Caledonia County Jail serves as the primary detention center for Caledonia County, Vermont. Operated by the Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office, this facility houses individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. Located in St. Johnsbury, the jail provides secure custody while offering essential services like medical care, commissary, and visitation. Residents often search for inmate lookup tools, booking details, or jail policies. This page delivers accurate, up-to-date information on how to find an inmate, visit hours, mail rules, phone access, and more. Whether you’re a family member, legal representative, or researcher, you’ll get clear answers backed by official sources.
About Caledonia County Jail and Sheriff’s Office
Caledonia County Jail is managed directly by the Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office, which oversees all law enforcement and corrections duties in the county. The facility operates under Vermont state guidelines and follows strict protocols for inmate safety, staff training, and public transparency. It primarily holds pretrial detainees and those sentenced to less than two years. Unlike larger state prisons, county jails focus on short-term custody with limited programming. However, the jail does offer basic educational resources, substance abuse support, and mental health services through contracted providers. The Sheriff’s Office ensures compliance with Vermont Department of Corrections standards, including regular inspections and policy updates.
Facility Location and Contact Details
The jail is located at 1126 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819. This central location makes it accessible for visitors from surrounding towns like Lyndonville, Danville, and Hardwick. For general inquiries, call (802) 748-6341 during business hours. Emergency calls should go to 911. The facility does not maintain a standalone website but shares information through the official Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office portal. All public records, including arrest logs and inmate rosters, are updated regularly and available upon request.
Role Within Vermont’s Correctional System
Caledonia County Jail functions as part of Vermont’s decentralized correctional model. Unlike states with unified prison systems, Vermont relies on county-level facilities for short-term detention. Long-term inmates are transferred to state-run prisons operated by the Vermont Department of Corrections. The jail works closely with local courts, probation officers, and law enforcement agencies to manage inmate flow. It also collaborates with regional health providers to deliver medical and mental health services. This integrated approach ensures continuity of care and legal compliance.
Inmate Lookup and Jail Roster Access
Finding an inmate in Caledonia County is straightforward thanks to publicly accessible jail rosters. The Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office maintains an online inmate lookup tool updated daily. You can search by name, date of birth, or booking number. Results show current status, charges, bail amount, and court dates. If no results appear, the person may have been released or transferred. For privacy reasons, some details—like medical conditions or protective custody status—are not disclosed. Always verify information by calling the jail directly.
How to Use the Inmate Search Tool
Visit the official Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office website and navigate to the “Jail Roster” section. Enter the full name of the inmate. The system displays all active detainees matching that name. Each entry includes booking date, charges, bond status, and housing location within the facility. Note that the roster only shows inmates currently held at Caledonia County Jail. Those moved to state prison or other counties will not appear. For historical records, submit a public records request in writing.
Understanding Booking Information
When someone is arrested in Caledonia County, they are processed at the jail within hours. Booking involves fingerprinting, photographing, inventorying personal items, and conducting a health screening. Charges are entered into the state’s criminal justice database. Bail is set based on severity of offense, criminal history, and flight risk. Most misdemeanor cases allow immediate release on personal recognizance or low bail. Felony arrests require a judge’s review within 24 hours. All booking data becomes part of the public jail roster unless sealed by court order.
Visiting Hours and Inmate Visitation Rules
Visitation at Caledonia County Jail occurs on weekends only: Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visit per week. Visitors must register in advance by calling the jail at least 24 hours before the desired visit. Walk-ins are not permitted. All visitors must present valid photo ID and pass through a metal detector. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No more than two adults may visit at once.
Approved Items and Dress Code
Visitors may bring only identification and car keys into the facility. Bags, phones, cameras, food, and gifts are prohibited. Dress modestly—no tank tops, shorts, or revealing clothing. Hats and sunglasses must be removed inside. The jail uses non-contact visitation via glass partitions and telephones. Physical contact is not allowed except for brief handshakes at the start and end of the visit. Staff monitor all visits for security reasons.
Special Circumstances and Denials
Visits may be denied if the visitor has a criminal record, is intoxicated, or poses a security risk. Inmates in disciplinary segregation or medical isolation cannot receive visitors. Legal visits with attorneys are exempt from weekend restrictions and can occur weekdays by appointment. Family members traveling long distances should confirm availability ahead of time. The jail reserves the right to cancel visits due to emergencies or staffing shortages.
Inmate Mail, Phone Calls, and Commissary
Inmates can send and receive mail daily. All correspondence is inspected for contraband but not read unless suspicious. Use this format: Inmate’s Full Name, Inmate ID Number, Caledonia County Jail, 1126 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819. Envelopes must have return addresses. No stamps, cash, or stickers allowed. Photos are permitted if 4×6 inches or smaller.
Phone Call Policies
Inmates may make collect calls or use prepaid accounts funded through commissary. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and monitored. International calls are blocked. Families can set up accounts via the jail’s contracted provider, which charges per-minute rates plus fees. Minors cannot receive calls without parental consent. Legal calls to attorneys are free and unmonitored.
Commissary and Financial Services
Commissary allows inmates to purchase snacks, hygiene products, and stationery. Orders are placed weekly and delivered on Fridays. Funds can be added online, by phone, or via money order mailed to the jail. Cash deposits at the facility are not accepted. Balances carry over if an inmate transfers. Indigent inmates receive basic supplies at no cost. All transactions are logged and audited monthly.
Bail Bonds and Release Procedures
Bail in Caledonia County is set during arraignment. Options include cash bail, surety bond (via a bondsman), or release on recognizance. Bondsmen typically charge 10% of the total bail amount. The jail does not accept credit cards for bail payments—only cash, certified checks, or money orders. Once bail is posted, release usually occurs within two hours. Weekend or holiday arrests may delay processing until the next business day.
Working with Bail Bond Agents
Licensed bail bond agents operate in Caledonia County and surrounding areas. They appear in court with defendants and post bail on their behalf. Families should verify an agent’s license with the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. Be aware that bondsmen may require collateral (like property or vehicles) for high bail amounts. Failure to appear in court results in forfeiture of the full bail amount.
Release and Transfer Protocols
Upon release, inmates receive their personal belongings and a copy of their release paperwork. Those sentenced to longer terms are transferred to a Vermont state prison within 48 hours. Medical records and medications are forwarded to the receiving facility. Families are notified of transfers when possible, but delays can occur due to transportation logistics.
Jail Policies, Programs, and Services
Caledonia County Jail follows strict policies aligned with Vermont law and national corrections standards. These cover use of force, suicide prevention, grievance procedures, and religious accommodations. Inmates may request kosher, halal, or vegetarian meals. Religious services are held monthly by volunteer chaplains. Grievances are submitted in writing and reviewed within five business days.
Inmate Programs and Rehabilitation
While limited compared to state facilities, the jail offers basic programs such as GED preparation, anger management workshops, and Narcotics Anonymous meetings. These are run by community volunteers and nonprofit organizations. Participation is voluntary and does not affect release eligibility. Vocational training is not available due to space and funding constraints. Mental health counseling is provided by a contracted clinician twice weekly.
Medical and Mental Health Care
All inmates receive a health screening upon intake. Emergency care is handled by local hospitals. Routine medical needs are addressed by a nurse practitioner who visits weekly. Prescription medications are administered under supervision. Mental health crises trigger immediate evaluation and, if needed, transfer to a psychiatric facility. Suicide risk assessments are conducted for all new arrivals.
Arrest Records, Mugshots, and Public Transparency
Caledonia County arrest records are public under Vermont law. Mugshots are taken during booking and may be released unless restricted by an ongoing investigation. Records include name, age, charges, arresting agency, and booking photo. They do not include fingerprints or DNA data. Expungement is possible for dismissed or acquitted cases after a waiting period. Requests for records must include the individual’s name, date of birth, and approximate arrest date.
Accessing Jail Records Online
The Sheriff’s Office publishes a weekly arrest log on its website. This lists recent bookings with charges and bail status. Full records require a written request submitted to the Records Division. Processing takes 3–5 business days. Fees apply for copies ($0.50 per page). Digital copies are emailed if requested. Sealed or juvenile records are not disclosed.
Role of the Vermont Department of Corrections
While Caledonia County Jail handles local detention, the Vermont Department of Corrections oversees state prisons, probation, and parole. The two systems share data through the Vermont Criminal Information Network. For long-term inmates, the DOC manages programming, reentry planning, and victim notifications. County jails like Caledonia’s feed into this system but operate independently for daily functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how Caledonia County Jail operates, how to contact an inmate, or what rights detainees have. Below are detailed answers to the most common inquiries, based on current policies and state law.
How do I find out if someone is in Caledonia County Jail?
Use the online inmate lookup tool on the Caledonia County Sheriff’s Office website. Search by full name or booking number. The roster updates daily and shows current inmates, charges, and bail status. If the person isn’t listed, they may have been released or transferred. For confirmation, call the jail at (802) 748-6341. Provide the individual’s name and date of birth. Staff will verify custody status but cannot disclose medical or legal details without authorization.
Can I visit an inmate during the week?
No. Visitation is only allowed on weekends—Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. All visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance by phone. Walk-ins are not accepted. Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week. Legal visits with attorneys can occur on weekdays by appointment. Emergency visits require approval from the jail administrator. Always call ahead to confirm availability, as visits may be canceled due to staffing or security issues.
How do I send money to an inmate?
You can add funds to an inmate’s commissary account online through the jail’s authorized vendor, by phone, or via money order. Cash and personal checks are not accepted at the facility. Money orders must include the inmate’s full name and ID number, and be mailed to the jail address. Online deposits are instant; mailed funds take 3–5 days to process. There is a small service fee for each transaction. Funds remain on the account if the inmate transfers or is released.
Are mugshots public record in Caledonia County?
Yes, mugshots taken during booking are considered public records under Vermont law. They appear on the jail roster and may be released upon request unless part of an active investigation. Media outlets often publish them with arrest reports. However, if charges are dropped or the case is sealed, the photo may be removed from public view. Individuals can request expungement of their record, which includes the mugshot, after case resolution.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates receive a health screening within hours of arrival. Serious medical issues are treated at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury. Routine care is handled by a nurse practitioner who visits weekly. Prescription medications are provided under supervision. Mental health emergencies trigger immediate evaluation and possible transfer to a psychiatric facility. The jail contracts with local healthcare providers to ensure compliance with state standards. Families are notified of serious conditions when permitted by privacy laws.
Can I bring clothes or personal items to an inmate?
No. Inmates are issued standard jail uniforms and basic hygiene supplies. Personal clothing, electronics, books, or food are not allowed. Exceptions include religious items (like a Bible or hijab) approved in advance. All incoming mail is inspected, but letters and photos are permitted. For special needs (e.g., glasses or dentures), submit a request to the medical staff. Items must be purchased through commissary or provided by the facility.
How long do inmates stay at Caledonia County Jail?
Most inmates stay less than 30 days. Pretrial detainees remain until their court date or bail is posted. Those sentenced to short terms (under two years) serve their time here. Longer sentences require transfer to a Vermont state prison. Release timing depends on court schedules, bail processing, and transportation availability. Weekend or holiday bookings may delay release by 1–2 days. Families should monitor the jail roster for updates.
Official Website: www.caledoniasheriff.org
Phone: (802) 748-6341
Visiting Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Address: 1126 Main Street, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819