Madison County Detention Center, Iowa

Use this website for informational purposes only.

Madison County Detention Center, IA, commonly referred to as the county jail, is a correctional facility located in Madison County, Iowa. It serves as a holding facility for individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences, or awaiting transfer to other institutions. This detention facility is equipped to securely house inmates while ensuring their rights and safety.

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Detention Center Inmate Lookup

To locate an inmate within the Madison County Detention Center:

1. Official Website Lookup: Visit the official Madison County website. Navigate to the 'Inmate Lookup' or 'Inmate Search' section.
2. Search Parameters: Enter relevant inmate details, such as first name, last name, or date of birth.
3. Use Inmate Number: If you have the inmate number, it can provide a more precise search.
4. Contact Facility Directly: If online search doesn't yield results or if you face difficulties, you can contact the jail directly. The correctional officers or administrative staff will guide you.
5. Third-party Websites: Some third-party websites provide inmate lookup services for various facilities. Ensure you're using a reputable site if you opt for this method.

Jail Roster

The Madison County jail roster provides a comprehensive list of inmates currently housed in the facility. Information typically available on the roster includes:

• Booking Number: A unique identifier assigned to each inmate upon their admission into the facility.
• Last Name & First Name: The full name of the inmate.
• Date of Birth: The inmate's birth date.
• Release Date: If applicable, this indicates when the inmate is scheduled to be released.
• Criminal Charges: Lists the charges against the inmate.

Accessing the jail roster can be done via the county's official website or by contacting the detention facility directly. Always rely on official or trusted sources for accurate and up-to-date information.

Additional Details on Inmate Search

When conducting an inmate search at the Madison County Detention Center, it's essential to have accurate information at hand. This ensures not only the efficiency of your search but also that you find the correct individual, as many inmates might share common names.

1. Middle Names & Initials: Sometimes, including middle names or initials can help narrow down your search, especially for common first or last names.
2. Booking Date: If you're aware of when the individual was admitted into the county jail, this can further narrow down your search.
3. Age: While the date of birth is the most precise, even knowing the approximate age can be helpful.

Additional Details on Prison Roster

The prison roster is a continuously updated document. Besides the already mentioned details, it might also include:

• Housing Location: Specifies the particular block or cell where the inmate is currently housed.
• Bail Amount: If the inmate is eligible for bail, this column would indicate the amount set.
• Scheduled Court Dates: Important for those awaiting trial or further court proceedings.
• Duration of Sentence: For sentenced inmates, how long they are meant to be in custody.

Tips for an Effective Offender Lookup

1. Accuracy is Key: Ensure that the information you're inputting, especially names and dates, is accurate. Even a small mistake can return no results or the wrong inmate.
2. Use Multiple Search Criteria: Instead of relying on just one piece of information, use multiple data points if possible. This reduces the chances of errors.
3. Regularly Check for Updates: If you can't find the inmate immediately, especially if you believe they've just been admitted, check back regularly. Updates to the roster might not be instantaneous.
4. Be Patient with the System: Depending on the system's backend and the number of queries it handles, inmate lookup tools might sometimes be slow.
5. Use Browser Autofill Wisely: If you're using a browser with autofill capabilities, ensure it's not auto-filling incorrect or outdated information into the search fields.
6. Seek Help: If you're having continuous difficulty, don't hesitate to contact the detention facility. They can provide guidance or confirm if the individual is in their custody.

Mugshots

Mugshots are photographic records of individuals taken shortly after they are arrested. These photos typically include a front-view and a side-view of the arrestee. The purpose of a mugshot is to allow law enforcement agencies to have a photographic record of the arrested individual to use for identification purposes.

Availability in Madison County:

In Madison County, mugshots of inmates can be found as a part of the inmate's official record. However, the availability to the public can vary:

1. Online Database: Some counties make mugshots available online as a part of their inmate search tools or jail rosters. You can check the Madison County official website or the detention facility's page for this feature.
2. Freedom of Information Requests: If mugshots aren't readily available online, you might need to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the county to obtain them. However, it's essential to note that not all mugshots may be releasable under FOIA, depending on local regulations and laws.
3. Privacy Concerns: Due to concerns about the misuse of mugshots, especially in the age of the internet, some jurisdictions have implemented restrictions on the public release of these photos.

Incarceration Records

Incarceration records provide details about an individual's history of imprisonment, including the facility where they were held, the duration of their sentence, and the nature of their offenses.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records in Madison County:

1. Official County Website: Madison County may have an online portal where you can request incarceration records. This is typically the most straightforward method.
2. Written Request: In some cases, you may need to submit a formal written request to the county clerk's office or the Madison County Detention Center's administrative office detailing the records you seek.
3. FOIA Request: If the records aren't available through standard channels, a Freedom of Information Act request can be filed. This legally obligates the county to provide the records, unless they fall under specific exemption categories.
4. Verification: You might be asked to provide proof of identity or justification for the request, especially if seeking information about another individual.
5. Fees: Some jurisdictions might charge a fee for processing and providing incarceration records, especially for hard copies or extensive searches.
6. Turnaround Time: The time it takes to receive the records can vary. Online requests may be processed more quickly, while FOIA requests or other manual methods might take longer.

Always ensure you're abiding by local laws and regulations when seeking personal information, and use such information responsibly.

Inmate Calls

Inmates housed in Madison County Detention Center are provided access to telephones so they can maintain contact with their loved ones, legal representatives, and other relevant parties.

Inmate Call System & Regulations:

1. Collect Calls: Often, the primary method inmates use to call out is through collect calls. The recipient of the call bears the cost. It's essential to note that not all phone carriers accept collect calls, so you may need to set up an account with a third-party service.
2. Prepaid Accounts: Some detention facilities allow families to set up prepaid accounts for inmates, ensuring that the inmates have funds to make calls.
3. Call Duration: Calls from the jail might be limited in duration to ensure all inmates have equal access to telephones.
4. Monitoring & Recording: For security reasons, calls made from detention facilities, excluding those to legal representatives, are typically monitored and recorded.

Guidelines for Use:

1. Avoid Discussing Legal Matters: Given that calls are monitored, it's advised not to discuss legal cases or any other sensitive matters over the jail phone.
2. Follow Call Schedule: Inmates are typically provided specific times during which they can make calls.
3. Behavioral Restrictions: Inmates who do not adhere to the jail's code of conduct might have their calling privileges temporarily suspended.

Inmate Mail

Maintaining communication with inmates through mail can be crucial for their mental well-being. However, there are specific guidelines to ensure the safety and security of both inmates and staff.

Process of Sending Mail:

1. Addressing the Mail: Ensure you have the correct address for Madison County Detention Center. Also, include the inmate's full name and booking number, if possible.
2. Use of P.O. Box: Some jails prefer or mandate that mail is sent to a P.O. Box rather than the physical address of the facility.
3. Return Address: Always include your full name and return address on the mail.

Guidelines for Sending Mail & Packages:

1. Content Restrictions: Avoid sending any content that might be deemed inappropriate or that incites violence, hatred, or illegal activities.
2. Prohibited Items: Do not include items like staples, paper clips, hardback books, or any other objects that might be considered contraband.
3. Publication & Books: If sending books, magazines, or newspapers, they often need to be shipped directly from the publisher or an approved retailer.
4. Photos: Inmates are usually allowed to receive photos, but there might be restrictions on size, content, and the number of photos per letter.
5. Letters Only: Unless explicitly allowed, refrain from sending packages. Letters and postcards are usually the accepted means of communication.
6. Mail Inspection: All incoming mail, except legal correspondence, will be opened and inspected for contraband. Even legal mail might be opened, but this is typically done in the presence of the inmate.

Before sending mail or packages, always check with Madison County Detention Center's latest guidelines and regulations to ensure your mail is compliant and reaches the inmate without issues.

Sending Money to Inmates

Inmates at Madison County Detention Center might need funds to purchase various items from the commissary or to make phone calls. Sending money is regulated to ensure transparency and security.

Approved Methods for Sending Money:

1. Online Transfers: Several online platforms allow for direct money transfers to an inmate's account. You'll need the inmate's ID or booking number and might have to pay a small transaction fee.
2. Money Orders: These can often be mailed to the detention facility with the inmate's name and booking number clearly mentioned. It's essential to check if the jail has a preferred money order provider.
3. Jail Kiosks: Some detention centers have kiosks in their lobbies where you can deposit money directly into an inmate's account.
4. Phone Deposits: Some jails offer phone services where you can send money using a credit or debit card.

Regulations and Limitations:

1. Maximum Amount: There may be a cap on the amount of money an inmate can receive or hold in their account.
2. Transaction Fees: Depending on the method used, there might be a fee associated with sending money.
3. Refunds: Money sent to an inmate is non-refundable, even if the inmate is transferred or released.
4. Misuse of Funds: Inmates are expected to use the funds appropriately. Misuse can lead to disciplinary actions.
5. Source Verification: The jail may sometimes require verification or details about the source of funds, especially for large amounts.

Commissary

A commissary is a store within the detention facility where inmates can purchase products that aren't issued by the jail. This includes snacks, personal hygiene items, stationery, and sometimes even clothing or footwear. The purpose of a commissary is to allow inmates to procure items for their comfort, to maintain hygiene, or for recreational activities.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary:

1. Funds: Inmates need to have funds in their account to make purchases. This money can be sent by loved ones or earned through jail work programs.
2. Ordering Process: Inmates typically fill out an order form specifying the items they wish to purchase. Orders are then packed and delivered to the inmates.
3. Frequency: Most jails have a specific frequency (like once a week) when inmates can place commissary orders.

Restrictions on Commissary Use:

1. Spending Cap: There might be a limit to how much an inmate can spend at the commissary within a specific period.
2. Item Limitations: Some items might have purchase limits, ensuring that no single inmate hoards essential products.
3. Behavioral Restrictions: Inmates who violate jail rules or face disciplinary actions might be temporarily denied commissary privileges.
4. Product Restrictions: Only items approved by the jail administration are available in the commissary. This ensures that no contraband or potential weapon materials are available to inmates.

Before sending money or making any commissary-related decisions, always refer to Madison County Detention Center's official guidelines or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Visitation

Maintaining ties with loved ones is crucial for the morale and well-being of inmates. However, visitation in Madison County Detention Center, like all detention facilities, is regulated to ensure the safety and security of both visitors and inmates.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit:

1. Inmate's Visitation List: Before one can visit, the inmate usually must add the visitor's name to an approved visitation list. This might require the potential visitor to provide personal details and sometimes undergo a background check.
2. Scheduling a Visit: Depending on the detention facility's policies, visitors may need to schedule their visits in advance. This could be done online, via phone, or in person.
3. ID Verification: All visitors are required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID upon arrival.
4. Minors: Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and both the child and the adult should be on the approved list.

Rules and Regulations for Visits:

1. Dress Code: Most jails have a strict dress code for visitors to ensure decency and prevent any security risks. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, clothes with inappropriate logos or messages, and any attire that can be used to smuggle contraband.
2. Conduct: Visitors must behave appropriately at all times. Any disruptive behavior could lead to the termination of the visit or future visitation rights being revoked.
3. Searches: Be prepared to be searched. This is for security reasons and can include metal detectors, pat-downs, and sometimes even canine units.
4. Items Allowed: Usually, visitors are only allowed to bring in their ID and a small amount of cash (for vending machines if available). Personal items like bags, phones, or keys might have to be stored in lockers or left outside.
5. Contact: Depending on the facility's regulations, visits might be non-contact, where visitors and inmates are separated by a barrier, or contact visits where limited physical contact is allowed at the beginning and end of the visit.

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

1012 N 1st St, Winterset, IA 50273

Official Phone Number

515-462-3575

Official Website

madisoncounty.iowa.gov/offices/sheriffs-office

Security Level

Security levels at detention facilities are designed to protect the safety of inmates, staff, and the public while providing an organized environment for inmate rehabilitation. Madison County Detention Center, like other facilities, will have specific security measures in place based on its size, inmate population, and nature of offenses.

1. Perimeter Security: This includes high walls or fences, often topped with razor wire or electrified barriers. Surveillance cameras and watchtowers might also be in place for constant monitoring.
2. Controlled Movement: Inmates' movements within the facility are usually controlled and monitored. This includes escorting inmates between different areas and ensuring they only access areas relevant to their daily schedule.
3. Searches: Regular searches are conducted to detect and deter the possession of contraband. This includes cell searches, pat-downs, and sometimes strip searches.
4. Monitoring and Surveillance: CCTV cameras and other surveillance methods monitor all areas of the facility round-the-clock.
5. Locked Facilities: Cells, doors, and communal areas are often locked and controlled electronically to prevent unauthorized access.

Categories of Offenders Housed:

1. Minimum Security: Inmates with non-violent offenses, a short sentence, or those approaching parole. They might have more freedoms within the facility.
2. Medium Security: Houses inmates who may pose a moderate risk but aren't considered maximum security threats. They have fewer freedoms than minimum-security inmates but aren't as tightly controlled as maximum-security inmates.
3. Maximum Security: For inmates who have committed severe offenses, have a history of violent behavior, or pose an escape risk. They are under the most stringent controls and surveillance.
4. Protective Custody: Some inmates, due to the nature of their crime or other vulnerabilities, might be housed separately to protect them from potential harm from other inmates.
5. Special Needs or Medical Units: For inmates with medical conditions or mental health needs requiring specialized care or attention.

Role of Correctional Officers:

1. Supervision: Correctional officers constantly supervise inmates to maintain order and ensure compliance with facility rules.
2. Safety: They are responsible for ensuring the safety of inmates, fellow staff, and the facility. This includes intervening in disputes, preventing fights, and managing emergencies.
3. Enforcing Rules: They enforce the rules of the facility, conducting searches, and reporting infractions.
4. Transport: Correctional officers escort inmates between different areas of the jail and, when needed, to outside appointments or court hearings.
5. Communication: They act as a communication bridge between inmates and the administrative staff, addressing concerns and ensuring inmates' rights are upheld.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search:

How can I find an inmate in a specific jail or prison?

To find an inmate, visit the official website of the jail or prison. Most institutions have an "Inmate Search" or "Inmate Locator" feature. You can also contact the facility directly or use third-party inmate search websites.

What information do I need to begin an inmate search?

Typically, you'll need the inmate's full name and date of birth. Some searches may also require an inmate ID or booking number.

Are all inmates searchable online?

No, not all inmates are searchable online. It depends on the jail or prison's policy and the availability of online databases.

Is there a fee associated with inmate searches?

Most official jail or prison websites offer free inmate searches. However, third-party sites may charge a fee.

Why can't I find an inmate even though I know they are incarcerated?

There could be several reasons: the inmate might be in a facility without an online database, the information may not yet be updated, or there may be a typo in the data entered.

Arrests Lookup:

How do I look up recent arrests in my area?

Local police or sheriff's department websites often list recent arrests. There are also third-party websites that aggregate arrest data.

Are arrest records public information?

Yes, arrest records are typically public information. However, access and details might vary based on jurisdiction and specific laws.

Can I see the charges for a specific arrest?

Yes, charges are usually listed in the arrest record.

How long after an arrest is it recorded in the system?

It varies, but records are usually updated within 24-48 hours of an arrest.

Jail Bookings:

What is the difference between an arrest and a jail booking?

An arrest refers to the act of taking someone into custody. Booking is the process of recording the arrest in the system, taking fingerprints, photographs, and possibly holding the individual in jail.

How can I find out if someone has been booked into jail?

Jail booking records are often available on jail or county websites. You can also call the facility directly.

How long after a booking is the information available to the public?

Typically, booking information is available within 24 hours.

Inmate Calls:

How can inmates make calls from jail or prison?

Inmates can make calls using the facility's phone system, usually through a third-party service. They cannot receive incoming calls but can make collect or prepaid calls.

Are inmate calls monitored or recorded?

Yes, most inmate calls are monitored and recorded for security reasons.

What are the fees associated with inmate calls?

Fees vary based on the facility and the third-party service provider. Rates can be per-minute or flat-rate.

Can inmates receive calls?

No, inmates cannot receive incoming calls. However, they can call out.

How do I set up a prepaid account for inmate calls?

Contact the third-party phone service provider used by the facility. They will guide you through the process.

Inmate Mail:

How can I send mail to an inmate?

Address the mail to the inmate using their full name, inmate ID (if known), and the facility's address. Always check the facility's guidelines on mailing.

Are there any restrictions on what can be sent to inmates?

Yes, each facility has specific rules about what can and cannot be sent. Common restrictions include no contraband, no electronics, and no explicit material.

How is inmate mail processed and checked?

All mail is typically opened and inspected for contraband before being delivered to the inmate.

Visitation:

How do I schedule a visitation with an inmate?

Contact the facility where the inmate is housed. Some facilities require appointments, while others have specific visitation hours.

What are the rules and guidelines for visiting an inmate?

Each facility has its own rules. Common rules include a dress code, presenting a valid ID, and no contraband.

Can children visit inmates?

Yes, in most cases, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Check the facility's specific guidelines.

Sending Money:

How can I send money to an inmate?

Methods vary by facility but can include online transfers, money orders, or third-party services.

Are there limits on the amount of money I can send?

Yes, most facilities have a maximum amount an inmate can receive. Check with the facility for specific limits.

What are the fees associated with sending money?

Fees vary based on the method used. Online transfers or third-party services usually charge a fee.

Posting Bond:

How can I post bond for an inmate?

Contact the facility or the court to determine the bond amount and the acceptable methods of payment.

What forms of payment are accepted for bond?

This varies, but common methods include cash, cashier's checks, or bond agencies.

What happens if an inmate doesn't show up for court after bond is posted?

The bond will be forfeited, and a warrant will be issued for the inmate's arrest.

Legal Assistance for Inmates:

How can inmates obtain legal representation?

Inmates can hire a private attorney, or if they cannot afford one, they may be appointed a public defender.

Are inmates provided with public defenders?

If an inmate cannot afford an attorney and is facing charges that could result in imprisonment, they are typically entitled to a public defender.

Can inmates consult with their lawyers privately?

Yes, inmates have the right to confidential consultations with their attorneys.

Release:

How can I find out the release date for an inmate?

Contact the facility where the inmate is housed or check their online database if available.

What is the process for an inmate's release?

Release procedures vary by facility. Typically, inmates are processed, provided with any personal belongings, and released to the public area of the facility or a designated pickup area.

Are inmates provided with any post-release assistance or resources?

Some facilities offer post-release programs or resources, such as counseling, job placement, or transitional housing. It varies by jurisdiction and facility.

Criminal Records Lookup:

How can I access someone's criminal record?

Criminal records can be accessed through local courthouses, police departments, or online databases. There may be fees or restrictions based on the jurisdiction.

Are all criminal records publicly available?

No, some records are sealed or expunged. Access also depends on jurisdiction and specific laws.

Is there a fee associated with accessing criminal records?

Fees vary by jurisdiction and method of access. Some online databases or courthouses may charge a fee.

How up-to-date are the criminal records in the database?

Databases are typically updated regularly, but there may be a delay in processing new or updated records.

Background Check:

What does a background check include?

A background check can include criminal records, employment history, education, credit history, and other personal information.

How long does it take to receive the results of a background check?

It varies but typically takes between a few hours to a few days.

What information is needed to conduct a background check?

Generally, you'll need the individual's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

Are there different types of background checks for different purposes?

Yes, there are employment background checks, tenant screenings, and others tailored to specific needs.

Is there a fee associated with conducting a background check?

Yes, fees vary based on the depth of the check and the agency or service used.