St Joseph County Michigan Jail is a medium-security detention center located at 650 E. Main St., Centreville, MI 49227. The facility houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or serving short-term sentences under the supervision of the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Office. It serves Centreville and surrounding areas including Sturgis and four townships. The jail operates with strict security protocols, daily inmate fees, and multiple ways for families to stay connected. This page provides verified, up-to-date details on inmate lookup, visitation, fees, phone services, mail rules, and more—all designed to help you quickly find what you need.
Daily Room and Board Fees at St Joseph County Michigan Jail
Every sentenced inmate at St Joseph County Michigan Jail must pay a daily room-and-board fee of $30. This fee covers basic needs like bedding, meals, and utilities. Payments are required each day and must be posted before the end of the 24-hour period. You can pay in cash, by money order, or online through the county’s official payment portal. If fees go unpaid, the county starts a civil collection process. This may lead to wage garnishment or a lien on personal property. To avoid these consequences, families should monitor accounts regularly and make timely payments.
How to Send Mail to an Inmate at St Joseph County Michigan Jail
All mail sent to inmates must include the correct address and inmate details. Use this format: Inmate’s Full Name, Booking Number, St. Joseph County Jail, 650 E. Main St., Centreville, MI 49227. Letters, legal documents, and approved packages must follow these rules. Do not send cash, contraband, or unauthorized items. All mail is inspected for safety. Legal mail may be opened in front of the inmate but not read aloud. Packages must be pre-approved and sent through authorized vendors only. Always check current rules before mailing to avoid delays or rejections.
St Joseph County Michigan Jail Security and Operations
The jail is a medium-security facility with a capacity of 180 beds. On average, it holds about 150 inmates daily. Most serve sentences under two years for offenses like DUI, drug possession, or non-violent crimes. Security includes 24/7 CCTV monitoring, motion-sensor fencing, controlled movement between units, and twice-daily headcounts from a central control room. Staff includes 24 full-time correctional officers, four part-time aides, and four sergeants who manage shifts, classifications, and compliance with Michigan state regulations. The facility processes around 3,500 admissions, releases, and transfers each year.
Find an Inmate: Online Search and Roster Access
You can search for current inmates using the official online inmate roster. The system updates every hour and shows names, booking numbers, dates of birth, charges, bond amounts, court dates, and mugshots. To use it, visit the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s website or trusted partner sites like Jail Exchange. You’ll need the inmate’s full name or booking number. The roster also shows housing units and release dates when available. For urgent questions, call the jail information line at 269-467-4009. This service helps families, attorneys, and employers verify custody status quickly.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling at St Joseph County Michigan Jail
Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance using the online system or by calling the booking desk. Each visitor needs a government-issued photo ID. Dress code rules apply: no revealing clothing, gang symbols, or inappropriate messages. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. In-person visits occur in designated areas with supervision. The jail also offers video visitation for remote access. Sessions can be booked through the same online portal used for inmate searches. Visitation hours vary by housing unit, so always confirm your appointment time. Failure to follow rules may result in denied entry or suspension of privileges.
Contact Numbers for St Joseph County Michigan Jail
Use these official phone numbers for specific needs. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1. Non-emergency police inquiries: 574-235-9611. Jail Booking Desk (24/7): 574-245-6518—call here for new arrests, intake, or housing questions. Civil Service Division: 574-235-9651—handles background checks and employment verification. Warrants Division: 574-235-9756—provides warrant status and updates. All lines are staffed by trained operators who can direct calls to the right department. Keep these numbers handy for fast assistance.
Inmate Phone and Communication Services
Inmates can make outgoing calls 24 hours a day using a secure VoIP system. Families can reach them by calling the toll-free number 866-422-6833. On-site kiosks accept cash, debit, and credit cards for purchasing prepaid minutes. The Express Account service lets loved ones load money online directly into an inmate’s account. Funds can be used for calls, commissary items like snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. All calls are monitored and recorded as required by Michigan law. No incoming calls are allowed. Text messaging and email may be available through approved digital platforms—check the jail’s current policy for updates.
Commissary and Money Management for Inmates
Inmates can buy items from the commissary using funds in their account. Money can be added online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Accepted methods include cash, money order, debit, and credit cards. The Express Account system allows family members to deposit money remotely. Funds appear in the inmate’s account within hours. Commissary purchases include food, toiletries, stationery, and approved electronics. Spending limits may apply based on classification or behavior. Regular account reviews help prevent overspending and ensure fair access to essentials.
Community Corrections and Alternative Programs
St Joseph County offers alternatives to jail through its Community Corrections division. Programs include electronic monitoring, home confinement, day-report centers, and substance abuse treatment. These options help reduce jail population and lower costs while promoting public safety. Eligibility depends on offense type, risk score, and employment status. Participants are supervised by certified probation officers. Successful completion can lead to reduced fines, early parole, or dismissed charges. Funding comes from the Michigan Department of Corrections under Public Act 511. This approach supports rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.
Legal Rights and Resources for Inmates and Families
Inmates retain certain rights under Michigan law, including access to medical care, legal materials, and religious services. They can file grievances if they believe rights are violated. Families should contact the jail administrator or Sheriff’s Office for concerns. Legal aid organizations in Michigan offer free or low-cost help for low-income individuals. Court-appointed attorneys are available for qualifying defendants. Always keep copies of all correspondence and receipts for payments or visits. Knowing your rights helps ensure fair treatment and smoother communication with jail staff.
Frequently Asked Questions About St Joseph County Michigan Jail
Below are common questions from families, attorneys, and researchers seeking accurate, timely information about the facility.
How do I find out if someone is in St Joseph County Michigan Jail?
Use the official inmate search tool on the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s website or call 269-467-4009. You’ll need the person’s full name or booking number. The online roster updates hourly and shows current inmates, charges, bond amounts, court dates, and mugshots. The system is free and available 24/7. For urgent cases, the booking desk at 574-245-6518 can confirm custody status. Always verify information through official channels to avoid scams or outdated data from third-party sites.
Can I visit an inmate without a booking number?
No, you must have the inmate’s booking number to schedule a visit. This number is assigned during intake and appears on the inmate roster. If you don’t have it, search the roster first or call the jail information line. Visitors must also register 24 hours in advance, show a valid photo ID, and follow the dress code. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Video visitation requires advance booking through the online portal. Having the booking number speeds up the process and ensures you’re visiting the correct person.
What happens if I don’t pay the daily $30 fee for an inmate?
Unpaid fees trigger a civil collection process managed by the county finance department. This can result in wage garnishment, bank account levies, or a lien on personal property. The fee is mandatory for all sentenced inmates and must be paid daily. Payments can be made online, by money order, or in cash at the jail. Setting up automatic payments through the Express Account system helps avoid missed deadlines. Families should monitor accounts weekly to prevent legal action and protect the inmate’s credit and assets.
Are mugshots public record at St Joseph County Michigan Jail?
Yes, mugshots are considered public records and are displayed on the inmate roster. They help with identification and transparency. However, releasing them does not imply guilt—many inmates are awaiting trial. Mugshots remain online until release or transfer. Some third-party sites republish them, which may affect reputation. If you believe a mugshot is misused, contact the Sheriff’s Office. Michigan law allows for removal requests in certain cases, such as wrongful arrest or expungement. Always consult a lawyer for legal advice on image rights.
How can I send money to an inmate at St Joseph County Michigan Jail?
You can send money online via the Express Account system, by phone at 866-422-6833, or in person at the jail kiosk. Accepted methods include credit/debit cards, cash, and money orders. Online deposits are fastest and appear in the account within hours. Money orders must be mailed to the jail address with the inmate’s name and booking number. Funds can be used for phone calls, commissary purchases, and other approved expenses. Keep receipts for all transactions. Avoid sending cash through regular mail—it may be lost or confiscated.
What types of crimes do most inmates serve time for at this jail?
Most inmates at St Joseph County Michigan Jail serve short sentences for non-violent offenses. Common charges include driving under the influence (DUI), possession of controlled substances, theft, disorderly conduct, and probation violations. A smaller number serve time for felonies like aggravated assault or drug trafficking, especially if sentences exceed one year. The average stay is under two years. The jail works closely with courts and the Michigan Department of Corrections to manage transfers for longer-term inmates. This focus on lower-level crimes supports rehabilitation and reduces overcrowding.
Can inmates receive books or magazines at St Joseph County Michigan Jail?
Yes, but only from approved vendors. Inmates cannot receive books or magazines sent directly from individuals. All reading materials must come from publishers or retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or jail-approved commissary services. Hardcover books are usually not allowed due to security risks. Softcover books and magazines must be new and unmarked. Check the current policy on the Sheriff’s website before ordering. This rule prevents contraband and ensures all materials are screened for safety. Violations may result in rejected shipments or loss of privileges.
Official Website: https://www.stjosephcountymi.org/government/courts-law-enforcement/sheriff-s-department/resources/jail-information
Phone: 269-467-4009 (Information Line) | 574-245-6518 (Booking Desk)
Address: 650 E. Main St., Centreville, MI 49227
Visiting Hours: Vary by unit; register online at least 24 hours in advance