Washoe County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Reno, Nevada, operated by the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. It houses individuals who are awaiting trial, sentencing, or serving short-term sentences. The jail provides essential services including medical care, mental health support, visitation, commissary, and rehabilitation programs. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, visitation rules, and communication options. This page delivers complete, current details on how to search for inmates, visit loved ones, send money, access records, and understand inmate rights and services—all in one trusted resource.
Washoe County Jail Inmate Search and Roster Lookup
Finding an inmate at Washoe County Jail starts with using the official online inmate search tool. This system allows anyone to look up current inmates by name, booking number, or date of birth. The roster is updated daily and includes key details such as charges, bond amount, court dates, and housing location. The search tool is free, public, and available 24/7 through the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office website.
How to Search for an Inmate
To begin, go to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office website and click on the “Inmate Search” tab. You can search using one of three methods: full name, booking number, or date of birth. Enter the required information and click “Search.” Results will show all matching inmates currently in custody. Each entry includes the inmate’s photo (mugshot), full name, age, booking date, charges, bond status, and next court appearance.
What Information Is Available
The inmate roster provides clear, factual data for each person in custody. This includes:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and case number
- Bond amount and posting status
- Assigned housing unit within the facility
- Next scheduled court date
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
All data comes directly from the jail’s booking system and is verified daily. If no results appear, the person may not be in custody, may be held under a different name, or could be in a different facility.
Offline Search Options
If the online system is down or you prefer in-person help, call the Washoe County Jail information line at (775) 328-2323. Staff can assist with basic inmate lookups during business hours. You can also visit the jail lobby at 911 East Parr Boulevard, Reno, NV 89512, where a public kiosk allows self-service searches. Bring a valid ID and the inmate’s full name or booking number for faster service.
Washoe County Jail Booking and Arrest Process
When someone is arrested in Washoe County, they are brought to the jail for processing. The booking process follows strict state and county guidelines to ensure safety and accuracy. It typically takes 2 to 4 hours from arrival to completion, depending on workload and medical needs.
Steps in the Booking Process
During booking, staff complete several important tasks:
- Identity Verification: Officers confirm the person’s name, date of birth, and any known aliases using fingerprints and photo comparison.
- Fingerprinting: All fingerprints are taken and sent to state and federal databases for background checks.
- Mugshot Photography: A digital photo is taken and stored in the jail’s system. This becomes part of the public record.
- Health Screening: Medical staff conduct a brief physical and mental health check. This includes questions about medications, injuries, and substance use.
- Property Inventory: Personal items are logged, bagged, and stored securely. Inmates receive a receipt for all belongings.
- Classification Assessment: Inmates are assigned a security level based on charge severity, behavior history, and medical needs. This determines housing placement.
After booking, inmates appear before a judge within 48 hours for an initial hearing. At this hearing, charges are formally read, and bail may be set.
Bail and Release Information
Bail allows an inmate to be released before trial by posting a set amount of money as a guarantee they will return to court. The judge sets bail based on the crime, flight risk, and criminal history. In Washoe County, bail can be paid in cash, by credit card, or through a licensed bail bondsman.
To post bail, go to the jail lobby or use the online payment portal. Payments made in person are processed immediately. Online payments may take up to 2 hours to clear. Once bail is posted, the inmate is released after completing final paperwork, usually within 1 to 3 hours.
Washoe County Jail Visitation Hours and Rules
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with family and friends. Washoe County Jail offers both in-person and video visitation options. All visits must be scheduled in advance and follow strict rules to maintain safety and order.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
In-person visits occur on weekends and select weekdays. Visits last 30 minutes and take place in a secure booth with glass barriers. To schedule a visit, use the online portal or call (775) 328-2323. You must create an account, provide a valid photo ID, and be on the inmate’s approved visitor list.
Visiting hours are:
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Each inmate is allowed one visit per week. Visitors must arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Late arrivals may lose their time slot.
Video Visitation Option
Video visits allow remote connection via computer or smartphone. These visits last 20 minutes and can be scheduled up to 7 days in advance. The service is provided through a third-party platform and requires a small fee per session. Video visits do not replace in-person visits but offer flexibility for those who live far away or have mobility issues.
Visitor Rules and Restrictions
All visitors must follow strict rules:
- Valid government-issued photo ID required (driver’s license, passport, state ID)
- No cell phones, bags, or electronic devices allowed in visitation area
- Dress code enforced: no revealing clothing, hats, or gang-related symbols
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- No physical contact with inmates during in-person visits
- Visitors with felony convictions may be denied access
Failure to follow rules can result in suspension of visiting privileges.
Washoe County Jail Inmate Communication: Phone, Mail, and Email
Inmates can stay in touch with the outside world through approved communication methods. All calls, mail, and messages are monitored for security.
Phone Calls from Jail
Inmates can make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and can be made 7 days a week from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Family members must set up a prepaid account through the jail’s phone service provider. Funds can be added online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls.
Mail Policy
Inmates may send and receive letters. All mail is opened and inspected. Guidelines include:
- Use plain white paper and standard envelopes
- Write the inmate’s full name and booking number on the envelope
- No stickers, drawings, or Polaroid photos
- Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or approved vendors
- Send mail to: Inmate Name, Booking Number, Washoe County Jail, P.O. Box 100, Reno, NV 89502
Mail delivery takes 2 to 5 business days.
Email and Messaging
The jail offers a secure email system through its online portal. Family members can send messages that are printed and delivered to inmates. Inmates can reply using the same system. All messages are reviewed before delivery. This service is faster than regular mail and helps maintain regular contact.
Sending Money to Washoe County Jail Inmates
Inmates can receive funds to use for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Money is added to a personal account managed by the jail.
Ways to Send Money
There are three secure ways to send money:
- Online: Use the jail’s official payment portal with a credit or debit card. Funds are available within 1 hour.
- Kiosk: Visit the jail lobby and use the self-service kiosk. Accepts cash, credit, and debit cards.
- Money Order by Mail: Send a money order made out to “Washoe County Jail” with the inmate’s name and booking number. Do not send cash or personal checks.
There is a small processing fee for online and kiosk deposits. Money orders have no fee but take longer to process.
Using Inmate Funds
Funds can be used for:
- Commissary purchases (snacks, hygiene items, clothing)
- Phone call minutes
- Medical co-payments
- Legal copy fees
Unused funds are returned upon release, minus any outstanding fees.
Washoe County Jail Commissary and Inmate Services
The commissary allows inmates to buy items not provided by the jail. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to housing units.
Commissary Items Available
Common items include:
- Snacks: chips, cookies, instant noodles
- Beverages: coffee, tea, soft drinks
- Hygiene products: toothpaste, soap, deodorant
- Writing supplies: paper, envelopes, pens
- Clothing: socks, undershirts, thermal wear
Prices are set by the vendor and may change weekly. Inmates receive a catalog with current items and prices.
Other Inmate Services
The jail provides essential services to support health and well-being:
- Medical Care: On-site nurses and doctors handle routine and emergency needs. Prescriptions are filled daily.
- Mental Health Support: Counselors offer individual and group therapy. Crisis intervention is available 24/7.
- Religious Services: Chaplains from various faiths lead weekly services and provide spiritual guidance.
- Legal Access: Inmates can request law books, legal forms, and confidential meetings with attorneys.
All services are free except for minor medical co-pays.
Washoe County Jail Inmate Programs and Rehabilitation
The jail offers programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. These focus on education, job skills, and behavior change.
Educational Programs
Inmates can earn a GED or improve basic reading and math skills. Classes are held in the jail’s education center and led by certified teachers. Materials and testing are provided at no cost.
Vocational Training
Job training programs teach practical skills such as:
- Carpentry and construction basics
- Food safety and kitchen operations
- Computer literacy and typing
- Barbering and cosmetology (limited availability)
Certificates are awarded upon completion and can help with future employment.
Substance Abuse and Counseling
Specialized programs address addiction and mental health. Options include:
- 12-step recovery meetings
- Anger management classes
- Trauma-informed counseling
- Relapse prevention planning
Participation is voluntary but strongly encouraged for those with related charges.
Washoe County Jail Inmate Rights and Legal Resources
All inmates have rights protected by state and federal law. The jail must provide safe housing, medical care, and fair treatment.
Basic Inmate Rights
These include:
- Right to medical and mental health care
- Right to file grievances without retaliation
- Right to religious practice
- Right to legal representation
- Right to be free from discrimination
Inmates receive a handbook explaining their rights upon intake.
Legal Resources
The jail provides access to:
- Public defender services for those who cannot afford an attorney
- Legal forms and self-help guides
- Confidential meeting rooms for attorney visits
- Assistance with filing motions or appeals
Staff cannot give legal advice but can help with basic procedures.
Washoe County Jail COVID-19 Updates and Health Protocols
The jail follows CDC and Nevada Health Department guidelines to protect inmates and staff. Current protocols include regular testing, isolation of symptomatic individuals, and vaccination availability.
Visitation may be restricted during outbreaks. Check the official website or call (775) 328-2323 for the latest updates on health policies and visitor requirements.
Contact Information and Location
For questions or assistance, use the following details:
- Address: 911 East Parr Boulevard, Reno, NV 89512
- Phone: (775) 328-2323
- Website: https://www.washoecounty.gov/sheriff
- Visiting Hours: Saturday & Sunday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Wednesday 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Emergency Number: 911
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Washoe County Jail are answered below with clear, factual responses based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in Washoe County Jail?
Use the free online inmate search tool on the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name, booking number, or date of birth. Results show current custody status, charges, and court dates. If no match appears, call (775) 328-2323 to confirm. The person may be in a different facility or not yet processed.
Can I visit an inmate at Washoe County Jail?
Yes, but visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits occur on weekends and Wednesdays. Video visits are also available. You must be on the inmate’s approved list and bring a valid photo ID. Follow all dress code and conduct rules. Late arrivals or rule violations can cancel your visit.
How do I send money to an inmate?
Send money online, at a jail kiosk, or by mailing a money order. Online and kiosk deposits are fastest. Include the inmate’s full name and booking number. Funds go into their account for commissary, phone calls, and medical fees. Personal checks and cash by mail are not accepted.
What items can inmates receive through mail?
Inmates can receive letters on plain paper. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. No stickers, photos, or homemade items are allowed. All mail is inspected. Send to: Inmate Name, Booking Number, P.O. Box 100, Reno, NV 89502.
Are rehabilitation programs available at Washoe County Jail?
Yes. Programs include GED classes, vocational training, substance abuse counseling, and mental health support. Participation is voluntary. Certificates are given for completed courses. These programs help inmates build skills for life after release.
How do I request inmate records or mugshots?
Mugshots and booking records are public. Submit a request to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Some records may require a small fee. Use the online form or visit the office in person. Expungement is not automatic and may require a court order.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates receive a health screening upon intake. Medical staff are on-site daily. Emergency care is available 24/7. Inmates can request medical attention at any time. Prescriptions are filled, and chronic conditions are managed. Co-pays may apply for non-emergency visits.