La Crosse County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In La Crosse County?

Inmate records in La Crosse County are official documents maintained by the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department that contain information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes § 59.27, which outlines the duties of the county sheriff regarding the custody of prisoners and maintenance of jail records. The La Crosse County Sheriff's Department is responsible for maintaining comprehensive documentation on all individuals processed through the county jail system.

Inmate records typically include booking information, custody status, criminal charges, court dates, and release information. These records serve multiple purposes within the criminal justice system, including:

• Tracking the whereabouts and status of individuals in custody
• Providing information to law enforcement agencies
• Facilitating communication between inmates and their families
• Supporting administrative functions of the correctional system
• Enabling statistical analysis of incarceration trends

The La Crosse County Sheriff's Department maintains these records in accordance with Wisconsin public records laws and departmental policies governing information management and retention.

La Crosse County Sheriff's Department 300 4th Street North La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-785-9629 La Crosse County Sheriff's Department

Are Inmate Records Public In La Crosse County?

Inmate records in La Crosse County are generally considered public information in accordance with Wisconsin's Open Records Law (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31-19.39). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including inmate records, should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. The La Crosse County Jail inmate information is made available to promote transparency in government operations and to facilitate public awareness of law enforcement activities.

While most basic inmate information is publicly accessible, certain limitations and exceptions apply:

• Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers, medical records, and certain victim information may be redacted to protect privacy
• Records pertaining to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
• Juvenile records are subject to stricter confidentiality requirements under Wis. Stat. § 938.396
• Information that would compromise facility security may be withheld

Members of the public seeking access to inmate records may submit requests to the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department Records Division. Pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 19.35(1), requests may be made in person, by mail, by telephone, or by electronic means. The department typically responds to requests within 10 business days, though complex requests may require additional processing time.

What's Included Inmate Records in La Crosse County

La Crosse County inmate records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been processed through the county's detention facilities. These records are maintained in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 350.17, which establishes minimum standards for jail record keeping. The inmate locator service provides access to specific elements of these records.

Standard inmate records in La Crosse County typically include:

• Demographic information (name, date of birth, gender, race)
• Booking date and time
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Assigned inmate identification number
• Current custody status (in custody, released, transferred)
• Criminal charges and case numbers
• Bond/bail information
• Scheduled court appearances
• Projected release date (when applicable)
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Disciplinary records from current incarceration
• Visitor logs

It should be noted that the depth of information available to the public may be limited compared to what is maintained in the full official record. Certain sensitive information, such as medical records, mental health evaluations, and security risk assessments, is typically excluded from public disclosure in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes § 19.36(7), which protects sensitive personal information from disclosure.

La Crosse County Prison System

The La Crosse County prison system operates under the authority of the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department and in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 302, which governs prisons and jails in the state. The county's correctional system serves a population of approximately 120,000 residents across its 400 square mile jurisdiction, as noted by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council.

The primary facility in the La Crosse County correctional system is the La Crosse County Jail, which provides both pre-trial detention and post-conviction incarceration services. The jail operates under the direct supervision of the Sheriff and is staffed by certified correctional officers who have completed training requirements established by the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Key components of the La Crosse County prison system include:

• Main detention facility for adults
• Work release center for eligible inmates
• Medical services unit
• Mental health services
• Educational and vocational programming
• Substance abuse treatment programs
• Community corrections supervision

The La Crosse County prison system coordinates with various criminal justice agencies, including the courts, district attorney's office, public defender's office, and probation and parole services to ensure appropriate processing and supervision of offenders. The system also maintains partnerships with community organizations to provide reentry services and reduce recidivism.

La Crosse County Jail 333 Vine Street La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-785-9630 La Crosse County Jail Services

Types of Correctional Facilities In La Crosse County

La Crosse County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate needs as prescribed by Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 350. These facilities operate under the jurisdiction of the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department and are designed to fulfill different functions within the county's criminal justice system.

The primary correctional facilities in La Crosse County include:

• Main Detention Center: A secure facility housing pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of less than one year. This facility provides 24-hour supervision and includes specialized housing units for various classification levels.

• Huber Facility: Authorized under Wisconsin Statute § 303.08, this minimum-security facility houses inmates who qualify for work release privileges. Eligible inmates may leave the facility for employment, education, or treatment programs during specified hours.

• Electronic Monitoring Program: While not a physical facility, this program allows certain low-risk offenders to serve their sentences while residing at home under electronic supervision, pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 302.425.

• Community Corrections Center: Operated in conjunction with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Office, this facility provides transitional housing and supervision for individuals on probation, parole, or extended supervision.

Each facility operates according to specific security protocols and programming requirements based on the classification and needs of the inmate population. Inmates may be transferred between facilities as their classification status changes or as required by space limitations and operational needs.

Wisconsin Department of Corrections - La Crosse Unit 120 North 6th Street, Suite 102 La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-785-9546 Wisconsin DOC Probation & Parole Offices

Who's in Prison In La Crosse County

The La Crosse County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals who have been remanded to custody by the courts. According to data maintained by the Sheriff's Department, the inmate population consists primarily of individuals who fall into several distinct categories as defined by Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 302. The jail inmate locator service provides real-time information about current inmates.

The typical inmate population in La Crosse County includes:

• Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
• Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically less than one year)
• Individuals serving sentences for certain felony convictions (typically less than one year)
• Probation and parole violators awaiting revocation hearings
• Individuals temporarily housed while awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Federal detainees housed under contract with federal agencies

Demographic analysis of the La Crosse County inmate population indicates that the majority of inmates are male, with females comprising approximately 15-20% of the total population. The age distribution ranges primarily from 18 to 55 years, with the highest concentration in the 25-40 age group.

The most common offenses resulting in incarceration in La Crosse County facilities include:

• Drug-related offenses
• Property crimes
• Operating while intoxicated (OWI)
• Domestic violence
• Probation/parole violations
• Disorderly conduct

Population levels within the facilities fluctuate based on seasonal factors, court activity, and law enforcement operations. The Sheriff's Department regularly publishes statistical reports on inmate population trends in compliance with Wisconsin public records requirements.

How To Search for Inmate Records In La Crosse County in 2025

Members of the public seeking inmate information in La Crosse County may utilize several official channels to access these records. The Wisconsin Public Records Law (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31-19.39) provides the legal framework for accessing such information. The most efficient method for locating current inmate information is through the La Crosse County Inmate Locator service.

To search for inmate records in La Crosse County, individuals may:

1. Use the Online Inmate Locator System:

   • Visit the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department website
   • Navigate to the Inmate Locator section
   • Enter the inmate's name or identification number
   • Review the results, which typically include booking information, charges, and custody status

2. Contact the Records Division by Telephone:

   • Call the La Crosse County Jail at 608-785-9630
   • Provide the name of the individual being sought
   • Request available public information about their status

3. Submit a Written Records Request:

   • Prepare a written request specifying the information sought
   • Submit the request to the Records Division in person or by mail
   • Include contact information for response purposes

4. Visit the Sheriff's Department in Person:

   • Go to the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
   • Complete a records request form at the public counter
   • Present identification if requesting specific case-related information

5. Access Court Records:

   • Search the Wisconsin Court System case search portal
   • Enter the individual's name to locate associated criminal cases
   • Review case information, which may include custody status

When searching for inmate records, requestors should be prepared to provide the full legal name of the individual and, if possible, additional identifying information such as date of birth or case number to ensure accurate results.

How To Find an Inmate in La Crosse County for Free?

La Crosse County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals currently held in county correctional facilities. These services are provided in accordance with Wisconsin's commitment to government transparency and public information access as codified in Wis. Stat. § 19.31. The most direct method is through the Sheriff's Department inmate locator tool.

Free resources available to locate inmates in La Crosse County include:

• Online Inmate Locator: The La Crosse County Sheriff's Department maintains a free online database that is updated regularly. This system allows searches by name and provides basic custody information.

• Telephone Inquiry: Members of the public may call the La Crosse County Jail directly at 608-785-9630 to inquire about an individual's incarceration status. Basic information is provided at no charge.

• Wisconsin Court System CCAP: The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access portal provides free access to court records, which often include information about custody status and case progression.

• In-Person Inquiry: Individuals may visit the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department during regular business hours to request inmate information at no cost.

• County Law Library Resources: The Wisconsin State Law Library - La Crosse County Resources provides access to public terminals where jail records can be searched.

When using these free resources, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible about the person being sought, including full legal name, date of birth, and, if available, booking number or case number. This information helps ensure accurate results and reduces the likelihood of confusion with individuals who may have similar names.

How To Visit an Inmate In La Crosse County

Visitation with inmates housed in La Crosse County correctional facilities is governed by policies established pursuant to Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.06, which recognizes the importance of maintaining family and community ties during incarceration. The La Crosse County Jail Services department oversees all visitation procedures.

To visit an inmate in La Crosse County, potential visitors must adhere to the following procedures:

1. Verify Visitation Eligibility:

   • Ensure the inmate is eligible for visitors (not on restriction)
   • Confirm you are on the inmate's approved visitor list
   • Verify you have no outstanding warrants or criminal history that would prohibit visitation

2. Schedule a Visitation Appointment:

   • Contact the facility at least 24 hours in advance at 608-785-9630
   • Provide your full legal name and relationship to the inmate
   • Select from available visitation times (typically Wednesday-Sunday)

3. Prepare for the Visit:

   • Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled visitation time
   • Bring valid, government-issued photo identification
   • Dress appropriately according to facility guidelines (no revealing clothing, gang colors, or clothing resembling inmate attire)
   • Leave prohibited items in your vehicle (cell phones, weapons, tools, tobacco products, etc.)

4. Follow Facility Procedures:

   • Submit to security screening, including metal detector and/or pat-down search
   • Sign the visitor log
   • Proceed to the designated visitation area as directed by staff

Visitation hours at the La Crosse County Jail are as follows:

• Wednesday-Friday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Special provisions may be made for professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) outside of regular visitation hours. All visits are subject to monitoring except for privileged attorney-client communications.

How To Send Money to a La Crosse County Inmate

La Crosse County provides several approved methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.45, which governs inmate funds and accounts. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections oversees the policies for inmate financial transactions, while the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department implements these policies locally.

Authorized methods for sending money to La Crosse County inmates include:

1. Online Deposits:

   • Visit the Access Corrections Secure Deposit website
   • Create an account or log in
   • Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number)
   • Complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
   • Service fees may apply

2. Telephone Deposits:

   • Call TouchPay Direct Customer Service at 1-866-204-1603
   • Follow the automated prompts
   • Provide the inmate's information and payment details
   • Service fees may apply

3. Mobile App Deposits:

   • Download the Access Corrections app on a smartphone
   • Create an account or log in
   • Follow the prompts to complete the deposit
   • Service fees may apply

4. Lobby Kiosk:

   • Visit the kiosk located in the La Crosse County Jail lobby
   • Follow the on-screen instructions
   • Insert cash or use a credit/debit card
   • Obtain and retain the receipt

5. Money Order by Mail:

   • Purchase a money order payable to "La Crosse County Jail" with the inmate's name and ID in the memo line
   • Mail to: La Crosse County Jail, Inmate Accounts, 333 Vine Street, La Crosse, WI 54601
   • Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order

Funds deposited into an inmate's account may be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, medical co-pays, and other approved expenses. Deposits typically post to inmate accounts within 24-48 hours, though mail deposits may take longer to process.

How To Send Jail Mail In La Crosse County

Correspondence with inmates housed in La Crosse County correctional facilities is subject to specific regulations established pursuant to Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.04, which governs inmate mail privileges. The La Crosse County Jail Services department processes all incoming and outgoing mail according to these guidelines.

To send mail to an inmate in La Crosse County, correspondents must adhere to the following requirements:

1. Proper Addressing Format:

   • Inmate's full legal name (first and last)
   • Inmate's identification number (if known)
   • La Crosse County Jail
   • 333 Vine Street
   • La Crosse, WI 54601

2. Permitted Correspondence Items:

   • Letters on plain paper (no cardstock, construction paper, or colored paper)
   • Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6", no Polaroids)
   • Money orders (made payable to the inmate with their ID number noted)
   • Pre-stamped postcards
   • Self-addressed stamped envelopes for return correspondence

3. Prohibited Items:

   • Cash or personal checks
   • Stamps or envelopes (except self-addressed stamped envelopes)
   • Greeting cards with musical components, pop-ups, or glitter
   • Stickers, labels, or tape
   • Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
   • Perfumed or scented items
   • Any items containing illicit substances or contraband

4. Mail Processing Procedures:

   • All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband
   • Mail may be photocopied, with copies provided to inmates and originals stored
   • Mail containing prohibited items will be rejected and returned to sender
   • Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate

Incoming mail is typically distributed to inmates within 24-48 hours of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays. There are no limits on the volume of mail an inmate may receive, provided it complies with facility regulations and does not create a storage or fire hazard within the housing unit.

Lookup Inmate Records in La Crosse County

La Crosse County Jail Services

Wisconsin Court System Case Search

La Crosse County Inmate Locator

La Crosse County Sheriff's Department

Wisconsin DOC Money, Mail & Property Information

La Crosse County Government

Wisconsin State Law Library - La Crosse County Resources

Wisconsin DOC Probation & Parole Offices

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council - La Crosse County