Steele County Jail Inmate Lookup

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The Steele County Jail, located in Owatonna, Minnesota, is a secure detention facility managed by the Steele County Sheriff's Office. This correctional institution maintains a roster of individuals detained for alleged offenses, processing, housing, and overseeing inmates according to regulations set by the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

How to Conduct an Inmate Search

To locate an inmate at the Steele County Jail, follow the outlined steps:

1. Navigate to the Inmate Roster: Visit the Steele County Sheriff's Office website and look for the "Inmate Roster" section. The link will redirect you to a comprehensive list of detainees.

2. Search for the Inmate: In the search bar, input details like the inmate's booking number, first name, last name, or date of birth. This will narrow down the roster and provide the most relevant results.

3. Verify Inmate Information: Once the list is filtered, review the details to confirm you have found the correct individual.

4. Record Necessary Information: Note down the necessary information such as the inmate's booking number, release date, and charges for future reference or correspondence purposes.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The Steele County Jail roster provides comprehensive details about each inmate, including:

• Booking Number: This unique identifier for each inmate is crucial for records and communication.

• Last Name and First Name: The roster lists the full legal name of the inmate.

• Date of Birth: To further verify the identity of the inmate, the date of birth is also included.

• Release Date: If known, the expected release date will be stated.

• Criminal Charges: Detailed information on the charges for which the inmate is being held is provided.

Tips for Inmate Search

When conducting an inmate search, keep the following tips in mind:

• Ensure you have accurate and complete information about the inmate. Inaccurate or incomplete details can lead to difficulties locating the individual.

• The booking number is the most specific piece of information that can be used for the search. If you have it, use it.

• Search information may be case-sensitive. Therefore, it's important to accurately input uppercase and lowercase letters where necessary.

• Bear in mind that due to operational reasons, the roster might not always be completely up-to-date. It is advisable to contact the detention center directly for the most current information.

• If you cannot find the inmate or need additional assistance, contact the Steele County Jail directly by calling (507) 446-7000. Be prepared to provide the information you have about the inmate, such as their full name or booking number.

Expanding Your Inmate Search

If you're unable to locate an inmate in the Steele County Jail, it's possible that they may be housed in another facility in Minnesota or elsewhere. In such cases, you may want to expand your search using statewide or nationwide inmate search databases. These databases, such as VINElink and the Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator, provide broader search capabilities.

Contacting an Inmate

Once you've located an inmate on the roster, you may wish to get in touch. There are typically several ways to contact inmates in Steele County Jail:

• Mail: Inmates can receive letters via postal mail. Be sure to follow the jail's guidelines regarding mail content, and always include the inmate's booking number and full name. The mailing address for Steele County Jail is 2500 Alexander Street, Owatonna, MN 55060.

• Phone Calls: Inmates can make outgoing calls, but cannot receive incoming calls. You can set up a prepaid account through a service provider to receive calls from an inmate.

• Visitation: The Steele County Jail has specific guidelines and schedules for inmate visitation, which can be found on their website.

Remember that all correspondence and conversations are monitored for security reasons. Always respect the rules set by the detention facility to ensure your communications are not interrupted or terminated.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

Visits to the Steele County Jail must be scheduled in advance. Here is the typical process:

1. Submit a Visitor Application: Before you can schedule a visit, you must be approved as a visitor. You can obtain a visitor application from the jail or online. Fill it out completely and truthfully, then submit it to the jail for review.

2. Wait for Approval: The jail reviews applications and conducts a background check. If approved, you will be added to the inmate's visitor list.

3. Schedule the Visit: Once approved, call the Steele County Jail at (507) 446-7000 to schedule a visit. Visits should be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

Visitors must adhere to certain rules when visiting an inmate at the Steele County Jail:

• Visitors must provide a valid government-issued ID upon arrival.

• All visits are non-contact, meaning there is a glass partition between the visitor and the inmate.

• Visitors must dress appropriately. Clothing deemed inappropriate or revealing will not be allowed.

• All visitors and their belongings are subject to search.

• Any attempt to pass contraband to an inmate is considered a felony offense.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Disruptive behavior will result in the termination of the visit.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours can vary, so it's best to contact the Steele County Jail directly for the most current schedule. As a general rule, visits are usually held during the daytime and early evening hours, seven days a week. Holidays may affect this schedule.

Inmate Communications

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Inmates at Steele County Jail are allowed to make outgoing calls during designated hours. They cannot receive incoming calls. Calls are made through a specific service provider, and there are two ways calls can be made:

• Collect Calls: These are traditional collect calls where charges are accepted by the recipient.

• Prepaid Calls: These are calls made through a prepaid account set up by the recipient. This can usually be set up online with the jail's phone service provider.

All calls from the jail are recorded and subject to monitoring. There is a limit on call duration, usually 15 minutes, and inmates are not allowed to make calls during lockdown periods.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The general phone number for the Steele County Jail is (507) 446-7000. This number is for reaching the jail's administrative staff, not for contacting inmates directly.

For setting up prepaid phone services, obtaining call rates, or addressing issues related to inmate phone calls, refer to the information provided when you initially set up your account. If the jail uses a specific phone service provider, their website will usually have a dedicated customer service number to assist with these matters.

Always adhere to the regulations set by the Steele County Jail and their phone service provider to ensure your communication privileges are not suspended.

Inmate Mail

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

To send mail to an inmate at the Steele County Jail, follow the steps below:

1. Prepare Your Mail: Write your letter and place it in an envelope. Be sure to follow the jail's guidelines on mail content.

2. Address the Envelope: Address the envelope as follows:

Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number
Steele County Jail
2500 Alexander Street
Owatonna, MN 55060

3. Send Your Mail: Post your letter through your local postal service.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

Here are some general guidelines for sending mail to inmates at the Steele County Jail:

• Inmates can receive letters, postcards, and legal documents.

• All mail is inspected before it is delivered to the inmate.

• Do not send contraband, including tobacco, drugs, or weapons. Doing so is a crime.

• Do not send material that may incite violence, racial hatred, or other disruptive behavior.

• Do not send mail with adhesive decorations such as stickers, glitter, or tape.

• Photos can be sent, but must be appropriate and not contain nudity or explicit content.

Sending Money to Inmates

Approved Methods for Sending Money

Money can be sent to inmates at Steele County Jail using one of the following methods:

1. Online: Services like JPay, MoneyGram, or Western Union allow you to transfer money to an inmate's account online. You will need the inmate's full name and booking number.

2. Mail: Money orders can be mailed directly to the jail. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.

3. In-Person: You can deposit money at the jail's lobby kiosk using cash or a credit/debit card.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

The Steele County Jail has regulations and limitations in place for sending money:

• There may be a limit to the amount of money an inmate can receive or have in their account at any given time.

• Transferred funds are typically available within 24 hours.

• A small fee may be charged for money transfers, depending on the method used.

• Money sent to an inmate's account can only be used for commissary items and phone calls. It cannot be used for bail or fines.

Always verify current policies with the Steele County Jail or on their website before sending money to an inmate. Policies can change without notice, and certain restrictions may apply.

Inmate Commissary

The inmate commissary is a store within the jail where inmates can purchase items using money from their account. The purpose of the commissary is to provide inmates with access to goods that aren't ordinarily supplied by the jail. These items can include snacks, personal hygiene products, stationery, and other approved items that can contribute to the comfort and well-being of the inmate.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can use funds in their account to purchase items from the commissary. Typically, the jail sets a specific day or days of the week when commissary orders can be placed. Orders are usually filled and distributed within a few days.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

There are certain restrictions on commissary use at the Steele County Jail:

• There may be a limit on the total amount an inmate can spend on commissary items within a certain period.

• Not all items are available to all inmates. Availability can depend on the inmate's behavior, housing location, or medical restrictions.

• Items purchased from the commissary are for personal use only. Reselling or trading items can lead to disciplinary action.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records provide a history of an individual's arrests and time spent in jail. In Minnesota, these records are typically public information. To obtain incarceration records for an inmate at the Steele County Jail:

1. Submit a request to the Steele County Sheriff's Office. This can usually be done by phone, mail, or in-person.

2. Provide as much information as possible about the inmate and the records you're seeking.

3. Pay any applicable fees.

It's also possible that statewide or national databases, such as the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension or the National Archive of Criminal Justice Data, may have the records you're seeking.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photographic portrait taken after a person is arrested. It typically includes two angles: one frontal and one profile. The purpose of a mugshot is to allow law enforcement to have a photographic record of the arrested individual to allow for identification by victims and investigators.

In many jurisdictions, mugshots are public record, which means they can be viewed by the general public. However, access to mugshots can depend on various factors, such as local laws, the age of the record, and the platform where the mugshot is stored.

To obtain a mugshot from the Steele County Jail, you would typically contact the Sheriff's Office and follow a similar process to obtaining incarceration records. Please note that fees may apply, and not all mugshots may be available for public viewing. Always verify current policies before attempting to obtain a mugshot.

Security Level

Steele County Jail is designed to ensure the safety and security of both the inmates and the staff. Security measures in place typically include constant surveillance, controlled access to different areas of the facility, routine inmate counts, and regular searches of inmates and their living quarters for contraband.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The Steele County Jail houses adult male and female offenders. These individuals can include pretrial detainees who are awaiting their court dates, as well as convicted offenders serving sentences of up to a year. The jail may also temporarily house individuals serving longer sentences before their transfer to a state prison.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers at Steele County Jail are responsible for maintaining safety, order, and discipline within the facility. They supervise the activities of inmates, enforce jail rules, conduct searches for contraband, and respond to emergencies. They also oversee inmate transportation and escort inmates to court hearings, medical appointments, and other locations as necessary. The role of correctional officers is crucial in ensuring the effective operation of the facility and the well-being of those within it.

Location and Contact Details

Official Mailing Address:

Steele County Jail
2500 Alexander Street
Owatonna, MN 55060

Official Phone Number:

(507) 446-7000

Official Website:

Steele County Jail

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How can I search for an inmate?

Most corrections facilities have online databases available for the public to search for inmates. To locate an inmate, you will need specific information such as the inmate's name, date of birth, or inmate number. Some facilities also require the state or county of incarceration. The Federal Bureau of Prisons also provides a Nationwide Inmate Locator for federal inmates.

2. Is there a way to search for inmates across multiple facilities?

Yes, certain platforms, such as VINELink, allow you to search for inmates across multiple facilities. You can also use the Nationwide Inmate Locator provided by the Federal Bureau of Prisons to search for federal inmates.

3. Can I use the inmate's alias to search for them?

Yes, most databases allow you to use an alias to search for an inmate. However, the information's accuracy can vary, and using the inmate's legal name or inmate ID number will generally yield more precise results.

Arrests Lookup

4. How can I look up arrest records?

Public access to arrest records varies by jurisdiction. In some areas, local police departments maintain websites with recent arrests. You may also be able to request arrest records from local courthouses or the county clerk's office. Various online services provide arrest records, though they might charge a fee.

5. Are all arrest records publicly available?

The availability of arrest records depends on local and state laws. In some jurisdictions, arrest records are public information, but other jurisdictions may restrict access to protect individual privacy. Juvenile arrest records are usually sealed and not publicly accessible.

6. How accurate is the information available on arrests lookup?

The accuracy of arrest lookup information can vary based on several factors, such as the source of the information and the time elapsed since the arrest. It's advisable to cross-check information from multiple sources for accuracy.

Jail Bookings

7. What information can I find out about a person's jail booking?

Jail booking records typically include the following information:

• The inmate's name and personal details (like date of birth)
• The booking date and time
• The charge(s) for which they were booked
• Bail or bond information

8. How soon are booking details updated on the system?

This can depend on the specific jail system. Generally, booking details are updated within 24 hours, but it could take longer in some cases.

9. Can I look up someone's past jail bookings?

Yes, past jail bookings are usually part of the public record. However, how you access this information can vary. You may need to request these records from the relevant law enforcement agency or use an online public records database.

Inmate Calls

10. How can inmates make calls from jail?

Inmates typically make calls using a system provided by the correctional facility, which could be either a traditional landline system or a more modern digital service. Calls are usually prepaid or collect and must adhere to the facility's rules.

11. Are there specific times for inmates to make calls?

Yes, each facility typically sets designated times when inmates can make calls. These times are often during daytime hours and avoid conflict with other inmate activities.

12. Are inmate calls recorded or monitored?

Yes, almost all calls made by inmates are recorded and/or monitored, with the exception of calls to legal representatives. This is done for security reasons.

Inmate Mail

13. How can I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to aninmate, you will generally need to address your letter using the inmate's full name, identification number, and the facility's address. Each facility will have specific rules for sending mail, which may include restrictions on the types of items that can be included.

14. What are the restrictions on the contents of the mail?

Restrictions on mail contents vary by institution but typically include:

• No contraband or illegal substances.
• No items that can be altered or used as a weapon.
• No explicit or inappropriate material.
• Some jails may restrict hardcover books or require that all books be sent directly from a publisher or bookstore.
• Letters should not contain coded messages or plans for illegal activities.

15. Is there a limit to the amount of mail an inmate can receive?

This depends on the institution. Some facilities may have limits on the amount of mail an inmate can receive or keep at one time, while others may not.

Visitation

16. What are the rules for visiting an inmate?

Rules for visiting an inmate depend on the specific correctional facility but commonly include:

• Visitors must be on an approved visitation list.
• Visitors must schedule visits in advance.
• Visitors must adhere to a dress code and conduct themselves appropriately.
• Visitors and their belongings may be searched.
• Visitors may be required to produce a valid ID.

17. Can children visit inmates?

Children can typically visit inmates, but there are usually additional rules. The child must be accompanied by an adult, and the inmate must list the child on their visitation list. Some facilities may have additional restrictions or requirements.

18. How can I schedule a visit with an inmate?

Visits are typically scheduled by contacting the facility directly. Some facilities may have an online system to schedule visits. You'll likely need to be on the inmate's approved visitation list before scheduling a visit.

Sending Money

19. How can I send money to an inmate?

Each correctional facility typically has its system for sending money to inmates. Options often include:

• Sending a money order.
• Using a service like JPay or Western Union.
• Adding funds through the facility's online portal, if available.

20. Is there a limit to how much money I can send?

Most facilities place limits on how much money you can send to an inmate. These limits can be per transaction, per week, or per month. Specifics will vary by facility.

21. Are there any fees associated with sending money to an inmate?

Yes, services used to send money to an inmate often charge fees. These fees vary by service and sometimes by the amount sent.

Posting Bond

22. How can I post bond for an inmate?

You can post bond for an inmate by paying the full bail amount to the court or by using a bail bondsman. If you use a bail bondsman, you will typically pay a percentage of the bail amount, and the bondsman will cover the rest.

23. What are the requirements for posting bond?

Requirements for posting bond may include:

• Full name and details of the accused.
• The total bail amount set by the court.
• Your identification and proof of residency.
• Proof of income or collateral if a bail bondsman is used.

24. Can I get a refund if the bond is not used?

If you posted the full bail amount to the court, it would typically be returned once the case is resolved, minus any court fees or fines, provided the defendant appeared at all required court proceedings. If you used a bail bondsman, the fee you paid to them is nonrefundable.