Mason County Jail – Ludington, MI

Mason County Jail is in Mason County, Michigan and is the main correctional facility for that area. Looking for somebody in jail at Mason County Jail? This page will tell you all about anything you might need to know about Mason County Jail: How to do a jail inmate search. Find mugshots and inmate photos. The jail’s address and phone number. Bail and bail bondsmen. Mason County Jail intake procedures. Court information and records. And lots more.

The chance of going to jail is a daunting and scary situation, not only for the person who gets locked up, but also their friends and family. The goal of this guide is to give you information that you need to make getting locked up a lot easier. If you have a specific question, feel free to ask it in the comment section below, and any tips or comments that would be beneficial to others will be appreciated.

Do you know someone that is incarcerated and don’t know how to locate them?

Has a friend or family member who has been arrested and you need to find them?

To find out who’s in jail at Mason County Jail you have to visit their web site and use the inmate search.

The Mason County Jail Inmate Roster is an online list of persons who have been arrested, including custody status, how much their bail is, and visiting schedule. Also, you are able to find the same information about anybody processed or discharged within the past 24 hours. Jail inmates are listed alphabetically by their last name. You will be able to find their inmate information quicker if you enter your friend or family member’s first and last name, date of birth, or inmate ID Number.

If your friend or loved one might be in another county jail you should check the other Michigan county jails in our Michigan County Jail Guide: Michigan County Jails Listing

A mugshot, or jail intake photograph, is a picture that the police take when you are processed at the jail intake. They will take one full face and a profile picture. Your name and intake number will appear on the mugshot, and they’re stored at the jail.

Mugshots of people who have been arrested can be found on the Mason County Jail website, or you can see them in person at the Mason County Jail. When you search for mugshots on the website you need to put in their first and last name, and the booking date, if you know it.

Need to know how to have your mugshot taken down from the Mason County Jail website? This can be tricky, because your mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot removed you must file a Petition to Expunge in court. Basically, this means that the record of your arrest would be sealed, and will not be available to the public. Unfortunately, this happens very rarely.

To learn more about getting your mugshot taken down, the many different mugshot sites, and the websites that offer to remove your mugshot for you: How To Get Your Mugshot Removed

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Of course, if you’re in jail, your main thought is about getting out. After you’ve gone through booking, your bail amount will be determined using the bail schedule or the magistrate will decide it. If you don’t get a bail set this can mean that you will either get released, pending trial, or you have to stay in jail until your trial.

If you are released from jail you are required to promise to be in court on your court date, and until then you must not travel out of the county.

Typically, an inmate are given time off in exchange for good behavior if they don’t break the rules and conduct themselves properly while they’re in jail.

If you do exhibit good behavior and the jail believes you can be trusted, you may be allowed to do work release. Either you will have to return to jail each day when you’re finished working, or you could be permitted to sleep in a halfway house instead of living at the jail.

Bail is money that you have to pay to the courts to be released from jail until your court date. Your bail amount depends on the seriousness of your crime. Someone will have to pay to the courts 10 percent of the total that was determined in order to get out of jail. If you don’t show up for your court date, that person won’t get the bail money back.

To find out someone’s bail amount you must call the jail. If you’ve got the pertinent information, such as name, address and date of birth, they’ll let you know how much their bail is. You can also check their bail amount and status on the jail website.

Needing to bail someone out of jail is an unpleasant situation, but usually, it’s really easy if you have the money. First of all, find out if they have a Cash Only Bond situation. If this is the case, you can’t use a bondsman. Take cash only to the jail – the jail will not take a check. As soon as you’ve paid the bail bond, the inmate will be released. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, you’ll get your money back.

If the bail amount is too high, of if you can’t pay it, you might need to use a bail bondsman. They usually have a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the bail amount, and in most cases charge a minimum charge of $100. This money is non-refundable and is typically cash only. If the bail has been set really high, the bondsman may require that they use your assets as collateral in addition to the fee they charge.

If you need a bail bondsman click here: Find a bail bondsman at Mason County Jail

Have you ever used a Bail Bondsman because you or someone you know got arrested? If you have, post a comment below and tell about it, and let us know how it worked out for you.

Click here to leave a comment

• Early Release For Good Behavior
• Work Release Programs
• Released For Time Served
• Get Out on a Pre-Trial Release Program
• House Arrest
• Get Released on Your Own Recognizance

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The intake process is made up of the following steps:

• They’ll put you in a holding cell. When the jail is busy, you may not be processed immediately.
• The first step is that you have to answer some questions, such as your full legal name, your address, birthdate and an emergency contact person.
• They’ll also ask you about your medical and psychological history.
• You will be given an inmate ID.
• You will be fingerprinted.
• They will take your mugshot.
• Any property you have will get taken away from you and will be stored until you are released.
• You will get to make a phone call to get in touch with family, friends, or bail bondsman.
• If you are expected to be released quickly, you will be allowed to wear your own clothes, if not you will have to wear a jail uniform.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If you have, you should share your experience so others can benefit from your story. How long did it take to get through intake? How were you treated? Do you have any tips that will help others get through jail intake?

Click here to tell about all about it

Once bail has been posted, you will get discharged from jail. The discharge process takes between 30 minutes to all day. In other words the quicker bail is posted, the faster you will get released. How quickly you get discharged can depend on whether or not you’ve been given a bond amount or if the judge has to determine how much to set your bail at. For lesser charges, you will be booked and get released without having to post bail. If you have served a sentence in jail and have a date of your release, you should expect to be released at any time that day – but usually in the morning.

If you have a, or if you must begin your jail sentence, you should do the right thing and go down to the jail and turn yourself in. For a warrant, go down to the jail intake area, and tell someone that you think there may be a warrant for your arrest. They will check to see if you have a warrant, and if they verify that you have one, they will take you into custody. If it is for a jail sentence, go to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order states. Ensure that you don’t show up late. Just bring approved items when you go to jail, for example a driver’s license or state issued ID, any prescription medication you might take, and the copy of the sentencing order.

To have visitors, you must list each visitor’s name to the jail in advance. Your visitor’s information will be entered in the visitors log for the inmate that requested the visitor. Each and every visitor must provide acceptable photo identification. Anyone arriving late or any visitors that are not approved to visit will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Jail visitation policies can change, so make sure that you visit the official site before go to the jail to visit an inmate.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are with a pre-paid phone card or account, or are collect calls . Calls made in jail are a lot pricier than regular phone calls. There are certain restrictions about how often you can use the phone, but inmates should keep in mind that you are just one of many people who want to talk to their loved ones. If you break the rules, your ability to use the phone could be reduced or totally denied.

The Mason County Jail phone number is: 231-843-3475

Any mail that you send to an inmate is required to be mailed using the US Postal Service. You cannot use any other type of delivery. You have to clearly write or type the person’s name, inmate number, and the address of the jail on the outside of the letter that you send. Don’t send anything in a box or package, padded envelope, bag, or an envelope containing metal parts. All mail that you send to inmates is opened and read by the jail officers, and will be sent back if it can’t be delivered.

If you would like to send a letter to an inmate at Mason County Jail, use this address:

Mason County Jail
302 North Delia Street
Ludington, MI 49431

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Mason County Jail
302 North Delia Street
Ludington, MI 49431

The mail policy at Mason County Jail is always changing, so be sure to review the site before you send a letter to an inmate.

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When you’ve been arrested, you have particular rights, the most important of which is that you have the right to request a lawyer. You won’t get many phone calls in jail, so you would be wise to have a friend or relative find a lawyer when you call them. I know you’re probably asking yourself right now ‘do I really need an attorney?’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal attorney can advise you of your rights, help protect your best interests and help you navigate through the complicated court system in Mason County. The quicker you get an attorney working on your situation, the better off you’ll be.

For more information on how to find an attorney, click: Find an Attorney

If you need an attorney, but can’t afford a lawyer, you will be given a public defender for a lawyer. In addition, the Public Defender’s Office is staffed by private investigators, crime scene and forensics experts as well as case workers. You will be reassured to know that Public Defenders are licensed attorneys who are members of the State Bar and are legally licensed to practice law as an agent of the court.

Have you or someone you know used a Public Defender? How did they do?

Court records are public record and are available upon request to anyone who requests them – not just the person who they pertain to. They have a file with a docket sheet and all documents and motions that have been filed in your case. You can access your court case records using the Mason County website, or at the Clerk’s office of the Court.

The Clerk of Court is a member of the court that maintains the records. They also administer the oath in a court case, and read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All records and documents associated with your court case are maintained at the office of the Clerk of Court.

Court fees and costs are the charges associated with your case, which include filing fees, motion and claim fees, and court charges. If you cannot afford these fees and have a Public Defender, you will not be responsible for these fees.

The magistrate is the person that will preside over your court case. Magistrates do many different things, which include setting bail, issuing arrest warrants, and presiding over preliminary court hearings and detention proceedings.

A defendant’s pre-sentencing report is put together with your background information and information about the defendant’s life and public history, which the judge will review and take into account when determining a sentence. Information, details, and character witnesses will be gathered from the defendant, his or her family members, and in some circumstances the victim of the crime. Don’t forget you can ask to have a copy of your pre-sentencing report prior to sentencing, so you get the chance to go over it and correct any mistakes in it.

If you get convicted of a crime during your trial, you will then get sentenced. The presiding judge in your case will weigh several options when determining your sentence, including community service and probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on sentencing guidelines and the severity of your crime, you might get locked up immediately, or given a date that you must go to jail to serve your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if a family member or friend is incarcerated, or has ever been locked up?

This is pretty simple to do, just just visit the Mason County jail website and do an inmate search lookup, and search by:

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

If you’re not sure if this person is in jail or not, you can also call the jail get confirmation.

If you think you might have an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you can check arrest warrants on the Mason County jail website or you can call the court directly. You have to have their first and last name. Or, you can just go down to the jail and ask the officer in charge. Bear in mind that there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest, they will take you into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s first and last name, and possibly an arrest date, contact the Mason County jail, either by phone, go there in person, or check online. Arrest records are in the public record and this information is accessible to anyone.

A Civil Process is when you get served with papers, which can be a court order. You can find these by getting in touch with the Sheriff’s office, on their website or by phone.

All people registered as sex offenders have to be registered on both a national and state sex offender database. Those listed on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex offense. You are able to view these offenders on the internet, but you should know that you will not get the exact address, but only the block of the address that they registered.

Court Records are public, and are accessible by anyone. These records include a court case file containing a docket and any documents filed in your court case. You can access the court records on the internet, or at the clerk’s office of the court in the county where the case was filed.

Each state keeps a record of people’s criminal background. These state databases are all connected so you are able to track criminal backgrounds from another state. Go to the Mason County Courthouse and inquire in person, or you can check the website. You must know which county the crime occurred in, and in the event that the crime was in a different state entirely, you may have to pay for a more complete search.

When you look up a person’s criminal records you will find out if a person has ever been arrested, charged or convicted for any crimes they may have committed, which could include:

• DUI.
• Drug offenses such as possession or trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Sexual offenses including rape, assault.
• Violent crimes.
• Breaking and entering, theft, larceny.

When you do a criminal history search, in most cases will not find out if they have had any:

• Speeding.
• Drivers license suspended or revoked.
• Accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

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

Have you ever had to look for criminal records online? Was it easy? Did you search online or did you make a phone call to the local courthouse? Was the information correct? There are lots of reasons that folks search for criminal backgrounds and records, and your feedback might help other people.

Click here to tell about all about it

Most Wanted

The FBI has their list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Mason County, the Mason County Sheriff’s Department has their own list of the most wanted criminals, that you can access online.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List: External Link


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Just the thought of serving a jail sentence in the Mason County jail is very scary, in time you will get accustomed to the daily routine. You will get an alarm to wake up every morning at 6:00AM, and next they’ll do roll call. You will then get breakfast. After breakfast, you will be required to 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 Mason 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 Mason 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 procedure to send money to someone in jail can change, so we suggest that you check the official website when you send any funds.


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 Mason County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Mason 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 Mason 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.

Click here to tell about all about it


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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.

Click here to tell about all about it

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 been an inmate at this jail? Do you know someone that is a prisoner there? Have you ever visited an inmate at this jail?

If you have, then please write your review about it. Write about your experience so others can learn what to expect.

Things you can put in what you write:

• Conditions in Mason County Jail.
• Jail and pod layout and facility
• Guards and staff
• Jail food and commissary
• Visitors
• Inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gangs
• Programs and activities


Speak Your Mind

Tell Your Story

Anyone who’s been in jail has a story about it. How’d you get locked up? Were you mistreated? What happened to you while you were locked up? How did you get along with the other inmates? Did going to jail affect your life? How?

Speak Your Mind

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Make some good friends in jail? Are you trying to reconnect with somebody you met when you were locked up? Say hello here, just leave a message below.

Post a message to people still locked up at Mason County Jail


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