Kankakee County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Kankakee County?
Inmate records in Kankakee County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office that document individuals who are in custody. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained within the county's correctional system. Pursuant to 730 ILCS 5/3-5-1, correctional institutions in Illinois are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records document the judicial proceedings, hearings, and legal determinations made by the courts, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within detention facilities. The Kankakee County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records, whereas the Kankakee County Circuit Court maintains case files related to criminal proceedings.
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During this initial phase, personal information, photographs, fingerprints, and details of the alleged offense are collected and documented. These records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant information. Upon the individual's release from custody, the record is closed but maintained according to the county's record retention policies and state law.
Are Inmate Records Public In Kankakee County?
Inmate records in Kankakee County are generally considered public information under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which governs public access to government records. According to 5 ILCS 140/1, the public policy of Illinois is that "all persons are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts and policies of those who represent them as public officials and public employees."
However, access to inmate records is subject to certain limitations and exemptions designed to protect privacy rights, ongoing investigations, and security concerns. The Illinois Unified Code of Corrections contains specific provisions regarding the confidentiality of certain information related to inmates and correctional facilities.
Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking and arrest information
- Charges filed against the individual
- Mugshots (in most cases)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Facility where the individual is housed
Certain sensitive information may be redacted or withheld from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social Security numbers
- Information that might compromise facility security
- Records related to juvenile offenders
- Information that might endanger the safety of an individual
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Kankakee County may access basic information through the online inmate search portal provided by the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office or by submitting a formal FOIA request for more detailed information.
What's Included Inmate Records in Kankakee County
Inmate records maintained by the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. 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 physical description
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Booking date and time
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records while in custody
- Participation in jail programs or work assignments
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute numbers)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant information, if applicable
- Case numbers associated with current charges
- Prior booking history, if applicable
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, not posted, denied)
- Bond conditions, if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to the case
- Scheduled court dates
- Court appearance history
- Case disposition (if resolved)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Length of sentence
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time credits
- Parole eligibility date, if applicable
- Probation terms, if applicable
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time (if released)
- Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements, if applicable
These records are maintained in accordance with state regulations and county policies, with certain information available to the public while other details may be restricted to authorized personnel only.
Kankakee County Prison System
The Kankakee County correctional system operates under the authority of the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and administering the county's detention facilities. The primary function of the Kankakee County jail system is to provide secure detention for individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors, or awaiting transfer to state facilities after felony convictions.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system. The Kankakee County jail primarily houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions. Those convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year are typically transferred to facilities operated by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) after sentencing.
The Kankakee County jail system also participates in housing federal detainees through agreements with federal agencies, which provides additional revenue for the county while utilizing available bed space.
For information regarding the Kankakee County jail system, members of the public may contact:
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 802-7100
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains regular business hours for administrative functions, typically Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays. The detention facility operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Kankakee County
Kankakee County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system:
Kankakee County Detention Center
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 802-7100
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
The Kankakee County Detention Center serves as the main correctional facility for the county. This medium to maximum-security facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The detention center includes separate housing units for male and female inmates, with classifications based on security risk, behavioral history, and special needs.
Jerome Combs Detention Center
3050 Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 802-7100
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
The Jerome Combs Detention Center is a modern facility that opened in 2005 to expand the county's detention capacity. This facility houses both county inmates and federal detainees through intergovernmental agreements. The center features direct supervision housing units, medical facilities, and programming spaces for educational and rehabilitative activities.
Kankakee County Work Release Center
(Located within the Detention Center complex)
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 802-7100
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
The Work Release Center provides a minimum-security environment for eligible inmates who have been approved to participate in work release programs. These individuals are permitted to leave the facility for employment during specified hours but must return to custody when not working. This program helps inmates maintain employment, support their families, and prepare for reintegration into the community.
Juvenile Detention Center
(Operated by the 21st Judicial Circuit Court)
450 E Court Street
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 937-2470
Kankakee County Circuit Court
The Juvenile Detention Center houses youth who have been detained pending juvenile court proceedings or who have been adjudicated delinquent. This facility operates separately from the adult detention system and provides age-appropriate supervision, educational services, and rehabilitative programming for juvenile offenders.
Each of these facilities operates under specific security protocols and administrative policies designed to maintain safety, security, and compliance with state and federal regulations governing correctional operations.
Who's in Prison In Kankakee County
The Kankakee County jail system houses several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. Understanding the composition of the jail population provides insight into the function of the county's correctional system within the broader criminal justice framework.
The primary categories of individuals incarcerated in Kankakee County facilities include:
-
Pre-trial Detainees: The largest segment of the jail population consists of individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are detained while awaiting trial because they either could not post bail, were denied bail due to the severity of charges or risk factors, or chose not to post bail. Under the Illinois Pretrial Fairness Act, which reformed the state's bail system, detention decisions are now based on public safety and flight risk rather than ability to pay.
-
Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses and sentenced to terms of incarceration up to one year serve their sentences in the county jail. Common misdemeanor offenses include driving under the influence (DUI), simple assault, petty theft, and certain drug possession charges.
-
Felony Offenders Awaiting Transfer: Persons convicted of felony offenses with sentences exceeding one year are temporarily held in county facilities while awaiting transfer to the Illinois Department of Corrections state prison system.
-
Federal Detainees: Through intergovernmental agreements, Kankakee County houses federal detainees for agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. These agreements provide revenue for the county while utilizing available bed space.
-
Work Release Participants: Eligible low-risk offenders may participate in work release programs that allow them to maintain employment while serving their sentences. These individuals reside in the jail's minimum-security work release center when not at their approved places of employment.
-
Weekend Servers: Some individuals with jobs or family responsibilities may be permitted to serve their sentences on weekends only, reporting to the jail on Friday evening and being released on Sunday evening or Monday morning.
-
Probation/Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole may be held in the county jail pending revocation hearings or as a sanction for the violation.
The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects patterns seen throughout the criminal justice system, with overrepresentation of certain socioeconomic and demographic groups. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Kankakee County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently in custody in Kankakee County have several methods available to access inmate records. The county maintains systems that allow for efficient searching of basic custody information while protecting sensitive data. Currently, the following methods are available for searching inmate records:
Online Inmate Search Portal:
- Visit the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office official website
- Locate and click on the "Inmate Search" or "Custody Search" link
- Enter the required search criteria, which may include:
- Inmate's last name (required)
- First name (optional, but recommended for common surnames)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Housing facility
- Mugshot (if available)
In-Person Inquiry:
-
Visit the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 802-7100 -
Request inmate information at the reception desk
-
Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
-
Staff will provide publicly available information about the person's custody status
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office non-emergency number: (815) 802-7100
- Request information about an individual's custody status
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person
- Basic information about custody status may be provided over the phone
Illinois Department of Corrections Search:
For individuals who have been transferred to state custody after sentencing:
- Visit the Illinois Department of Corrections Offender Search website
- Enter the individual's information in the search fields
- Review the results for custody status and location within the state prison system
Formal FOIA Request:
For more detailed information not available through the above methods:
- Submit a formal Freedom of Information Act request to the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
- Requests can be submitted in person, by mail, or via email
- Clearly specify the information being requested and the purpose of the request
- Be aware that certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with FOIA exemptions
When searching for inmate information, it is important to note that records are updated regularly but may not reflect real-time changes in custody status. Additionally, individuals released from custody may no longer appear in the active inmate database after a certain period.
How To Find an Inmate in Kankakee County for Free?
Locating an individual in custody in Kankakee County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These free resources are designed to provide basic information about an individual's custody status and location. The following methods are currently available to the public at no charge:
Kankakee County Sheriff's Online Inmate Lookup:
The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the online inmate search tool:
- Access the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the individual's last name (minimum requirement)
- For more precise results, include first name and/or date of birth if known
- Submit the search query
- Review the results, which typically include custody status, charges, and next court date
This online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides the most current information about individuals in county custody.
Telephone Information Service:
For those without internet access, the Sheriff's Office provides information via telephone:
- Call the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office at (815) 802-7100
- Request information about an individual's custody status
- Provide the full name of the person you are inquiring about
- Basic information about whether the person is in custody and their location may be provided
Illinois Department of Corrections Offender Search:
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the Illinois Department of Corrections Individual in Custody Search portal
- Enter the individual's name or identification number
- Review the results for current location and status within the state system
Kankakee Police Department:
For recent arrests or individuals who may be in temporary holding:
- Contact the Kankakee Police Department at (815) 933-3321
- Inquire about recent arrests or individuals in temporary custody
- Provide the name of the person you are seeking information about
Visiting the Sheriff's Office in Person:
Information can also be obtained by visiting the Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
When using these free resources, it is important to have as much identifying information as possible about the individual you are trying to locate. At minimum, you should know the person's full legal name. Additional information such as date of birth, approximate age, or possible charges will help ensure accurate results.
It should be noted that while basic custody information is provided at no cost, requests for certified records or extensive documentation may incur fees in accordance with county policies and state law.
How To Visit an Inmate In Kankakee County
Visitation with inmates housed in Kankakee County correctional facilities is governed by specific rules and procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following information outlines the current visitation policies for the Kankakee County Detention Center and Jerome Combs Detention Center:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted a maximum of 5-7 approved visitors (number varies by facility)
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor who is the child's parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time for processing
- Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
Visit Schedule:
The visitation schedule is organized by inmate housing unit and last name:
Kankakee County Detention Center:
- Tuesday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- No visitation on Mondays or county holidays
Jerome Combs Detention Center:
- Wednesday-Sunday: Various times based on housing unit
- No visitation on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
Specific visitation days for each inmate are determined by their housing assignment and the first letter of their last name. Current schedules are available by contacting the facility directly at (815) 802-7100.
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
- If visiting with a minor, bring documentation proving guardianship
- Small clear plastic bag or container for storing personal items not permitted in the visitation area
- Quarters for vending machines (if available in the visitation area)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes
- Alcohol or illegal drugs
- Cell phones, smartwatches, or other electronic devices
- Cameras or recording devices
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- More than $20 in cash (for vending machines)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or miniskirts)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
- No excessively baggy clothing
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
-
Contact Visits: Generally not available except in special circumstances approved by facility administration.
-
Non-Contact Visits: Standard visitation occurs through glass partitions with telephone communication. Visitors and inmates remain physically separated.
-
Professional Visits: Attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals may visit during expanded hours by prior arrangement.
-
Video Visitation: Some housing units utilize video visitation systems. These visits may be conducted from on-site video terminals or, in some cases, remotely via approved devices.
Visit Restrictions:
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates on disciplinary restriction may have limited or suspended visitation privileges
- Special housing units (medical, mental health, high security) may have modified visitation procedures
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied visitation privileges in accordance with 730 ILCS 5/3-8-7
- Violation of visitation rules may result in termination of the visit and possible suspension of future visitation privileges
For the most current information regarding inmate visitation, contact the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office at (815) 802-7100 or visit their website.
How To Send Money to a Kankakee County Inmate
Individuals in custody at Kankakee County detention facilities require funds for commissary purchases and other approved expenses. The Kankakee County Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing money into an inmate's account. The following information outlines the current procedures, limitations, and regulations regarding inmate funds:
Methods for Sending Money:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office website
- Locate and click on the "Inmate Funds" or "Commissary Deposits" link
- Follow the instructions to create an account with the third-party service provider
- Enter the inmate's information and deposit amount
- Complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
-
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the Kankakee County Detention Center lobby during regular business hours
- Locate the automated kiosk machine
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use a credit/debit card
- Obtain and retain the receipt as proof of deposit
-
Money Order by Mail:
-
Purchase a money order from an approved provider (U.S. Postal Service, Western Union, etc.)
-
Make the money order payable to the inmate's full name and booking number
-
Do not send personal checks or cash
-
Mail to:
Kankakee County Detention Center
Inmate Name, Booking Number
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
-
-
In-Person Cash Deposits:
- Visit the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
- Proceed to the designated cashier window
- Provide the inmate's full name and booking number
- Complete the deposit form
- Receive a receipt for the transaction
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
These limits are subject to change based on facility policies and security considerations. Deposits exceeding these limits may be rejected or require additional verification.
Processing Fees:
Each deposit method incurs processing fees, which are subject to change:
- Online deposits: $2.50 - $10.00 (fee varies based on deposit amount)
- Kiosk deposits: $2.00 - $8.00 (fee varies based on deposit amount)
- Money order by mail: No fee from the facility (cost of money order applies)
- In-person cash deposits: $2.00 service fee
What You Cannot Send:
- Personal checks
- Cash through the mail
- Cashier's checks
- Traveler's checks
- Foreign currency
- Cryptocurrency
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
Funds deposited into an inmate's account may be used for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Court fees and fines
- Restitution payments
- Release funds
Restricted Uses:
Inmate funds cannot be used for:
- Purchasing contraband
- Paying other inmates
- Gambling activities
- Purchasing items for other inmates
- Paying staff members for services
All financial transactions are monitored and recorded. Suspicious activity may result in administrative action, including possible criminal charges for attempts to introduce contraband or engage in prohibited activities. Pursuant to 730 ILCS 5/3-4-3, the Department of Corrections and county jails are authorized to establish and maintain trust funds for inmate monies.
Upon release, any remaining balance in the inmate's account will be returned via debit card or check, depending on the amount and facility procedures.
How To Send Jail Mail In Kankakee County
Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in Kankakee County detention facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain security while facilitating communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following guidelines outline the current procedures for sending mail to inmates:
Addressing Mail Correctly:
All mail must be properly addressed using the following format:
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Kankakee County Detention Center
3000 S Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
For inmates housed at the Jerome Combs Detention Center:
Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Jerome Combs Detention Center
3050 Justice Way
Kankakee, IL 60901
The inmate's booking number is essential for proper delivery. If unknown, this information can be obtained through the inmate search function on the Sheriff's Office website or by calling (815) 802-7100.
Approved Mail Items:
The following items are generally permitted:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, pop-up, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (must be made out to the inmate with their booking number)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved periodicals (must be sent directly from the publisher)
Prohibited Mail Items:
The following items are prohibited and will be rejected:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Nude or sexually explicit photographs
- Photographs depicting gang symbols, weapons, or drug use
- Cards larger than 5"x7"
- Hardcover books
- Items containing glitter, glue, or other adhesives
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Plastic or metal items
Mail Inspection Procedures:
All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules before delivery to the inmate. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate. Pursuant to 730 ILCS 5/3-8-5, correctional institutions are authorized to inspect and censor mail under specific guidelines.
E-Messages and Digital Communication:
Kankakee County detention facilities currently offer digital messaging services through a third-party provider:
- Visit the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office website
- Locate the inmate messaging service link
- Create an account with the service provider
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages following the system guidelines
Digital messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail and are reviewed before delivery to the inmate.
Publications and Books:
Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor. These items are subject to content review and may be rejected if they contain material deemed inappropriate or threatening to facility security. Publications must be paperback only.
Mail Rejection Notices:
If mail is rejected, a notice is typically sent to the sender explaining the reason for rejection. In some cases, the inmate is also notified of the rejected correspondence. Senders may appeal mail rejections through the process outlined in the rejection notice.
Special Considerations for Legal Mail:
Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" on the envelope. This mail receives special handling and is opened only in the presence of the inmate to preserve confidentiality.
Lookup Inmate Records in Kankakee County
Kankakee County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
Illinois Department of Corrections Individual in Custody Search