San Bernardino Central Detention Center – Sheriff’s Department Information & Inmate Locator

Table of Contents

1. Informative List
   • Location
   • Facility
   • Capacity
   • History
   • West Coast Hub
2. Overview of the Central Detention Center
3. Booking and Intake
4. Bail and Release
5. Inmate Locator and Visitation
6. San Bernardino Central Detention Center Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
   • Scheduling Visits
   • Inmate Locator Information
   • Mail Rules
   • Security Measures
   • Inmate Phone Calls
7. Commissary and Communication
8. Security and Safety Measures
9. Conclusion
10. Highlights

When it comes to the criminal justice system in San Bernardino County, the Central Detention Center (CDC) plays a pivotal role. It’s not just a jail—it’s the heart of the county’s inmate processing and a critical point for law enforcement operations. This article delves into the ins and outs of the San Bernardino Central Detention Center, detailing everything from the booking process to visiting hours, commissary details, and inmate locator services.

Overview of the Central Detention Center

Located at 630 East Rialto Avenue in San Bernardino, California, the CDC is the primary booking facility for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. It handles the intake of county inmates and serves as a hub for the transportation and housing of federal inmates. With a history dating back to 1971, the CDC has undergone significant changes, including a temporary closure and reopening in 1994. Today, it operates as a bustling center that accommodates a variety of inmate populations, with a capacity to house approximately 600 county inmates at any given time.

Booking and Intake

Upon arrest, individuals are brought to the CDC for booking. This process involves collecting personal information, assigning a booking number, taking fingerprints and photographs, and confiscating personal belongings. The booking facility serves police departments and sheriff stations across San Bernardino County, processing inmates quickly and efficiently. During this phase, inmates are evaluated for bail eligibility, and their details are entered into the county’s inmate locator system.

Bail and Release

Bail is a critical component of the criminal justice system, allowing individuals to secure temporary release from custody while awaiting trial. The CDC provides bail bond services to inmates, enabling them to ensure their freedom pending legal proceedings. Bail information is accessible to inmates and their families, with details on how to arrange for bail bonds. It’s important to note that the specific bail amount varies based on the nature of the charges and the inmate’s criminal history.

Inmate Locator and Visitation

One of the critical services provided by the CDC is the inmate locator system. This system allows family members, lawyers, and other interested parties to search for an inmate by name or booking number. It’s an invaluable tool for staying in contact with loved ones during their time in custody.

Visiting inmates is a privilege, and the CDC has specific visiting hours and rules that must be followed. Generally, visitation is available from Wednesday to Saturday, with particular time slots depending on the inmate’s housing unit. Visitors must schedule an appointment at least 30 minutes prior to their visit to allow time for security checks. The CDC enforces strict rules regarding what visitors can bring and requires valid identification for entry.

San Bernardino Central Detention Center Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I schedule a visit to the CDC?
   • You must schedule a visit at least 30 minutes prior to the desired time. Visitation is available from Wednesday to Saturday.
2. What information do I need to locate an inmate at the CDC?
   • You can use the inmate’s name or booking number to search in the San Bernardino County inmate locator system.
3. What are the rules for sending mail to an inmate at the CDC?
   • Mail must include the inmate’s name and booking number on the outside. Books and magazines must be shipped directly from the publisher.
4. What security measures are in place at the CDC?
   • The facility has strict rules for visitors and inmates, including thorough searches, constant surveillance, and adherence to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
5. Can inmates make phone calls at the CDC?
   • Yes, inmates have access to telephones to make legal and personal calls.

Commissary and Communication

Inmates at the CDC have access to commissary services, allowing them to purchase personal items such as toiletries, snacks, and writing materials. Commissary accounts can be funded by family and friends, with rules about the amount of money allowed and the frequency of deposits.

Communication with inmates is crucial, and the CDC provides various means for inmates to stay in touch with the outside world. Inmates can make legal and personal phone calls, with restrictions to maintain security. Mail is also permitted, but it must meet specific guidelines, including having the inmate’s name and booking number on the outside of the envelope. Additionally, books and magazines can be shipped directly from the publisher to the facility, providing inmates with educational and recreational reading materials.

Security and Safety Measures

The San Bernardino Central Detention Center operates under stringent security and safety protocols. These measures include thorough searches of visitors, constant surveillance, and strict rules for inmate conduct. The facility also adheres to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), which mandates policies and procedures to prevent sexual abuse and harassment within the correctional system.

Conclusion

The San Bernardino Central Detention Center plays a critical role in the county’s criminal justice system, providing a secure environment for inmates and facilitating the booking and release process. With its comprehensive inmate locator system, clear visiting guidelines, and robust security measures, the CDC ensures that both inmates and their families have the information they need while maintaining safety and order.

If you need to locate an inmate, arrange a visit, or obtain bail information, the San Bernardino Central Detention Center’s resources are readily available. For more detailed information, contact the facility directly or consult with a criminal defense lawyer for legal advice and guidance.

Highlights

To conclude the article, the following key takeaways provide a summary of important information:

• The CDC is the primary booking facility in San Bernardino County, handling the intake of inmates and serving as a hub for the transportation of federal inmates.
• Visitation requires scheduling and adherence to strict rules, including valid identification and compliance with security checks.
• Communication with inmates is possible through phone calls and mail, but specific guidelines must be followed.
• Security is a top priority at the CDC, with robust measures in place to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors.
• The facility has a long history, having reopened in 1994 to continue serving the San Bernardino County jail system.