Denver County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Denver County?

Inmate records in Denver County are official government documents maintained by the Denver Sheriff Department that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been in custody within the county's detention facilities. These records document an individual's journey through the correctional system from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 24-72-204, these records constitute criminal justice records subject to specific disclosure provisions.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

• Court records document judicial proceedings and are maintained by the Colorado Judicial Branch
• Inmate records document custody status and are maintained by correctional facilities
• Court records focus on case disposition while inmate records focus on custody management

The creation of inmate records begins at booking when an individual enters a Denver County detention facility. During this intake process, correctional staff collect and document:

• Biographical information
• Photographs (mugshots)
• Fingerprints
• Medical screening information
• Personal property inventory
• Initial security classification

These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document according to the county's record retention schedule.

The Denver Sheriff Department maintains these records in accordance with Colorado Criminal Justice Records Act § 24-72-301, which establishes guidelines for the creation, maintenance, and access to criminal justice records throughout the state.

Are Inmate Records Public In Denver County?

Inmate records in Denver County are partially public under Colorado law. The Colorado Criminal Justice Records Act (CCJRA) § 24-72-301 governs the disclosure of criminal justice records, including inmate records. Unlike some states with broad public records laws, Colorado employs a balanced approach that makes certain information available while protecting sensitive details.

Under current law, the following inmate record information is generally accessible to the public:

• Current inmate roster (who is in custody)
• Basic booking information
• Charges filed
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Facility location

However, the CCJRA grants custodians of criminal justice records significant discretion in determining what information to release. According to § 24-72-305, the custodian may deny access if disclosure would be "contrary to the public interest." This discretionary authority means that access practices may vary between facilities and for different types of requests.

Information typically restricted from public disclosure includes:

• Medical and mental health records
• Disciplinary records
• Detailed security information
• Victim information
• Social security numbers and other personal identifiers

The Denver Sheriff Department currently provides public access to basic inmate information through their online inmate search portal, which allows verification of an individual's custody status and location. More detailed records may require formal requests and are subject to review before release.

Members of the public seeking inmate records should note that while basic information is readily available, comprehensive records may require specific requests and may be subject to redaction of protected information.

What's Included Inmate Records in Denver County

Inmate records in Denver County contain a comprehensive collection of information documenting an individual's detention. These records are maintained by the Denver Sheriff Department and 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 identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, hold for other jurisdiction)
• Housing assignment within facility
• Classification level
• Scheduled court appearances
• Disciplinary incidents and hearings
• Program participation (education, work, treatment)

Charge Information:

• Current charges
• Case numbers
• Warrant information
• Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor)
• Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
• Bond amount
• Bond status (posted, not posted)
• Bond conditions

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned
• Attorney information
• Next court date
• Court proceedings and outcomes

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Sentence length
• Credit for time served
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Parole eligibility date
• Good time/earned time calculations

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bond, sentence completion, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Probation/parole requirements
• Destination upon release

These records serve multiple purposes within the criminal justice system, including ensuring proper identification, managing custody requirements, facilitating court appearances, and planning for appropriate release. The level of detail in each record depends on the individual's specific circumstances and length of stay in the facility.

Denver County Prison System

The Denver County correctional system operates under the authority of the Denver Sheriff Department, which is responsible for the care and custody of individuals detained in the county's detention facilities. This system primarily handles pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor offenses.

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system:

• County jails: Operated by the Denver Sheriff Department, these facilities house individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences (typically under one year), or being held temporarily for other agencies.
• State prisons: Operated by the Colorado Department of Corrections, these facilities house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.

The Denver Sheriff Department manages two primary detention facilities that serve different populations and security needs within the county. These facilities operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and are staffed by trained correctional professionals.

For general inquiries about the Denver County correctional system, members of the public may contact:

Denver Sheriff Department
5440 Roslyn Street, Building 5
Denver, CO 80216
Phone: (720) 865-9570
Denver Sheriff Department

The Denver Sheriff Department operates under the authority of Colorado Revised Statutes § 30-10-501, which establishes the powers and duties of county sheriffs, including the operation of county jails and the custody of inmates.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Denver County

Denver County operates two primary correctional facilities, each serving distinct populations and security needs. These facilities are administered by the Denver Sheriff Department and house individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process.

Denver County Jail (Downtown Detention Center)
490 W. Colfax Avenue
Denver, CO 80204
Phone: (720) 865-9700
Denver County Jail

The Downtown Detention Center is Denver's primary intake facility where individuals are initially processed after arrest. This facility:

• Houses primarily pre-trial detainees
• Processes approximately 38,000 bookings annually
• Contains approximately 1,500 beds
• Provides direct access to courtrooms for arraignments and hearings
• Offers medical and mental health services
• Includes specialized units for different classification levels

Denver County Jail (Denver County Jail)
10500 E. Smith Road
Denver, CO 80239
Phone: (720) 865-9800
Denver County Jail

The Denver County Jail on Smith Road primarily houses:

• Sentenced inmates serving misdemeanor sentences
• Some pre-trial detainees
• Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions
• Contains approximately 1,800 beds
• Offers more extensive programming and rehabilitative services
• Includes work release programs for eligible inmates
• Houses specialized units for women, juveniles charged as adults, and those with medical needs

In addition to these primary facilities, Denver County also operates:

Court Services Division
520 W. Colfax Avenue
Denver, CO 80204
Phone: (720) 865-8800

This division is responsible for:

• Transporting inmates to and from court appearances
• Providing security in courtrooms
• Managing temporary holding facilities within courthouses
• Processing court orders related to inmate custody

Each facility operates according to established security protocols and is staffed by trained correctional officers, medical personnel, and support staff to ensure the safety and constitutional rights of those in custody.

Who's in Prison In Denver County

The Denver County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. These facilities primarily hold:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
• Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
• Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
• Approximately 70% of the jail population consists of pre-trial detainees

Sentenced Offenders:

• Individuals convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of less than one year
• Persons convicted of municipal ordinance violations
• Those serving weekend or intermittent sentences
• Work release participants who work in the community but return to custody during non-working hours

Special Populations:

• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison after felony conviction
• Those held on immigration detainers for federal authorities
• Persons detained on behalf of other counties or jurisdictions
• Individuals awaiting competency evaluations or treatment
• Those serving sanctions for probation or parole violations

The demographic composition of Denver County's incarcerated population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends, with disproportionate representation of:

• Males (approximately 85% of the population)
• Individuals between 18-35 years of age
• Persons with substance use disorders
• Those with mental health conditions
• Economically disadvantaged individuals

It is important to note that Denver County facilities do not house:

• Juveniles (except those charged as adults)
• Convicted felons serving sentences longer than one year (who are transferred to state prisons)
• Federal prisoners (except temporarily while awaiting transfer)

The average daily population across Denver County detention facilities fluctuates but typically ranges between 1,800-2,200 individuals, with variations based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Denver County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Denver County have several methods available to locate and access this information. The Denver Sheriff Department maintains current inmate records and provides multiple channels for public inquiries.

Online Inmate Search:

1. Visit the official Denver Sheriff Department Inmate Search portal
2. Enter the inmate's first and last name in the search fields
3. For more precise results, include additional identifiers if known (date of birth, booking number)
4. Review the search results, which typically display:
   • Full name
   • Booking date
   • Current charges
   • Bond information
   • Housing facility
   • Inmate identification number

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Contact the appropriate detention facility directly:
   • Downtown Detention Center: (720) 865-9700
   • Denver County Jail: (720) 865-9800
2. Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
3. Request basic custody information (facility location, visiting hours, bond amount)
4. Note that detailed record information may not be available by phone

In-Person Request:

1. Visit the public information desk at either detention facility during business hours:
   • Downtown Detention Center: 490 W. Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO 80204
   • Denver County Jail: 10500 E. Smith Road, Denver, CO 80239
2. Complete an inmate information request form
3. Present valid government-issued identification
4. Specify the information being requested
5. Pay any applicable fees for copies of records

Formal Records Request:

1. Submit a written request to:

   Denver Sheriff Department Records Unit
   5440 Roslyn Street, Building 5
   Denver, CO 80216

2. Include the following information:

   • Inmate's full name and date of birth
   • Your contact information
   • Specific records being requested
   • Purpose of the request
   • Signature and date

3. Allow 3-7 business days for processing

4. Pay applicable fees for record retrieval and copying

When searching for inmate records, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, date of birth, and booking number if available. Searches using common names may return multiple results, requiring additional information to identify the specific individual.

How To Find an Inmate in Denver County for Free?

Denver County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody within the county detention system. These free resources are designed to help family members, friends, legal representatives, and other concerned parties verify an individual's incarceration status and location.

Denver Sheriff Department Online Inmate Locator:

1. Access the Denver Inmate Search tool from any internet-connected device
2. Enter the individual's first and last name in the search fields
3. Review the results, which include:
   • Current custody status
   • Facility location
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Next court date (if scheduled)
4. Narrow results by using additional identifiers if available

Automated Phone System:

1. Call the Denver Sheriff Department's automated information line at (720) 865-9600
2. Follow the voice prompts to search by name
3. Have the full name ready, spelled correctly
4. Note that this system provides basic custody information only

Contacting Facility Reception:

1. Call the main reception desk at the appropriate facility:
   • Downtown Detention Center: (720) 865-9700
   • Denver County Jail: (720) 865-9800
2. Provide the full name and date of birth of the person you're seeking
3. Request confirmation of their custody status and location
4. Inquire about visitation procedures if the individual is in custody

Colorado Statewide Resources: If you're unsure which jurisdiction is holding the individual, you can also check:

1. Colorado Department of Corrections Inmate Locator for state prison inmates
2. Contact the Colorado Bureau of Investigation at (303) 239-4211 for assistance with locating individuals in the criminal justice system

When using these free search methods, it's important to note:

• Information is typically updated daily but may not reflect very recent bookings or releases
• Name searches work best with correct spelling of both first and last names
• Common names may return multiple results, requiring additional identifying information
• Some information may be temporarily unavailable during system updates or maintenance
• These resources provide custody status only and not detailed criminal history information

These free search options ensure that basic inmate location information remains accessible to the public without financial barriers.

How To Visit an Inmate In Denver County

Visiting an inmate in Denver County requires adherence to specific procedures established by the Denver Sheriff Department. These regulations ensure security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visits must be scheduled in advance
• Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
• Each inmate is allowed a specific number of visits per week based on classification
• Visits are typically limited to 20-30 minutes
• All visitors must successfully pass a security screening
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor

Visit Schedule:

• Downtown Detention Center: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Denver County Jail: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may be scheduled during extended hours
• Visit times vary by housing unit; check the Denver Sheriff Department visitation page for specific schedules

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
• Visiting registration confirmation
• Essential medications in original containers (e.g., asthma inhaler)
• If visiting with children, necessary care items (one diaper, one bottle)
• Locker key for storing personal items not permitted in visiting area

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Tools
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches)
• Cameras or recording devices
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

• Conservative, appropriate attire required
• No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No uniforms resembling staff attire
• Shoes and shirts required at all times
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items)

Visit Types:

1. Video Visitation (primary method):

   • Conducted via secure video terminals at the facility
   • Must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
   • Schedule through the online visitation portal or by calling (720) 865-9500

2. Remote Video Visitation:

   • Available from any internet-connected device with webcam
   • Requires creation of account and payment of fee
   • Schedule through the same online portal

3. Contact Visits:

   • Limited to certain classifications of inmates
   • Requires special approval
   • Available only at Denver County Jail facility

4. Professional Visits:

   • Available for attorneys, clergy, and official visitors
   • Requires credentials verification
   • More flexible scheduling available

Visit Restrictions:

• Visitors with active warrants will be denied
• Persons on probation or parole require advance approval
• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
• Visitors who appear intoxicated will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
• Violation of rules may result in suspension of visiting privileges

All visiting procedures are subject to modification based on facility security needs and public health considerations. Visitors should verify current policies before arrival by checking the Denver Sheriff Department website or calling the visitation information line at (720) 865-9500.

How To Send Money to a Denver County Inmate

The Denver Sheriff Department provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services while in custody.

Available Deposit Methods:

1. Online Deposits:

   • Visit the TouchPay payment portal
   • Create an account or proceed as guest
   • Enter inmate's full name and ID number
   • Select payment amount
   • Complete payment using credit/debit card
   • Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount)

2. Kiosk Deposits:

   • Available in the lobby of both detention facilities:
     • Downtown Detention Center: 490 W. Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO 80204
     • Denver County Jail: 10500 E. Smith Road, Denver, CO 80239
   • Touch screen operation with simple instructions
   • Accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards
   • Provides immediate receipt
   • Lower service fees than online deposits
   • Available during normal lobby hours (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily)

3. Phone Deposits:

   • Call the automated system at 1-888-988-4768
   • Follow voice prompts to complete transaction
   • Requires credit or debit card
   • Higher service fees apply
   • Available 24/7

4. Money Order by Mail:

   • Make money order payable to "Denver Sheriff Department"

   • Write inmate's full name and ID number on money order

   • Do not send cash or personal checks

   • Mail to:

     Denver Sheriff Department Inmate Accounts
     5440 Roslyn Street, Building 5
     Denver, CO 80216

   • No service fees

   • Processing takes 5-7 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

Service Fees:

• Online deposits: $2.50-$10.00 based on amount
• Kiosk deposits: $1.50-$7.00 based on amount
• Phone deposits: $3.00-$12.00 based on amount
• Money orders: No fee

Prohibited Items:

• Cash sent through mail
• Personal checks
• Cashier's checks
• Third-party checks
• Foreign currency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Video visitation fees
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Release funds

Restricted Uses:

• Cannot be used for bail/bond payments
• Cannot be transferred to other inmates
• Cannot be used for outside purchases
• Cannot be withdrawn by the inmate while in custody

Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account is returned via debit card or check. Funds may be subject to collection for outstanding debts, including restitution, court costs, or facility damages as authorized by Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-26-107.

For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the Denver Sheriff Department Inmate Accounts Office at (720) 865-9700 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM).

How To Send Jail Mail In Denver County

The Denver Sheriff Department has established specific procedures for sending mail to individuals in custody. Adherence to these guidelines ensures timely delivery and maintains facility security.

Mailing Address Format: All mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Inmate ID Number (if known)
Facility Name
Facility Address

For Downtown Detention Center:
Inmate Name, ID#
Denver Downtown Detention Center
490 W. Colfax Avenue
Denver, CO 80204

For Denver County Jail:
Inmate Name, ID#
Denver County Jail
10500 E. Smith Road
Denver, CO 80239

Acceptable Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, no padding)
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (made payable to Denver Sheriff Department)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only)
• Approved periodicals sent directly from publisher

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages of any kind
• Padded or oversized envelopes
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or adhesive labels
• Crayon or marker writings
• Polaroid photographs
• Laminated items
• Cardboard or hardcover materials
• Items containing perfume, lipstick, or unknown substances
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related content
• Materials depicting violence or weapons
• Coded messages

Mail Inspection Process: All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and prohibited content before delivery to inmates. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the inmate's presence to maintain confidentiality while ensuring security.

Mail Delivery Timeline:

• Regular mail: Processed within 24-48 hours of receipt
• Legal mail: Processed within 24 hours of receipt
• Rejected mail: Returned to sender with explanation

Electronic Messaging Option: Denver County facilities also offer a secure electronic messaging system through GTL ConnectNetwork. This service:

• Allows family and friends to send electronic messages
• Requires creation of an account
• Charges a fee per message
• Provides faster delivery than postal mail
• Is subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail

Publications and Subscriptions: Inmates may receive magazines and newspapers under these conditions:

• Must be sent directly from publisher or authorized retailer
• Must be soft-cover only
• Subject to content review
• Limited to 3 publications in possession at one time

All mail procedures are established in accordance with Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-26-104 and facility security protocols. For questions regarding mail procedures, contact the facility mail room:

• Downtown Detention Center: (720) 865-9700
• Denver County Jail: (720) 865-9800

Lookup Inmate Records in Denver County

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