Cass County Jail – Virginia, IL

Cass County Jail is located in Cass County, Illinois and is the main jail for the county. Looking for someone locked up at Cass County Jail? This page will tell you all about anything you might want to know about Cass County Jailsuch as the following: How to do a jail inmate search. Find inmate mugshots. The jail’s address and phone number. Posting bail. Intake procedures. Cass County court information. And much more…

The prospect of getting arrested and going to jail is a scary and daunting idea, not only for whoever gets locked up, but also that person’s family and friends. The purpose of this guide is to offer advice and information that you need to make helping a friend or family member get out of jail a little less stressful. If you have a specific question, feel free to ask it in the comment section below, and please leave any comments or feedback that would help others is appreciated.

Do you have a family member, loved one, or friend that is incarcerated and don’t know how to find them?

Do you know somebody that’s been arrested and you want to find them?

In order to see who is in jail at Cass County Jail you have to click on their website and use the inmate search.

The Cass County Jail Inmate List has information on persons who have been arrested, including current status, bail amount (if applicable), and times the inmate can have visitors. You can find info on anyone arrested and booked or discharged in the past 24 hours. Prisoners are listed alphabetically by their last name. You’ll be able to locate their arrest information faster if you enter their first and last name, birth date, or inmate ID Number.

If the inmate you are looking for may be at another county jail you should check our Illinois county jail guide: Other County Jails in Illinois

A mugshot, also known as a jail processing picture, is the picture taken by the police during jail intake processing. They take one full face and a side-view photo. Your name and jail ID number will appear on the photos, and they will be stored at the jail.

Mugshots of Cass County Jail inmates are on the website, or you can go in person to the Cass County Jail. When you search for mugshots on the website you will have to enter their name, and the booking date, if you have it.

Trying to figure out how to have your mugshot removed from the Cass County Jail website? This can be tricky, since the mugshot is a public record. To get your mugshot removed you will need to file a Petition to Expunge with the court. This means that your arrest record would be sealed, and unavailable to the public. Unfortunately, this happens very rarely.

To learn more about getting your mugshot removed, the many different mugshot sites, and the mugshot removal services: How To Remove Your Mugshot from the Internet

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Naturally, once you are locked up, your main thought is about when you get out. After booking, your bail will be set using the bail schedule or the magistrate will decide it. If there is no bail set this can mean that you will either be free to go until your trial, or you must remain in jail until your trial.

If you are released you will have to promise to be there for your court date, and you are required not to leave town.

Typically, a prisoner are given early release in exchange for good behavior if they respect the rules and area a good inmate while locked up.

If you prove to be trustworthy, you may be allowed to participate in a work release program. Either you will have to stay the jail every day when you’re finished at your job, or you might have the chance to move to a halfway house instead of jail.

Your bail is how much money that you have to pay to the court system to be released from jail pending trial. The amount of bail that is set is dictated by how serious your charges are. You will have to post 10 percent of the total amount that was determined so you are able to get out of jail. If you miss your court date, the person that paid your bail will lose all of the bail money.

You will have to call the jail. If you have all the pertinent information, including name, address and date of birth, they’ll tell you the bail amount. You can also check their bail amount and status on the jail website.

Having to get someone out of jail is no fun, but thankfully, it is very simple to do. To start with, you need to know if they have a “Cash Bond Only” situation. If so, you can’t use a Bail Bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – the jail can’t accept a personal check. As soon as you’ve paid the bail bond, the inmate will be released to your care. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, the bail money you posted will be returned to you.

If their bail has been set too high, or you just can’t afford it, you might need to use a bail bondsman. Bondsmen usually charge a fee of 10-15% of the bail amount, and sometimes have a minimum of $100. The amount you pay to the bondsman is non-refundable and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If the bail has been set really high, the bail bondsman will usually use your personal assets as collateral for the bond.

You can find a bail bondsman go to: How to find a bail bondsman

Have you ever used a bail bondsman either for yourself, a family member or friend? If so, post a comment below and tell about it, and let us know how it worked out.

Click here to tell your story

• Time Off For Good Behavior
• Work Release Programs
• Released For Time Served
• Pre-Trial Release Programs
• Get Released on House Arrest
• Be Released on Your Own Recognizance

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The jail intake process is made up of the following steps:

• You will be placed in a waiting area or cell. If the jail is really busy, it will take a while to get processed.
• Firstly, you have to answer some questions, such as your full name, your address, date of birth and an emergency contact.
• You will also be asked about your psychological and medical history.
• You will be given an inmate ID.
• You will be fingerprinted.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• All of your personal property will be taken away from you and stored until you get released from jail.
• You will get to make a telephone call to talk to a member of your family, friend, or bondsman to arrange bail.
• If you are expected to be released shortly, you might be allowed to keep wearing your own clothes, but if you are not expected to make bail quickly you will have to wear a jail uniform – the jumpsuit.

Have you ever been booked into jail? If you have, you should tell our readers about your experience. How long did it take? Were you treated fairly? Can you share any secrets that might help other people that get arrested make it through jail processing?

Click here to tell your story

Once you are able to post bail, you will get discharged from jail. Getting discharged takes from 30 minutes to hours or even all day long. Or, simply, the faster you post bail, the sooner you will get discharged from jail. How quickly you get discharged depends on if you’ve been given a bond amount or if a judge still needs to figure out the amount of bail to be set. For lesser charges, you will simply be booked and then released on your recognizance without having to pay bail. When you have completed your jail sentence and are given a discharge date, expect to get discharged in the morning.

for your arrest, or if you need to start your sentence, it is highly advisable that you follow the rules and go down to the jail and turn yourself in. If you have a warrant, report to the jail reception area, and tell the intake officer that you think there may be an outstanding arrest warrant out for you. A record check will be run, and if they verify that you have one, they will ask that you surrender yourself and you will be taken into custody. If it is for a jail sentence, report on the date and time that the sentence order lists. Ensure that you don’t show up late. Just bring things that are allowed with you, such as a driver’s license or ID, any prescription medication you might take, along with your doctor’s prescription, and a sentencing order.

In order to have visitors, inmates have to provide each visitor’s full name to the jail in advance of any visit. This information will be entered into the visitation log as an Authorized visit. Each visitor has to provide identification. Any visitors that arrives for visitation late or any visitors that are not approved to visit will not be able to attend visitation.
Jail visitation policies can change, so double-check the official Cass County Jail jail site before you go to the jail to visit.

All phone calls from jail are with a pre-paid phone card or account, or are collect calls . Calls made in jail are generally more expensive than phone calls made at home. There are certain restrictions about how often you can use the phone, but bear in mind that there are a limited number of phones, so all the inmates must share phone time. If you are disciplined for an infraction, an inmate’s ability to use the phone could be reduced or forbidden.

Phone Number: (217) 452-7718

All mail has to be sent via the US Postal Service. You must not use any other method of mail or package delivery. Clearly print the inmate’s name, prisoner number, and the address of the jail on the letter. Don’t mail anything in a box, padded envelope, plastic bag, or an envelope with metal inside. All mail received by the jail will be opened and reviewed by the jail staff, and the mail will be returned to the sender if it can’t be delivered.

Use this address when sending a letter to an inmate at Cass County Jail:

Cass County Jail
101 North Front Street
Virginia, IL 62691

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Cass County Jail
101 North Front Street
Virginia, IL 62691

The mail policy at Cass County Jail can change, so be sure to check the official Cass County Jail site when you send a letter to an inmate.

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If you get arrested, you should know you still have rights, one of these is the right to request a lawyer. You are only allowed to make so many phone calls in jail, so it is a good idea to get a friend or family member to find a lawyer when you call them. You may be thinking ‘why do I need a lawyer?’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal defense attorney will make sure you know your rights, protect your interests and help you find your way through the legal system that you are now faced with. The sooner you hire a lawyer to represent you and work on your situation, the better.

For more information on this, read our guide: How to Find a Lawyer in Cass County

If you can’t afford a lawyer, you will be given a public defender for a lawyer. The Public Defender Office has a number of staff such as investigators, experts in forensics as well as social workers. Public Defenders are real lawyers, admitted to the State Bar and are licensed to practice law in Illinois.

Have you or someone you know had to use a court appointed attorney? What was your experience?

Court records are public and available to anyone who requests them. They have a case file containing a sheet called a docket sheet and all of the motions, documents, and evidence that have been filed in the case. You, and anyone else, can access court records via the internet service, or at the Clerk of Court.

A Clerk of Court is a member of the court that maintains court records and controls access to them. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath for anyone testifying in court, and read the verdict when the jury makes their final decision. All records and documents relating to your case are held at Clerk of Court.

Court fees are the charges from your court case, such as filing fees, motion fees and various court charges. If you are low income and have a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees and won’t have to pay them.

The Cass County court magistrate acts as the judge that presides over your court case. They do a number of things, like determining how much your bail will be, issuing warrants, and presiding over preliminary court appearances and detention hearings.

Your pre-sentencing report is prepared to include the defendant’s background information and details of the arrestee’s life history, which the magistrate will consider when determining the sentence. Information and personal details will be solicited from the person on trial, their family, and in some circumstances the victim. Remember you can ask to get your own copy of this report before sentencing, and review it for accuracy and completeness, and correct any mistakes.

After being convicted of a crime, you will be sentenced. There are a number of different options, including community service and probation, to even incarceration in jail or prison. Depending on the particulars of your trial, the severity of your crime, and any sentencing guidelines that they judge will use, you will either be locked up immediately, or you might be given a date that you are supposed to report to jail to serve your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if someone is currently in jail, or has gone to jail in the past?

You can you need to go to the jail’s website, and do a search using:

• Name.
• Birth date.
• Their booking date.
• and their inmate ID.

If you’re not sure if your friend or family member is in jail, you can also call the jail get confirmation.

If you have an outstanding warrant, you can check arrest warrants on the Cass County jail website or you can call the jail. This requires a first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask one of the officers. You should know that there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you will be taken into custody immediately.

If you have a first and last name, and the date of their arrest, contact the Cass County jail, by phone, go there in person, or look online. Arrest records are in the public record and this is accessible by the public.

A Civil Process is when you get served with papers, such as , subpoenas, and arrest warrants. You can find these civil process orders by contacting the Sheriff’s office, either by phone or through their website.

All people registered as sex offenders are registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people listed on these databases have been convicted of a sex crime. You can access these offenders on the internet, but bear in mind that you will not get the exact address, rather the block of the address that they registered.

Court Records are public records. Court Records include a case file that contains a docket sheet and any documents and filings filed in the court case. You are able to access court records on the website, or at the Cass County Clerk of Court in the county where the case was filed.

Each and every state maintains records of their state citizen’s criminal past. These state databases are linked together so you are able to track criminal histories from any other state. Go to county courthouse and make an inquiry, or you can check online. It is helpful to know the county, and if it was in a completely different state, you might have to pay for a more comprehensive search.

A criminal records search you can get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for the following crimes:

• DWI or DUI.
• Drug crimes.
• Kidnapping.
• Sexual offenses including rape, assault.
• Violent crimes including assault, battery and murder.
• Breaking and entering, theft, larceny.

When you do a criminal history search, you generally won’t find if they has had:

• Tickets for speeding.
• Drivers license revoked or suspended.
• Any accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To search for driving records, you have to do a search for their driving history.

Have you ever searched for criminal records? How hard was it? Was your search online or did you have to make a phone call to the Cass County courthouse? Was the information you received correct? There are lots of reasons that folks look up criminal records, and your feedback could make it easier for others.

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Most Wanted

Everyone knows that the FBI has a listing of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Cass County, the Sheriff keeps their own list of most wanted criminals and fugitives.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List: Link

Cass County Sheriff’s Department’s Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

While the prospect of getting locked up in Cass County Jail is something you wish you could avoid, in time you will settle into the daily routine there. You should expect an alarm for wake-up every morning at six in the morning, and then roll call. Next, you will eat breakfast. After breakfast, you will work in the program that has been assigned to you. This could be working in the kitchen, laundry, or some sort of manufacturing job. While this may seem tedious, it may help you when you leave jail, as you are gaining experience in a certain field of work. Other inmates go to school, while some take part in mandated treatment programs. After lunch, there will be another roll call, then back to work. Your evening will be spent either in your cell or a common room. During this time dinner is served and you will be expected to take a shower. After another roll call, it’s lights out. Even though you will be confined to your cell, there may be enough light to read or write letters. Then again, most inmates welcome lights out, and try to get as much sleep as they can.

Most people are frightened at the idea of jail because they don’t know what to expect. If you have spent any time in Cass County Jail, your experiences would be welcomed, if it can help another person to deal with it.

Dress Code

When incarcerated, all inmates are expected to wear the Cass County Jail uniform. This is normally a jumpsuit or scrubs. Of note to anyone visiting an inmate – you must be properly dressed. Any clothing considered inappropriate will not be permitted.

How To Send Money to an Inmate

You will have your own ‘bank account’ while in jail. This money is used to purchase items from the Commissary. Family and friends can deposit money into this account for you, and any money you earn while in prison will also be deposited into your account. Outside money can be paid in to your account via a money order, cash or check. If someone sends a check or money order, make sure that they write your inmate ID on it. The maximum amount you are allowed in your account is $290 per month.

The rules for sending funds to inmates at Cass County Jail could change, so it would be best to visit the site before you send money to an inmate there.


Commissary

The commissary is the jail store. You can purchase a number of things here, such as toiletries, snacks and writing supplies. Bear in mind that you will probably want to use the commissary daily, and any infractions will get that privilege taken away from you.

Inmate Medications

If you are on any type of prescription medication, you will be allowed to continue taking it while in jail. When you are first processed, you will be asked what medication you take. You will then be referred to the jail nurse or doctor who will be in charge of monitoring your health and prescribing your medication.

Meals

You will get three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. As expected, they are very basic, but healthy. A typical breakfast might be cereal, toast, coffee and fruit. Lunch might be spaghetti, salad, bread and milk. Dinner could be chicken casserole, rice, vegetables, dessert and milk. Contrary to popular belief, prison food has greatly improved over the years, and you might find that it’s not much different from what you would eat at home.

Pods / The Yard

The jail is designed in a ‘pod’ layout, with self-contained housing arranged around an outdoor yard. Each pod has a central control station and a common room, and the inmates take turns in using the yard. The jail is designed this way to keep certain inmates together, and others away from the general population.

Gangs

As with life in general, gangs are a part of prison life. Obviously it is best to avoid becoming a part of this environment as it will only lead to trouble. When you first enter prison, you might find yourself being ‘primed’ to join a gang, or worse, you might get their attention in a negative way. The best thing to do is keep your head down and don’t get involved.


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News and Media

News

Photos / Pictures

Videos


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Jobs

Types of Jobs at Cass County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Cass County Jail, overseeing the day to day operations and administration of the jail. An inmate is unlikely to have much interaction with the Deputy Sheriff, unless they have committed an infraction. Detention Officers are responsible for the custody and care of the inmates. They maintain order in the jail, and handle security. A Detention Officer is assigned to a certain pod, and therefore is responsible for the same inmates each day. They get to know the inmates on a certain level and are well equipped to handle any problems that may occur.

Apply for a Job at Cass County Jail

Requirements:

• You have to be over the age of 21.
• You have to possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You have to be a US Citizen.
• You have to pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You have to pass a drug test.
• You have to have a good level of fitness.
• You have to be in good health.
• You have to have a valid Driver’s License
• An applicant for Deputy Sheriff must possess a Law Enforcement Certification.


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Family Resources

There are resources for families of both the perpetrator of the crime and the victim. The social and emotional impact of crime is far reaching, affecting many. Families can receive professional counseling, court related assistance, social services assistance and help in navigating the criminal justice system.

If you are a family member, which resources did you find to be particularly helpful? Please let us know, as this will be helpful to other families in the same situation.

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Victim Resources

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.

Victim’s Rights

The Victim Rights Act grants victims the following rights:

• You have the right to protection from the accused.
• You have the right to notification.
• You have the right to attend proceedings.
• You have the right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• You have the right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• You have the right to restitution.
• You have the right to a speedy trial.
• You have the right to be treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

The definition of victim includes:

• Spouses and children of all victims.
• Parents and guardians of minor victims.
• Parents, guardians and siblings of mentally or physically incapacitated victims or victims of homicide.
• Foster parents or other caregivers, under certain circumstances.

There are a number of services and programs designed to help victims and their families. You can find out about these services by contacting the courthouse, or local law enforcement agency.

Victim Notification

The Department of Justice Victim Notification System (VNS) is a system that provides victims with information pertaining to their case and/or any defendants in the case. You will receive a Victim Identification Number (VIN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow you to access VNS via the internet or by phone. Here, you will find information about future court hearings, historical court events, and detailed information about the defendant. This will include criminal charges filed, the outcome of charges, sentence imposed, custody location, projected release date and any other release information. The VNS website is updated daily. You will also receive any ongoing information by mail or email.

Have you, a family member or friend ever used the Victim Notification System? If so, was it effective? Did you get the information in a timely manner? Was the system difficult to use? We would like to hear from you, so please post any comments here.

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Sex Offender Information and Search

All people registered as sex offenders are registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information online, but bear in mind that you will not get the exact address, rather the block that they live on.

Domestic Violence

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are services to help you. Your county will have a Domestic Violence Services office. They provide free and confidential services, such as emergency shelter information, legal advocacy, support groups and domestic violence education. They will work to help you create a safe and violence-free life, and heal from the trauma of abuse.

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.


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Reviews

Reviews of this Jail

Have you ever spent any time at Cass County Jail? Do you know anybody that is a prisoner there? Have you ever been to visit someone in this jail?

If so, then please write a review about it. Write down your experience because other people will know what to expect.

Things you might want to include in your comment:

• Conditions in Cass County Jail.
• Jail and pod layout and facility
• Jail staff and Guards
• Food and commissary
• Having Visitors
• Other Inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gangs
• Prisoner programs and activities


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Tell Your Story

Everyone’s who has been put in jail has some stories about their time ‘inside’. Why were you locked up? Did you get fair treatment? What happened to you while you were locked up? Were the other inmates cool? How did going to jail affect your life?

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Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Make some good friends in jail? Do you need to find out how to get in touch with someone from jail? Post a message to them below.

Say Hello

Links and Resources

Main Cass County Jail Website
Cass County Jail Inmate Search Link
Cass County Jail Mugshots
Cass County Jail Bail Link

Cass County Jail Visitation Policy Link
Cass County Jail Mail Policy
Find an inmate at Cass County Jail
Cass County Warrant Inquiry
Cass County Jail Arrests
Cass County Jail Send Money Procedure
Cass County Jail Employment


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