County Jail vs. State Prison vs. Federal Custody
Learn the difference between county jails, California state prisons and federal facilities, and where to search for each.
County jails
County jails are run by the county Sheriff. They hold people waiting for trial and people serving shorter sentences. Under California's realignment law, some people with felony sentences also serve their time in county jail.
City jails
City jails are run by city police departments. They usually hold people for a short time, often under 48 hours not counting weekends and holidays, before release or transfer to the county.
State prisons
California state prisons are run by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Use the CDCR inmate locator to find someone in state prison.
Federal custody
Federal prisons and detention centers are run by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Immigration detention is handled by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Each agency has its own online locator.