Story County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Story County?
Inmate records in Story County are official government documents maintained by the Story County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals detained or incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody. Pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.7(5), these records are considered part of the state's public records framework, though certain elements may be restricted from public disclosure.
Inmate records differ substantially from court records in both content and custodianship. While the Story County District Court maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and judicial decisions, the Sheriff's Office maintains custody records focused on the physical detention and daily management of incarcerated individuals. This distinction is important for members of the public seeking specific information about individuals within the criminal justice system.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge information are collected. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to document housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical care, visitation, and other significant events. Upon release, records are finalized with discharge information but maintained according to state record retention schedules.
The Story County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records, maintaining them in accordance with Iowa state law and county policies governing records management and public access.
Are Inmate Records Public In Story County?
Inmate records in Story County are generally considered public information with specific limitations as established under Iowa Code § 22.2, which governs the right to examine public records. Additionally, Section 904.601(1) of the Iowa Code specifically addresses offender records, stating that these records are public information except for those portions containing information that is not authorized for disclosure.
The following inmate record components are typically available for public access:
- Current inmate roster showing individuals currently in custody
- Basic booking information including name, age, and gender
- Charges filed and their status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Mugshot photographs
- Bond/bail amounts when applicable
- Expected release dates for sentenced individuals
- Facility housing location (general information)
However, certain information is explicitly protected from public disclosure under Iowa law, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary reports and investigations
- Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that would jeopardize institutional security
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access the Story County Current Inmate Roster through the county's official website. For more comprehensive records, formal requests may be submitted to the Sheriff's Office in accordance with Iowa's public records procedures.
What's Included Inmate Records in Story County
Inmate records maintained by the Story County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive documentation organized into several distinct categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender and physical description
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric identifiers
- Assigned inmate identification number
- Last known address (partial information may be redacted)
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Custody classification and housing assignment
- Disciplinary incidents and actions (limited public access)
- Visitation logs (names of visitors may be accessible)
- Property inventory upon intake
Charge Information:
- Current charges with statute citations
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony classification)
- Arresting agency and jurisdiction
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Warrant information if applicable
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount and type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, pending, denied)
- Bond conditions if applicable
- Court date information related to bond hearings
Court Information:
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Assigned judge
- Court of jurisdiction
- Attorney of record (if appointed or retained)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges and dates
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Special conditions of sentence
Release Information:
- Scheduled or actual release date
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Agency assuming custody if transferred
This information is maintained in the county's jail management system and is updated regularly throughout an individual's period of incarceration. Access to specific components may be restricted based on privacy laws and security considerations as outlined in Iowa statutes.
Story County Prison System
The Story County correctional system operates under the authority of the Story County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of less than one year. This local correctional system functions as part of Iowa's broader two-tiered approach to incarceration, where county facilities handle short-term detention while the Iowa Department of Corrections manages long-term state prison facilities.
The fundamental distinction between county detention and state imprisonment lies in both sentence length and facility purpose. The Story County Jail primarily houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not been convicted
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically under one year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities following felony convictions
- Persons detained on probation or parole violations
- Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions through intergovernmental agreements
By contrast, Iowa state prisons, operated by the Iowa Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences typically exceeding one year.
The Story County correctional system is administered by:
Story County Sheriff's Office
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
Phone: (515) 382-6566
Story County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff, as an elected official, bears statutory responsibility for the operation of the county jail and the welfare of all individuals in custody. Daily operations are managed by trained correctional staff under the Sheriff's authority in accordance with Iowa state standards for jail operations.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Story County
Story County maintains a consolidated correctional infrastructure centered around its primary detention facility:
Story County Jail
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
Phone: (515) 382-6566
Story County Jail Information
The Story County Jail is a modern, 104-bed, direct-supervision detention facility designed for the secure housing of adult offenders. The facility employs a modular design with multiple housing units that allow for appropriate classification and separation of inmates based on security needs, gender, and other factors. Key features of this facility include:
- Booking and intake processing area
- Multiple housing pods with varying security classifications
- Medical services unit
- Visitation areas
- Administrative offices
- Video court appearance capabilities
- Programming spaces for educational and rehabilitative services
In addition to the main jail facility, Story County operates:
Story County Sheriff's Office Work Release Center
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
Phone: (515) 382-6566
This specialized unit provides supervised work release opportunities for qualifying low-risk offenders, allowing them to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Participants typically return to secure detention during non-working hours.
Story County does not operate separate juvenile detention facilities. Juveniles requiring secure detention are typically housed at regional juvenile detention centers through intergovernmental agreements, such as:
Central Iowa Juvenile Detention Center
2317 Rick Collins Way
Eldora, IA 50627
Phone: (641) 858-3852
All facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Iowa Department of Corrections Jail Inspection Unit and relevant state statutes governing detention conditions and inmate rights.
Who's in Prison In Story County
The Story County Jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. Current demographic data indicates the facility typically houses:
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Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings who have not been convicted of the charges against them. These individuals may be held due to flight risk concerns, public safety considerations, or inability to post bond. Pre-trial detainees constitute approximately 60-70% of the jail population at any given time.
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Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions with terms typically ranging from a few days to less than one year. Common offenses include driving while intoxicated, simple assault, theft, and probation violations.
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Persons convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to Iowa Department of Corrections facilities. These individuals remain in county custody temporarily until bed space becomes available in the appropriate state facility.
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Individuals detained on probation or parole violations pending revocation hearings or court appearances. These detainees have previously been convicted but have allegedly violated the terms of their supervised release.
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Federal detainees held through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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Individuals serving intermittent sentences (such as weekend confinement) as ordered by the court, allowing them to maintain employment while serving their sentence incrementally.
The jail population fluctuates daily based on arrest rates, court proceedings, and releases. According to data from the Iowa Department of Corrections, the average daily population typically ranges between 70-90 inmates, with seasonal variations. The facility maintains separate housing for male and female detainees, with males constituting approximately 85% of the population.
Pursuant to Iowa Code § 356.2, the Sheriff is required to maintain records of all persons committed to the county jail, including their legal status and reason for detention.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Story County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Story County may utilize several official channels to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate record searches:
Online Search Methods:
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Access the Story County Current Inmate Roster through the county's official website. This resource provides real-time information on individuals currently in custody, including:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
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Utilize the Iowa Offender Search database maintained by the Iowa Department of Corrections for information on individuals who have been transferred to state custody or are under state supervision.
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Search court records related to criminal cases through the Iowa Courts Online Search system, which provides case information that may complement jail records.
In-Person Search Methods:
Individuals may request inmate information in person at:
Story County Sheriff's Office
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Phone: (515) 382-6566
When requesting records in person, requestors should:
- Provide the full name of the individual being searched
- Present valid government-issued identification
- Complete any required records request forms
- Be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies of records
Written Request Method:
Written requests for inmate records may be submitted to:
Records Division
Story County Sheriff's Office
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
Written requests should include:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Name and identifying information of the inmate
- Purpose of the request (optional)
- Signature and date
Pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.3, the Sheriff's Office may charge reasonable fees for record retrieval and copying. Current fees are $5.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page of printed records.
How To Find an Inmate in Story County for Free?
Story County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county correctional system. These resources are maintained as a public service in accordance with Iowa's commitment to government transparency.
Online Inmate Locator:
The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the Story County Current Inmate Roster. This searchable database is updated regularly and provides:
- Confirmation of an individual's custody status
- Basic demographic information
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (when available)
To use this system effectively:
- Navigate to the Story County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Current Inmate Roster" option
- Enter the individual's last name in the search field
- Review results that match the search criteria
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Iowa Offender Search provides a similar free service for locating offenders within the state prison system.
Telephone Inquiry:
Members of the public may contact the Story County Jail directly at (515) 382-7464 to inquire about an individual's custody status. When calling, be prepared to provide:
- The full name of the person being sought
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
Automated Victim Notification:
Iowa's statewide VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system provides free custody status information and can be accessed by calling 1-888-742-8463. This automated system allows individuals to:
- Verify the custody status of an offender
- Register for notification of changes in custody status
- Receive alerts when an inmate is released, transferred, or escapes
These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information while protecting the privacy and security of individuals in custody. More detailed records may require formal requests and associated fees as outlined in the county's public records policy.
How To Visit an Inmate In Story County
Visitation with inmates at the Story County Jail is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with the following regulations:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit up to 8 names for their approved visitor list
- Changes to visitation lists are processed on Tuesdays only
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent/guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
Visit Schedule:
The Story County Jail conducts visitation during the following hours:
- Tuesday: 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session, with a maximum of two visits per week per inmate.
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be secured in provided lockers)
- Medication required during visit (must be declared)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products or lighters
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Cash exceeding $50
- Gifts or items for inmates
Dress Code:
- No revealing clothing (shorts must extend below fingertips)
- No tank tops, halter tops, or clothing exposing midriff
- No clothing with offensive language or gang symbols
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
Visit Types:
The Story County Jail currently offers:
- Non-contact visits through secure visitation booths
- Professional visits for attorneys and clergy (separate area)
- Special visits for out-of-state visitors (must be pre-approved)
Visit Restrictions:
Visitation privileges may be suspended or revoked for:
- Violation of facility rules
- Disruptive behavior during visits
- Attempting to pass contraband
- Providing false information on visitation forms
- Security concerns as determined by jail administration
These regulations are established pursuant to Iowa Administrative Code 201-50.21, which governs visitation in county jails. For additional information or to schedule special visits, contact the Story County Jail at (515) 382-7464.
How To Send Money to a Story County Inmate
The Story County Sheriff's Office provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, and communication services.
Available Deposit Methods:
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Online Deposits
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Story County Jail" as the facility
- Enter inmate information and deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply: 3.5% of deposit amount ($1.95 minimum)
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Kiosk Deposits
- Available in the jail lobby during normal business hours
- Touch screen kiosk accepts cash or credit/debit cards
- Receipts provided for all transactions
- No appointment necessary
- Service fees apply: $2.95 flat fee per transaction
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Money Order by Mail
- Make money order payable to "Story County Jail" with inmate's name in memo line
- Mail to: Story County Jail Inmate Accounts, 1315 South B Avenue, Nevada, IA 50201
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No personal checks accepted
- No service fees for money orders
Deposit Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Funds Restrictions:
Deposited funds may be used for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls and video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Restitution payments (if court-ordered)
Funds may not be used for:
- Bond payments
- Court fees (directly)
- Transfers to other inmates
- Outside purchases
- Cash withdrawals
Additional Information:
- New deposits typically post to inmate accounts within 24 hours
- Upon release, remaining funds are returned to the inmate via debit card
- Funds may be placed on hold if disciplinary actions are pending
- The jail takes no responsibility for lost cash sent through mail
For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the Story County Jail at (515) 382-7464 during normal business hours. All financial transactions are governed by Iowa Code § 356.5, which establishes standards for inmate accounts and commissary operations.
How To Send Jail Mail In Story County
Correspondence with inmates at the Story County Jail must adhere to specific guidelines established to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' communication with family, friends, and legal representatives.
General Mail Guidelines:
All non-legal mail must be sent via the United States Postal Service to:
Inmate's Full Name
Story County Jail
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters on plain white, lined, or colored paper
- Greeting cards (no musical, oversized, or padded cards)
- Photographs (maximum 4" x 6", limit of 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
- Self-addressed stamped envelopes
- Paperback books and magazines (must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Hardcover books
- Personal checks or cash
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Cards larger than 8" x 10"
- Items containing glitter, glue, or other adhesives
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Any items depicting gang symbols, violence, or drug use
Mail Processing Procedures:
All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband before delivery to inmates. Mail may be rejected if it:
- Contains prohibited items
- Presents a security threat
- Facilitates criminal activity
- Violates jail rules or regulations
- Contains escape plans or information that could compromise facility security
Legal Mail Guidelines:
Mail from attorneys, courts, or government officials should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and include the sender's bar number or official letterhead. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate but is inspected for contraband.
Electronic Messaging:
The Story County Jail offers secure electronic messaging through:
- Access Corrections
- Create an account and select "Story County Jail"
- Messages cost $0.25 per message
- Messages are subject to review and monitoring
- Photos may be attached for additional fees
All mail procedures are established in accordance with Iowa Administrative Code 201-50.19, which governs correspondence in county detention facilities. For additional information regarding mail policies, contact the Story County Jail at (515) 382-7464.
Lookup Inmate Records in Story County
Jail Information | Story County, IA - Official Website
Current Inmate Roster | Story County Sheriff's Office