City jail · Los Angeles
LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center
The Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) is the Los Angeles Police Department's main jail. It is in downtown Los Angeles and holds people arrested by LAPD.
About LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center
People arrested by LAPD are often booked at the Metropolitan Detention Center or an LAPD area jail before their first court appearance. People who aren't released are usually moved to Sheriff's custody at the Inmate Reception Center.
Because MDC is a city jail, people held there may not show up in LASD's search. LAPD offers its own resources for finding people in its custody.
Stays at a police department jail are usually short, often under 48 hours not counting weekends and holidays, so a person's location can change quickly.
How to look up someone at this facility
- Go to the official Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) website and open its inmate search.
- For a recent arrest, also check the Los Angeles Police Department. People at city jails may not show up in the county search yet.
- Search by full legal name. Add a date of birth if the tool allows it.
- Write down the booking number. You'll need it for mail, money deposits and visits.
What families should know
Stays at LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center are usually short. In California, a person held in custody generally must be brought before a judge within 48 hours, not counting weekends and court holidays. If they aren't released, expect them to be moved to a Los Angeles County jail.
For bail and release questions, see our California bail basics. This site doesn't provide legal advice. Talk to a licensed attorney or the public defender's office about a specific case.
Location
LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center is in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California. View on a map. Check the official Los Angeles Police Department website for the current visitor entrance and mailing address.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if someone is at LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center?
Check the Los Angeles Police Department's official resources first. If the person has been held more than a day or two, also search the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) inmate locator, since people at city jails are often moved to county custody.
Can I visit someone at LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center?
Visits follow the rules posted by the Los Angeles Police Department. Most Southern California jails require visits to be scheduled ahead of time and require a valid government-issued photo ID. Confirm the current schedule on the official website before you travel.
How do I send money to someone at LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center?
Use only the deposit methods listed on the Los Angeles Police Department's official website. These usually include online, kiosk or money order options. Never send money to someone who contacts you claiming they can get a person released.
Is SoCal Inmate Info affiliated with LAPD Metropolitan Detention Center?
No. We are an independent informational resource and are not affiliated with any law enforcement or government agency.