Ottawa County Inmate Search

We are glad you came to this page. We want to help you with your Ottawa County MI Inmate Search. Our aim is to give you the facts you need. We will do our best to guide you through the process of finding someone held in the county jail.

If you want to begin your Ottawa County MI Inmate Search right now, you can visit https://michiganinmaterecords.com/ottawa-county-inmate-search/. This site may help you find the person you are looking for fast. Using an online tool can save time. Check the link if you need quick access to inmate data or search forms to start the process. Remember to have the person's name ready.

Online Ottawa County MI Inmate Search Method

Using the Official Ottawa County Lookup

The best place to start your search online is the official tool. Ottawa County provides an online inmate lookup system. This lets the public find people currently in jail. You can access this tool directly. Find it on the county's official web site. This is the most direct way to check custody status. Make sure you use the official site. It has the most current data they share.

The tool is located at the Ottawa County website. You can find it here: https://app.miottawa.org/InmateLookup/. To use the search, you need some facts. You must enter the full last name. You can also add the first name. Even one letter of the first name helps. You might add the booking date. Gender (male or female) can also narrow results. Having more details helps you find the right person. Be sure to spell names right.

Keep in mind that inmate data changes fast. The info shown online may not be the most current status. A person might be moved or let go. Also, people may use false names when booked. Real identity can only be known for sure by using fingerprints. The site warns not to use this posted info for legal acts. It shows only inmates in custody right now. Data is updated often, usually each morning. Check the time stamp on the site for the last update.

Contacting the Jail Directly for Information

Inmate Information Line (24/7)

If you cannot find the person online, call the jail. There is a phone line just for inmate information. This line is open all day and all night. You can call them any time. The staff can check if someone is in the jail. They can give basic facts. This is good if the online tool does not work for you. Or if you need to check status right away.

The phone number for inmate information is (616) 786-4140. Call this number to ask about a person. Have the person's full name ready. Their date of birth may also help. Staff can confirm if they are there. They might give bond info or charges. They can tell you the next court date too. This line is best for quick checks on who is in jail.

Jail Administration Line (Business Hours)

For more complex questions, call the jail admin office. This line is open during normal work hours. Usually, this is Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Do not call this line for simple status checks. Use it for things like asking about jail policy. Or if you have a special need or concern. The admin staff handle the jail's day-to-day running.

The Jail Administration phone number is (616) 738-4080. Call this number during business hours. You might need to talk to a specific person. Like the Jail Administrator or a Captain. Use this for issues not covered by the main info line. For example, asking about property rules. Or maybe a health care concern for an inmate. They can direct you to the right person.

Ottawa County Jail: Essential Contact Information

Jail Location Address

The Ottawa County Jail is found in West Olive, Michigan. Knowing the address is key if you need to visit. Or if you need to send mail. Or maybe drop off allowed items. Always check rules before you go. The physical location is central to jail operations. All inmates booked in Ottawa County are held here. Unless they get moved to a state place.

The full address for the Ottawa County Jail is: 12130 Fillmore Street West Olive, MI 49460 Use this address for maps or mailing. Check visiting hours before you travel there. Parking info may be on the county site too.

General Jail Phone Number

There is a main phone number for the jail. This might be used for general questions. It might also be the line for scheduling visits. Check the visitation section for sure. Having this number is handy. It connects you to the main jail desk. They can help point you in the right way.

The main jail phone number is (616) 738-4650. You can try this number for general jail questions. Or if other numbers are not working. They may transfer you if needed. This line is likely open during business hours. But parts of the jail run 24/7.

Jail Administrator Details

The head of the jail is the Jail Administrator. This person runs the facility. They oversee staff and policy. Knowing who this is can be useful. Especially for serious concerns. Or if you need to appeal a choice made by staff. Like a denied visit. You can reach out to them.

The current Jail Administrator is Captain Jessica Faught. You can also try calling the Jail Administration line (616) 738-4080. Ask to speak with her or leave a message. Use this contact for high-level issues.

Ottawa County Sheriff's Office Contact

Sheriff's Name

The Sheriff runs the Sheriff's Office. This office includes the county jail. The Sheriff is an elected official. They lead law enforcement in the county. They also manage the corrections part. The current Sheriff sets the tone for the office.

The Sheriff of Ottawa County is Eric DeBoer. You can find more info about him online. Look at the official county Sheriff's page on https://miottawa.org/sheriff/. His office oversees all jail functions.

Administration Building Address

The Sheriff's main office is not at the jail. It is in a nearby building. This is where admin staff work. Like the Sheriff and command staff. You might need this address for official mail. Or if you need to meet with admin staff. It is close to the jail building.

The address for the Sheriff's Administration building is: 12220 Fillmore St. West Olive, MI 49460 Note this is different from the jail address. Use this for non-jail admin matters.

Main Office Phone Number

The Sheriff's Office has a main phone number. This is for the administrative side. Not for inmate information or jail operations. Call this number for general Sheriff's Office questions. Or to reach admin staff. They handle law enforcement tasks too.

The main phone number for the Sheriff's Office Administration is (616) 738-4000. Use this for non-emergency police matters. Or to reach the Sheriff's direct staff. For emergencies, always call 911. For jail questions, use the jail numbers listed before.

Visiting an Inmate at Ottawa County Jail

How to Schedule Inmate Visits

You must schedule visits in advance. You cannot just show up. Plan ahead to see an inmate. Ottawa County offers two ways to book a visit. You can book it online. Or you can book it by phone. This makes it easy for most folks. Remember to book early. Slots might fill up fast. Check the rules for how far in advance you need to book.

• Online Scheduling: Go to the Ottawa County Sheriff's inmate visitation page: https://miottawa.org/sheriff/jail/inmate-visitation/. Look for the link or portal for scheduling visits. You may need an account (like SmartJailMail mentioned below). Follow the steps on the screen. Select the inmate and a time slot.

• Phone Scheduling: Call (616) 738-4650. Do this during normal business hours. Tell them you want to schedule a visit. Give the inmate's name. Choose an open time slot. Staff will confirm the booking.

• Visit Timing and Arrival: You must arrive 10 minutes before your planned visit time. This gives time for check-in and security steps. Being late might mean you lose your visit slot. Plan your travel time well.

Rules for Visitors

Visiting is a privilege, not a right. Both the visitor and inmate must follow rules. Failure to follow rules can end a visit. It could also lead to loss of future visits. Know the rules before you go. This ensures a smooth visit for all. Rules cover dress, conduct, and items.

• Visit Frequency and Duration: Inmates usually get one visit per week. The visit is face-to-face. It lasts for 45 minutes. This limit helps all inmates get a chance to see loved ones.

• Expected Conduct: Act in a proper way at all times. No loud talk or bad language. No disruptive acts are allowed. Be polite to staff and others. Keep voice levels low. Follow all staff directions.

• Required Dress Code: You must dress right to visit. The jail calls for professional attire. No suggestive clothes are allowed. This means no mini-skirts or short shorts. No halter tops or see-through clothes. No swim wear is allowed. Jail staff decide if clothes are proper. Dress neat and modest to avoid issues.

• Items Not Allowed During Visits: You cannot bring many items into the visit area. This includes keys, cell phones, and purses. Wallets and money are also not allowed. Hats and computers are banned too. Do not bring gifts, food, or drinks. Leave these items in your car. Lockers are in the front lobby for storage. Bringing drugs, alcohol, or weapons is a serious crime (felony).

• Visitor Screening Policy: All visitors must sign in and out. Expect to go through security screening. Professional visitors asking for a contact visit may be searched. Be ready for this check. Cooperate with the staff.

• Violation Consequences: If you or the inmate break rules, the visit can end early. You might be banned from future visits. Serious rule breaking can lead to charges. Follow all rules closely.

• Potential for Visit Cancellation: All visit days and times can be canceled. This might happen without notice. Reasons could be a lockdown or staff issue. Check before you leave home if you can.

Professional Visitation Guidelines (Legal, Clergy)

Special rules apply to professional visitors. This includes lawyers, clergy, and counselors. They still must follow basic rules. But some policies differ slightly. They must sign in and out. They cannot give gifts or money to inmates. Items need prior approval from the Jail Admin. They must act in a proper way. Weapons are never allowed. Access can be revoked by the Jail Admin. They may be subject to search for contact visits. The jail has a strict "No Hostage" policy.

Video Visitation Option via SmartJailMail

Ottawa County uses SmartJailMail for electronic messages. This system may also be used for video visits. Check the county jail site for full details. Using this system requires setup. You need an account first. Then you connect with the inmate. After that, you can apply for visits.

• Account Setup: Go to https://www.smartjailmail.com/. Sign up for a free account. You need a username, password, and contact info. They will verify your account via text or email.

• Connecting with an Inmate: Log in to your account. Find the inmate under "Contacts" then "Find an Inmate." Select the inmate. Choose connection type "Friends/Family." Send a connection request. The inmate must accept it.

• Application Process: Once connected, you get an email. Go back to your account. You will need to upload documents. This is part of applying for visitation. Follow the steps shown online.

Ways to Communicate with Ottawa County Inmates

Sending Mail to Inmates

Inmates can receive mail through the US Postal Service. This is a key way to stay in touch. Mail must be sent correctly. It needs the right address and format. All mail is opened and checked for safety. Except for legal mail, which is opened in front of the inmate. Follow rules to ensure mail gets through.

• Correct Mailing Address Format:

  • Inmate's Full Name

  • c/o Ottawa County Jail

  • 12130 Fillmore Street

  • West Olive, MI 49460

• Envelope Requirements: The envelope must show the inmate's full name. It must also have your full name and return address. Without both, the mail may be rejected. Use plain envelopes and paper.

• Restrictions on Senders: People who were in the jail recently cannot write to current inmates. This ban lasts for six months after their release. If you need to write during this time, ask the Jail Administrator first. Content rules also apply. Mail with threats, plans for crime, or explicit content will be rejected.

Inmate Phone Call Systems (General Information)

Inmates can usually make phone calls. They cannot receive incoming calls directly. Calls are often made collect. Or they use a pre-paid account system. The inmate's family sets up the account. Money is added to allow calls. The specific phone service provider may vary. Check the Ottawa County Jail website (https://miottawa.org/sheriff/jail/). Or ask jail staff for details on the phone system used. Rules limit call times and length. All calls are recorded and may be monitored, except legal calls.

Funding an Inmate's Account (Commissary)

Methods for Sending Money

Inmates need money for certain things. They can buy items from the jail store (commissary). Things like snacks, toiletries, or writing stuff. They also use funds for phone calls or tablet use. You can send money to an inmate's account. There are usually a few ways to do this. Check the jail's official site for the exact methods they accept, often found under "Commissary & Account Deposits" on the main jail page: https://miottawa.org/sheriff/jail/.

• Online Deposits: Many jails use online services. You can use a credit or debit card. Find the approved service on the jail website. Set up an account to send funds. Fees usually apply for this service.

• Lobby Kiosk Use: There may be a kiosk machine in the jail lobby. You can use cash or cards here. Follow the steps on the screen. Select the inmate and deposit funds. Some kiosks are for visits only, others for money. Read the signs well. Confirm the provider and accepted payment methods with the jail.

• Purpose of Funds: Money goes into the inmate's trust fund account. They use this balance for approved purchases. Or for phone time or other paid services. It helps them get items not issued by the jail. Money orders might not be accepted. Always check the current policy before sending funds.

Programs Offered to Inmates

Types of Programs (Education, Health, etc.)

The Ottawa County Jail offers programs for inmates. These aim to help them while inside. They also help prepare them for release. Programs cover various needs. They hope to reduce the chance of inmates returning to jail. The goal is to help them change their lives.

Available programs include:

• Adult learning and skill building

• Job skill development help

• Substance use treatment programs

• Personal growth and family skills classes

• Health education sessions

• Religious services and studies

• Library access and programs

Program Goals

The main goal is to help inmates succeed after release. They want inmates to become good members of the community. They hope inmates will obey the law. And be able to support themselves. These programs give tools and support. They address issues that may lead to crime. Things like lack of education or drug use. The jail works with local groups to offer these services.

State-Level Search and Notification Tools

Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) OTIS

If the person is not in the county jail, they might be in state prison. The Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) runs state prisons. They have their own online search tool. It is called the Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS). This tool tracks state prisoners. It also tracks parolees and probationers under MDOC watch.

• Website and Purpose: Access OTIS at https://www.michigan.gov/corrections/otis. Use it to find people in state custody. Or those recently released but still supervised.

• Scope of Information: OTIS shows current prisoners. It includes parolees and probationers. It covers those discharged within the last three years too.

• Information Not Included: OTIS does not show inmates in county jails. It does not list people arrested but not yet sentenced. It also omits offenders off supervision for more than three years. For those, use ICHAT.

Michigan VINElink System

VINE stands for Victim Information and Notification Everyday. It is a free service for crime victims. It lets victims track an offender's custody status. This covers inmates in county jails and state prisons. You can get alerts when an offender is released or moved.

• Website and Toll-Free Number: Access Michigan VINE online at https://www.vinelink.com/. Or call the toll-free number: 1-800-770-7657. Service is available 24/7.

• Functionality: Search for an offender using their name or ID number. Check their current location and status. Register to get automatic alerts. You can choose phone calls, emails, or texts. This service helps victims stay safe and informed. Info changes fast, so VINE provides timely updates.

Relevant Michigan Laws and Resources

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

Michigan law allows public access to government records. This is known as the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This law applies to arrest records. And other public documents held by the Sheriff's Office. You have the right to ask for these records.

• Law Reference: The Michigan FOIA law is found in the Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL), starting at Section 15.231. See the full text here: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(fvvpsmctekopkxe5hmz5jjuz))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=mcl-Act-442-of-1976

• Access to Public Records: You can request to see or get copies of records. Submit a FOIA request to the agency holding the record. They may charge fees for searching and copying. Ottawa County might have an online FOIA portal to submit requests. Check their main website (https://miottawa.org/).

Michigan State Police ICHAT

For broader criminal history checks, use ICHAT. This is the Internet Criminal History Access Tool. It is run by the Michigan State Police. It lets you search for criminal records by name. It is useful for background checks. Or finding info on people off supervision for over three years.

• Purpose: Provides name-based checks for Michigan criminal history. Access it here: https://apps.michigan.gov/ICHAT/Home.aspx

• Scope and Potential Fees: ICHAT shows misdemeanor convictions. It also shows felony arrests and convictions. It does not show arrests that did not lead to conviction. There is usually a fee per search conducted through ICHAT.

How to Report Jail-Related Concerns

Reporting Crime Tips

If you know about crime inside the jail, report it. Or if you suspect unsafe acts. The Sheriff's Office provides ways to report tips. You can often remain anonymous if you wish. Reporting helps keep the jail safe for staff and inmates.

• Contact Numbers:

  • Jail Administration (Business Hours): (616) 738-4080

  • Shift Supervisor (24 Hours): (616) 786-4140

  • Silent Observer (Anonymous): (616) 994-7851 or Toll-Free 1-877-88-SILENT

PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) Reporting (General Info)

All jails must follow PREA standards. This federal law aims to stop sexual assault in custody. Jails must have ways for inmates and others to report abuse. They must investigate all claims. If you need to report sexual abuse or harassment in the jail, contact jail administration. Or use the crime tip lines. The jail should have specific PREA reporting info posted. Or available upon request. They must take these reports seriously.