Branch County Jail Inmate Lookup

Use this website for informational purposes only.

Branch County Jail is a county jail located in Coldwater, Michigan. It is a medium-security facility that houses adult male and female prisoners. The jail is operated by the Branch County Sheriff's Office.

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Branch County Jail Inmate Search

To search for an inmate in Branch County Jail, you can follow these steps:

1. Visit the Branch County Sheriff's Office website.
2. Click on the "Inmate Search" link.
3. Enter the offender's first name, last name, or booking number.
4. Click the "Search" button.

If the offender is currently incarcerated in Branch County Jail, their information will be displayed. The information will include the offender's name, booking number, date of birth, arrest date, charges, and bond amount.

Tips for an Inmate Lookup:

• If you are unsure of the offender's spelling, try searching using different variations of their name.

• If you are unable to find the offender using the inmate search, you can contact the Branch County Jail directly at (517) 278-2325.

• The Branch County Jail also offers an inmate phone service. You can call the jail at (517) 278-2325 and ask to speak to an inmate. You will need to provide the inmate's name and booking number.

Prison Roster

The jail roster typically includes the following information:

• Booking Number: A unique number assigned to each inmate upon booking.

• Last Name: The inmate's last name.

• First Name: The inmate's first name.

• Date of Birth: The inmate's date of birth.

• Release Date: The date the inmate is scheduled to be released from jail.

• Criminal Charges: The criminal charges the inmate has been arrested for.

You can check the roster updates by visiting the Branch County Sheriff's Office website or by calling the jail directly.

Visitation Guidelines

Procedure for Arranging a Visit:

1. Inmates are allowed to receive two (2) visits per week.
2. Visits are 30 minutes in length.
3. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visiting list.
4. To be placed on an inmate's visiting list, visitors must complete a visitation application and provide a valid photo ID.
5. Visitation applications are available at the Branch County Jail or can be mailed in.
6. Once the visitation application is approved, visitors will be notified of their approval status.
7. To schedule a visit, visitors must call the Branch County Jail at (517) 278-2325 at least 24 hours in advance.

Rules and Regulations for Visits:

• Visitors must arrive at the jail at least 15 minutes prior to their scheduled visit time.
• Visitors must present a valid photo ID at the time of their visit.
• Visitors are subject to search before entering the visitation area.
• Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the visitation area, including cell phones, cameras, food, and drinks.
• Visitors must remain seated during the visit and may not touch the inmate.
• Visitors may not discuss criminal activity or other illegal activities during the visit.
• Visitors who violate the visitation rules may be denied future visits.

Visitation Hours:

• Tuesdays and Thursdays: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Saturdays: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Inmate Communications

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations:

• Inmates are allowed to make phone calls to landlines and cell phones.
• Inmates are not allowed to make collect calls.
• Inmates must use a prepaid calling account to make phone calls.
• Inmates can purchase phone cards from the jail commissary.
• Phone calls are monitored and recorded.
• Inmates are not allowed to make phone calls to certain numbers, such as 911, law enforcement agencies, and courts.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use:

• The Branch County Jail phone number is (517) 278-2325.
• Visitors can call the jail to speak to an inmate during visitation hours.
• Visitors must provide the inmate's name and booking number when calling.
• Visitors will be connected to the inmate's phone if the inmate is available to speak.
• Visitors may be charged a fee for phone calls.

Inmate Mail

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate:

1. All incoming mail must be addressed to the inmate by their full name and booking number.
2. Mail should be addressed as follows:

Inmate Name
Booking Number
Branch County Jail
274 E Chicago St
Coldwater, MI 49036

3. Mail must be sent via the United States Postal Service (USPS).
4. Mail must be free of any contraband, such as drugs, weapons, and money.
5. Mail may be inspected by jail staff before being delivered to the inmate.
6. Inmates are not allowed to receive mail from law enforcement agencies or courts.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates:

• Mail should be written in English.
• Mail should be legible and free of any gang symbols or other markings that could be interpreted as gang-related.
• Mail should not contain any threats, vulgar language, or other inappropriate content.
• Mail should not contain any information about illegal activities.
• Mail should not contain any photographs or other images that are sexually suggestive or violent.

Sending Money to Inmates

Approved Methods for Sending Money to Inmates:

• Money can be sent to inmates through the mail or online through JPay.
• To send money through the mail, send a money order or cashier's check made payable to the inmate's name and booking number.
• To send money online, visit the JPay website and follow the instructions.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money:

• Inmates are limited to receiving a maximum of $100 per week.
• Money sent to inmates is deposited into their commissary account.
• Inmates can use their commissary account to purchase items from the jail commissary, such as food, clothing, and toiletries.
• Money sent to inmates cannot be used to pay for legal fees or other expenses outside of the jail.

Inmate Commissary

Definition and Purpose of the Commissary:

The commissary is a store located within the jail that sells a variety of items to inmates. The commissary is typically stocked with items such as food, clothing, toiletries, and electronics. The purpose of the commissary is to provide inmates with the opportunity to purchase items that they need or want, and to generate revenue for the jail.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary:

Inmates can use the commissary by purchasing items with money from their commissary account. Inmates can add money to their commissary account by receiving money from friends and family, or by working a job within the jail.

Restrictions on Commissary Use:

There are some restrictions on how inmates can use the commissary. For example, inmates may be limited to purchasing a certain amount of items per week, or they may be prohibited from purchasing certain items, such as tobacco products or junk food.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records:

Incarceration records are public records and can be obtained by submitting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the jail. FOIA requests can be submitted in writing or online. The jail may charge a fee for copies of incarceration records.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability:

Mugshots are photographs of inmates taken at the time of their arrest or booking. Mugshots are typically used for identification purposes. Mugshots are public records and can be obtained by submitting a FOIA request to the jail. The jail may charge a fee for copies of mugshots.

Some jails also post mugshots online. However, the availability of mugshots online varies from jail to jail. You can check the Branch County Sheriff's Office website to see if mugshots are available online.

Security Level

The Branch County Jail is a medium-security facility. Security measures at the jail include:

• Secure perimeter fencing
• Electronic surveillance
• Armed security guards
• Controlled access to the facility
• Regular searches of inmates and their cells

Categories of Offenders Housed:

The Branch County Jail houses a variety of offenders, including:

• Pre-trial detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial.
• Sentenced inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of a crime and are serving a sentence of less than one year.
• Parole violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their parole.
• Immigration detainees: Individuals who are being held by the U.S. Marshals Service pending deportation.

Role of Correctional Officers:

Correctional officers at the Branch County Jail are responsible for the safety and security of the inmates and the facility. Their duties include:

• Monitoring the inmates and their activities
• Enforcing the jail rules and regulations
• Conducting searches of inmates and their cells
• Responding to emergencies
• Providing counseling and support to inmates

 

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

580 Marshall Road, Coldwater, MI, 49036

Official Phone Number

517-278-2325

Official Website

www.countyofbranch.com/sheriff/jail

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I search for an inmate in a specific correctional facility?

To search for an inmate in a specific correctional facility, visit the facility's official website or use a state's Department of Corrections website. Enter the inmate's name or identification number in the search tool provided. Some facilities also offer search by other criteria like date of birth. For accurate results, have the correct spelling of the inmate's name and other identifying information ready.

Are there any online databases available for inmate search?

Yes, there are online databases for inmate searches. Websites like VINELink provide nationwide services, while state-specific databases can usually be found on state Department of Corrections websites. These databases typically require the inmate's name or ID number for a search.

Can I find inmate information for all states and counties online?

Most states and many counties offer online access to inmate information. However, the extent of available data varies. While some jurisdictions provide comprehensive details including charges and mugshots, others might offer limited information. It's best to check the specific state or county's Department of Corrections website for accurate information.

Arrest Lookup

How do I look up recent arrests in my area?

To look up recent arrests, visit your local police department's website or a public records online database. Many police departments publish arrest logs or blotters. Alternatively, local newspapers or news websites often report recent arrests.

What information is required to perform an arrest lookup?

To perform an arrest lookup, you generally need the individual's full name and sometimes additional information like date of birth or address. Each database or website might have different requirements or search capabilities.

Is there a way to find the reason for someone's arrest?

Yes, the reason for an arrest is usually listed in arrest records, which can be accessed through police department websites or public records databases. The arrest report typically includes charges and may provide brief details of the incident leading to the arrest.

Active Warrant Search

What is the process for checking if there is an active warrant for someone?

To check for an active warrant, you can visit or contact the local sheriff's office or police department. Many jurisdictions also offer online warrant search tools on their official websites where you can enter the person's name to search for active warrants.

Can I search for active warrants anonymously?

Yes, in most cases, you can search for active warrants anonymously. Online public databases and websites do not typically require users to identify themselves when searching for warrant information.

Are there any free online tools for warrant searches?

Yes, there are free online tools for warrant searches. Many state or county law enforcement agencies provide free warrant search tools on their websites. Additionally, websites like PublicRecordCenter.com offer free warrant search options.

Jail Bookings

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

To find out if someone has been booked into jail recently, check the local jail or sheriff's office website. Most counties have an online inmate locator tool where you can search by name to see recent bookings.

Is it possible to access jail booking records online?

Yes, it's possible to access jail booking records online for many jurisdictions. This can typically be done through the county jail's website or the local sheriff's office's online portal.

What details are provided in jail booking records?

Jail booking records usually include the inmate's name, booking photo (mugshot), booking date, charges, bail amount, and sometimes details like age and physical description.

Mugshots

Are mugshots publicly accessible online?

Mugshots are publicly accessible online in many jurisdictions. They are often found on the websites of local law enforcement agencies or through third-party public record websites.

How can I find a mugshot of a recently arrested individual?

To find a mugshot of a recently arrested individual, check the arresting agency's website or a local jail's inmate search tool. Some jurisdictions also have separate online databases exclusively for mugshots.

Can I request the removal of a mugshot from a public website?

Requesting the removal of a mugshot from a public website depends on the website's policy and local laws. Some states have laws that require websites to remove mugshots upon request, especially if the case was dismissed or expunged. However, this process can vary and may require legal assistance.

Inmate Calls

How can I receive calls from an inmate in a correctional facility?

To receive calls from an inmate, you usually need to be on the inmate's approved call list. Inmates are typically given the opportunity to create this list upon entering the facility. You may also need to set up an account with the prison's phone service provider.

Are there any restrictions on inmate calls?

Yes, there are restrictions on inmate calls. These can include limitations on call length, monitoring and recording of calls, and restrictions on who inmates can call. The specific rules can vary by facility.

What are the typical costs associated with receiving calls from inmates?

The cost of receiving calls from inmates varies depending on the correctional facility and the phone service provider. Charges can include per-minute rates and connection fees. Some facilities offer subscription plans or prepaid options.

Inmate Mail

What is the correct way to address mail to an inmate?

The correct way to address mail to an inmate typically includes the inmate's full name, inmate ID number, the facility's name, and the full address of the facility. It's essential to follow the specific guidelines provided by the correctional facility to ensure delivery.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on what can be sent to inmates. Prohibited items often include drugs, weapons, contraband, and sometimes certain types of images or content. Each facility has its own rules, so it's important to check their specific guidelines.

How can I ensure that my mail reaches the inmate?

To ensure your mail reaches the inmate, follow the facility's mailing guidelines carefully, including addressing instructions, permitted content, and any required screening processes. Also, avoid sending prohibited items.

Visitation

How do I schedule a visitation with an inmate?

To schedule a visitation with an inmate, contact the correctional facility where the inmate is housed. Most facilities require visitors to fill out an application and be approved before scheduling a visit. Once approved, you can schedule visits according to the facility's guidelines and available visiting hours.

What are the rules and regulations for visiting an inmate?

Rules and regulations for visiting an inmate include specific visiting hours, dress codes, behavior protocols, and limits on items you can bring. These vary by facility, so it's important to check the specific guidelines of the correctional facility you are planning to visit.

Can children visit inmates in correctional facilities?

Children can typically visit inmates in correctional facilities, but there are usually specific rules and requirements. This often includes being accompanied by an adult, providing proof of guardianship or consent, and sometimes age restrictions or special procedures.

Sending Money

What are the methods available for sending money to an inmate?

Methods for sending money to an inmate include electronic transfers through services like JPay or MoneyGram, mailing money orders, or depositing funds during a visit. The available methods depend on the facility's policies.

Are there any limits on the amount of money that can be sent to an inmate?

Yes, there are typically limits on the amount of money that can be sent to an inmate. These limits vary by facility and may also depend on the inmate's custody level or behavior record. Check the facility's guidelines for specific limits.

How quickly does an inmate receive the money sent to them?

The time it takes for an inmate to receive money varies depending on the method used. Electronic transfers can be relatively quick, often within a day, while mailed funds may take longer to process. Each facility has its own processing times.

Posting Bond

What is the procedure for posting bond for someone in jail?

The procedure for posting bond involves paying the bail amount set by the court. This can be done at the court or the jail where the person is being held. You may pay in cash or, in some jurisdictions, use a bail bondsman who will post bond for a fee.

Can I post bond online or do I need to do it in person?

In some jurisdictions, you can post bond online through the court's or jail's website. However, many places still require you to do it in person. Check with the specific court or jail for their procedures.

Are there any refund policies for bonds if the case is dropped or dismissed?

If a case is dropped or dismissed, cash bonds are typically refunded, minus any court fees or fines. If you used a bail bondsman, the fee you paid to them is not refundable. The specific refund policies can vary, so it's important to understand the terms when posting bond.

Release

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

To find out the release date of an inmate, you can contact the correctional facility where they are housed or check their inmate profile on the facility's website, if available. Some states also provide this information in their online inmate databases.

What are the procedures involved in an inmate's release?

The procedures involved in an inmate's release include completing any necessary paperwork, processing out of the facility, and sometimes arrangements for transportation or post-release supervision. The specific process can vary based on the facility and the inmate's circumstances.

Can the release process be expedited in any way?

The release process typically follows a set procedure and timeline that cannot be expedited. However, ensuring that any required post-release plans are in place and that the inmate has complied with all facility rules can help avoid delays.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

How can an inmate access legal representation?

An inmate can access legal representation by requesting a public defender if they cannot afford a private attorney, or by hiring a private attorney. They can also seek legal aid through various nonprofit organizations that offer assistance to inmates.

Are there any free or low-cost legal services available for inmates?

Yes, there are free or low-cost legal services available for inmates. These are typically provided by public defender's offices, legal aid societies, and nonprofit organizations. Some law schools also have clinics where law students provide legal services under the supervision of licensed attorneys.

What rights do inmates have in terms of legal assistance?

Inmates have the right to legal representation, especially in criminal cases. They also have the right to access legal materials, contact attorneys, and receive confidential legal correspondence.

Medical Assistance for Inmates

What kind of medical care is available to inmates?

Inmates have access to basic medical care, which includes treatment for illness and injury, routine medical checkups, and emergency care. Some facilities also provide dental and mental health services.

Can inmates receive medications and treatment for chronic illnesses?

Yes, inmates can receive medications and treatment for chronic illnesses. Correctional facilities are required to provide necessary healthcare, including ongoing treatment for chronic conditions.

How can family members ensure that an inmate receives necessary medical care?

Family members can ensure that an inmate receives necessary medical care by staying in regular contact with the inmate, encouraging them to seek medical attention when needed, and advocating on their behalf with prison authorities if there are concerns about the care being provided.

Criminal Records Lookup

How can I look up someone's criminal record?

To look up someone's criminal record, you can request access through state or county court websites, or use third-party background check services. Some jurisdictions also provide public access terminals in court buildings.

Is there a national database for criminal records?

There is no public national database for all criminal records. The FBI maintains the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), but it is only accessible to authorized law enforcement agencies. However, some third-party services compile records from multiple sources into a single report.

Are all criminal records publicly accessible?

Not all criminal records are publicly accessible. Access depends on state laws and the nature of the record. Some records, like juvenile offenses or expunged cases, are often sealed and not publicly available.

Sex Offender Registry

How can I access the sex offender registry in my area?

You can access the sex offender registry in your area through state or local law enforcement agencies' websites. The National Sex Offender Public Website also provides a unified search across various jurisdictions.

What information is included in the sex offender registry?

The sex offender registry typically includes the offender's name, photograph, address, offense, and sometimes other details like physical description or vehicle information. The extent of publicly available information varies by state.

Are there any restrictions on how the information from the sex offender registry can be used?

Yes, there are restrictions on how the information from the sex offender registry can be used. It is generally illegal to use this information to harass or threaten individuals listed in the registry. The specific legal restrictions vary by state.

Background Check

What is the procedure for conducting a background check on an individual?

The procedure for conducting a background check involves obtaining consent from the individual (if required), and then using online services or government databases to gather information. Employers and landlords often use third-party services, while individuals may use public records searches.

What type of information is revealed in a background check?

A background check can reveal a variety of information, including criminal records, employment history, education verification, credit history, and driving records. The extent of the check depends on the purpose and depth of the search.

Can I perform a background check without the person's consent?

In many cases, especially for employment or housing, you need the person's consent to perform a background check. However, for personal use, accessing public records does not typically require consent. The rules vary depending on the type of information and the purpose of the check.