Contra Costa County Jail is a secure correctional facility in Martinez, California, run by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office. It houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences, or held for other legal reasons. The jail provides essential services, rehabilitation programs, and clear processes for families and legal professionals. This page covers everything you need to know about inmate lookup, visitation, communication, health care, and support resources—updated with the latest official information.
Inmate Search and Roster Lookup
Finding an inmate in Contra Costa County Jail is simple using the official online roster. The system is updated daily and shows current inmates, booking details, charges, bail amounts, and court dates. You can search by full name or inmate ID number. Results include mugshots, housing location, and release date if available. The roster is public record and accessible 24/7 on the Sheriff’s website.
How to Search for an Inmate
Go to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s first and last name. Use exact spelling. If you don’t know the full name, try a partial name or known alias. The system will show all matching results. Click on a name to see full details, including booking date, charges, bond amount, and next court appearance.
Offline Search Options
If the website is down or you prefer in-person help, call the jail at (925) 335-1800. Staff can assist with inmate status over the phone. You can also visit the jail lobby at 901 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553. Bring a valid ID and the inmate’s name or booking number. Public kiosks may display basic roster info during business hours.
Visitation Hours and Rules
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with family and friends. Contra Costa County Jail offers both in-person and video visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits occur Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Video visits are available daily, including weekends, and can be booked online.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list. Schedule your visit at least 24 hours ahead using the jail’s online portal or by calling (925) 335-1800. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Bring a government-issued photo ID. Dress modestly—no shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with gang symbols or offensive language. All bags and phones are banned. Visits last 30 minutes and are monitored.
Virtual Visitation
Video visits use a secure platform. Book slots online through the jail’s partner site. Sessions cost $12 for 20 minutes and are non-refundable. You’ll need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and internet. Virtual visits are private but recorded. Minors must be supervised by an adult.
Inmate Communication: Phone, Mail, and Email
Inmates can stay in touch through monitored calls, letters, and email. All communication follows strict safety rules. Phone calls are limited to pre-approved numbers. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Calls cost $0.23 per minute and are paid by the caller or through the inmate’s account.
Sending Mail to Inmates
Mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and jail address. Use plain white envelopes and paper. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers like Amazon. All mail is inspected. Prohibited items include cash, drugs, weapons, or coded messages. Send mail to: [Inmate Name], Contra Costa County Jail, 901 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553.
Email and Messaging
The jail uses a secure email system through its communication vendor. Family can send messages online. Inmates reply during designated times. Messages are screened for safety. Attachments are not allowed. This service costs extra and requires account setup. It’s faster than regular mail but not instant.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can receive funds for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Money is added to their trust account. There are three safe ways to send money: online, kiosk, or money order.
Online Deposits
Use the jail’s official payment partner website. Enter the inmate’s name and ID. Pay with credit or debit card. Funds appear within minutes. A small fee applies.
Kiosk Payments
Visit the jail lobby and use the kiosk. Accepts cash, credit, and debit cards. Receipts are printed. Kiosks are open during business hours.
Money Orders by Mail
Send a money order via USPS. Make it payable to the inmate. Include their full name and booking number. Do not send cash or personal checks. Mail to the jail address above. Processing takes 3–5 days.
Commissary and Inmate Accounts
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery. Orders are placed weekly. Items are delivered to cells. Popular products include chips, toothpaste, soap, pens, and socks. Prices are posted online. Funds come from the inmate’s trust account. Family can add money anytime using the methods above.
What Inmates Can Buy
- Snacks: Chips, candy, coffee, soda
- Hygiene: Toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo
- Clothing: Undershirts, socks (jail-approved)
- Stationery: Envelopes, paper, pencils
All items meet jail safety standards. No electronics or sharp objects are allowed.
Health Care and Mental Health Services
Contra Costa County Jail provides full medical and mental health care. All inmates get a health screening upon arrival. Doctors, nurses, and mental health staff are on-site. Services include routine checkups, chronic disease management, dental care, and prescription medications.
Mental Health Support
Counseling is available for depression, anxiety, and trauma. Group therapy covers anger management, addiction, and life skills. Substance abuse treatment includes detox and recovery planning. Inmates can request help at any time. Confidentiality is respected within safety limits.
Emergency Medical Care
In case of injury or illness, inmates receive immediate care. Serious cases are sent to local hospitals. Families are notified when possible. Co-pays may apply for non-emergency visits.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to reduce repeat offenses and prepare inmates for life after release. Education includes GED classes, adult basic education, and literacy training. Vocational courses teach job skills like carpentry, plumbing, and computer basics. Certificates are awarded upon completion.
Life Skills and Reentry Support
Workshops cover budgeting, job searching, and parenting. Counselors help with housing and employment plans. Partnerships with local agencies connect inmates to community resources before release. These efforts aim to lower recidivism and support successful reintegration.
Bail and Release Process
Bail is set by a judge during arraignment. The amount depends on the charge, criminal history, and flight risk. To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (925) 646-6541. Payment options include cash, credit card, or bail bond agent. Once paid, the inmate is released after processing, usually within a few hours.
Release Procedures
Released inmates receive their personal items and a release packet with court dates and resources. Those serving sentences may be transferred to state prison or released to probation. Families should confirm release time by calling the jail.
Inmate Rights and Safety
All inmates have rights under California law. They can request medical care, file grievances, and practice religion. The jail follows strict safety protocols, including 24/7 surveillance, staff training, and emergency response plans. Inmates are housed based on risk level and behavior.
Filing a Complaint
If an inmate feels their rights are violated, they can submit a written grievance. Forms are available from staff. Complaints are reviewed by supervisors. Serious issues are reported to the Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs. Families can also contact the jail administration with concerns.
Contact Information and Location
For questions or visits, use these official details:
- Address: 901 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553
- Phone: (925) 335-1800
- Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/Departments/CountyJail
- Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Emergency: Dial 911
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about Contra Costa County Jail. These cover inmate lookup, visits, mail, and support services based on the latest official policies.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Contra Costa County?
Use the online inmate roster on the Sheriff’s website. Search by name or ID. The list shows current inmates, booking dates, charges, and court info. If no results appear, call (925) 335-1800 to confirm. The roster updates daily, so information is usually current within 24 hours of booking.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No, in-person visits are only Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekend visits are not offered. However, video visits are available seven days a week and can be scheduled online. Virtual visits cost $12 for 20 minutes and must be booked in advance.
What items can I bring to an inmate during visitation?
You cannot bring any items to inmates during visits. All personal belongings, including phones, bags, and gifts, must stay outside. Inmates receive approved items through commissary or mail. Food, clothing, and electronics are not allowed. Only conversation is permitted during visits.
How long does it take for mail to reach an inmate?
Mail typically arrives within 2–3 business days. All letters are inspected for safety, which may cause slight delays. Use the correct format: inmate name, booking number, and full jail address. Avoid prohibited items like stickers or cash. Books must come directly from publishers.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
Inmates receive a health screening upon arrival. They can request medical help at any time. Staff respond to emergencies immediately. Routine care, medications, and mental health services are provided on-site. Serious cases are sent to hospitals. Families are notified when appropriate.
Can inmates make phone calls?
Yes, inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15–20 minutes and cost $0.23 per minute. Family must set up a prepaid account or pay per call. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All calls are monitored and recorded for safety.
How do I remove a mugshot from the public roster?
Mugshots are public records. To request removal, contact the Sheriff’s Office Records Division. You may need to show proof of case dismissal or acquittal. Some requests require a court order. Processing takes several weeks. Fees may apply. Call (925) 313-2500 for details.