Woodbury County Public Records /Woodbury County Inmate Search

Woodbury County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Woodbury County?

Inmate records in Woodbury County are official government documents maintained by the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office that document and track individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional facilities. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration history from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Iowa Code § 904.601, these records are systematically maintained to ensure proper management of the correctional population and to provide transparency in the criminal justice system.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While the Iowa Judicial Branch maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and court appearances, the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records that document the physical detention and daily management of individuals in custody. This separation reflects the distinct functions of the judicial and correctional systems within Iowa's government structure.

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:

Initial creation occurs during booking/intake when an individual is first taken into custody
Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
Documentation includes housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
Records are finalized upon the individual's release from custody

The Iowa Department of Corrections and county sheriff's offices maintain these records in accordance with state recordkeeping requirements and retention schedules established under Iowa law.

Are Inmate Records Public In Woodbury County?

Yes, inmate records in Woodbury County are considered public records under Iowa law, with certain limitations to protect privacy and security. According to Iowa Code § 22.7, which governs public records in the state, and specifically Iowa Code § 904.601(1), which addresses correctional records, the public has a right to access basic information about individuals in custody.

The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

Current inmate roster showing who is currently in custody
Basic booking information including name, age, and physical description
Charges filed against the individual
Mugshot photographs
Bond/bail amounts when applicable
Expected release dates for sentenced individuals
Current housing facility location

However, certain information is restricted from public access, including:

Medical and mental health records
Disciplinary reports and investigations
Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
Information that would compromise facility security
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access the Woodbury County inmate search portal to view current custody status and basic case information.

What's Included Inmate Records in Woodbury County

Inmate records maintained by the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's time in custody. These records are structured to include multiple categories of information as required by Iowa correctional standards.

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
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency and officer information
Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification level and special housing needs
Disciplinary incidents and actions taken

Charge Information:

Current charges with statute citations
Case numbers associated with charges
Arresting circumstances
Prior criminal history when relevant to classification
Warrant information if applicable

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (cash, surety, etc.)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
Bond conditions if applicable
Court dates related to bond hearings

Court Information:

Scheduled court appearances
Court of jurisdiction
Case status updates
Court-ordered requirements

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Length of sentence
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Good time/earned time calculations
Parole eligibility date
Post-release supervision requirements

Release Information:

Scheduled release date and time
Type of release (time served, bond, transfer, etc.)
Release conditions
Notification requirements upon release

This information is maintained in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code 201-50.22, which establishes standards for jail record management.

Woodbury County Prison System

The Woodbury County correctional system operates under a tiered structure that distinguishes between local detention facilities and state prisons. The county-level facilities are administered by the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office and primarily house individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of less than one year. For longer sentences, individuals are transferred to facilities operated by the Iowa Department of Corrections.

The Woodbury County Jail serves as the primary detention facility for the county and is designed to house individuals who:

Are awaiting arraignment or trial
Have been sentenced to terms of less than one year
Are being held on probation or parole violations
Are awaiting transfer to state facilities
Are being temporarily housed through inter-jurisdictional agreements

It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons. County jails like the Woodbury County facility focus on short-term detention and pre-trial custody, while state prisons managed by the Iowa Department of Corrections house individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.

Woodbury County Sheriff's Office
620 Douglas Street
Sioux City, Iowa 51101
(712) 279-6010
Woodbury County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains operational control of the jail facility and is responsible for inmate supervision, facility security, and record management in accordance with Iowa state standards.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Woodbury County

Woodbury County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific function within the county's correctional system.

Woodbury County Jail
3701 28th Street
Sioux City, Iowa 51106
(712) 279-6010
Woodbury County Jail Division

The main detention facility in Woodbury County has a capacity of 498 inmates and serves as the primary holding facility for the county. The facility houses both male and female inmates across various security classifications. According to the Sheriff's Office, this facility accommodates:

Pre-trial detainees
Sentenced individuals serving terms under one year
Federal prisoners through intergovernmental agreements
Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions

Woodbury County Work Release Center
1211 Tri-View Avenue
Sioux City, Iowa 51103
(712) 252-0590

This minimum-security facility houses qualified inmates who are permitted to leave the facility for employment while serving their sentences. The work release program allows eligible inmates to:

Maintain employment in the community
Support their families financially
Develop job skills prior to full release
Transition gradually back into society

Juvenile Detention Center
822 Douglas Street
Sioux City, Iowa 51101
(712) 279-6622

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders separately from the adult population in accordance with Iowa Code § 232.22, which governs juvenile detention. The facility provides:

Age-appropriate supervision and programming
Educational services
Counseling and rehabilitation services
Separate housing from adult offenders as required by federal and state law

These facilities operate in coordination with state-level institutions managed by the Iowa Department of Corrections, which house individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year.

Who's in Prison In Woodbury County

The Woodbury County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals with varying legal statuses and offense classifications. The inmate population primarily consists of:

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, trial, or other court proceedings
Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings

Sentenced Offenders:

Persons serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions
Individuals serving time for probation violations
Those awaiting transfer to state facilities after sentencing for felonies
Individuals serving the final portion of longer sentences prior to release

Special Populations:

Federal detainees housed through intergovernmental agreements
Individuals held temporarily for other counties or jurisdictions
Persons awaiting mental health evaluations or competency determinations
Immigration detainees awaiting proceedings or transfer

According to data from the Woodbury County Jail Division, the facility typically operates near its capacity of 498 inmates. The population demographics reflect the broader community with appropriate accommodations for:

Male and female inmates (housed in separate units)
Various security classifications from minimum to maximum
Special needs populations requiring medical or mental health services
Individuals requiring protective custody or administrative segregation

The average length of stay varies significantly based on case status, with pre-trial detainees often remaining in custody until their cases are resolved, while sentenced misdemeanants typically serve defined terms of days to months.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Woodbury County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Woodbury County can utilize several methods to access these records. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic custody information.

Online Inmate Search:

Visit the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office inmate search portal
Enter the individual's name or booking number in the search fields
Review the results showing current inmates in custody
Note that the system displays only current inmates, not historical records
Information typically includes name, booking date, charges, and bond information

In-Person Record Requests:

Visit the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
Complete a public records request form at the front desk
Provide specific information about the inmate you are seeking
Present valid identification
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction

Telephone Inquiries:

Contact the Woodbury County Jail at (712) 279-6010
Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
Be prepared to verify your identity
Note that basic custody status information may be provided by phone
Detailed records typically require written requests

Written Requests:

Submit a formal written request to: Woodbury County Sheriff's Office Records Division 620 Douglas Street Sioux City, Iowa 51101
Include the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
Specify the information you are requesting
Provide your contact information for response
Include payment for any applicable fees

For state-level offenders who have been transferred from Woodbury County to state facilities, the Iowa Offender Search provides a comprehensive database of individuals in the custody of the Iowa Department of Corrections.

How To Find an Inmate in Woodbury County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Woodbury County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information to the public without fees.

Woodbury County Online Inmate Lookup:

Access the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmates" section of the website
Use the search function to enter the individual's name
The system will display current custody status for individuals held in county facilities
Information provided typically includes name, booking date, charges, and bond amount

Iowa Statewide Offender Search:

Visit the Iowa Offender Search portal
Enter the individual's name in the search fields
Review results showing individuals in state custody
This system includes offenders who may have been transferred from Woodbury County to state facilities
The database is updated regularly pursuant to Iowa Code § 904.601(1)

Telephone Verification:

Call the Woodbury County Jail directly at (712) 279-6010
Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
Basic custody information can be confirmed by phone
Available during regular business hours
Staff can confirm if an individual is in custody but may not provide detailed case information

Iowa Courts Online:

Access the Iowa Courts Online search system
Search by the individual's name
Review case information that may indicate custody status
Court records often include information about bail, sentencing, and custody arrangements
This system provides case information but not direct custody status

These free resources provide basic information about an individual's custody status. For more detailed information, formal records requests may be necessary, which could involve fees for document reproduction or certified copies.

How To Visit an Inmate In Woodbury County

Visitation with inmates at Woodbury County correctional facilities follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with facility rules and regulations.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
Changes to visitation lists are typically processed weekly
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval

Visit Schedule:

Regular visitation hours are established by housing unit
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may occur during expanded hours
Visitation schedules are subject to change during holidays or facility emergencies
Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time
Late arrivals may result in denial of visitation privileges

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification
Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
Baby care items for infant visitors (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)
Funds for vending machines (where available, in approved forms only)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
Electronic devices including cell phones, smartwatches, or cameras
Food or beverages
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)

Dress Code:

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

Visit Types:

In-person contact visits (where permitted by classification)
Non-contact visits through glass partitions
Video visitation services
Special visits for out-of-state visitors (with prior approval)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)

Visit Restrictions:

Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
Disruptive behavior will result in termination of visits
Passing contraband will result in criminal charges and visitation privileges revocation
Visitors with active warrants may be subject to arrest
Former inmates may have restrictions on visitation eligibility

For the most current visitation information, contact the Woodbury County Jail Division directly or consult the inmate handbook provided to individuals upon booking.

How To Send Money to a Woodbury County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Woodbury County facilities have several approved methods for sending funds. All transactions are subject to verification and processing procedures.

Approved Money Transfer Methods:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the approved third-party payment processor website
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
- Funds are typically available within 24-48 hours
- Service fees apply based on deposit amount
Kiosk Deposits:
- Use the payment kiosk located in the jail lobby
- Available during regular lobby hours
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash or credit/debit card accepted
- Receipts are provided for all transactions
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Money Orders:
- Purchase a money order from an approved provider
- Make payable to "Woodbury County Jail" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
- Mail to: Woodbury County Jail Inmate Accounts 3701 28th Street Sioux City, Iowa 51106
- Processing typically takes 3-5 business days
- No personal checks accepted

Amount Limits:

Maximum single deposit: $300
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
Maximum monthly deposit total: $1,500
Minimum deposit amount: $5
Special approval required for larger deposits

Transaction Fees:

Online deposits: $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount
Kiosk deposits: $2.00-$8.00 depending on amount
Money orders: No fee from the jail (provider fees may apply)
All fees are subject to change

Prohibited Items:

Personal checks
Cash sent through mail
Third-party checks
Foreign currency
Cryptocurrency

Approved Fund Uses:

Commissary purchases
Phone account funding
Medical co-pays
Haircuts and other personal services
Educational materials
Release funds

Restricted Fund Uses:

Payment of fines or court costs (separate process required)
Bond payments (separate process required)
Transfers to other inmates
Purchases for staff
Items prohibited by facility rules

All funds sent to inmates are subject to deductions for outstanding debts, including restitution, child support, and facility fees, in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code 201-50.15. For current information on inmate accounts, contact the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office directly.

How To Send Jail Mail In Woodbury County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Woodbury County correctional facilities must follow established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All incoming mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.

Mailing Address Format:

Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Woodbury County Jail
3701 28th Street
Sioux City, Iowa 51106

Approved Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, no padding)
Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
Money orders (following financial procedures)
Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to review)
Approved publications directly from publishers

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages or padded envelopes
Plastic or metal items of any kind
Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps inside the envelope
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Polaroid photographs
Cash or personal checks
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related content
Items containing biohazards or unknown substances
Correspondence containing threats or criminal planning

Mail Inspection Procedures:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery
Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
Contraband items will be confiscated and documented
Mail containing unauthorized items may be returned to sender
Criminal content may be forwarded to appropriate authorities

Electronic Messaging (where available):

Access the approved third-party messaging system
Create an account and purchase message credits
Compose messages following system guidelines
Attach approved digital photos (where permitted)
Messages are subject to review before delivery
Fees apply based on message length and attachments

Publication Delivery Rules:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors
Soft-cover books only (hardcover books not accepted)
Publications must not violate facility content restrictions
Maximum of 3 publications per inmate at any time
Used books or materials from individuals not accepted

For current mail policies and procedures, contact the Woodbury County Jail Division directly or consult the inmate handbook provided to individuals upon booking.