Bonner County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Sandpoint, Idaho. It serves as the primary holding center for individuals arrested in Bonner County. The jail operates under the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office and manages intake, housing, and release of inmates. It supports public safety while offering essential services to those in custody. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, visitation rules, and available programs. This page provides complete details on how to search for inmates, visit loved ones, send funds, access records, and understand jail operations. All information is current and verified through official sources.
How to Search for an Inmate at Bonner County Jail
Locating someone in Bonner County Jail is simple and can be done online or by phone. The jail maintains a public inmate roster updated daily. This helps families, lawyers, and others stay informed about an inmate’s status, charges, and court dates.
Online Inmate Search
Visit the official Bonner County Sheriff’s Office website. Look for the “Inmate Roster” section. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID number. The system shows current inmates only. Results include name, booking date, charges, bond amount, and next court date. If no match appears, the person may not be in custody or could be held under a different name.
Phone Inmate Search
Call the jail at (208) 263-8417. Ask to speak with the booking office. Provide the inmate’s full legal name and date of birth. Staff can confirm if someone is in custody and share basic details. Phone lines are staffed Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Calls outside these hours go to voicemail.
In-Person Inmate Search
Go to the jail at 4001 N Boyer Ave, Sandpoint, ID 83864. The front desk assists with inmate lookups during business hours. Bring a valid photo ID. Staff may limit details shared in person for privacy and security reasons.
Bonner County Jail Roster and Booking Information
The jail roster lists all individuals currently held. It updates every 24 hours. Each entry includes key details to help identify and track inmates.
What’s on the Roster
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed
- Bail or bond amount
- Next court appearance
- Housing location (general area only)
The roster does not show mugshots online due to privacy policies. However, mugshots become public record after booking and can be requested.
How Booking Works
After arrest, individuals are taken to the jail for processing. This includes fingerprinting, a mugshot, health screening, and personal data collection. A judge sets bail during the first court hearing. Until then, the person remains in custody unless released on their own recognizance.
Visiting Hours and Rules at Bonner County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with family and friends. The jail offers both in-person and video visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance.
In-Person Visits
Visits occur Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. No visits on weekends or holidays. Schedule at least 24 hours ahead using the online portal or by calling the jail. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per session.
Visitor Requirements
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Dress code: no shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with offensive words or images
- No cell phones, bags, or food allowed in the visiting area
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Visitors go through a security check. Refusal to comply results in denied entry.
Video Visitation
Video visits use a secure online system. Schedule through the jail’s website. Sessions last 20 minutes. You need a computer or smartphone with a camera and internet access. Video visits cost $7.50 per session and are non-refundable.
Sending Mail to Inmates at Bonner County Jail
Inmates can receive letters and approved reading materials. All mail is screened for safety. Follow these rules to ensure delivery.
Mail Guidelines
- Use standard envelopes with clear handwriting or typed text
- Address mail to: Inmate’s full name, Inmate ID number, Bonner County Jail, 4001 N Boyer Ave, Sandpoint, ID 83864
- Only plain paper letters are allowed—no stickers, drawings, or tape
- Photos must be 4×6 inches or smaller and non-Polaroid
- Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores
Do not send cash, checks, or personal items. Mail violating rules is returned or destroyed.
Phone Calls and Communication
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. All calls are monitored and recorded. Incoming calls are not allowed.
How Phone Calls Work
Calls are made through a third-party service. Family members must set up a prepaid account. Add funds online or at the kiosk in the jail lobby. Each call costs about $0.25 per minute. Calls last up to 15 minutes. Inmates cannot call cell phones directly—only landlines or authorized mobile numbers.
Email Messages
The jail offers a messaging system. Families send emails through the commissary website. Messages are printed and delivered to inmates. Replies are handwritten and sent back through staff. This service costs $0.50 per message.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can receive funds for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Money is held in a secure account.
Ways to Send Money
- Online: Use the jail’s approved payment partner. Deposit with credit or debit card.
- Kiosk: Pay with cash or card at the machine in the jail lobby.
- Money Order: Mail a U.S. Postal Service money order. Write the inmate’s full name and ID on the memo line. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. There is a $3.50 fee for online deposits under $100.
Commissary Services and Purchases
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and supplies. Orders are placed weekly.
Available Items
- Snacks: Chips, cookies, coffee, soda
- Hygiene: Toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo
- Stationery: Paper, envelopes, pens
- Clothing: Socks, undershirts (approved styles only)
Prices are set by the vendor. Items are delivered every Thursday. Inmates must have enough funds in their account before ordering.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail allows an inmate to leave jail before trial. The amount is set by a judge.
How to Post Bail
- Call the booking office at (208) 263-8417 to confirm the bail amount.
- Pay in cash, cashier’s check, or through a licensed bail bondsman.
- Payments can be made at the jail or online via the payment portal.
Once bail is posted, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed. This usually takes 1–2 hours.
Health and Medical Care
All inmates receive medical attention upon arrival. The jail contracts with a healthcare provider for routine and emergency care.
Medical Services
- Initial health screening within 24 hours of booking
- Access to prescription medications
- Dental and vision care for urgent needs
- Mental health evaluations and counseling
Inmates can request medical help at any time. Serious conditions are treated at local hospitals.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to help inmates prepare for life after release.
Available Programs
- GED preparation classes
- Substance abuse counseling
- Anger management sessions
- Life skills workshops
Participation is voluntary. Certificates are given upon completion. These programs aim to reduce repeat offenses.
Facility Security and Operations
Bonner County Jail uses modern systems to keep everyone safe.
Security Features
- 24/7 video surveillance
- Electronic door controls
- Staff patrols every hour
- Inmate classification by risk level
- Emergency response drills monthly
Staff receive regular training in crisis management and inmate care.
Contact Information
For questions or assistance, use the following details:
- Address: 4001 N Boyer Ave, Sandpoint, ID 83864
- Phone: (208) 263-8417
- Website: https://www.bonnercountyid.gov/departments/sheriff/jail.html
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Bonner County Jail. Below are clear answers based on official policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in jail?
Use the online inmate roster on the Bonner County Sheriff’s website. Search by name or ID. If no result appears, call (208) 263-8417. Provide the person’s full name and date of birth. Staff will check the system and confirm custody status. Note that recent arrests may not appear online until processed. Always verify spelling and use legal names only.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No. In-person visits are only allowed Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Weekend and holiday visits are not permitted. Video visits are available seven days a week but must be scheduled in advance. Check the jail’s website for holiday closures and special rules during emergencies.
How much does it cost to send money to an inmate?
Online deposits cost $3.50 for amounts under $100. Larger deposits have lower fees. Kiosk payments in the lobby are free for cash but charge $2.50 for card use. Money orders by mail have no fee but take longer to process. Funds are available within 24 hours. Always include the inmate’s full name and ID number.
Are mugshots public record?
Yes. Mugshots taken during booking are public records in Idaho. They can be requested from the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking date. There may be a small fee. Mugshots remain online even after release unless a court orders removal. Some third-party sites republish them, which the jail cannot control.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates get a health screening upon arrival. They can request medical help at any time. Staff assess the need and arrange care. Non-emergency issues are handled by the jail’s medical provider. Serious cases go to Bonner General Hospital. Inmates pay a $5 co-pay for non-emergency visits unless they are indigent. Prescriptions are filled as needed.
Can inmates get books or magazines?
Yes, but only if sent directly from a publisher, bookstore, or online retailer like Amazon. Books must be new and paperback. Hardcovers, used books, or materials from individuals are not allowed. Magazines are accepted if mailed sealed. All reading material is inspected before delivery. Pornography or violent content is banned.
How long does it take to be released after posting bail?
After bail is paid, release takes 1 to 2 hours. Staff must complete paperwork, return personal items, and confirm court orders. Delays can occur during busy times or if additional holds exist. Call the booking office before coming to pick up an inmate to confirm readiness.