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Welcome to Buena Vista County Jail, Iowa: A Comprehensive Guide for Inmate Family Members

This guide serves as a detailed resource for family members and friends of inmates at the Buena Vista County Jail located in Storm Lake, Iowa. It aims to assist you in understanding various aspects of the facility and provide essential information to support your loved ones during their time at the jail.

Overview of Buena Vista County Jail

Buena Vista County Jail is a medium-security facility that houses inmates who are awaiting trial or sentencing or those who have been sentenced to short terms. It is operated by the Buena Vista County Sheriff's Office and emphasizes the safety and security of inmates, staff, and visitors.

Contact Information

How to Locate an Inmate

To locate an inmate at the Buena Vista County Jail, visit the Buena Vista County Sheriff's Office website. Navigate to the 'Inmate Search' section to find details by entering the inmate’s name or other identifying information.

Visitation Information and Hours

Visitors are required to register and schedule visits through the jail's online scheduling system or by calling the facility. Visitation hours vary and can be subject to change, thus it is recommended to check the website or contact the jail directly for the latest schedule. All visitors must adhere to the visitation rules provided by the jail to ensure a safe and respectful environment.

Sending Money to Inmates

Family and friends can send money to inmates via the kiosk available at the jail or through online payment systems such as Smart Deposit or Access Corrections. Funds deposited will be credited to the inmate's account, which they can use to purchase commissary items and make phone calls.

Phone Calls and Video Visitation Options

Inmates are allowed to make phone calls using their commissary account funds. Additionally, video visitation options are available, enabling a more personal way to keep in touch. Details and scheduling for video calls can be found or arranged through the jail’s communications service provider.

Inmate Services and Programs

Buena Vista County Jail offers various programs aimed at rehabilitation and education, including GED preparation, religious services, and vocational training. These programs are designed to facilitate personal growth and preparation for a successful reintegration into society upon release.

Booking and Release Process

The booking process at Buena Vista County Jail involves recording the inmate's personal information, fingerprints, and mugshot, alongside the details of their charges. The release process depends on the court’s ruling; it might involve posting bail, completion of sentence, or release on court orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I contact an inmate?

You can contact an inmate by sending letters, making phone calls, or through video visitation. For phone and video, inmates must use their commissary account to make calls.

Q: What items can I bring during visitation?

You cannot bring any items, including food, clothing, or toiletries, for the inmates during visitation. The inmates can purchase items they need from the commissary.

Recent News Stories

Currently, there are no recent news stories directly related to the Buena Vista County Jail within the last year. Please check local news sources for the most up-to-date information regarding the facility.

Leave a Review

If you are a current or former inmate, employee, family member or a friend of someone who is in prison, please share your feedback so others can get better understanding how the institution works. The survey is completely anonymous and your personal information will never be shared or publicly shown.

How to lookup someone in prison or jail

Steps to follow for finding
an Inmate

Step 1


Step 2


Enter inmate id and personal information

Enter the inmate personal informations in the required fields

Step 3


Enter inmate id and personal information

Click on the 'Submit' button

General Stats for Iowa

Iowa Total Number of Inmates

13,549

Iowa Total No. of Inmates

Number of people under Probation Supervision

24,839

Number of people under Probation Supervision

Prison population rate

267

Prison population rate: 100,000 residents

Parole Population

7,261

Parole Population

Incarcerated individuals with sentences of 50 years or longer

1,521

Incarcerated individuals with sentences of 50 years or longer

Sex

Sex

%

Total

Male

91.77

7,827

Female

8.23

702

Youth

Type

%

Total

Committed

56.46

249

Detained

36.05

159

Diverted

0.68

3

Prisons and Jails in Iowa