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Iowa

Iowa Inmate Search

Updated on: November 17, 2024
Department Name
Iowa Department of Corrections
Location
510 E 12th St, Des Moines, IA 50319, United States
Phone Number
+1 515-725-5701

About Iowa Department of Corrections

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The correctional system in Iowa is a comprehensive network of facilities and programs designed to supervise individuals who have been convicted of crimes. The system plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety by incarcerating persons found guilty of crimes, while simultaneously facilitating rehabilitation and re-entry programs to prepare inmates for reintegration into society upon release.

There are several types of correctional institutions in the state, including state prisons, county jails, city jails, and even a federal prison. The oversight and administration of these institutions vary by the level of government.

State Prisons

State prisons are managed by the Iowa Department of Corrections (IDOC). As of my last update in September 2021, Iowa has nine state prisons. Here is a list of these facilities:

  1. Anamosa State Penitentiary
  2. Clarinda Correctional Facility
  3. Fort Dodge Correctional Facility
  4. Iowa Correctional Institution for Women
  5. Iowa Medical and Classification Center
  6. Iowa State Penitentiary
  7. Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility
  8. Newton Correctional Facility
  9. North Central Correctional Facility

Information about the facilities, including visiting hours, contact information, and programming, can be found on the Iowa Department of Corrections website.

County Jails

County jails are smaller facilities managed at the county level. They are typically used for incarcerating people awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences. Each of Iowa's 99 counties operates its own jail. For example, Polk County Jail in Des Moines, Linn County Jail in Cedar Rapids, and Scott County Jail in Davenport are three of the largest county jails.

Information about county jails can usually be found on the respective county sheriff's office website.

City Jails

City jails are even smaller facilities, often holding individuals for a short period after arrest, typically those who are awaiting arraignment or trial on minor charges. Each city police department operates its own jail, though smaller cities may use county jails instead.

Federal Prisons

Iowa is home to one federal prison - the Federal Correctional Institution, Fort Dodge. This medium-security institution with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Inmate Search Options

When seeking to connect with someone in a correctional facility, knowing how to locate them is crucial. Iowa offers several methods, both online and offline, for conducting inmate searches.

State Prisons

For state prisons, the IDOC provides an online Inmate Search tool. This tool allows you to search by name, birth date, or state identification number. The search results include the inmate's current location, tentative release date, and any upcoming court dates.

County Jails

For county jails, the process varies. Some county sheriff's offices, like the Polk County Sheriff's Office, provide an online search tool as part of their websites. Others may require you to call or visit the sheriff's office in person to get inmate information. Always check the specific county sheriff's office website for the most accurate information.

City Jails

City jails typically do not have online search tools. For information on inmates in city jails, you will most likely need to contact the city police department directly.

Federal Prisons

For federal inmates, the Federal Bureau of Prisons provides an online Inmate Locator. This tool can provide information about current and past inmates dated back to 1982.

This site is not owned or operated by any state government agency, read more.

Types of Correctional Facilities in Iowa

Iowa Prisons and Jails