La Salle County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Ottawa, Illinois. It serves as the primary holding center for individuals arrested in La Salle County who are awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. Managed by the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office, the jail ensures public safety while providing essential services to inmates. The facility supports rehabilitation through education, vocational training, and mental health programs. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, visitation rules, and communication options. This page delivers clear, factual details about how the jail operates, how to contact an inmate, and what rights and resources are available during incarceration.
La Salle County Jail Inmate Search and Roster
Finding an inmate at La Salle County Jail starts with using the official inmate lookup tool. This system allows anyone to search for current inmates by name or booking number. The roster is updated daily and includes key details such as charges, bond amounts, court dates, and housing location. The search tool is free to use and available 24/7 on the jail’s website.
How to Use the Inmate Lookup System
Go to the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office website and click on the “Inmate Roster” tab. Enter the full name or inmate ID number in the search box. Results appear instantly and show the inmate’s current status. If no match appears, double-check the spelling or try a partial name. For help, call the jail at (815) 433-2161 during business hours.
Information Included in the Roster
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Charges and case number
- Bail or bond amount
- Next court date
- Housing unit
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
Offline Search Options
If you can’t use the online tool, visit the jail in person at 707 East Etna Road, Ottawa, IL 61350. Bring a valid photo ID and the inmate’s full name. Staff will assist with your request. You may also call the jail and speak with a records officer. Be ready to provide identifying details like date of birth or arrest date.
La Salle County Jail Booking and Release Process
When someone is arrested in La Salle County, they are brought to the jail for booking. This process takes 1–2 hours and includes fingerprinting, a mugshot, medical screening, and inventory of personal items. All new inmates undergo a risk assessment to determine housing placement. Once booked, their information appears on the inmate roster within 24 hours.
Steps in the Booking Process
- Arrest and transport to jail
- Fingerprinting and mugshot
- Background and warrant check
- Medical and mental health screening
- Property storage
- Housing assignment
Release Procedures
Inmates are released after posting bail, completing their sentence, or receiving a court order. Bail can be paid in cash, by credit card, or through a bondsman. Once payment is confirmed, release paperwork is processed within 30–60 minutes. Sentenced inmates are released on their scheduled date unless held for other charges.
La Salle County Jail Visitation Rules and Hours
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with family and friends. La Salle County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits occur weekdays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Virtual visits are available seven days a week and can be booked online.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
- Schedule visits at least 24 hours ahead
- Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in
- No more than two visitors per inmate per session
- Visits last 30 minutes
Dress Code for Visitors
Visitors must wear modest clothing. Avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, mini-skirts, hats, sunglasses, or clothing with offensive language. Shoes are required. Failure to follow the dress code may result in denied entry.
Virtual Visitation
Virtual visits use a secure video platform. Families create an account, add funds, and schedule a session. Inmates receive a notification and join from their housing unit. Sessions last 20 minutes and cost $9.95 per call. Technical support is available during operating hours.
La Salle County Jail Inmate Communication
Inmates can stay in touch with loved ones through phone calls, mail, and email. All communications are monitored for safety. Phone calls are the most common method. Inmates can only call pre-approved numbers. Family members must set up a prepaid account through the jail’s phone service provider.
Phone Call Rules
- Calls last 15–20 minutes
- Only outgoing calls are allowed
- All calls are recorded and may be reviewed
- International calls are not permitted
- Funds must be added in advance
Sending and Receiving Mail
Inmates may send and receive letters. Mail must be addressed clearly with the inmate’s full name and ID number. Use plain white envelopes and paper. Do not include stickers, drawings, or Polaroid photos. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores. All mail is inspected before delivery.
Email Messaging
The jail offers a secure email system. Family members send messages through the provider’s website. Inmates receive printed copies during recreation time. Replies are handwritten and mailed back. Emails are screened for inappropriate content. This service costs $0.25 per message.
Sending Money to Inmates at La Salle County Jail
Inmates can receive money for commissary purchases, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Funds are added to a personal account managed by the jail. There are three ways to send money: online, by phone, or in person at a kiosk.
Online Deposits
Visit the jail’s official commissary website. Create an account, enter the inmate’s name and ID, and add funds using a debit or credit card. Transactions are instant and secure. A small service fee applies.
Kiosk Payments
A payment kiosk is located in the jail lobby. Accept cash, credit, or debit cards. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the deposit. Receipts are printed for your records.
Money Orders by Mail
Send a money order made payable to the inmate. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number on the memo line. Mail to: La Salle County Jail, 707 East Etna Road, Ottawa, IL 61350. Do not send cash or personal checks.
La Salle County Jail Commissary and Inmate Purchases
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to their housing unit. Funds must be available in the inmate’s account. Popular items include instant coffee, chips, toothpaste, soap, and envelopes.
Commissary Items Available
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Food & Drinks | Coffee, chips, candy, soft drinks |
| Hygiene | Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant |
| Stationery | Pens, paper, envelopes, stamps |
| Clothing | Socks, undershirts, gloves |
Ordering Process
Inmates receive a commissary form each week. They mark desired items and return the form by the deadline. Orders are processed within 48 hours. New inmates receive a starter kit of basic supplies upon arrival.
La Salle County Jail Inmate Services and Programs
The jail offers programs to support rehabilitation and reduce repeat offenses. These include education, job training, and counseling. Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Programs are run by certified instructors and community partners.
Educational Programs
Inmates can earn a GED through on-site classes. Tutors help with math, reading, and science. Study materials are provided. Upon passing the exam, inmates receive a state-recognized diploma.
Vocational Training
- Carpentry basics
- Plumbing and pipefitting
- Electrical safety
- Computer literacy
These skills help inmates find work after release. Certificates are awarded upon completion.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support
Counselors provide individual and group therapy. Programs focus on anger management, addiction recovery, and stress reduction. Medication-assisted treatment is available for opioid use disorder. Referrals to outside services are made upon release.
La Salle County Jail Healthcare Services
Medical care is provided to all inmates. Upon intake, each person receives a health screening. Ongoing care includes routine check-ups, prescription medications, dental cleanings, and vision exams. Emergency care is available 24/7.
Medical Services Offered
- Physical exams
- Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension)
- Vaccinations
- Mental health evaluations
- Medication distribution
Mental Health Care
Psychologists and social workers conduct assessments and therapy sessions. Crisis intervention is available for suicidal thoughts or severe anxiety. Inmates can request a mental health evaluation at any time.
La Salle County Jail Inmate Rights and Legal Resources
Inmates have rights protected by law. They can access legal materials, request court documents, and speak with attorneys. The jail provides a law library with computers and printed resources. Inmates may also file grievances if they feel their rights are violated.
Legal Access Options
- Private attorney visits (by appointment)
- Phone calls to lawyers
- Mail correspondence with legal counsel
- Access to case files through the court
Inmate Grievance Process
If an inmate has a complaint, they can submit a written grievance form. Staff respond within 72 hours. If unresolved, the issue can be escalated to the jail administrator. All grievances are documented and reviewed monthly.
La Salle County Jail Security and Safety Measures
Safety is a top priority. The facility uses 24/7 surveillance, electronic monitoring, and staff patrols. Inmates are classified by risk level to prevent conflicts. Emergency drills are conducted regularly.
Security Features
- HD cameras in all common areas
- Motion sensors in housing units
- Controlled entry and exit points
- Regular staff training on crisis response
- Medical emergency protocols
Inmate Classification System
Inmates are assessed for behavior, criminal history, and health needs. Low-risk inmates may have more privileges. High-risk individuals are housed separately and monitored closely.
Contact Information for La Salle County Jail
For questions about inmates, visitation, or services, use the following contact details:
- Address: 707 East Etna Road, Ottawa, IL 61350
- Phone: (815) 433-2161
- Website: https://www.lasallecounty.org/sheriff/jail
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Email: sheriff@lasallecounty.org
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have questions about how La Salle County Jail operates, how to contact inmates, and what services are available. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in La Salle County Jail?
Use the online inmate lookup tool on the La Salle County Sheriff’s website. Enter the person’s full name or booking number. The roster shows current inmates, charges, and court dates. If the person isn’t listed, they may have been released or transferred. Call (815) 433-2161 for confirmation. The roster updates every 24 hours, so recent arrests may not appear immediately.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. In-person visits require booking at least 24 hours before the desired time. Virtual visits also need prior scheduling through the online portal. Walk-in visits are not allowed due to security and staffing limits. Always check the website for updated visitation rules.
What happens if I send cash in the mail to an inmate?
Cash sent through the mail will be returned or destroyed. Only money orders or cashier’s checks are accepted by mail. Personal checks and cash are not allowed for security reasons. Use online deposits or kiosk payments instead. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number on all money orders.
Are inmates allowed to have their own medications?
No. All medications must be approved and dispensed by jail medical staff. Inmates cannot keep personal prescriptions. Upon arrival, medications are reviewed and replaced with jail-approved equivalents if needed. Bring a list of current prescriptions to intake for faster processing.
How can I get a copy of an inmate’s mugshot?
Mugshots are public records. Submit a written request to the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s name, booking date, and your contact information. There may be a small fee for processing. Mugshots are not posted online to protect privacy. Requests are processed within 10 business days.
What programs help inmates prepare for life after jail?
La Salle County Jail offers GED classes, vocational training in carpentry and plumbing, and substance abuse counseling. These programs teach skills that improve job chances after release. Inmates receive certificates upon completion. Staff also help with job applications and housing referrals before release.
Can inmates receive books from Amazon or other retailers?
Yes, but only if sent directly from the publisher or an approved bookstore. Books must be new and paperback. Hardcover books are not allowed. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number on the package. Do not send books with plastic covers or spiral bindings. All books are inspected before delivery.