Vermilion County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Danville, Illinois, serving the community by housing individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. Operated by the Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office, the jail ensures public safety while providing essential services to inmates and their families. Whether you’re searching for an inmate, planning a visit, or need information about bail, mail, or commissary, this page delivers accurate, up-to-date details directly from official sources. The facility supports rehabilitation through education, vocational training, and mental health programs, aiming to reduce recidivism and support successful reintegration.
How to Search for an Inmate in Vermilion County Jail
Finding someone in custody at Vermilion County Jail is simple using the official online inmate lookup tool. This system is updated daily and allows searches by name, booking number, or date of birth. The roster includes current inmates only and shows key details such as charges, bond amount, court dates, and housing location. The search tool is free and available 24/7 on the Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office website. For best results, use the person’s full legal name and verify spelling before submitting. If no results appear, the individual may not be in custody or could be held under a different name.
Online Inmate Search Steps
- Go to the official Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office website.
- Click on the “Inmate Roster” or “Jail Search” link.
- Enter the inmate’s first and last name or booking number.
- Review the results, which include name, booking date, charges, and bond status.
Offline Search Options
If you cannot access the internet, call the jail directly at (217) 442-4080. Staff can confirm if someone is in custody and provide basic information. You may also visit the jail in person at 1 E Main St, Danville, IL 61832. Bring a valid photo ID and the inmate’s full name. Public kiosks near the entrance may display recent booking information.
Vermilion County Jail Address and Contact Information
The Vermilion County Jail is located at 1 E Main St, Danville, IL 61832. It is part of the Vermilion County Justice Center and shares facilities with the Sheriff’s Office and local courts. For general inquiries, call (217) 442-4080 during business hours. The main website is www.vermilioncountysheriff.org, where you can find inmate rosters, visitation rules, and program details. Emergency contacts should call 911. For non-urgent matters, email is not recommended due to security restrictions. Always confirm hours and policies before visiting.
Vermilion County Jail Visitation Hours and Rules
Visitation at Vermilion County Jail helps maintain family connections and supports inmate well-being. In-person visits are allowed Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. All visits must be scheduled in advance through the jail’s online portal or by calling the visitation office. Walk-ins are not permitted. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes and is monitored for safety. Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Visitation Guidelines
- Schedule visits at least 24 hours in advance.
- Arrive 15 minutes early for security screening.
- Follow the dress code: no revealing clothing, hats, or offensive graphics.
- Only two visitors per inmate per session.
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Virtual Visitation Option
The jail offers video visitation for families who cannot travel. Virtual visits use a secure platform and must also be scheduled online. Sessions cost a small fee and last 20 minutes. This option is ideal for out-of-state relatives or during inclement weather. Both in-person and virtual visits are subject to cancellation if the inmate is in lockdown or medical isolation.
Inmate Mail, Phone Calls, and Communication
Inmates can receive mail, make phone calls, and send emails through approved systems. All correspondence is screened for contraband. Letters must be written on plain paper in standard envelopes. Do not include stickers, Polaroids, or cash. Send mail to: Inmate Name, Booking Number, Vermilion County Jail, 1 E Main St, Danville, IL 61832. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or retailers.
Phone Call System
Inmates make outgoing calls using a prepaid account. Families can add funds online through the jail’s phone service provider. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and monitored for security. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Phone numbers must be approved before use. Costs vary by call length and destination.
Email Communication
The jail provides a secure email system for faster communication. Messages are reviewed before delivery. Inmates can reply using tablets in their housing units. Emails are not private and may be used in investigations. Attachments and links are blocked. This service reduces delays compared to traditional mail.
Sending Money to Inmates: Commissary and Phone Funds
Friends and family can send money to inmates for commissary purchases and phone calls. Funds are added to a secure account accessible only by the inmate. Accepted methods include online deposits, kiosk payments at the jail, and money orders by mail. Cash and personal checks are not accepted. Online transfers are instant and can be made using credit or debit cards.
Commissary Purchases
Inmates use their accounts to buy snacks, hygiene items, writing supplies, and clothing from the jail commissary. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to housing units. Popular items include chips, coffee, toothpaste, and socks. Prices are regulated to prevent overcharging. Funds remain in the account until used or released with the inmate.
Money Transfer Methods
- Online: Use the jail’s payment portal with a card.
- Kiosk: Pay with cash or card at the jail lobby.
- Mail: Send a money order payable to the inmate with full name and booking number.
Bail and Release Procedures at Vermilion County Jail
Bail allows eligible inmates to be released before trial by posting a financial guarantee. The amount is set by a judge during the initial court appearance. To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (217) 442-4080. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Once processed, the inmate is released after completing paperwork and medical clearance.
Bail Bond Process
- Confirm the bail amount with the court or jail.
- Pay the full amount or use a bondsman who charges 10% of the total.
- Provide identification and sign release forms.
- The inmate is released within hours if no holds exist.
Release Information
Release dates depend on court decisions, sentence completion, or transfer to another facility. Inmates are typically released between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Families will be notified if contact information is on file. Inmates receive their personal belongings and any remaining commissary funds. Medical prescriptions are provided if needed.
Inmate Programs: Education, Vocational Training, and Rehabilitation
Vermilion County Jail offers programs to help inmates build skills and prepare for life after release. These include GED classes, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. Education programs are run in partnership with local schools and community colleges. Inmates can earn high school equivalency diplomas while incarcerated.
Vocational Training
Training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. Classes are taught by certified instructors and focus on job readiness. Certificates are awarded upon completion, improving employment chances. Some programs lead to apprenticeships or job placements after release.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support
The jail provides individual and group counseling for mental health and addiction. Licensed therapists conduct sessions weekly. Detox services are available for those with substance dependence. Programs aim to address root causes of criminal behavior and reduce repeat offenses.
Healthcare Services for Inmates
All inmates receive medical care upon intake and throughout their stay. A health screening is done within 24 hours of arrival. Services include routine check-ups, prescription management, dental care, and emergency treatment. Mental health evaluations are available upon request or observation. Inmates can request medical attention at any time through staff.
Medical Staff and Facilities
The jail contracts with healthcare providers to deliver services. Nurses are on-site daily, and doctors visit regularly. Emergency cases are transported to local hospitals. Prescription medications are dispensed securely. Inmates with chronic conditions receive ongoing care and monitoring.
Inmate Rights and Housing Conditions
Inmates at Vermilion County Jail have rights protected by state and federal law. These include access to medical care, legal representation, religious services, and grievance procedures. Housing is based on security level, with dormitory-style units for low-risk inmates and individual cells for higher-risk individuals. Cells are inspected regularly for cleanliness and safety.
Daily Living Standards
- Three meals per day, including dietary accommodations.
- Fresh bedding and clothing provided weekly.
- Access to showers, laundry, and hygiene products.
- Recreation time in designated areas.
Booking Process and Mugshots
When someone is arrested, they are brought to Vermilion County Jail for booking. This includes fingerprinting, photographing (mugshot), and collecting personal information. Mugshots become public records and may appear online. The booking process also involves a health screening and risk assessment. Inmates are assigned a booking number used for all records.
Obtaining Mugshots
Mugshots can be requested through the Sheriff’s Office. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking number. There may be a small fee. Some third-party sites republish mugshots for profit. The jail does not control these sites, but individuals can request removal under Illinois law if charges were dropped or dismissed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermilion County Jail
Many people have questions about how the jail operates, how to contact inmates, and what services are available. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Vermilion County?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or booking number. The roster shows current inmates, their charges, bond status, and court dates. If you don’t have internet access, call (217) 442-4080. Staff can confirm custody status over the phone. Be ready to provide the person’s full legal name and date of birth. The search tool is updated daily, so information is current. Note that recently arrested individuals may not appear immediately if processing is ongoing. For privacy reasons, only basic details are shared without verification.
Can I visit an inmate at Vermilion County Jail?
Yes, visitation is allowed Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You must schedule your visit at least 24 hours in advance using the online system or by calling the jail. Bring a valid photo ID and follow the dress code—no shorts, tank tops, or offensive clothing. Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes and is monitored. Only two visitors are allowed per session. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Virtual visits are also available for a fee. Check the website for the latest rules, as policies may change due to security or health concerns.
How do I send money to an inmate?
You can send money online through the jail’s payment portal using a credit or debit card. Deposits are instant and added to the inmate’s account. Alternatively, use the kiosk in the jail lobby with cash or card. Money orders can be mailed to the jail address, made payable to the inmate with their full name and booking number. Do not send cash or personal checks. Funds can be used for commissary items, phone calls, or medical co-pays. Balances remain secure until the inmate is released. Keep receipts for all transactions.
What programs are available for inmates?
Vermilion County Jail offers GED classes, vocational training in trades like carpentry and plumbing, and substance abuse counseling. Mental health services include individual and group therapy. These programs help inmates gain skills and reduce the chance of reoffending. Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Certificates are awarded for completed courses, which can aid in job searches after release. Programs are run in partnership with local schools and nonprofits.
How does bail work at this jail?
Bail is set by a judge during the first court appearance. The amount depends on the charges and flight risk. To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (217) 442-4080. You can pay in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman who charges 10% of the total. Once paid, the inmate is released after processing, usually within a few hours. If other holds exist, such as warrants from another county, release may be delayed. Keep all payment records for your protection.
Can inmates receive mail?
Yes, inmates can receive letters and postcards. Mail must be sent to the jail address with the inmate’s full name and booking number. Use plain paper and standard envelopes. Do not include cash, stamps, or prohibited items like Polaroids or stickers. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. All mail is inspected for contraband. Inmates can also send outgoing mail, which is collected daily. This service helps maintain family ties and emotional support during incarceration.
What happens during the booking process?
Booking begins when an individual is brought to the jail after arrest. Staff take fingerprints and a mugshot for records. Personal information, including name and date of birth, is collected. A health screening checks for medical or mental health needs. Inmates are searched and issued jail clothing. They receive a booking number used for all future references. The process ensures safety and proper identification. Mugshots become public records and may appear online. Inmates are then assigned to housing based on risk level.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources. The Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office manages the jail and provides public access to inmate data, visitation rules, and program details. Contact them directly for questions not covered here.
- Official Website: www.vermilioncountysheriff.org
- Phone Number: (217) 442-4080
- Address: 1 E Main St, Danville, IL 61832
- Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM