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Multnomah County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Multnomah County?

Inmate records in Multnomah County are official government documents maintained by the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records document an individual's journey through the criminal justice system from the point of arrest and booking through their release from custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records, which are maintained by the Multnomah County Circuit Court and focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal documents. In contrast, inmate records specifically document custody status and are maintained by correctional authorities. According to Oregon Revised Statutes § 192.355, certain aspects of these records are subject to specific disclosure rules that balance public access with privacy considerations.

The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when an individual is processed into a Multnomah County detention facility. During this intake process, personal information is collected, photographs (mugshots) are taken, fingerprints are recorded, and initial charge information is documented. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and court proceedings. Upon release, the record is updated with release information but remains in the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office database as a historical record.

Are Inmate Records Public In Multnomah County?

Inmate records in Multnomah County are generally considered public records under the Oregon Public Records Law § 192.311-192.478, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to certain limitations and exemptions designed to protect individual privacy and maintain security.

The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

  • Current custody status (whether an individual is currently in custody)
  • Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
  • Booking photographs (mugshots)
  • Charges filed
  • Bail/bond amounts
  • Expected release dates
  • Current housing facility

Certain sensitive information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure under ORS § 192.355, including:

  • Social Security numbers
  • Medical and mental health information
  • Information that would compromise facility security
  • Victim information
  • Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
  • Information related to ongoing investigations

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access basic custody status through the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system or by contacting the Records Division directly. More comprehensive records may require submission of a formal public records request in accordance with county procedures.

What's Included Inmate Records in Multnomah County

Inmate records in Multnomah County contain a comprehensive collection of information documenting an individual's interaction with the county's correctional system. These records typically include:

Basic Identifying Information:

  • Full legal name and any known aliases
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Race/ethnicity
  • Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
  • Booking photograph (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints
  • State ID number and/or booking number

Custody Information:

  • Current custody status
  • Date and time of booking
  • Arresting agency
  • Housing assignment within facility
  • Classification level
  • Disciplinary records during incarceration
  • Visitation logs

Charge Information:

  • Current charges
  • Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
  • Warrant information (if applicable)
  • Probation/parole violations (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond/bail amount
  • Bond/bail status (posted, denied, etc.)
  • Bond/bail conditions
  • Bond type (cash, surety, etc.)

Court Information:

  • Court case numbers
  • Scheduled court appearances
  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Judge assigned to case

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Conviction details
  • Sentence length
  • Sentence start date
  • Projected release date
  • Good time/earned time credits
  • Parole eligibility date (if applicable)

Release Information:

  • Release date and time
  • Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
  • Post-release supervision requirements (if applicable)
  • Conditions of release

Multnomah County Prison System

The Multnomah County correctional system operates under the authority of the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of the county's detention facilities. These facilities primarily house individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities.

It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Oregon. County jails, including those in Multnomah County, typically house individuals who are:

  • Awaiting trial (pre-trial detention)
  • Serving sentences for misdemeanors (typically less than one year)
  • Awaiting transfer to state prison after sentencing
  • Held on probation or parole violations
  • Temporarily housed for court appearances

In contrast, Oregon state prisons, operated by the Oregon Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies and serving sentences longer than one year.

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office oversees the county's correctional facilities and can be contacted at:

Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
501 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 350
Portland, OR 97214
503-988-4300
Multnomah County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Multnomah County

Multnomah County operates multiple correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations:

Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC)
1120 SW 3rd Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3689
Multnomah County Detention Center

The MCDC is a maximum-security facility located in downtown Portland. This facility primarily houses individuals who are newly arrested, awaiting arraignment, classified as high-risk, or requiring special housing needs. The facility has a capacity of approximately 448 beds and provides 24-hour intake and release services.

Inverness Jail
11540 NE Inverness Drive
Portland, OR 97220
503-988-5060
Inverness Jail

Inverness Jail is a medium-security facility with a capacity of approximately 1,037 beds. This facility houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders. Inverness Jail offers various rehabilitative programs, including education services, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training.

Multnomah County Justice Center
1120 SW 3rd Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-4300
Multnomah County Justice Center

The Justice Center houses courtrooms, the Portland Police Bureau central precinct, and the Multnomah County Detention Center. This integrated facility allows for efficient processing of individuals through the criminal justice system.

Columbia River Correctional Institution
9111 NE Sunderland Avenue
Portland, OR 97211
971-673-3000

While technically a state facility operated by the Oregon Department of Corrections, this minimum-security prison is located within Multnomah County and houses inmates who are nearing release, with a focus on reentry programming.

Who's in Prison In Multnomah County

The Multnomah County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically includes:

Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or arraignment. These individuals have not been convicted of the charges against them and are presumed innocent under the law. They may be held in custody because they:

  • Have been denied bail
  • Cannot afford to post bail
  • Are considered a flight risk or danger to the community
  • Have violated conditions of pre-trial release

Sentenced Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of less than one year. These typically include:

  • Misdemeanor offenders (crimes punishable by up to one year in jail)
  • Individuals convicted of lower-level felonies with short sentences
  • Probation violators serving sanctions

Temporary Holds: Individuals who are:

  • Awaiting transfer to state prison after receiving felony sentences
  • Being held for court appearances from other jurisdictions
  • Detained on immigration holds
  • Held on probation or parole violations while awaiting hearings

Special Populations: The jail system also accommodates:

  • Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
  • Those in protective custody due to safety concerns
  • Individuals in disciplinary segregation
  • Those participating in treatment programs or work release

According to data from the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population across all county correctional facilities fluctuates between 1,200-1,500 individuals, with the majority being pre-trial detainees awaiting resolution of their cases.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Multnomah County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Multnomah County may utilize several methods to access these records. The county currently maintains systems that allow for efficient searching of basic custody information:

Online Inmate Lookup:

  1. Visit the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office inmate information page
  2. Select the "Inmate Lookup" option
  3. Enter search criteria (at least one of the following):
    • Last name and first name
    • Booking number (if known)
    • State ID number (if known)
  4. Review the search results, which typically include:
    • Name and age
    • Booking date
    • Current charges
    • Bail amount
    • Expected release date (if applicable)
    • Housing facility

In-Person Records Request:

  1. Visit the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Records Unit:

    Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Records Unit
    501 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 350
    Portland, OR 97214

  2. Complete a public records request form

  3. Provide identification and specify the information being requested

  4. Pay any applicable fees for record retrieval and copying

Written Records Request:

  1. Submit a written request to:

    Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Records Unit
    501 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 350
    Portland, OR 97214

  2. Include in your request:

    • Your full name and contact information
    • The inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
    • Specific information being requested
    • Purpose of the request (optional)

  3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response

  4. Include payment for applicable fees (contact the Records Unit for current fee schedule)

Telephone Inquiry:

  1. Call the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office at 503-988-4300
  2. Request to be connected to the Records Unit or Jail Information
  3. Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
  4. Note that only basic custody status information is typically provided by phone

Pursuant to Oregon Public Records Law § 192.324, the Sheriff's Office must respond to records requests within 5 business days, either by providing the records, denying the request with explanation, or providing an estimated completion date for complex requests.

How To Find an Inmate in Multnomah County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Multnomah County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources:

Online Inmate Lookup System:

  1. Access the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office website
  2. Navigate to the "Corrections" or "Jail Information" section
  3. Select the "Inmate Lookup" function
  4. Enter the individual's information (last name is required; first name is recommended for more accurate results)
  5. Review the search results, which provide basic custody information at no cost

Telephone Information Line:

  1. Call the Multnomah County Jail Information line at 503-988-3689
  2. Follow the automated prompts or request to speak with an operator
  3. Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
  4. Receive basic information about custody status, facility location, and visiting hours

In-Person Inquiry:

  1. Visit the public lobby of either correctional facility:

    Multnomah County Detention Center
    1120 SW 3rd Avenue
    Portland, OR 97204

    Inverness Jail
    11540 NE Inverness Drive
    Portland, OR 97220

  2. Speak with the reception staff

  3. Provide the name of the individual you are trying to locate

  4. Receive information about custody status and visiting procedures

Oregon Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE):

  1. Visit Oregon VINE
  2. Select "Find an Offender"
  3. Enter the individual's name
  4. Review custody information for inmates in Multnomah County facilities

Court Records Search:

  1. Access the Oregon Judicial Department's Online Records Search
  2. Search by the individual's name
  3. Review case information, which may include custody status and scheduled court appearances
  4. Note that while basic case information is free, detailed documents may require fees

When searching for inmate information, having the following details available will improve search accuracy:

  • Full legal name (including middle name if known)
  • Date of birth
  • Approximate booking date (if known)
  • Case number (if known)

How To Visit an Inmate In Multnomah County

Visiting an inmate in Multnomah County requires adherence to specific procedures established by the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office to ensure security and orderly operations. The following guidelines apply to visitation at county correctional facilities:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

  • All visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
  • Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
  • Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance for most visits
  • Each inmate is permitted a specific number of visits per week, as determined by facility policies
  • Visit duration is typically 30 minutes, though this may vary by facility and visit type
  • All visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility
  • Visitors with outstanding warrants or who are on probation/parole may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

  • Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC): Visits are scheduled during designated hours, typically between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM, seven days a week
  • Inverness Jail: Visitation hours vary by housing unit and day of the week
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) may be scheduled outside regular visiting hours

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
  • Visitor registration confirmation (if applicable)
  • Vehicle keys (all other personal items must be secured in lockers)
  • Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, medical devices)

What NOT to Bring:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Drugs or alcohol
  • Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, recording devices)
  • Food or beverages
  • Tobacco products or vaping devices
  • Excessive jewelry or accessories
  • Large bags or purses
  • Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

  • Conservative attire is required
  • No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
  • No gang-related attire or colors
  • No clothing with offensive language or images
  • No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
  • No sunglasses
  • No excessively baggy clothing
  • Shoes must be worn at all times

Visit Types:

  • In-person visits: Conducted in designated visitation areas with physical separation
  • Video visits: Available at both facilities through on-site video terminals
  • Remote video visits: Available through approved third-party providers for a fee
  • Professional visits: Available for attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals

Visit Restrictions:

  • Visitors who appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be denied entry
  • Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
  • Passing of contraband will result in visit termination and possible criminal charges
  • Visitors who violate rules may be permanently banned from visiting

Pursuant to Oregon Administrative Rules 291-127, correctional facilities must provide reasonable visitation opportunities while maintaining facility security and safety. Specific visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations.

How To Send Money to a Multnomah County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Multnomah County correctional facilities have several options for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds can be used by inmates to purchase items from the commissary, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.

Methods for Sending Money:

  1. Online Deposits:

    • Visit the TouchPay website
    • Select "Multnomah County Sheriff's Office" (Facility #297204)
    • Create an account or proceed as a guest
    • Enter the inmate's information (full name and inmate ID number)
    • Enter payment information and deposit amount
    • Service fees apply (typically $2.95-$9.95 depending on amount)

  2. TouchPay Kiosk Deposits:

    • Visit a TouchPay kiosk located in the lobby of:

      Multnomah County Detention Center
      1120 SW 3rd Avenue
      Portland, OR 97204

      Inverness Jail
      11540 NE Inverness Drive
      Portland, OR 97220

    • Follow on-screen instructions

    • Insert cash or credit/debit card

    • Obtain receipt for the transaction

    • Service fees apply (typically $2.95-$5.95)

  3. Money Order by Mail:

    • Purchase a money order payable to the inmate (full legal name)

    • Write the inmate's booking number on the money order

    • Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks

    • Mail to:

      Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
      Inmate Accounts
      11540 NE Inverness Drive
      Portland, OR 97220

    • No service fees apply for money orders

Amount Limits:

  • Minimum deposit: $1.00
  • Maximum single deposit: $300.00
  • Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
  • Maximum account balance: $1,500.00

Fees:

  • Online deposits: $2.95-$9.95 depending on amount
  • Kiosk deposits: $2.95-$5.95 depending on amount
  • Money orders: No fee

What You Cannot Send:

  • Cash through the mail
  • Personal checks
  • Traveler's checks
  • Third-party checks
  • Foreign currency

Permitted Uses of Funds:

  • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
  • Phone calls
  • Video visitation fees
  • Medical co-pays
  • Haircuts
  • Release money

Restricted Uses of Funds:

  • Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)
  • Transfer to other inmates
  • Payment for services outside the facility
  • Purchase of prohibited items

Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned to the individual via debit card or check. According to Oregon Administrative Rules 291-158-0065, correctional facilities must maintain accurate accounting of all inmate funds and provide regular account statements to inmates.

How To Send Jail Mail In Multnomah County

Corresponding with individuals incarcerated in Multnomah County facilities requires adherence to specific guidelines established to maintain security and facilitate efficient mail processing. The following procedures apply to sending mail to inmates:

General Mailing Instructions:

  1. Address envelopes or packages as follows:

    Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number
    Facility Name
    Facility Address

    For Multnomah County Detention Center:
    Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number
    Multnomah County Detention Center
    1120 SW 3rd Avenue
    Portland, OR 97204

    For Inverness Jail:
    Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number
    Inverness Jail
    11540 NE Inverness Drive
    Portland, OR 97220

  2. Include a complete return address on all correspondence

  3. Ensure postage is fully paid

  4. Write clearly and legibly

Permitted Mail Items:

  • Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
  • Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
  • Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
  • Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
  • Legal documents
  • Religious materials (subject to review)
  • Drawings on plain paper (no crayon or marker)

Prohibited Mail Items:

  • Packages or padded envelopes
  • Plastic or metal items of any kind
  • Cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
  • Stamps or envelopes
  • Stickers, labels, or tape
  • Perfumed or scented items
  • Crayon or marker drawings
  • Polaroid photographs
  • Cards larger than 8"x10"
  • Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
  • Any items containing glitter, glue, or adhesives
  • Pornographic or obscene materials
  • Gang-related materials
  • Materials depicting violence or weapons
  • Items containing coded messages

Mail Inspection Process: All non-legal mail sent to inmates is opened and inspected for contraband and prohibited content before delivery to the inmate. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate.

Books and Publications: Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor such as Amazon. These items must be paperback only (no hardcover books). Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected.

E-Messages: Multnomah County facilities offer electronic messaging through the GTL ConnectNetwork. Family and friends can create an account and send messages for a fee. These messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail.

According to Oregon Administrative Rules 291-131, inmates have the right to send and receive mail, subject to reasonable restrictions necessary for the safety and security of the facility. All mail policies are designed to balance these rights with legitimate security concerns.

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