This page helps users with an inmate search in Monterey County, California, including how to use the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office In Custody Log and where to turn for jail-related questions.
The In Custody Log is the main public path for checking current custody information and finding the booking number needed for mail, deposits, communications, and other jail services.
Monterey County Sheriff’s Office In Custody Log
Start with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office search the In Custody Log. The log is the official page used to look up an incarcerated person and locate the booking number tied to that person’s jail record.
The booking number is important because Monterey County Jail uses it for mail addressing, communications, and account-related services.
- Open the In Custody Log.
- Search for the incarcerated person.
- Write down the booking number before using mail, deposit, or communication services.
Use the Jail public line when the log does not answer your custody question or when you need staff assistance.
Booking numbers and jail services
Several Monterey County Jail services depend on the incarcerated person’s booking number. The number should be used carefully when sending mail, adding funds, or setting up communication services.
- Personal mail must show the incarcerated person’s name and booking number on the outside of the envelope or postcard.
- Commissary trust account deposits may be made through the jail lobby kiosk, ConnectNetwork, phone deposit, or mail.
- SmartInmate is used for electronic messaging, phone service, and video visitation setup.
- MailGuardTracker can be used to track postal mail delivery status for processed mail.
Mail, messaging, and video visitation
Monterey County Jail uses Smart Communications for personal mail scanning. Effective 12/4/2024, personal mail from family and friends must be sent to Smart Communications - Monterey County Jail, Attention To: Incarcerated Person Name #Booking Number, P.O. Box 9199, Seminole, FL 33775-9199.
Books and magazines continue to be processed at the jail address using the incarcerated person’s name and booking number. Legal and privileged attorney communication may be handled through SmartInmate, and emergent legal mail questions go through the Monterey County Jail.
Family and friends may use review incarcerated person communication options for details on electronic messaging, phone calls, and video visitation. Smart Communications Customer Care handles tech support issues.
Deposits, fees, and property releases
Money for an incarcerated person’s commissary trust account can be deposited through several approved methods. The booking number from the In Custody Log helps match the deposit to the correct person.
| Service | Method or fee |
|---|---|
| Lobby kiosk deposits | Available through the kiosk machine in the jail lobby |
| Online deposits | Available through web.connectnetwork.com |
| Phone deposits | Available by calling 1-888-988-4768 |
| Online, kiosk, and automated operator deposits | $3.00 processing fee |
| Live operator deposits | $5.95 processing fee |
| Mail deposits | No processing fee |
Property release requests are handled by phone message through the jail. Requests are answered within 48 hours, and pickups are completed in the jail lobby Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Property must be picked up on the day of initiation by 10:00 p.m.
Records Division booking records
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Records Division maintains all booking records for Monterey County. Release of booking records is limited, and questions about arrest records or booking records go through the Records Division.
Individual requests for information may be received by mail or fax, but pickup must be completed in person. Clearance record requests require a $92.00 non-refundable fee and a valid California or United States identification card.
Jail and records contacts
Use these Monterey County Sheriff’s Office contacts for custody information, booking record questions, ADA accommodation inquiries, and jail assistance.
-
Monterey County Jail 1410 Natividad Road, Salinas CA, 93906
Incarcerated Persons Information: (831) 755-3782
Jail Medical Unit: (831) 755-3885 -
Monterey County Sheriff’s Office 1414 Natividad Rd, Salinas, CA 93906
Phone: (831) 755-3700 -
Records Division Monterey County Sheriff's Office, Records Division, 1414 Natividad Road, Salinas CA, 93906
Office line: (831) 755-3700
Fax: (831) 755-3810 -
Jail Ombudsman Monterey County Jail, 1410 Natividad Road, Salinas CA, 93906
Office line: (831) 755-3877
Office email: Ombudsman@countyofmonterey.gov -
Custody Division ADA Coordinator
Phone: (831) 755-3743
Email: ADAHelp@countyofmonterey.gov -
Smart Communications Customer Care
Tech support: 1-888-253-5178
Common questions
Where do I start a Monterey County inmate search?
Start with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office look up the In Custody Log. Use it to search for an incarcerated person and find the booking number.
Why do I need the booking number?
The booking number is used for mail, deposits, Smart Communications services, and other jail-related tasks connected to the incarcerated person.
Who handles booking records in Monterey County?
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Records Division maintains all booking records for Monterey County. Release of booking records is limited, so questions should be directed to the Records Division.
How do I send personal mail to someone in Monterey County Jail?
Personal mail must be sent to Smart Communications - Monterey County Jail, Attention To: Incarcerated Person Name #Booking Number, P.O. Box 9199, Seminole, FL 33775-9199. The name and booking number must be clearly printed on the outside.
Who can help with jail complaints or family assistance?
The Jail Ombudsman serves as a liaison for families, community members, attorneys, and others needing help with information about incarcerated individuals at Monterey County Jail.