Walworth County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Walworth County?
Inmate records in Walworth County are official government documents maintained by the Walworth County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested and detained in county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records, maintained by the Walworth County Circuit Court, document the judicial proceedings related to criminal cases, inmate records specifically document the physical custody and supervision of detained individuals. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 302.38, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody.
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During this intake procedure, correctional staff collect and document:
- Biographical information
- Photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprints
- Medical screening information
- Personal property inventory
- Charge information
- Court case numbers
Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Medical treatments
- Court appearances
- Program participation
Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains on file with the Walworth County Corrections Division in accordance with Wisconsin records retention schedules.
Are Inmate Records Public In Walworth County?
Inmate records in Walworth County are generally considered public records under the Wisconsin Public Records Law § 19.31-19.39, which establishes a presumption of accessibility to government records. This statute declares that providing citizens with information about governmental affairs is "an essential function of a representative government and an integral part of the routine duties of officers and employees."
However, access to inmate records is subject to certain limitations and exceptions as provided by Wisconsin Statute § 302.25, which governs interstate corrections compact provisions, and other applicable laws protecting privacy and security interests. The Walworth County Sheriff's Office balances public access rights with safety concerns and individual privacy considerations.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Housing facility location
- Mugshots (in most circumstances)
Information that may be restricted from public disclosure includes:
- Detailed medical records
- Mental health evaluations
- Social Security numbers
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Information that could compromise facility security
- Records related to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access the Walworth County Inmate Search portal, which provides a user-friendly interface for obtaining publicly available inmate data.
What's Included Inmate Records in Walworth County
Inmate records maintained by the Walworth County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Program participation (educational, vocational, treatment)
Charge Information:
- Current charges (felony, misdemeanor, ordinance violations)
- Warrant information
- Arresting agency case numbers
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Charge severity level
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, signature, property)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court case numbers
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Attorney information (public defender, private counsel)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Good time/work time credits earned
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Supervising agency (if applicable)
This information is maintained in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.24, which establishes standards for inmate record management in correctional facilities throughout the state.
Walworth County Prison System
The Walworth County correctional system operates under the authority of the Walworth County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving sentences for criminal offenses. The system primarily consists of the Walworth County Jail, which serves as the central detention facility for the county.
The Walworth County Jail houses individuals who are:
- Awaiting arraignment or trial
- Serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor convictions
- Temporarily held for transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Detained on probation or parole violations
- Held on behalf of other jurisdictions (including federal agencies)
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the Wisconsin state prison system. The Walworth County Jail is a local detention facility operated by the county sheriff, while state prisons are operated by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and typically house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.
Walworth County Sheriff's Office
1770 County Road NN
Elkhorn, WI 53121
262-741-4400
Walworth County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office Corrections Division is responsible for the daily operations of the jail facility, including inmate supervision, classification, transportation, and programming. The division operates under the standards established by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and maintains accreditation through compliance with state jail standards.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Walworth County
Walworth County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around the main county jail facility. The county's correctional infrastructure includes:
Walworth County Jail
1770 County Road NN
Elkhorn, WI 53121
262-741-4400
Walworth County Corrections
The current Walworth County Jail was constructed on the north side of Highway NN in the Town of Geneva and began operations in November 1995 as a 398-bed facility. The jail is designed with modern security features and is organized into distinct housing units that accommodate different classification levels and special needs populations.
The facility includes:
- Main Housing Units: Multiple pods designed for general population inmates with varying security classifications (minimum, medium, and maximum security)
- Special Management Units: Designated areas for inmates requiring protective custody, disciplinary segregation, or enhanced supervision
- Medical Housing: Specialized units for inmates with medical needs requiring closer monitoring
- Intake/Booking Area: Processing center where newly arrested individuals are admitted into the facility
- Program Spaces: Areas designated for educational programs, substance abuse treatment, religious services, and other rehabilitative activities
- Visitation Center: Facilities for both in-person and video visitation
- Court Holding: Secure areas for inmates awaiting court appearances
The Walworth County Jail also maintains a Huber Facility component, which allows eligible inmates to participate in work release programs pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 303.08, commonly known as the "Huber Law." This program permits qualifying inmates to leave the facility for employment, education, or treatment purposes while serving their sentences.
Unlike larger counties, Walworth County does not operate separate detention facilities for different populations or security levels. All inmates, regardless of classification, are housed within the main jail complex, though in appropriately designated units based on their security needs and classification status.
Who's in Prison In Walworth County
The Walworth County Jail houses a diverse population of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system at various stages. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These detainees may be held in custody because:
- They have not posted the required bail
- They have been denied bail due to public safety concerns
- They are awaiting initial court appearances
- They have been deemed flight risks
Sentenced Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of up to one year. These typically include:
- Misdemeanor offenders (theft, disorderly conduct, operating while intoxicated)
- Low-level felony offenders serving shorter sentences
- Individuals convicted of ordinance violations with jail time
Probation/Parole Violators: Persons who were previously sentenced to probation or released on parole but have violated the terms of their supervision. These individuals may be held pending:
- Revocation hearings
- New criminal charges
- Temporary sanctions
Transferred Inmates: The facility may temporarily house individuals who are:
- Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Being held for court appearances from other jurisdictions
- In transit between facilities
Federal Detainees: Through intergovernmental agreements, the jail may house federal inmates awaiting trial in federal court or transfer to federal facilities.
According to data from the Walworth County Sheriff's Office, the jail population fluctuates but typically includes individuals charged with or convicted of:
- Drug-related offenses
- Property crimes
- Domestic violence
- Operating while intoxicated
- Probation/parole violations
- Violent offenses
The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects patterns seen throughout Wisconsin's correctional system, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups. The average length of stay varies significantly based on case status, with pre-trial detainees sometimes remaining in custody for extended periods while their cases proceed through the court system.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Walworth County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in Walworth County may utilize several methods to access inmate records. The county provides multiple search options to accommodate different needs and preferences:
Online Inmate Search Portal
The most efficient method for locating current inmate information is through the official Walworth County Inmate Search portal. To conduct a search:
- Navigate to the official Walworth County Inmate Search website
- Review the terms and conditions of use
- Enter search criteria in the provided fields:
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional, but recommended for common surnames)
- Date of birth (optional, helps narrow results)
- Click the search button to generate results
- Review the list of matching records
- Select an individual record to view detailed information
The online portal typically displays:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Housing location
- Projected release date (if applicable)
Inmate Locator Telephone System
For individuals without internet access, the Walworth County Sheriff's Office maintains a telephone-based inmate information system:
- Call the Walworth County Jail at 262-741-4510
- Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
- Provide the requested identifying information (name, date of birth)
- Listen for basic custody status information
In-Person Records Request
Members of the public may request inmate information in person:
- Visit the Walworth County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Excluding holidays
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for copies of records
Written Records Request
Written requests for inmate information may be submitted:
- Prepare a written request including:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific information being requested
- Purpose of the request (optional)
- Mail the request to:
- Walworth County Sheriff's Office
- Records Division
- 1770 County Road NN
- Elkhorn, WI 53121
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing
All records requests are processed in accordance with the Wisconsin Public Records Law, which establishes procedures for accessing government records.
How To Find an Inmate in Walworth County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Walworth County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These free resources ensure public access to basic custody information while maintaining appropriate security protocols.
Official County Inmate Locator Website
The most comprehensive free resource is the Walworth Inmate Locator Website, which provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody:
- Access the official inmate locator at https://inmatelocator.co.walworth.wi.us/inmatelocator/
- No account creation or login is required
- Enter the inmate's information in the search fields:
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional)
- Middle initial (optional)
- Click "Search" to view results
- For more specific results, use the advanced search options:
- Date of birth
- Booking number (if known)
- Case number (if known)
The system provides information including:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond amounts
- Next court appearance
- Expected release date (when available)
Sheriff's Office Website Inmate Information
The Walworth County Sheriff's Office Inmates page provides additional resources and information about individuals in custody:
- Visit the Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmates" section
- Select from available information categories
- Follow the links to the appropriate search tools
Telephone Information Line
For those without internet access, basic inmate information is available by telephone:
- Call the Walworth County Jail at 262-741-4510
- Follow the automated prompts for the inmate information system
- Provide the requested identifying information about the inmate
- Basic custody information will be provided at no charge
Jail Lobby Kiosk
Visitors to the Walworth County Jail facility can access a public information kiosk in the lobby:
- Visit the jail facility during regular business hours:
- Walworth County Jail
- 1770 County Road NN
- Elkhorn, WI 53121
- Use the self-service kiosk in the public lobby
- Follow the on-screen instructions to search for inmate information
- No fee is charged for basic information lookups
These free resources are provided in accordance with Wisconsin's commitment to government transparency while balancing privacy and security concerns. Information obtained through these channels is for informational purposes only and should not be used for unauthorized purposes.
How To Visit an Inmate In Walworth County
Visitation with inmates at the Walworth County Jail is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. All visits must comply with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.06, which establishes standards for visitation in correctional facilities.
Visit Rules and Procedures
Prior to visiting an inmate, visitors must:
- Be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Schedule the visit at least 24 hours in advance
- Present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Submit to security screening procedures
- Comply with all facility rules and staff directives
Visit Schedule
The Walworth County Corrections Division maintains the following visitation schedule:
-
Non-contact visits:
- Tuesday through Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- No visits on Mondays or county holidays
-
Video visitation:
- Available 7 days a week from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Subject to scheduling availability
Visits are typically limited to 30 minutes per session, with a maximum of two visits per week per inmate.
What to Bring
Visitors should bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
- Visitor registration confirmation (if applicable)
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
- Medical necessities (with prior approval)
What NOT to Bring
The following items are prohibited:
- Weapons of any kind
- Drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20 (for vending machines, where available)
Dress Code
Visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:
- No revealing or provocative clothing
- No gang-related attire or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate uniforms
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or halter tops
- No shorts or skirts shorter than mid-thigh
- No see-through or mesh clothing
- Appropriate undergarments must be worn
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types
The facility offers several visitation options:
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
- Video visitation (on-site at the facility)
- Remote video visitation (from approved external locations)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
- Special visits (with prior approval for exceptional circumstances)
Visit Restrictions
Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended under the following circumstances:
- Visitor appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Visitor fails to comply with facility rules or staff directives
- Visitor has a criminal history that poses a security concern
- Inmate is on disciplinary restriction
- Facility lockdown or emergency conditions
- Court order prohibiting contact
Visitors with questions about visitation policies should contact the Walworth County Jail Visitation Office at 262-741-4510 prior to their scheduled visit.
How To Send Money to a Walworth County Inmate
The Walworth County Sheriff's Office provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses during incarceration.
Approved Money Transfer Methods
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the TouchPay payment service website
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select payment amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card
- Service fee: $2.50 per transaction
-
Lobby Kiosk
- Available in the Walworth County Jail lobby
- Located at 1770 County Road NN, Elkhorn, WI 53121
- Accessible during lobby hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
- Accept cash, credit, or debit cards
- Service fee: $2.00 per transaction
- Receipt provided for all transactions
-
Money Order by Mail
- Make money order payable to "Walworth County Jail" with inmate's name in memo
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Mail to: Walworth County Jail Inmate Accounts 1770 County Road NN Elkhorn, WI 53121
- No service fee for money orders
- Processing time: 3-5 business days
Amount Limits
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Transaction Fees
- Online deposits: $2.50 per transaction
- Lobby kiosk: $2.00 per transaction
- Money orders: No fee
- Phone deposits: $3.00 per transaction
Prohibited Items
The following items cannot be sent with money orders:
- Personal letters or notes
- Photos or greeting cards
- Stamps or envelopes
- Cash or coins
- Personal checks
- Any non-monetary items
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds
Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
Restricted Uses
Inmate funds cannot be used for:
- Paying bonds or fines directly from account
- Transferring money to other inmates
- Purchasing prohibited items
- Paying for services not approved by facility administration
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review by the Walworth County Sheriff's Office. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and could result in administrative or criminal penalties. Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release or can be transferred to another correctional facility if the inmate is transferred.
How To Send Jail Mail In Walworth County
Correspondence with inmates at the Walworth County Jail is permitted but must adhere to strict guidelines established by the Walworth County Corrections Division. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations to ensure security and safety.
Mailing Address Format
All mail must be properly addressed using the following format:
Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known)
Walworth County Jail
1770 County Road NN
Elkhorn, WI 53121
Letter Guidelines
- All correspondence must be sent via the United States Postal Service
- Envelopes must include a complete return address with sender's full name
- Letters must be written on plain white, lined, or unlined paper
- Black or blue ink or pencil only
- No perfume, lipstick, stickers, glitter, or other substances on letters
- No drawings or markings that could be interpreted as gang-related
- Maximum of 5 pages per envelope (excluding photos)
Photograph Guidelines
- Maximum of 5 photographs per envelope
- Photos must be 4" x 6" or smaller
- No Polaroid or self-developing photos
- No sexually explicit or suggestive content
- No gang-related content or hand gestures
- No photos of other incarcerated individuals
- No altered or manipulated images
Permitted Mail Items
- Personal letters
- Legal correspondence (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Money orders (following proper procedure)
- Soft-cover religious texts (sent directly from publisher)
- Subscription magazines (sent directly from publisher)
- Newspaper clippings (maximum 5 per envelope)
Prohibited Mail Items
The following items are prohibited and will be rejected:
- Hardcover books
- Personal checks or cash
- Greeting cards larger than 5" x 7"
- Cards with musical components, pop-ups, or electronic features
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Plastic, metal, or wooden items
- Stamps, envelopes, or blank paper
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Any items with adhesives (tape, stickers, labels)
Legal Mail
Mail from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives should be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" and will be opened in the presence of the inmate. Legal mail must include the attorney's name, title, and return address on the envelope.
Mail Processing
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
- Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in disciplinary action
- Mail containing threats, criminal activity, or escape plans will be forwarded to appropriate authorities
- Rejected mail will be returned to sender with explanation when possible
- Mail processing typically takes 24-48 hours after receipt at the facility
E-Messages
The Walworth County Jail also offers a secure electronic messaging system through its inmate communication platform. Family and friends can register online to send electronic messages for a nominal fee. These messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail.
All mail procedures are governed by Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC § 309.04, which establishes standards for inmate mail privileges in correctional facilities.
Lookup Inmate Records in Walworth County
Walworth County Inmate Search Portal
Walworth County Inmate Locator System
Walworth County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information