Ottawa County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Ottawa County?

Inmate records in Ottawa County are official government documents maintained by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county correctional facilities. These records document the entire custody lifecycle of an individual from initial booking through release.

Pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.229, inmate records are defined as "all records, reports, and data maintained by the department of corrections on prisoners under its jurisdiction." At the county level, these records serve several critical functions:

• Documentation of legal custody authority
• Tracking of inmate movements and housing assignments
• Recording of disciplinary actions and behavioral incidents
• Monitoring of medical and mental health needs
• Verification of court appearances and legal proceedings
• Management of release dates and conditions

It is important to distinguish inmate records from court records. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations maintained by the judicial system, inmate records specifically document the custodial aspects of incarceration maintained by correctional authorities.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, where identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge details are recorded. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in status, housing, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information. Upon release, records are finalized with discharge information but remain in the system as historical documentation.

Are Inmate Records Public In Ottawa County?

Inmate records in Ottawa County are partially accessible to the public under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which governs public access to government records. However, access is subject to specific limitations established by state law to balance transparency with privacy and security concerns.

According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 15.243, certain exemptions apply to the disclosure of information that may compromise institutional security or infringe upon individual privacy rights. Additionally, MCL § 780.818 provides specific protections for victim information that may be contained within these records.

The following inmate 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 (but not detailed arrest reports)
• Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
• Scheduled release date (if applicable)
• Bond/bail amount (if applicable)
• Court of jurisdiction

Information that is generally restricted from public access includes:

• Detailed medical and mental health records
• Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Specific security classifications
• Disciplinary details that may compromise facility security
• Information about protective custody status
• Victim information as protected under Article I § 24 of the Michigan Constitution

The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search system that provides public access to basic custody information while protecting sensitive details in accordance with state law.

What's Included Inmate Records in Ottawa County

Inmate records in Ottawa County contain comprehensive documentation organized into several categories of information. The following represents the standard components of these official records:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth and age
• Gender and physical description
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints and other biometric data
• Assigned inmate identification number
• Last known address (partial information may be redacted)

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking/intake
• Arresting agency and officer information
• Custody classification and housing assignment
• Movement history within the facility
• Disciplinary incidents and outcomes
• Visitation logs and approved visitor list
• Property inventory upon intake

Charge Information:

• Current charges (felony or misdemeanor designation)
• Warrant information if applicable
• Case numbers associated with charges
• Arresting agency and jurisdiction
• Status of charges (pending, dismissed, convicted)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
• Bond amount if applicable
• Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
• Bond conditions if specified by court

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned to case
• Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court outcomes and judgments

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction date and charges
• Sentence length and terms
• Credit for time served
• Probation or parole conditions
• Projected release date
• Good time or earned credit calculations

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (completed sentence, bond, transfer)
• Post-release supervision requirements
• Conditions of release if applicable

These records are maintained in compliance with state recordkeeping requirements and are subject to retention schedules established by the Michigan Department of Corrections and state archives.

Ottawa County Prison System

The Ottawa County correctional system operates under the authority of the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for maintaining secure custody of individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors, or temporarily housed while facing felony charges. The system is designed to accommodate both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders serving terms of up to one year.

In accordance with Michigan Compiled Laws § 51.75, the county sheriff is designated as the official keeper of the county jail and is responsible for the custody, rule, keeping, and charge of the jail and all persons confined within it. This statutory authority establishes the framework for Ottawa County's correctional operations.

It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Michigan's correctional hierarchy:

• County jails primarily house individuals awaiting trial, serving misdemeanor sentences (typically under one year), or temporarily holding those facing felony charges before transfer to state facilities
• State prisons, operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year

The Ottawa County correctional system is administered by:

Ottawa County Sheriff's Office
12220 Fillmore Street
West Olive, MI 49460
Phone: (616) 738-4000
Ottawa County Sheriff's Office

Public inquiries regarding inmate status, visitation policies, and general information may be directed to the Sheriff's Office during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The facility operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for law enforcement and correctional functions.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Ottawa County

Ottawa County maintains several specialized correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations. Each facility operates under specific protocols designed to ensure appropriate supervision and services based on inmate classification.

Ottawa County Correctional Facility (Main Jail)
12130 Fillmore Street
West Olive, MI 49460
Phone: (616) 738-4040
Ottawa County Jail

The main correctional facility serves as the primary detention center for Ottawa County, housing both male and female inmates across various security classifications. This facility includes:

• Maximum security housing units
• Medium security dormitory-style housing
• Intake and booking processing center
• Medical and mental health services
• Video visitation capabilities
• Programming spaces for rehabilitation services

Ottawa County Work Release Center
12240 Fillmore Street
West Olive, MI 49460
Phone: (616) 738-4095

This minimum-security facility houses eligible inmates who qualify for work release programs, allowing them to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Features include:

• Dormitory-style housing
• Separate accommodations for male and female inmates
• Transportation coordination for employment
• Strict check-in/check-out procedures
• Substance abuse testing protocols

Ottawa County Juvenile Detention Center
12120 Fillmore Street
West Olive, MI 49460
Phone: (616) 738-4500
Juvenile Services

While administratively separate from adult corrections, this facility houses juveniles who are detained pending court proceedings or serving court-ordered detention. The facility provides:

• Age-appropriate secure housing
• Educational programming
• Mental health services
• Family visitation areas
• Rehabilitative programming

Each facility operates under the oversight of the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the Michigan Department of Corrections and relevant accreditation bodies. Facility capacities and populations fluctuate based on current criminal justice trends and court activities within the county.

Who's in Prison In Ottawa County

The Ottawa County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of several distinct categories of individuals as defined by their legal status and the nature of their confinement.

Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the jail population. These individuals:

• Have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
• Are awaiting trial or court proceedings
• May be detained due to inability to post bail
• Have been denied bail due to public safety concerns or flight risk
• Are presumed innocent under the law until proven guilty

Sentenced offenders serving misdemeanor sentences include individuals who:

• Have been convicted of crimes punishable by up to one year of incarceration
• Are serving sentences imposed by Ottawa County courts
• May be participating in work release or other alternative sentencing programs
• Could be serving weekend-only sentences for certain offenses

Temporary holds for individuals facing felony charges encompass those who:

• Have been charged with more serious offenses
• Are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• May be participating in court proceedings requiring local detention
• Could be awaiting sentencing after conviction

Additional populations include:

• Individuals detained on probation or parole violations
• Those held on behalf of other jurisdictions (including federal detainees)
• Individuals serving contempt of court sentences
• Those temporarily returned from state prison for local court proceedings

According to data from the Michigan Department of Corrections, the demographic composition of Ottawa County's incarcerated population generally reflects broader patterns in Michigan's criminal justice system, with variations based on local factors and law enforcement priorities.

The average daily population fluctuates based on seasonal factors, court scheduling, and law enforcement activities. Current population statistics are maintained by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office and are updated regularly in compliance with state reporting requirements.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Ottawa County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in Ottawa County have several methods available to access inmate records. The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office maintains systems that provide public access to basic custody information while protecting sensitive details in accordance with state law.

The primary method for searching inmate records is through the online inmate lookup system:

1. Visit the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office inmate search portal
2. No account creation or login is required for basic searches
3. Enter search criteria in at least one of the following fields:
   • Last name (required)
   • First name (optional, but recommended for common surnames)
   • Date of birth (optional, helps narrow results for common names)
4. Click the "Search" button to submit your query
5. Review the results list, which displays basic information about current inmates
6. Select a specific inmate record to view additional publicly available details

For those unable to access the online system, alternative search methods include:

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Contact the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office at (616) 738-4040
2. Provide the full name of the individual you are inquiring about
3. Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested
4. Note that basic information only will be provided via telephone

In-Person Request:

1. Visit the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office during public counter hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
2. Complete an inmate information request form
3. Present valid government-issued photo identification
4. Specify the information being requested
5. Allow time for staff to process the request

For historical inmate records or more comprehensive information, individuals may need to submit a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request:

1. Submit a written FOIA request to the Ottawa County FOIA Coordinator
2. Clearly describe the records being sought
3. Provide contact information for response
4. Be prepared to pay applicable fees for search, retrieval, and copying
5. Allow up to 5 business days for initial response as required by Michigan law

Information available through these search methods is limited to what is permitted for public disclosure under Michigan law and does not include protected or sensitive information.

How To Find an Inmate in Ottawa County for Free?

Ottawa County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals currently in custody within the county correctional system. These free resources are designed to provide basic information while maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.

The most efficient method for locating an inmate without incurring any fees is through the official online inmate locator system:

1. Access the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office inmate search tool
2. Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
3. For more precise results, include first name and/or date of birth if known
4. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Full name of the inmate
   • Booking date
   • Current housing facility
   • Basic charge information
   • Scheduled release date (if applicable)
   • Bond information (if applicable)

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS) provides a free statewide database of individuals under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Corrections.

Additional no-cost methods for locating inmates include:

Telephone Verification:

• Call the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office at (616) 738-4040
• Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
• Inquiries are limited to confirming whether an individual is in custody
• Available 24 hours a day, though detailed information requests are best handled during business hours

Court Records Search:

• Access the MiCOURT Case Search system
• Search by the individual's name
• Review case information that may indicate custody status
• Note that this method provides case information rather than direct custody status

Victim Notification System:

• Crime victims registered with the Michigan Crime Victim Notification Network can receive free automated updates about custody status changes
• This service is restricted to registered crime victims and is not available for general public inquiries

When using any of these methods, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest or incarceration if known. This information helps ensure accurate results, particularly for individuals with common names.

How To Visit an Inmate In Ottawa County

Visitation with inmates housed in Ottawa County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with facility regulations to ensure visits proceed safely and efficiently.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

Ottawa County has implemented a video visitation system as the primary method for inmate visitation. This system allows for:

• Remote visits conducted from any location with internet access
• On-site video visits at designated terminals within the facility
• Scheduled visits that reduce waiting times and facility congestion
• Increased availability of visitation opportunities

Visit Schedule:

• Remote video visits: Available 7 days a week, 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• On-site video visits: Available during designated hours based on housing unit
  • General population: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Special housing units: Schedule varies, contact facility for specific times
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Available daily, 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance through the online scheduling system or by calling the visitation coordinator at (616) 738-4050.

What to Bring:

For on-site visits, visitors must present:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Confirmation of scheduled visit (printed or digital)
• Minor children must be accompanied by an adult guardian
• Locker tokens for securing personal items (available for purchase)

What NOT to Bring:

The following items are prohibited in the visitation area:

• Cell phones or electronic devices
• Weapons of any kind
• Food or beverages
• Bags, purses, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Contraband items of any nature
• Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)

Dress Code:

All visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:

• No revealing or provocative clothing
• No gang-related attire or symbols
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• Shirts and shoes required at all times
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
• No excessively baggy clothing

Visit Types:

• Standard video visits: 25-minute sessions
• Extended video visits: 55-minute sessions (additional fee applies)
• Special visits: Available for exceptional circumstances with prior approval
• Professional visits: Not subject to standard time limitations

Visit Restrictions:

Pursuant to Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6607, visitation privileges may be restricted based on:

• Inmate disciplinary status
• Security classification
• Court orders limiting contact
• Visitor conduct violations
• Facility lockdown or emergency situations

All visitation is subject to monitoring and recording except for privileged attorney-client communications. Any violation of visitation rules may result in termination of the visit and possible suspension of future visitation privileges.

How To Send Money to a Ottawa County Inmate

Ottawa County 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.

Electronic Deposit Methods:

1. Online Deposits

   • Visit the Ottawa County Inmate Trust Fund portal
   • Create an account or log in to existing account
   • Enter inmate information (full name and inmate ID number)
   • Select deposit amount
   • Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
   • Service fee: 3.5% of deposit amount ($1.95 minimum)
   • Funds typically available within 1-2 business hours

2. Mobile App Deposits

   • Download the TouchPay mobile application
   • Follow registration instructions
   • Select "Ottawa County Jail" from facility list
   • Enter inmate information
   • Complete payment transaction
   • Service fee: 3.5% of deposit amount ($1.95 minimum)
   • Funds typically available within 1-2 business hours

3. Telephone Deposits

   • Call the automated system at 1-866-232-1899
   • Follow voice prompts to complete transaction
   • Have credit/debit card information ready
   • Service fee: 4.5% of deposit amount ($2.95 minimum)
   • Funds typically available within 1-2 business hours

In-Person Deposit Methods:

1. Lobby Kiosk

   • Available in the Sheriff's Office lobby
   • Accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
   • Accept cash, credit/debit cards
   • Service fee: $2.00 per transaction
   • Funds available immediately

2. Mail-In Deposits

   • Send money order only (no personal checks or cash)
   • Make payable to "Ottawa County Inmate Trust Fund"
   • Include inmate's full name and ID number on money order
   • Mail to: Ottawa County Jail Attn: Inmate Accounts 12130 Fillmore Street West Olive, MI 49460
   • No service fee
   • Funds available within 3-5 business days after receipt

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $5.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
• Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00

Prohibited Uses of Funds:

Inmate funds cannot be used for:

• Payment of bonds or fines
• Purchasing items for other inmates
• Transferring money to outside accounts
• Purchasing prohibited items
• Payment for legal services

Approved Uses of Funds:

Inmates may use account funds for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
• Telephone calls and video visitation fees
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts and other personal services
• Educational materials
• Release funds upon discharge

Any unused funds will be returned to the inmate upon release via debit card or check. Questions regarding inmate accounts may be directed to the Inmate Accounts Office at (616) 738-4042 during regular business hours.

How To Send Jail Mail In Ottawa County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Ottawa County correctional facilities must follow established guidelines to ensure proper delivery and compliance with security protocols. All incoming mail is subject to inspection and screening before delivery to inmates.

General Mail Guidelines:

All incoming letters must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Inmate ID Number
Ottawa County Jail
12130 Fillmore Street
West Olive, MI 49460

The return address must include the sender's full name and complete mailing address. Mail without proper addressing or return information will be returned to sender if possible, or placed in the inmate's property if sender cannot be identified.

Acceptable Mail Items:

• Personal letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
• Money orders (must be separate from letters)
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4"x6" size, no Polaroids)
• Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
• Religious materials (subject to review)
• Approved periodicals (must come directly from publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages of any kind
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or adhesive labels
• Crayon or marker writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Oversized cards or homemade cards
• Hardcover books
• Polaroid photographs
• Items containing glitter, glue, or tape
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related content
• Materials depicting violence or weapons
• Coded messages or foreign language content (unless approved)

Legal Mail:

Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope. This mail will be opened in the presence of the inmate to verify absence of contraband while maintaining confidentiality of contents.

Electronic Messaging:

Ottawa County offers a secure electronic messaging system as an alternative to traditional mail:

1. Visit the Ottawa County Inmate Messaging portal
2. Create an account or log in to existing account
3. Purchase messaging credits
4. Compose message (maximum 2,000 characters)
5. Attach photos if desired (additional fee applies)
6. Submit for delivery
7. Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours after review

All electronic messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail and undergo security screening before delivery.

Mail Restrictions:

Pursuant to Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6603, mail privileges may be restricted based on:

• Facility security concerns
• Prior mail rule violations
• Court orders limiting communication
• Inmate disciplinary status

Questions regarding mail policies may be directed to the Mail Room Supervisor at (616) 738-4060 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Lookup Inmate Records in Ottawa County

Inmate Search - Ottawa County Sheriff's Office

Offender Search - Michigan Department of Corrections

MiCOURT Case Search - Michigan Courts

MCL - Section 780.818 - Michigan Legislature

MCL - Article I § 24 - Michigan Legislature