Saginaw County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Saginaw County?

Inmate records in Saginaw County are official government documents maintained by the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county correctional facilities. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.230, which establishes requirements for documentation of persons in custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records document the judicial proceedings related to an individual's case, inmate records specifically track custody status and institutional management information. Court records are maintained by the Saginaw County Circuit Court or District Courts, whereas inmate records are under the jurisdiction of the Sheriff's Office.

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process when an individual is first taken into custody. During this initial phase, personal identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge information are collected and documented. Throughout the period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as required by Michigan's record retention schedules.

The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office is the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in the county jail system. For individuals who have been transferred to state prison facilities, the Michigan Department of Corrections maintains those records.

Are Inmate Records Public In Saginaw County?

Inmate records in Saginaw County are generally considered public information under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL § 15.231 et seq., with certain important exceptions and limitations. This law establishes the public's right to access government records, including basic information about individuals in custody.

The following inmate information is typically available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information
• Charges filed
• Mugshots/booking photographs
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

However, certain components of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under Michigan law. These protected elements include:

• Medical and mental health information
• Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Information that would compromise institutional security
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
• Information related to ongoing investigations
• Victim information

The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides basic information about current inmates. This system allows members of the public to verify if an individual is in custody and view limited information about their status. For more comprehensive records, formal requests may be submitted to the Sheriff's Office Records Division.

It is important to note that while basic inmate information is public, access may be restricted for security reasons or to protect the privacy rights of inmates in certain circumstances as determined by the Sheriff's Office and in accordance with state law.

What's Included Inmate Records in Saginaw County

Inmate records maintained by the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. The following elements are typically included in a complete inmate record:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and physical description
• Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• Assigned inmate booking number (IB number)

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking/intake
• Arresting agency
• Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
• Current housing assignment
• Classification level
• Disciplinary records during incarceration
• Visitation logs
• Commissary account information

Charge Information:

• Current charges
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Incident reports related to the arrest

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond amount
• Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
• Bond conditions

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned to the case
• Attorney information
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction details
• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Good time/earned credits
• Parole eligibility date
• Probation terms

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Post-release supervision requirements

The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in compliance with state record-keeping requirements and law enforcement best practices. While some of this information is available through public access systems, complete inmate records may require formal requests through established procedures.

Saginaw County Prison System

The Saginaw County correctional system operates under the authority of the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county jail facilities. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in Michigan. The Saginaw County Jail houses individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of typically one year or less, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. The Michigan Department of Corrections, by contrast, operates state prisons that house individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.

The Saginaw County Jail system currently houses approximately 511 inmates on a daily basis, according to official county statistics. The facility provides various services including medical care, food services, and limited programming for inmates. The jail also coordinates with the courts for inmate transportation to court appearances and manages the intake and release processes.

The Sheriff's Office maintains responsibility for jail operations, inmate supervision, and record-keeping related to all individuals in custody. For inquiries regarding the Saginaw County jail system, members of the public may contact:

Saginaw County Sheriff's Office
618 Cass Street
Saginaw, MI 48602
(989) 790-5456
Saginaw County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office works in coordination with other components of the criminal justice system, including the Saginaw County courts, the Prosecutor's Office, and community corrections programs to manage the inmate population and provide necessary services.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Saginaw County

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

Saginaw County Jail - Main Facility
618 Cass Street
Saginaw, MI 48602
(989) 790-5456
Saginaw County Jail

The main jail facility is a secure detention center that houses the majority of inmates in Saginaw County. This facility accommodates both male and female inmates with varying security classifications. The main jail handles intake processing, houses pre-trial detainees, and individuals serving sentences of up to one year. The facility includes medical services, visitation areas, and administrative offices.

Saginaw County Jail Annex
618 Cass Street
Saginaw, MI 48602
(989) 790-5456
Saginaw County Sheriff's Office

The jail annex provides additional housing capacity and specialized units. This facility typically houses minimum to medium security inmates and may include work release programs for qualifying inmates. The annex works in conjunction with the main facility to manage the county's inmate population.

Saginaw County Juvenile Detention Center
3360 Hospital Road
Saginaw, MI 48603
(989) 799-2821
Saginaw County Juvenile Detention Center

This facility is specifically designed for juvenile offenders and is operated separately from the adult facilities. The juvenile detention center provides secure custody for minors who are awaiting adjudication or placement. The facility includes educational programming and specialized services for youth.

Each of these facilities operates under specific security protocols and housing classifications based on factors such as offense severity, behavioral history, and special needs. The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office maintains oversight of these facilities and coordinates transfers between them as needed based on security requirements and facility capacity.

Who's in Prison In Saginaw County

The Saginaw County Jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals who are held in custody for various reasons. Understanding the composition of the jail population provides insight into the function of the county correctional system:

Pre-trial Detainees: The largest segment of the Saginaw County Jail population consists of individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are either awaiting trial or other court proceedings. Pre-trial detention may result from:

• Inability to post bail
• Denial of bail due to public safety concerns
• Violation of pre-trial release conditions
• Court orders requiring detention

Sentenced Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanors or certain felonies and are serving sentences of typically one year or less remain in county custody. These sentenced inmates include:

• Misdemeanor offenders serving days, weeks, or months
• Felony offenders with short sentences
• Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
• Work release participants who serve nights and weekends

Temporary Holds: The jail also houses individuals on temporary holds, including:

• Probation violators awaiting hearings
• Parole violators awaiting transfer to state facilities
• Individuals detained on bench warrants
• Persons held for other jurisdictions (federal, other counties)

State Prison Transfers: Some inmates are awaiting transfer to Michigan Department of Corrections facilities after receiving sentences longer than one year. These individuals remain in county custody until space becomes available in the appropriate state facility.

Special Populations: The jail accommodates several special populations, including:

• Female inmates (housed separately from male inmates)
• Individuals with medical needs requiring special housing
• Those with mental health concerns requiring additional monitoring
• Veterans with specific programming needs

According to current statistics from the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office, the jail houses approximately 511 inmates daily, with the population fluctuating based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors. The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects patterns in the criminal justice system throughout Michigan.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Saginaw County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Saginaw County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems for providing public access to basic inmate information:

Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Visit the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office Jail Division website
2. Locate the "Inmate Listing" or "Inmate Search" function
3. Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or inmate booking number)
4. Review the results, which generally include:
   • Inmate name
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Expected release date (if applicable)
   • Current housing status

In-Person Records Request:

1. Visit the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours
2. Complete an inmate information request form
3. Provide identification and specify the information being requested
4. Pay any applicable fees for record retrieval or copying

Written Records Request:

1. Submit a written request to: Saginaw County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   618 Cass Street
   Saginaw, MI 48602
2. Include the following information:
   • Inmate's full name
   • Date of birth (if known)
   • Inmate booking number (if known)
   • Specific information requested
   • Your contact information
3. Enclose any required fees for processing

Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request: For more comprehensive records, submit a formal FOIA request:

1. Prepare a written request citing Michigan's FOIA law
2. Specify the exact records being sought
3. Submit the request to the Saginaw County FOIA Coordinator
4. Be prepared to pay reasonable fees for search, retrieval, and copying

For information about inmates who have been transferred to state facilities, the Michigan Department of Corrections Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS) provides a searchable database of current and former state prisoners.

All requests are processed in accordance with Michigan law and Sheriff's Office policies regarding public records and inmate privacy.

How To Find an Inmate in Saginaw County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Saginaw County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by local and state agencies. These resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties verify custody status and obtain basic information:

Saginaw County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup: The most direct method for locating a current inmate is through the Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool:

1. Access the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office Jail Division website
2. Navigate to the inmate search function
3. Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
4. Review the results to confirm custody status
5. Note the inmate's booking number (IB number) for future reference

This online system provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody at the Saginaw County Jail.

Telephone Inquiry: For those without internet access, the Sheriff's Office provides information via telephone:

1. Call the Saginaw County Jail at (989) 790-5456
2. Follow the automated prompts or ask to speak with the records division
3. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
4. Basic custody information may be provided over the phone

Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS): If the individual may have been transferred to state custody:

1. Visit the Michigan Department of Corrections OTIS website
2. Enter the individual's name in the search fields
3. Review results to determine if the person is in state custody

Michigan Courts Case Search: To locate individuals who may be in custody related to court proceedings:

1. Access the MiCOURT Case Search portal
2. Enter the individual's name
3. Review case information, which may include custody status

In-Person Inquiry: Individuals may visit the Saginaw County Jail in person to inquire about an inmate:

1. Go to the Saginaw County Jail lobby during business hours
2. Speak with the reception staff
3. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
4. Basic information about custody status will be provided

These free resources provide the public with access to basic inmate information while maintaining appropriate security and privacy protocols as required by Michigan law.

How To Visit an Inmate In Saginaw County

Visitation with inmates at the Saginaw County Jail is governed by specific policies established by the Sheriff's Office to maintain security while facilitating important family connections. All visits must comply with Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6607, which establishes standards for correctional facility visitation.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
• Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
• 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 search upon entering the facility
• Visitation may be denied for security concerns or policy violations

Visit Schedule:

• Non-contact visits are scheduled according to housing unit:
  • A-Pod: Tuesday and Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • B-Pod: Wednesday and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • C-Pod: Thursday and Monday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • D-Pod: Friday and Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
• Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
• Inmates are permitted two visits per week

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Visitor registration confirmation (if applicable)
• Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
• Necessary medical items (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring:

• Cell phones or electronic devices
• Cameras or recording equipment
• Weapons of any kind
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20 (for vending machines where available)

Dress Code:

• Conservative, appropriate attire is 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 hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
• Shoes must be worn at all times

Visit Types:

• Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
• Video visitation services (where available)

Visit Restrictions:

• Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
• Persons on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
• Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit

For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:

Saginaw County Jail Visitation Office
618 Cass Street
Saginaw, MI 48602
(989) 790-5456
Saginaw County Sheriff's Office Jail Division

How To Send Money to a Saginaw County Inmate

The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, writing materials, and other permitted items.

Methods for Sending Money:

Online Deposits:

1. Visit the Saginaw County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the inmate services or commissary section
3. Select the approved third-party payment processor
4. Create an account or proceed as a guest
5. Enter the inmate's full name and booking number (IB number)
6. Enter payment information and deposit amount
7. Complete the transaction and retain the confirmation number

Kiosk Deposits:

1. Visit the Saginaw County Jail lobby during business hours
2. Locate the automated payment kiosk
3. Follow on-screen instructions
4. Enter the inmate's information
5. Insert cash or credit/debit card
6. Obtain and keep the printed receipt

Money Order by Mail:

1. Purchase a money order (personal checks are not accepted)
2. Make the money order payable to the inmate's full name
3. Write the inmate's booking number on the money order
4. Mail to: Saginaw County Jail Inmate Accounts
   618 Cass Street
   Saginaw, MI 48602
5. Include the sender's full name and return address

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
• Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Processing Fees:

• Online deposits: $2.50 - $7.95 (varies by amount and payment method)
• Kiosk deposits: $2.00 - $6.95 (varies by amount)
• Money orders: No processing fee

What You Cannot Send:

• Cash through the mail
• Personal checks
• Cashier's checks
• Third-party checks
• Cryptocurrency

Permitted Uses of Inmate Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Phone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Approved educational materials

Restricted Uses:

• Bail or bond payments (must be handled separately)
• Payment of court fines or fees (unless specifically authorized)
• Transfer to other inmates
• Purchase of prohibited items

All funds sent to inmates are subject to processing times, which typically range from immediate (kiosk deposits) to 7-10 business days (money orders). The Saginaw County Sheriff's Office maintains detailed records of all transactions related to inmate accounts in accordance with standard accounting practices and Michigan law.

How To Send Jail Mail In Saginaw County

Correspondence with inmates at the Saginaw County Jail is permitted but must follow specific guidelines established by the Sheriff's Office. All mail is subject to inspection for contraband and compliance with facility rules in accordance with Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6603, which governs mail procedures in correctional facilities.

General Mail Guidelines:

• All incoming mail must include:
  • Inmate's full name
  • Inmate's booking number (IB number if known)
  • Facility address: Saginaw County Jail
    618 Cass Street
    Saginaw, MI 48602
• Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
• Mail without a return address will not be delivered
• All mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
• Mail is typically distributed within 24-48 hours after processing

Permitted Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (following proper procedures)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (subject to review)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Plastic or metal items of any kind
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Polaroid photographs
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related content
• Materials depicting violence or weapons
• Cash or personal checks
• Stamps or envelopes
• Food items or candy
• Clothing or fabric items
• Homemade crafts

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
• Legal mail is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband

Publications:

• Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
• Hardcover books are not permitted
• Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
• Inmates are limited to possessing 5 books/magazines at any time

E-Messages (where available):

• Some facilities offer electronic messaging services through approved providers
• Family and friends can create accounts through the service provider
• Fees apply for electronic messages
• All electronic communications are subject to monitoring

Violation of mail rules may result in the rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges. Attempts to send contraband through the mail may result in criminal charges. For specific questions about mail policies, contact the Saginaw County Jail at (989) 790-5456.

Lookup Inmate Records in Saginaw County

Saginaw County Jail Inmate Listing

Saginaw County Sheriff's Office

Michigan Offender Tracking Information System

MiCOURT Case Search