:
    • Current charges
    • Bond information
    • Next court date
    • Housing facility
    • Booking date

Telephone Inquiry:

  1. Contact the Kenosha County Detention Center at (262) 605-5800
  2. Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
  3. Request basic custody information (confirmation of incarceration, visiting hours)
  4. Note that detailed record information may require a formal records request

In-Person Record Request:

  1. Visit the Kenosha County Sheriff's Office Records Division
    • 1000 55th Street, Kenosha, WI 53140
    • Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
  2. Complete a public records request form
  3. Provide identification and contact information
  4. Specify the inmate and information being requested
  5. Pay applicable fees for record reproduction ($0.25 per page for photocopies)

Written Record Request:

  1. Submit a written request to:
    • Kenosha County Sheriff's Office
    • Records Division
    • 1000 55th Street
    • Kenosha, WI 53140
  2. Include the following information:
    • Requestor's full name, address, and contact information
    • Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
    • Specific records being requested
    • Preferred format for receiving records
  3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response

Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.35(4), the Sheriff's Office must respond to record requests "as soon as practicable and without delay." Most routine requests are processed within 5-10 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.

How To Find an Inmate in Kenosha County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Kenosha County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods that provide basic custody information to the public. The following resources are available to assist individuals seeking to confirm if someone is currently incarcerated in a Kenosha County facility:

Kenosha County Online Inmate Lookup:

  1. Access the Kenosha County Inmate Search website
  2. No account creation or login is required
  3. Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
  4. For more precise results, include first name or date of birth if known
  5. Review search results showing current inmates matching search criteria
  6. Information provided includes:
    • Full name and age
    • Booking date
    • Current charges
    • Bond amount
    • Next court date
    • Facility location

Automated Telephone System:

  1. Call the Kenosha County Detention Center automated line at (262) 605-5800
  2. Follow voice prompts to access inmate information
  3. Enter inmate's name using telephone keypad
  4. System provides basic custody status and visiting information
  5. Available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week

Wisconsin Vinelink System:

  1. Visit the Wisconsin Vinelink website
  2. Select "Find an Offender"
  3. Choose Wisconsin from the state dropdown menu
  4. Enter inmate name information
  5. System searches both county jails and state prisons
  6. Provides notification if inmate is in custody and location

Contact Jail Information Desk:

  1. Call the Kenosha County Pre-Trial Facility at (262) 605-5111
  2. Speak with information desk personnel during business hours (8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
  3. Provide inmate's full name and date of birth if known
  4. Request confirmation of custody status
  5. Inquire about visitation procedures if inmate is confirmed in custody

These free resources provide the most current information available regarding inmate custody status. The online inmate search is updated multiple times daily as new bookings occur and releases are processed, ensuring relatively current information for the public.

How To Visit an Inmate In Kenosha County

Visitation with inmates in Kenosha County correctional facilities follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visits at Kenosha County detention facilities:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

  • All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
  • Inmates may have up to 8 approved visitors on their list
  • Visitors must be 18 years or older unless accompanied by a parent/guardian
  • Proper identification (government-issued photo ID) is required for all visitors
  • All visitors are subject to search prior to visitation
  • Visitors with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

  • Kenosha County Detention Center (4777 88th Avenue):
    • Tuesday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Sunday-Monday: No visitation (reserved for professional visits)
  • Pre-Trial Facility (1000 55th Street):
    • Wednesday-Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Monday-Tuesday: No visitation

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo identification
  • Visitor registration confirmation (if pre-registered)
  • Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicle or lockers)
  • Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, medical devices)
  • Baby supplies if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)

What NOT to Bring:

  • Cell phones or electronic devices
  • Weapons of any kind
  • Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
  • Food or beverages
  • Purses, bags, or backpacks
  • Excessive jewelry or accessories
  • Cash exceeding $20 (for vending machines where available)
  • Letters, photos, or items for inmates

Dress Code:

  • Conservative attire required
  • No revealing clothing (shorts above knee, tank tops, low-cut tops)
  • No gang-related colors or symbols
  • No clothing with offensive language or images
  • No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections
  • Shoes and shirts required at all times
  • No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)

Visit Types:

  • On-site video visitation (primary method at both facilities)
  • Remote video visitation (available for fee through GTL)
  • Contact visits (limited to certain classifications with approval)
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)

Visit Restrictions:

  • Maximum of two visitors per inmate per session
  • Visits limited to 30 minutes (standard) or 60 minutes (special approval)
  • Maximum of two visits per week per inmate
  • Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
  • Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied

Special Considerations:

  • ADA accommodations available with prior request
  • Foreign language interpretation services available with 48-hour notice
  • Special visits for out-of-state visitors may be arranged with advance approval

Visitation procedures are established pursuant to Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.06, which recognizes the importance of maintaining family ties during incarceration while ensuring facility security.

How To Send Money to a Kenosha County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Kenosha County facilities have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other services during their incarceration.

Online Deposits:

  1. Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
  2. Select "Kenosha County Sheriff's Office" from the facility list
  3. Create an account or proceed as guest
  4. Enter inmate's full name and ID number
  5. Select payment amount
  6. Provide credit/debit card information
  7. Complete transaction and retain confirmation number
  8. Funds typically post to inmate accounts within 24 hours
  9. Service fee: $2.50 for transactions up to $50; $3.50 for transactions $50.01-$100

Lobby Kiosk Deposits:

  1. Visit either correctional facility during lobby hours:
    • Kenosha County Detention Center: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
    • Pre-Trial Facility: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
  2. Use the TouchPay kiosk located in the facility lobby
  3. Follow on-screen instructions
  4. Insert cash or credit/debit card
  5. Obtain printed receipt
  6. Funds typically post to inmate accounts within 1-2 hours
  7. Service fee: $2.00 per transaction

Phone Deposits:

  1. Call TouchPay Payment Systems at 1-866-232-1899
  2. Follow automated prompts
  3. Provide inmate information and payment details
  4. Funds typically post within 24 hours
  5. Service fee: $4.00 per transaction

Mail Money Orders:

  1. Purchase money order from post office or financial institution
  2. Make payable to "Kenosha County Sheriff's Office"
  3. Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
  4. Do not send cash, personal checks, or third-party checks
  5. Mail to:
    • Kenosha County Sheriff's Office
    • Inmate Accounts
    • 1000 55th Street
    • Kenosha, WI 53140
  6. Funds typically post within 3-5 business days after receipt
  7. No service fee for money orders

Amount Limits:

  • Maximum single deposit: $300
  • Maximum weekly deposits per inmate: $500
  • Maximum account balance allowed: $1,000

Funds Usage Guidelines:

  • Approved uses include:
    • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
    • Phone calls and video visitation fees
    • Medical co-pays
    • Haircuts and other services
    • Release funds
  • Prohibited uses include:
    • Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)
    • Transfer to other inmates
    • Payment for outside services or goods

Refund Policy:

  • Remaining funds are returned to inmates upon release
  • Unclaimed funds under $20 may be subject to administrative fee
  • Funds may be transferred to another correctional facility if inmate is transferred

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.45, which governs inmate funds and accounts.

How To Send Jail Mail In Kenosha County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Kenosha County correctional facilities is permitted but subject to specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following procedures must be followed when sending mail to individuals incarcerated in Kenosha County:

General Mail Guidelines:

  • All incoming mail must include:
    • Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
    • Inmate ID number (if known)
    • Facility name
    • Complete facility address
    • Sender's full name and return address on envelope
  • Example address format: 
    Inmate Name, ID# (if known)
Kenosha County Detention Center
4777 88th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53144
  • Mail lacking proper addressing will be returned to sender
  • All incoming mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery
  • Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 24-48 hours after receipt and processing

Permitted Mail Items:

  • Personal letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
  • Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
  • Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum 4x6 inches, no Polaroids)
  • Legal documents related to inmate's case
  • Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
  • Money orders (see previous section on sending money)

Prohibited Mail Items:

  • Packages of any kind
  • Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
  • Stickers, labels, or adhesive materials
  • Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
  • Perfumed or scented items
  • Cash or personal checks
  • Postage stamps or envelopes
  • Photos depicting nudity, gang symbols, or criminal activity
  • Any items containing biohazards or unknown substances
  • Excessive tape or staples

Publications and Books:

  • Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
  • Publications must be paperback only
  • Maximum of 3 books or 5 magazines in possession at one time
  • All publications subject to content review
  • Religious texts allowed with approval from facility chaplain

Legal Mail:

  • Mail from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
  • Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
  • Must include attorney bar number or court/agency letterhead
  • Not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening

E-Messages (where available):

  1. Create account on GTL ConnectNetwork
  2. Select Kenosha County facility
  3. Add inmate to contact list using full name and ID number
  4. Purchase message credits
  5. Compose and send message (subject to same content restrictions as physical mail)
  6. Cost: Approximately $0.25 per message
  7. Messages typically delivered within 24 hours

All mail procedures comply with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.04, which establishes inmate mail privileges while maintaining facility security requirements. The Kenosha County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to modify mail procedures as necessary to address security concerns.

Lookup Inmate Records in Kenosha County

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Kenosha County Sheriff's Office information

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