Waukesha County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Waukesha County?
Inmate records in Waukesha County are official government documents maintained by the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records document an individual's custody status, criminal charges, and other pertinent information related to their incarceration. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.35, these records constitute public records subject to disclosure with certain exceptions.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records document judicial proceedings, hearings, and case dispositions maintained by the Waukesha County Circuit Court, inmate records specifically track an individual's status within the correctional system. The Sheriff's Department maintains custody records, while the court system maintains case files related to criminal proceedings.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Records are initiated during the booking and intake process when an individual is first taken into custody
- Information is systematically updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Records are modified to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, or disciplinary actions
- Upon release, records are updated to document the completion of sentence or other disposition
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections defines inmate records under Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.02(7) as "information concerning an inmate's custody, physical health, medical treatment, conduct, or programming maintained by the department of corrections."
Are Inmate Records Public In Waukesha County?
Inmate records in Waukesha County are generally considered public records under Wisconsin's Public Records Law, specifically Wisconsin Statute § 19.31-19.39. This statute establishes that "all persons are entitled to the greatest possible information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those officers and employees who represent them." The law presumes that public records shall be open to inspection unless there is a clear statutory exception or the public interest in nondisclosure outweighs the public interest in disclosure.
The Waukesha County Sheriff's Department, as the custodian of inmate records, makes certain information publicly accessible, including:
- Current inmate roster showing individuals currently in custody
- Basic booking and arrest information
- Criminal charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshots (booking photographs)
- Bond/bail amounts set by the court
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility within the county system
However, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly available. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.36, certain information may be redacted or withheld, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Information that would endanger the safety of any individual
- Social Security numbers and other personally identifying information
The Waukesha County Sheriff's Department balances the public's right to information with privacy concerns and security considerations when responding to requests for inmate records.
What's Included Inmate Records in Waukesha County
Inmate records in Waukesha County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Booking number and other identification numbers
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Booking agency
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Participation in jail programs
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Arresting agency
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount set by the court
- Bond type (cash, signature, property)
- Bond status (posted or not posted)
- Bond conditions imposed by the court
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to the case
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Length of sentence
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Credit for time served
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Sentence conditions
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Type of release (time served, bond posted, transferred)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release conditions
Waukesha County Prison System
The Waukesha County correctional system operates under the authority of the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department and consists primarily of the Waukesha County Jail. This facility serves as the central detention center for individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors, or serving sentences for felonies with terms of incarceration up to one year.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system. The Waukesha County Jail houses:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Individuals temporarily held for court appearances
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
By contrast, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year. Individuals sentenced to state prison from Waukesha County courts are transferred to state facilities after processing through the county system.
The Waukesha County Sheriff's Department, which administers the jail system, can be contacted at:
Waukesha County Sheriff's Department
515 W. Moreland Boulevard
Waukesha, WI 53188
(262) 548-7122
Waukesha County Sheriff's Department
Types of Correctional Facilities In Waukesha County
Waukesha County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations:
Waukesha County Jail (Main Facility)
515 W. Moreland Boulevard
Waukesha, WI 53188
(262) 548-7170
Waukesha County Jail
This maximum-security facility serves as the primary detention center for Waukesha County. It houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The facility includes specialized housing units for different classification levels and provides various rehabilitative programs.
Waukesha County Huber Facility
1400 Northview Road
Waukesha, WI 53188
(262) 548-7181
Waukesha County Huber Facility
The Huber Facility houses inmates participating in the Huber Law work release program, authorized under Wisconsin Statute § 303.08. This minimum-security facility allows eligible inmates to leave the facility for employment, education, or treatment programs during the day while returning to custody during non-working hours. Participants may be required to pay room and board fees from their earnings.
Waukesha County Mental Health Unit
515 W. Moreland Boulevard
Waukesha, WI 53188
(262) 548-7170
Waukesha County Jail
This specialized unit within the main jail facility provides enhanced supervision and treatment for inmates with mental health needs. The unit is staffed by trained correctional officers and mental health professionals who provide specialized care and monitoring.
Who's in Prison In Waukesha County
The Waukesha County Jail houses several categories of individuals:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail due to public safety concerns
- Individuals awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
- Offenders may be serving time for crimes such as disorderly conduct, theft, simple assault, or driving under the influence
- Some may be serving consecutive sentences for multiple misdemeanor convictions
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of certain felonies with sentences that can be served in county facilities
- Typically includes those with sentences of less than one year
Probation/Parole Violators:
- Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole
- May be held pending revocation hearings or serving sanctions for violations
Huber Law Participants:
- Sentenced inmates who qualify for work release privileges
- Allowed to leave the facility for employment, education, or treatment
- Required to return to custody when not engaged in approved activities
Temporary Holds:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions
- Those held on immigration detainers
- Individuals awaiting competency evaluations or treatment
According to the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department, the jail population fluctuates but typically includes approximately 400-450 inmates across all facilities. The demographic composition generally reflects the broader criminal justice system, with variations in age, gender, race, and offense types.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Waukesha County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Waukesha County may utilize several methods to access this information:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department website
- Navigate to the "Jail Division" section
- Select the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" option
- Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
- Review the results, which typically include basic custody information, charges, and bond amounts
- Note that the online system provides limited information and may not include complete records
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department Records Division during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Complete a public records request form, available at the front desk
- Provide specific information about the inmate and records being requested
- Present valid identification
- Pay any applicable fees for record reproduction
- Allow time for processing, as some requests may not be fulfilled immediately
Written Requests:
-
Prepare a written request including:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Inmate's full name and, if known, date of birth or booking number
- Date range of records being sought
-
Mail the request to:
Waukesha County Sheriff's Department
Records Division
515 W. Moreland Boulevard
Waukesha, WI 53188 -
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
-
Enclose payment for applicable fees (contact the department for current fee schedule)
Telephone Requests:
- Call the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department Records Division at (262) 548-7156
- Provide the necessary information about the inmate
- Note that certain records may require written requests and cannot be provided by telephone
- Be prepared to verify your identity
Pursuant to Wisconsin Public Records Law, the custodian must respond to requests "as soon as practicable and without delay." Complex requests may take longer to fulfill than simple inquiries about current custody status.
How To Find an Inmate in Waukesha County for Free?
Members of the public may locate inmates in Waukesha County custody without incurring fees through several methods:
Waukesha County Sheriff's Department Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department website
- Navigate to the "Jail Division" section
- Select the "Inmate Search" function
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review the search results, which include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if applicable)
This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody.
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Waukesha County Jail at (262) 548-7170
- Request information about a specific inmate
- Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth
- Inquire about basic custody status, visiting hours, and bond information
Note that telephone staff can confirm if someone is in custody but may not provide detailed record information.
Wisconsin Vine Service (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):
- Visit the Wisconsin VINE website or call 1-888-944-8463
- Search for an inmate by name
- Register for notifications about custody status changes if desired
- Receive automated updates about release, transfer, or escape
This statewide service provides custody information for inmates across Wisconsin correctional facilities, including Waukesha County.
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department during business hours
- Request basic inmate location information at the reception desk
- Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth
While basic custody status information is provided free of charge, requests for copies of records or more detailed information may incur fees as established by the department's fee schedule.
How To Visit an Inmate In Waukesha County
Visiting an inmate at the Waukesha County Jail requires adherence to specific procedures established to maintain security and order within the facility:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor request forms for up to 7 individuals
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
Visit Schedule:
- Visitation hours vary by housing unit and security classification
- Main Jail: Tuesday-Sunday, scheduled in 30-minute sessions
- Huber Facility: Saturday-Sunday, scheduled in 30-minute sessions
- Visitors should arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visit time
- Late arrivals may result in cancellation of the visit
- Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Locker key deposit (typically $5, returned after visit)
- Medication needed during visit (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Drugs or alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Electronic devices (cell phones, smartwatches, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Money exceeding $20
- Letters, photos, or items for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related clothing or colors
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections attire
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- On-site video visitation (primary method)
- Remote video visitation (available for a fee through third-party provider)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
- Contact visits (special circumstances with prior approval)
Visit Restrictions:
- Physical contact limited to brief embrace at beginning and end of visit
- No passing of items between visitor and inmate
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence will be denied entry
- Three missed visits in 30 days may result in temporary suspension of privileges
Pursuant to Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.06, correctional facilities may establish reasonable visitation regulations to maintain security and orderly operations.
How To Send Money to a Waukesha County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates in Waukesha County custody have several approved methods for sending funds:
Lobby Kiosk (Cash Deposits):
- Visit the Waukesha County Jail lobby during business hours
- Locate the automated kiosk machine
- Follow on-screen instructions to deposit funds
- Enter inmate's name and identification number
- Insert cash into the machine (bills only, no coins)
- Retain receipt for your records
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 1-2 hours
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Services website
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Select "Waukesha County Sheriff's Department" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number)
- Enter payment amount and credit/debit card information
- Pay the associated service fee (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount)
- Funds are generally available within 24 hours
Money Order by Mail:
-
Purchase a money order from an approved provider (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
-
Make the money order payable to the inmate's full name
-
Write the inmate's ID number on the money order
-
Do not include cash, personal checks, or additional items
-
Mail to:
Waukesha County Jail
Inmate Accounts
515 W. Moreland Boulevard
Waukesha, WI 53188 -
Funds are typically posted within 3-5 business days after receipt
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit at kiosk: $300.00
- Maximum single deposit online: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Huber inmates may have higher limits to accommodate work release earnings
Service Fees:
- Lobby kiosk: $2.50 per transaction
- Online deposits: Tiered fee structure based on amount
- $0.01-$50.00: $2.50 fee
- $50.01-$100.00: $3.50 fee
- $100.01-$200.00: $5.00 fee
- $200.01-$300.00: $7.50 fee
- Money orders: No fee from the jail (provider may charge for money order)
Prohibited Funding Sources:
- Personal checks
- Cash sent through mail
- Third-party checks
- Funds from other inmates or their families
- Funds from individuals with active criminal cases
Authorized Uses of Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Program fees
- Restitution payments
- Child support obligations
- Huber fees (for work release participants)
Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. For additional information about inmate accounts, contact the Waukesha County Jail Inmate Accounts Office at (262) 548-7175.
How To Send Jail Mail In Waukesha County
Corresponding with inmates in Waukesha County requires adherence to specific guidelines established to maintain security and efficient mail processing:
General Mail Guidelines:
-
Address all mail as follows:
Inmate's Full Name and ID Number
Waukesha County Jail
515 W. Moreland Boulevard
Waukesha, WI 53188 -
Include your complete return address on the envelope
-
Use standard white envelopes only (maximum size 9" x 12")
-
Write in blue or black ink only
-
All mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery to inmates
-
Mail without a return address will not be delivered
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters (limited to 5 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4" x 6")
- Money orders (following procedures outlined in the money section)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
- Religious materials (subject to security review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Hardcover books or magazines
- Items containing glitter, lipstick, perfume, or unknown substances
- Homemade crafts or artwork
Books and Publications:
- Books must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors
- Paperback books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Publications must not contain contraband material
- Address as specified above with inmate's full name and ID number
Legal Mail:
- Clearly mark "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" on the envelope
- Must be sent from an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Include attorney bar number on the envelope
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
E-Messages (if available):
- Visit the approved third-party provider website
- Create an account and purchase message credits
- Compose message (typically limited to 2,000 characters)
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Fees apply for each message sent
All mail procedures are established pursuant to Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.04, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish reasonable mail regulations to maintain security and orderly operations.
For additional information about mail procedures, contact the Waukesha County Jail Mail Room at (262) 548-7170.