Kootenai County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Kootenai County?
Inmate records in Kootenai County are official government documents maintained by the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office that chronicle an individual's interaction with the county detention facility. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks persons in custody from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Idaho Code § 74-105(4), these records are distinct from court records, which document judicial proceedings and are maintained by the court system.
Inmate records are created at the time of booking when an individual enters the Kootenai County Jail. The intake process initiates the record with basic biographical information, charges, and booking photographs. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, visitation logs, and program participation. Upon release, final disposition information is added to complete the record.
The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Idaho Code § 31-2202, which outlines the sheriff's duties regarding custody of prisoners and record-keeping responsibilities. These records serve multiple purposes, including ensuring proper identification of inmates, facilitating appropriate housing assignments, documenting behavior during incarceration, and providing information to authorized agencies and individuals as permitted by law.
Are Inmate Records Public In Kootenai County?
Inmate records in Kootenai County are partially accessible to the public under the Idaho Public Records Act. However, access is limited to specific information while other details remain confidential. The Idaho Public Records Act establishes the presumption that all government records are open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute.
According to Idaho Code § 74-105(4), certain records of the Department of Correction and local detention facilities are exempt from disclosure. However, the following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Basic demographic information (name, age, gender)
- Current charges
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility
Information that is typically restricted from public access includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Personal identification information (Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers)
- Victim information
- Security-related information about the facility
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster that provides public access to basic information about individuals currently in custody. This information is updated regularly to reflect the current jail population.
What's Included Inmate Records in Kootenai County
Inmate records in Kootenai County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. The following details are typically included in a complete inmate record:
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 identification numbers
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification status (security level)
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge description and statute numbers
- Arresting agency
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Prior booking history
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
Court Information:
- Court case numbers
- Assigned court (magistrate or district)
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Credit for time served
- Projected release date
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Special conditions of sentence
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole information (if applicable)
The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in both electronic and physical formats, with the electronic jail management system serving as the primary record-keeping method for current inmates.
Kootenai County Prison System
The Kootenai County correctional system operates under the authority of the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, which maintains the county detention facility for both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders serving terms of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in Idaho.
The Kootenai County Jail houses individuals who:
- Are awaiting trial or court appearances
- Have been sentenced to serve terms of less than one year
- Are being held temporarily for other jurisdictions
- Are awaiting transfer to state or federal facilities
Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year for felony convictions are typically transferred to the Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC) state prison system after sentencing. The county jail does not house state prisoners except in temporary or emergency situations.
The Kootenai County detention system operates under the direct supervision of the elected Sheriff, as mandated by Idaho Code § 31-2202, which establishes the Sheriff's duty to operate the county jail and keep prisoners.
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
(208) 446-1300
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Kootenai County
Kootenai County maintains a consolidated detention system with facilities designed to accommodate various inmate classifications and security needs:
Kootenai County Public Safety Building (Main Jail)
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
(208) 446-1400
Kootenai County Jail
The main detention facility houses the majority of inmates and includes:
- Maximum security housing units
- Medium security housing units
- Minimum security housing units
- Special housing for medical and mental health needs
- Booking and intake processing center
- Video court appearance facilities
- Medical services unit
Kootenai County Work Release Center
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
(208) 446-1407
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
This facility accommodates:
- Inmates approved for work release programs
- Weekender sentences (individuals serving sentences on weekends only)
- Community service programs
The Kootenai County detention system does not include state prison facilities. Individuals sentenced to state incarceration are transferred to facilities operated by the Idaho Department of Correction, which maintains prisons throughout the state but not within Kootenai County boundaries.
All Kootenai County detention facilities operate under the direct supervision model, where correctional officers maintain continuous supervision of inmate housing areas. The facilities are designed to meet Idaho Jail Standards and are regularly inspected for compliance with state regulations.
Who's in Prison In Kootenai County
The Kootenai County Jail houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The facility's population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals awaiting arraignment or initial court appearances
- Defendants who have not posted bail or bond
- Persons denied bail due to the nature of charges or flight risk
- Individuals awaiting trial on misdemeanor or felony charges
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (up to one year)
- Individuals serving jail time as a condition of probation
- Offenders participating in work release programs
- Weekender sentences (serving time on weekends only)
Temporary Holds:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to Idaho Department of Correction facilities
- Persons held on behalf of other counties or jurisdictions
- Federal detainees awaiting transfer to federal facilities
- Probation or parole violators awaiting hearings
Special Populations:
- Individuals requiring protective custody
- Persons with medical or mental health needs
- Immigration detainees (limited basis)
According to data from the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, the jail typically operates near its capacity of approximately 450 inmates. The population demographics generally reflect the broader criminal justice system in Idaho, with the majority of inmates being male and charged with drug-related offenses, property crimes, or domestic violence incidents.
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case type, with pre-trial felony defendants often remaining in custody for several months while misdemeanor sentences typically range from a few days to several months. The jail population fluctuates seasonally, with higher numbers typically observed during summer months.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Kootenai County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Kootenai County may utilize several methods to access these records. The following procedures are currently in place for conducting inmate searches:
Online Inmate Roster:
- Visit the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Jail Information" or "Inmate Roster" section
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name) in the search fields
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Next court date
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Kootenai County Jail at (208) 446-1400
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Request basic custody information from the detention staff
- Note that certain information may not be provided over the telephone
In-Person Request:
- Visit the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office during business hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Excluding holidays
- Complete a public records request form at the front desk
- Provide identification and specify the information requested
- Allow staff time to process the request
Written Public Records Request:
- Submit a formal written request to:
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815 - Include the following information:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific information requested
- Preferred method of receiving records
- Allow up to three business days for a response, as specified under Idaho Code § 74-103
For more comprehensive records beyond basic custody information, a formal public records request is typically required. Certain information may be redacted pursuant to exemptions under Idaho law.
How To Find an Inmate in Kootenai County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Kootenai County without incurring fees is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Roster:
- Access the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Detention" or "Jail" section
- Select the "Inmate Roster" or "Current Inmates" option
- Enter the individual's name in the search fields
- Review the results, which typically include current custody status, charges, and booking date
Idaho Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE):
- Visit the Idaho VINE website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Choose Idaho from the state dropdown menu
- Enter the inmate's name
- Review custody information for individuals held in Kootenai County facilities
Idaho Department of Correction Offender Search:
- Access the Idaho Department of Correction website
- Select "Resident/Client Search" from the menu
- Enter the individual's name
- Review results for offenders who may have been transferred from Kootenai County to state custody
Telephone Inquiry to Kootenai County Jail:
- Call the Kootenai County Jail at (208) 446-1400
- Provide the full name of the person you are inquiring about
- Request basic custody information (current status, visiting hours, etc.)
- Note that detailed information may require a formal records request
In-Person Inquiry at Sheriff's Office Lobby:
- Visit the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office during business hours:
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM - Request basic inmate information from the front desk staff
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
These free methods provide access to basic custody information, though more detailed records may require a formal public records request, which could potentially involve fees for extensive searches or document reproduction.
How To Visit an Inmate In Kootenai County
Visitation with inmates at the Kootenai County Jail is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain facility security while allowing inmates to maintain community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:
Visit Types:
- Video visitation is the primary method for most inmates
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) may be conducted in person
- Special visits may be approved by jail administration in certain circumstances
Visit Schedule:
- Video visits: Daily, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Professional visits: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Visit duration: 30 minutes per standard visit
- Frequency: Two visits per week per inmate
Registration and Scheduling:
- All visitors must register in the jail's visitation system
- First-time visitors must create an account at Kootenai County Jail Visitation
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Visitors must provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- Visitors must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visit time
- Late arrivals may result in cancellation of the visit
- All visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility
- Visitors exhibiting signs of intoxication will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts)
- No gang-related clothing or insignia
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitation confirmation number
- Vehicle keys (all other items must be secured in lockers)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Medications (unless medically necessary)
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons with active warrants or pending criminal charges
- Former inmates (within 60 days of release)
- Individuals on probation or parole (without prior approval)
- Persons who have been previously banned from visitation
- Victims of the inmate's alleged offense
All visitation policies are subject to change and are enforced according to Idaho Jail Standards and facility regulations established under Idaho Code § 20-237.
How To Send Money to a Kootenai County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Kootenai County Jail have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds may be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Idaho" and "Kootenai County Jail" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply:
- $2.95 for deposits up to $50
- $3.95 for deposits between $50.01 and $100
- $4.95 for deposits between $100.01 and $300
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Kootenai County Jail lobby during business hours:
Kootenai County Jail
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
Hours: 24 hours daily - Use the automated kiosk located in the lobby
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Cash deposits only (no coins)
- Service fee: $2.00 per transaction
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Kootenai County Jail"
- Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
Kootenai County Jail
Inmate Accounts
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815 - No service fee for money orders
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release money
Prohibited Uses:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Gambling or betting activities
- Purchase of contraband items
- Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)
Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. Deposits typically post to inmate accounts within 24-48 hours of receipt, though money orders may take 3-5 business days to process.
How To Send Jail Mail In Kootenai County
Correspondence with inmates at the Kootenai County Jail must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following procedures apply to all mail sent to individuals in custody:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address all mail as follows:
Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known)
Kootenai County Jail
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815 - Include a complete return address on the envelope
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Write in blue or black ink only
- Mail is processed Monday through Friday, excluding holidays
Permitted Items:
- Letters (maximum 5 pages, standard 8.5" x 11" paper)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4" x 6" only, no Polaroids)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Money orders (made payable to the inmate with their ID number)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
Prohibited Items:
- Personal checks or cash
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Greeting cards with glitter, pop-ups, or electronic components
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Photos depicting nudity, gang symbols, or criminal activity
- Any items containing biohazards or contraband
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Must be sent by an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
Books and Publications:
- Must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
- Paperback books only (no hardcover)
- Maximum of 3 books per package
- Subject to content review for security concerns
E-Messages (if available):
- Create an account at Access Corrections
- Select Kootenai County Jail as the facility
- Locate the inmate by name or ID number
- Compose and send message (fees apply)
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
All incoming mail is opened, inspected for contraband, and may be read by jail staff, with the exception of properly identified legal mail. Mail that violates jail policies will be returned to sender or placed in the inmate's property. Correspondence that contains threats, criminal activity planning, or other security concerns may be forwarded to appropriate authorities.
The Kootenai County Jail's mail policies are established pursuant to Idaho Jail Standards and facility regulations under Idaho Code § 20-209.