Goshen Jail Inmate Search helps families, lawyers, and community members locate individuals held at the municipal detention center in Goshen, Indiana. The facility, located at 111 East Jefferson Street, serves as a short-term holding location for adults arrested by local law enforcement or transferred from nearby counties. Managed by the Goshen Department of Public Safety, the jail opened in 1995 and has a maximum capacity of 150 inmates. It operates 24-hour intake, processing new arrivals with fingerprinting, photographs, and booking numbers. Visitors must present valid photo ID and sign in before escorted visits. The public information line is 574‑533‑8661, open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How to Locate an Inmate at Goshen Jail
Finding someone in Goshen Jail starts with calling the main number at 574‑533‑8661. Staff will ask for the person’s full legal name, date of birth, and booking number if known. This method works best for urgent requests or when internet access isn’t available. The city’s official website also hosts a searchable inmate database updated every four hours. It shows recent bookings, charges, bond amounts, housing units, and projected release dates. A downloadable PDF of the daily roster is included for offline use. For mailed requests, send a letter to the Records Division addressed to the Superintendent at 111 East Jefferson Street, Goshen, IN 46528. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Responses typically arrive within ten business days.
Online Inmate Database Features
The city’s online inmate locator offers filters by last name, booking date, or charge type. This makes it faster to find specific individuals among daily admissions. Each entry includes the inmate’s photo, assigned cell block, court dates within 30 days, and bail status. The system refreshes automatically but users should reload the page after each search to see the latest updates. Unlike many small jails, Goshen publishes its full roster publicly, increasing transparency. The database does not include medical records, disciplinary history, or legal counsel details due to privacy laws. All data aligns with Indiana Department of Correction standards for accuracy and timeliness.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation occurs only on weekends from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each inmate may have two 90-minute sessions per weekend. All visitors must complete a background check through the Indiana State Police before their first visit. This step ensures safety and compliance with state regulations. Visitors need a government-issued photo ID and must sign in at the front desk. No children under 18 are allowed unless accompanied by a legal guardian. Food, drinks, phones, and bags are prohibited in the visitation area. Late arrivals may lose part or all of their scheduled time. Cancellations happen if the jail goes into lockdown due to emergencies.
Phone Calls and Communication Options
Inmates can make outgoing calls through Securus Technologies. Families must create an account and add funds—minimum deposit is $20. Collect calls are the only option; direct dialing isn’t available. Call quality depends on facility systems and may be monitored or recorded. Incoming calls to inmates are not permitted. For written communication, mail must include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and the complete facility address: Goshen Jail, 111 East Jefferson Street, Goshen, IN 46528. Letters should avoid contraband topics like escape plans or coded messages. Packages are not accepted directly. Approved vendors like Access Securepak deliver quarterly care packages with pre-cleared items such as hygiene products and snacks.
Mail Guidelines and Restrictions
All incoming mail is inspected for safety and policy compliance. Envelopes must clearly show the sender’s name and return address. Photos are allowed but limited to five per letter and must not depict violence or nudity. Cash, stamps, or gift cards are prohibited. Legal mail from attorneys is opened in the presence of the inmate to protect confidentiality. Correspondence that violates rules may be returned or destroyed. Outgoing mail follows the same inspection process. Inmates receive writing supplies through commissary purchases. Families should avoid sending originals of important documents—only copies are safe.
Bond and Release Information
Bail amounts appear in the online roster once set by a judge. Payment can be made in cash, certified check, or through a licensed bail bondsman. The jail does not accept personal checks or credit cards for bond payments. Release times vary based on court schedules and processing delays. Weekend arrests may not appear on the roster until Monday morning. Once released, individuals receive a copy of their discharge paperwork. Those transferred to state prisons lose access to local visitation and phone services. Families should confirm release plans in advance to avoid missed pickups.
Fees, Fines, and Financial Accounts
Inmates can deposit money into their commissary accounts via Securus online, by phone, or through kiosks in the lobby. Minimum deposit is $20, maximum per transaction is $300. Funds cover snacks, hygiene items, phone time, and writing materials. Unused balances are returned upon release minus any owed fees. The jail charges a daily housing fee of $15 for stays over 24 hours, paid from the inmate’s account. Medical co-pays apply for non-emergency visits. Indigent inmates receive basic supplies at no cost. All financial records are audited monthly by the city finance office.
Medical and Mental Health Services
Goshen Jail provides basic medical care through contracted healthcare staff. Emergency services are available 24/7 via local hospitals. Routine requests like prescription refills take 48–72 hours. Mental health evaluations are conducted for at-risk individuals. Prescription medications from outside the facility are not allowed—only jail-issued drugs are dispensed. Inmates with chronic conditions must inform intake staff during booking. Privacy is maintained under HIPAA guidelines. Serious cases may result in transfer to specialized facilities.
Legal Rights and Attorney Access
Inmates have the right to consult with attorneys confidentially. Lawyers can schedule private meetings outside regular visitation hours. Phone calls with counsel are not monitored. Court-appointed attorneys are notified automatically upon booking. Inmates can request legal research materials through the jail library. Writings and appeals must be submitted through proper channels. The jail does not provide legal advice but allows access to public defenders’ contact information. All legal mail is marked clearly and handled separately from personal correspondence.
Contraband and Discipline Policies
Possession of weapons, drugs, or unauthorized electronics leads to immediate disciplinary action. Violations may result in loss of privileges, extended confinement, or criminal charges. Cell searches happen randomly and without notice. Inmates are responsible for their belongings—the jail is not liable for lost or damaged items. Fighting, threats, or refusal to follow orders triggers formal reports. Repeat offenders face transfer to higher-security facilities. Appeals go through the jail’s internal review board within five business days.
Transfer Procedures and External Coordination
Transfers occur when inmates are moved to county jails, state prisons, or federal facilities. Families are notified when possible, but delays can happen due to logistics. The jail coordinates with the Indiana Department of Correction, Elkhart County Sheriff, and other agencies. Transportation is handled by certified officers. Medical records and property are sent with the inmate. Once transferred, contact information changes—families must call the new facility directly. Long-term inmates rarely stay at Goshen Jail beyond 30 days unless awaiting local trial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Goshen Jail Inmate Search
Many people ask how to check if someone is in jail, how to send money, or when visits are allowed. Others want to know about bail, medical care, or phone access. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is booked at Goshen Jail?
Call 574‑533‑8661 during business hours or use the city’s online inmate database. Provide the person’s full name and date of birth. The roster updates every four hours and includes booking numbers, charges, and housing locations. If the person was arrested recently, wait 2–4 hours for processing. Weekend bookings may not appear until Monday. Written requests by mail take up to ten days for a response.
Can I visit an inmate on weekdays?
No. Visitation is only on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each inmate gets two 90-minute sessions per weekend. All visitors must pass a background check first. Arrive early—latecomers risk losing time. Bring a valid photo ID and dress modestly. Children under 18 need a guardian present. No food, phones, or bags are allowed in the visitation room.
How do I add money for phone calls or commissary?
Use Securus Technologies to fund an inmate’s account. Visit their website or call their customer service line. Minimum deposit is $20. Funds cover phone calls, snacks, and hygiene items. Money appears in the account within one hour. Inmates can spend up to $75 per week on commissary. Unused funds are refunded upon release minus any owed fees.
What items can I send in the mail?
Send letters with the inmate’s full name, ID number, and facility address. Include your return address. Photos are okay—limit five per letter and avoid inappropriate content. Do not send cash, stamps, or packages. Use Access Securepak for care packages. Approved items include toothpaste, soap, and snacks. All mail is inspected before delivery.
How is bail paid at Goshen Jail?
Bail is paid in cash, certified check, or through a bail bondsman. The jail does not accept personal checks or credit cards. Amounts are listed on the online roster once set by a judge. Payment must be made in person at the jail during business hours. Receipts are provided. Released inmates receive discharge papers. Contact the court for refund policies on unused bond money.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
Basic medical services are available on-site. Emergency cases go to local hospitals. Routine requests take 48–72 hours. Prescriptions from outside are not allowed—only jail-issued medications are given. Mental health support is offered for at-risk individuals. Co-pays apply for non-emergency visits. Serious conditions may lead to transfer to a medical facility.
Can I get a copy of the daily inmate roster?
Yes. The city website offers a downloadable PDF updated every four hours. It lists names, charges, bond amounts, and release dates. For those without internet, mail a request to the Records Division with a stamped self-addressed envelope. Allow ten business days for delivery. The roster does not include medical or legal details due to privacy laws.
For official inquiries, contact Goshen Jail at 574‑533‑8661 or email inmateinfo@goshenin.gov. Visiting hours are Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The facility is located at 111 East Jefferson Street, Goshen, IN 46528.
