County jail · Los Angeles
Men's Central Jail
Men's Central Jail is one of LASD's oldest and largest jails. It is in downtown Los Angeles near Union Station and houses adult men, many of whom are waiting for trial.
About Men's Central Jail
Men's Central Jail sits across from the Twin Towers Correctional Facility, and the two work closely together. Men booked through the Inmate Reception Center are often assigned here while their cases move through the downtown courts.
Because the jail houses a large population, people are moved between housing modules often. Before you visit or send mail, look up the person's booking number in LASD's online inmate search. Mail without a correct booking number may be returned.
Visits are handled under LASD's countywide rules, with schedules posted by facility. Expect security screening and arrive early, because processing visitors can take time.
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.
- 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
People at Men's Central Jail may be moved to other Los Angeles County facilities or taken to court, so housing can change quickly. Always confirm the person's current location before you visit or mail anything.
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
Men's Central Jail is in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California. View on a map. Check the official Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department website for the current visitor entrance and mailing address.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if someone is at Men's Central Jail?
Use the free official inmate search on the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) website. Search by full legal name and date of birth, and write down the booking number.
Can I visit someone at Men's Central Jail?
Visits follow the rules posted by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's 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 Men's Central Jail?
Use only the deposit methods listed on the Los Angeles County Sheriff's 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 Men's Central Jail?
No. We are an independent informational resource and are not affiliated with any law enforcement or government agency.