Ford County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Ford County Jail, located in Dodge City, Kansas, is a medium-security detention facility that houses inmates who are awaiting trial or sentencing. The facility is operated by the Ford County Sheriff's Office and ensures the county's public safety by maintaining a secure environment for detained individuals.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

Finding an inmate in the Ford County Jail is a process that can be accomplished using multiple online resources. To ease the process, the Ford County Sheriff's Office has implemented an online Inmate Roster tool. This digital roster contains valuable information regarding incarcerated individuals and can be used for efficient inmate search.

Steps for Searching an Inmate

Visit the official Ford County Sheriff's Office website.
Navigate to the Inmate Roster page.
On the Inmate Roster page, you'll find a list of current inmates detained in the correction facility.
You can use the search bar on the roster page to find an inmate by name. You may also browse the list manually.
Upon locating the inmate, you can click on their name for more detailed information.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The jail roster provides comprehensive information for each inmate. Here's what you'll find:

Booking Number: This unique identifier assigned upon intake allows the detention center staff to track inmates through the correctional system.
Last Name and First Name: Full names of inmates are listed for identification.
Date of Birth (DOB): DOB helps further distinguish inmates with similar names.
Release Date: This specifies the date an inmate is expected to be released from the correction facility.
Criminal Charges: This section outlines the charges for which the inmate is being held.

It is important to note that the information listed is subject to change as court proceedings take place and the database is updated.

Tips for Inmate Search

When using the inmate search feature, keep in mind the following tips:

Always double-check the spelling of the inmate's name.
Try alternative name variations if the inmate is not found. For instance, try a shortened first name or a nickname if the inmate is known by one.
If you're unsure of the inmate's full name or booking number, reach out to the Ford County Sheriff's Office directly for assistance.

Remember, all information about inmates, including their location and status within the detention center, is subject to change. Always confirm details with the Ford County Sheriff's Office to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Visiting an inmate in the Ford County Jail requires adherence to specific guidelines and regulations. Following the correct procedure and rules ensures a smooth visitation process.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

Check the Visitation Schedule on the Ford County Sheriff's Office website to find out the designated visiting hours for inmates. The schedule is typically based on the inmate's housing location or the first letter of their last name.
Before you can visit, you must be on the inmate's approved visitor list. The inmate is responsible for adding potential visitors to this list.
Ensure you have a valid government-issued photo ID for identification purposes.
Arrive at the jail a few minutes prior to your scheduled visitation time to allow for the check-in process.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

Visitors must follow the rules set by the Ford County Jail. Failure to comply can lead to termination of the visit or temporary or permanent loss of visitation privileges. Some key rules include:

Visitors must not bring any items to the jail unless pre-approved by jail staff.
Appropriate attire is required. Clothing that is revealing or features offensive imagery or language is not permitted.
All visitors may be subject to a search before entering the visitation area.
Visitors must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
All visits are monitored and are non-contact unless specified otherwise by the correction facility.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours vary depending on the day and the inmate's housing assignment. You can find the most current visiting schedule on the Visitation Schedule page of the Ford County Sheriff's Office website. Always verify the visiting hours prior to planning your visit.

Inmate Communications

Maintaining communication with inmates is important and facilitated by the Ford County Jail through the inmate call system.

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Inmates in Ford County Jail have access to telephones to make outgoing calls. However, they are not permitted to receive incoming calls. Inmates can either make collect calls or use a prepaid account service such as Securus Technologies. Note that:

All calls are subject to monitoring and recording.
Inmates are responsible for the costs of the calls.
There may be restrictions on call duration, and calls may be terminated if the inmate or the recipient violates any rules.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The general phone number for Ford County Jail is +1 620-227-4590. This number should not be used to try to speak with an inmate but can be used to reach the jail staff for inquiries regarding an inmate or jail operations.

For inquiries about the phone system or phone-related issues, families can contact the phone service provider used by the jail. They may also assist with setting up prepaid calling accounts for inmates. Always verify the current call service provider with the jail, as the provider may change.

Inmate Mail

Keeping in touch with an inmate at the Ford County Jail can also be accomplished through mail. However, there are specific procedures and guidelines that must be adhered to when sending mail to an inmate.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

All mail must be sent via the U.S. Postal Service.
The mail should be addressed to the inmate using their full name and the facility's address:

[Inmate's Full Name]
Ford County Jail
11311 Comanche
Dodge City, KS 67801

Do not send mail marked with 'Personal' or 'Confidential'. All incoming mail will be opened and inspected for contraband.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

When sending mail to an inmate, remember these guidelines:

All mail must be written in blue or black ink or non-metallic pencil.
No Polaroid photos, stamps, stickers, or other embellishments are allowed in the mail.
Do not include any inappropriate or explicit content.
No materials that can be altered to become a weapon or contraband are allowed.
Do not send money or checks in the mail. Use the approved methods for sending money to inmates.

Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in the mail being returned or discarded.

Sending Money to Inmates

Inmates at the Ford County Jail may need funds for various purchases like commissary items or phone call services. There are specific methods approved by the facility for sending money to an inmate.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

Online: Online money transfer services like 'TouchPay' or 'JPay' allow you to deposit money directly into an inmate's account. Ensure to check the current service being used by the jail.
Money Order: You can mail a money order to the jail, made payable to the inmate, and include the inmate's booking number.
Lobby Kiosk: If available, you can deposit money using a kiosk in the jail lobby.

Always verify the current approved methods with the jail as they may change.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

When sending money to an inmate, keep these regulations and limitations in mind:

There may be a limit on the amount of money you can send at one time or the total amount an inmate can have in their account.
The jail may charge a small processing fee for money transfers.
Any funds received may be subject to deductions for fees or charges owed by the inmate.
Always include the inmate's full name and booking number with any funds deposited to ensure it is correctly added to their account.

Inmate Commissary

The commissary is essentially a store within the correction facility, allowing inmates to purchase products that aren't issued by the jail but are still considered permissible.

The commissary provides a variety of items for inmates to purchase, including toiletries, stationery, snacks, and even clothing items. The availability of these items can improve inmates' quality of life while they're incarcerated and can offer a sense of normalcy and comfort.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

To use the commissary, inmates need to have funds in their jail account. Inmates can spend their funds to purchase items from the commissary during specified commissary days. Items ordered are then delivered to the inmates.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

There are several restrictions placed on the use of the commissary:

There might be a spending limit for each inmate.
Not all items are available to all inmates, as this can depend on their security level or behavior.
Some items may have quantity limits.
Funds used to make purchases can only come from money deposited into the inmate's account, and cannot be borrowed or shared among inmates.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots are part of an inmate's criminal records, and they can generally be accessed by the public.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records for inmates housed in Ford County Jail can often be found through online inmate search tools. If the records you're looking for are not available online, you may need to make a formal request to the Ford County Sheriff's Office or the appropriate local authority. Be prepared to provide relevant information such as the inmate's full name, date of birth, and booking number.

Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photographic portrait taken of an individual upon their arrest. It typically consists of a front-view and a side-view photo. These photos serve to record the individual's appearance at the time of the crime.

The availability of mugshots depends on the policies of the jurisdiction and the specific correction facility. In some cases, mugshots may be accessible through online databases or upon formal request. However, privacy laws and regulations may restrict access to certain records. Always check with the Ford County Sheriff's Office or relevant authority for the most accurate information.

Security Level

Ford County Jail is a medium-security detention facility that implements a variety of security measures to maintain order and ensure the safety of both staff and inmates.

Security measures at Ford County Jail include continuous surveillance and monitoring, controlled access points, regular inmate counts, and routine searches of inmates and their living quarters. Additionally, the facility employs strict protocols for inmate movement, visitation, and mail inspection.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The jail primarily houses pre-trial detainees who are awaiting court proceedings for a range of offenses, from minor misdemeanors to more serious felonies. It also holds inmates serving short sentences. It's important to note that the jail does not house inmates who have been sentenced to long-term imprisonment; these inmates are typically transferred to state or federal prisons.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers at Ford County Jail are responsible for maintaining security and order within the facility. They supervise inmate activities, enforce rules and regulations, prevent disturbances, and ensure the well-being of inmates. They also facilitate communication between inmates and the outside world, overseeing visitations, and managing inmate mail and phone call privileges.

Location and Contact Details

To get in touch with Ford County Jail, you can use the following contact details:

Mailing Address:

Ford County Jail 11311 Comanche Dodge City, KS 67801

Phone Number:

+1 620-227-4590

Official Website:

Ford County Sheriff's Office

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How do I perform an inmate search?

To perform an inmate search, you typically need to visit the appropriate law enforcement or correctional facility's website. These agencies usually provide an online search tool where you can enter the individual's name, and sometimes additional details such as date of birth or inmate number. If this isn't available, you may need to call or visit the facility in question.

2. Can I look up arrest records online?

Yes, many jurisdictions allow you to look up arrest records online. This is often provided through the local sheriff's office, police department, or court system website. Note that the information available may vary based on local laws and regulations related to privacy and public records.

3. How frequently is the inmate database updated?

The frequency of inmate database updates varies depending on the specific facility or jurisdiction. Some databases are updated in real-time, while others may be updated daily, weekly, or at other intervals.

4. Can I find out what charges an inmate is facing?

Yes, the charges an inmate is facing are typically a matter of public record and can be found through the same resources as an inmate search or arrest record lookup.

5. Can I search for inmates in other states?

Yes, there are resources that allow you to search for inmates in other states. This includes both individual state correctional facility databases and national databases like the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator.

Jail Bookings:

6. How do I find out about recent jail bookings?

Recent jail bookings can often be found on local law enforcement websites. This might be through the local sheriff's office or local police department. Note that availability and the amount of information provided can vary.

7. Can I find out the scheduled release date for an inmate?

In many cases, you can find out the scheduled release date for an inmate through the same resources used to perform an inmate search. However, this information might not be available or accurate for various reasons, including if the inmate is facing additional charges, appeals, or parole hearings.

8. What happens during the booking process at the jail?

During the booking process, the detainee's personal information is recorded, and they are searched, fingerprinted, and photographed. Their belongings are inventoried and stored for return upon release. The charges are also formally recorded, and a health screening is often conducted. The inmate may also be held in a holding area or cell during this process.

Inmate Calls and Mail:

9. How can I set up a phone account to receive calls from an inmate?

This typically involves setting up an account with a specific service approved by the correctional facility. You'll usually need to provide details such as your name, phone number, and billing information.

10. What are the rules for sending mail to an inmate?

Rules vary by facility, but generally, you must include the inmate's name and identification number, as well as your return address. There are usually restrictions on the type of items that can be sent, such as no contraband, no cash, and no items that can be weaponized.

11. Can an inmate call me directly?

Inmates cannot typically make direct, unscheduled calls. They usually call through a facility-approved service that monitors and records calls. They cannot receive incoming calls.

12. What happens if I send prohibited items in the mail to an inmate?

If you send prohibited items to an inmate, the items will likely be confiscated, and you may be subject to penalties, including being banned from sending mail to that inmate or facility, and possibly legal consequences.

Visitation:

13. How do I arrange a visit with an inmate?

Visiting an inmate usually requires scheduling a visit in advance, either online or by phone, depending on the facility's rules. You will typically need to provide your full name, date of birth, and sometimes additional information for a background check.

14. What are the rules and regulations during inmate visitation?

Rules and regulations vary by facility, but commonly include dress code requirements, restrictions on items you can bring, required identification, and rules about physical contact. There may also be specific rules about the number of visitors, length of visit, and visitation hours.

15. Can children visit inmates?

In most facilities, children can visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult and may be subject to additional rules. It's also important to consider the potential emotional impact on the child.

16. Are virtual/online visits available?

Many correctional facilities now offer virtual or online visitation, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. These typically involve a video call through a facility-approved service.

Sending Money and Posting Bond:

17. How can I send money to an inmate?

Methods for sending money to inmates can vary by facility, but often include sending a money order, cashier's check, or using a facility-approved online service. Note that there may be restrictions on the amount of money an inmate can receive or possess.

18. What are the methods to post bond for an inmate?

Methods to post bond can include cash bonds, surety bonds (via a bail bondsman), and sometimes property bonds. The exact methods available and rules surrounding them can vary based on jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the charges.

19. Are there any restrictions or limits on the amount of money I can send?

Most facilities have restrictions or limits on the amount of money an inmate can receive or possess at any one time. The specific amounts can vary widely based on facility or jurisdiction.

20. What happens to the money I posted as bond if the charges are dropped?

If the charges are dropped, any cash bond posted should be returned to you, often minus any fees or court costs. If you used a bail bondsman, any fee you paid to them is typically nonrefundable.

Legal Assistance for Inmates:

21. How can I arrange legal assistance for an inmate?

Legal assistance for an inmate can be arranged by hiring a private attorney or, if the inmate qualifies, they may be able to be represented by a public defender. Some non-profit organizations also provide legal assistance to inmates.

22. Can an inmate request for a public defender?

Yes, an inmate can request a public defender. However, public defenders are generally only provided to individuals who cannot afford to hire their own attorney. The inmate will typically need to prove their financial need.

23. Are there any non-profit organizations that provide legal aid for inmates?

Yes, there are many non-profit organizations that provide legal aid for inmates. This can include organizations like the ACLU, The Innocence Project, and various local and regional legal aid organizations.

Inmate Release:

24. What happens when an inmate is released?

When an inmate is released, they typically retrieve any personal belongings stored during their incarceration, receive any remaining funds in their inmate account, and may receive assistance with transportation. They may also be subject to conditions of parole or probation, which can include regular meetings with a parole or probation officer, drug testing, and other restrictions.

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