Portage County Jail – Stevens Point, WI

Portage County Jail is in Portage County and is the correctional facility for that county. Do you know someone in Portage County Jail? This site tells you information about everything one might want to know about Portage County Jail,like: How to do a jail inmate search. Find mugshots and inmate photos. The jail’s phone number and address. How to post bail. Intake procedures. Court records. And much more…

The thought of going to jail is a scary and stressful prospect, not only for the person who goes to jail, but also that person’s family, friends, and loved ones. The purpose of this guide is to give you information you need to make getting locked up a little less stressful. If you have questions, please feel free to ask it in the comment section below, and also any feedback or comments that might help others would be appreciated.

Do you have a family member, loved one, or friend that is incarcerated and want to find them?

Has a family member or friend who has been arrested and you don’t know how to find out what jail they’re in?

In order to find out who’s in jail at Portage County Jail you will need to navigate to their web site and use the inmate search.

The Portage County Jail Inmate Lookup is an online list of people who have been arrested and are in custody, which includes custody status, bail amount (if applicable), and times you can visit. You can find information about anyone arrested and booked or discharged within the last 24 hours. Prisoners are listed in alphabetical order by last name. You will be able to get their inmate information fast if you enter your friend or family member’s full name, date of birth, or arrest number.

If the person you are looking for is incarcerated at a different jail you can look here, too: Wisconsin County Jails Listing

A mugshot, or jail processing photo, is a picture that the police take when you get booked into jail. A mugshot is actually one full face and a profile photo. Your full name and booking number will be in the photos, and they will be stored.

Mugshots can be viewed on the Portage County Jail website, or you can view them at the Portage County Jail. When viewing mugshots online you need to put in their first and last name, and a booking date.

Need to know how to get your mugshot removed from the Portage County Jail site? This will be difficult, because the mugshot is a matter of public record. You will need to file a Petition to Expunge with the court. What this means is that your arrest record would be sealed, and will not be accessible. Depending on your situation, this may be a longshot.

Read our in-depth tutorial about removing your mugshot, the different mugshot websites, and the websites that offer to remove your mugshot for you: How To Get Your Mugshot Taken Down

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Of course, once you are in jail, your main thought is about getting out. After booking, your bail is set 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 be free to go until your court date, or you don’t get released while you wait for your court date.

If you are released from jail you are required to agree to go to your court date, and until that date you are not permitted to go out of town.

Usually, a prisoner at Portage County Jail will be given time off in exchange for good behavior when they respect the rules and act right while they’re in jail.

If you follow the rules, you might be given work release detail. Either you will have to stay the jail every day after work, or you may have the chance to sleep in a halfway house instead of the jail.

Bail is money that you have to pay to the court system to be released from jail until your court date. The amount you will be required to pay is determined by the crime you’ve been charged with. You will have to pay to the courts ten percent of the total that was determined so you can be released from jail. If you fail to show up for court, whoever paid your bail will lose all of the bail money.

To find out how much bail money you will need to bail someone out of jail have to call the jail. If know the pertinent information, such as name, address and date of birth, they will let you know the bail amount. Also, you can check their bail amount and status on the jail website.

Bailing out of jail is never fun, but thankfully, its very simple to do. To start with, you have to find out if it is a “Cash Bond Only”. If so, you won’t be able to use the services of a bail bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – they can’t take checks. As soon as you’ve paid the bail bond, the prisoner will get released. If the conditions of bail are not violated, you’ll get the bail money back.

If the bail amount is too high, or you just can’t afford to pay it, you will need to use a bail bondsman. Bail bondsmen usually charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of bail set, and usually have a minimum of $100. This money is non-refundable and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If the bail is exceptionally high, the bondsman may request to use assets as collateral for the bond.

To contact a bail bondsman click here: Bail bondsman

Have you ever used a bail bondsman for yourself, a family member or friend? If you have, please leave a comment below and tell about your experience and let us know how it worked out.

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• Time Off For Good Behavior
• Work Release Programs
• Get Out For Time Served
• Get Out on a Pre-Trial Release Program
• Get Out 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 get put in a holding cell. If the jail is busy, it will take a while to get processed.
• You must answer some simple questions, such as your full name, address, birth date and an emergency contact person.
• They’ll also ask about your medical and psychological history.
• You will be given an inmate ID number.
• You will get fingerprinted.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• All of your personal property will be taken from you and stored until you get discharged from jail.
• You will get to use the telephone so you can talk to a member of your family, friend, or bondsman to arrange bail.
• If you think you will get released quickly, they will let you keep wearing your own clothes, otherwise you will be given a jail uniform – the jumpsuit.

Have you ever been booked into jail? If you have, please tell your story so other people can learn from your experience. How long did it take to get through intake? Were you treated fairly? Do you have any secrets that might help others make it through the process?

Click here to post a comment

Once bail has been posted, you will be allowed to leave jail. The discharge process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to quite a few hours. In simple terms, the faster you can post bail, the faster you will get released. Also, how fast you get released can depend on if you have a cash bond or if the judge still needs to determine the bail amount. For lesser charges, you will be booked and get released without having to post bail. When you have completed your jail sentence and are given a discharge date, you should expect to be released between 9am and noon.

out against you, or if you have to begin your jail sentence, you should follow the law and turn yourself in. For a warrant, go to the jail intake center, and tell an officer that you think there is a warrant for your arrest. They will do a check to find out if there is an arrest warrant for you, and if so, you will be taken into custody. If it is for a jail sentence, go to the jail on the date and time that the sentence order requires you to. Be very careful that you aren’t late. Make sure that you only bring approved items when you go to jail, like a driver’s license or state issued ID, prescription medication, as well as the copy of the sentencing order.

In order to have visitors, inmates need to list each visitor’s full name to the jail in advance of any visit. This information will be entered into a log of visitors for the inmate. Each and every visitor is required to provide a photo ID when visiting. Any visitors arriving late or that does not have a visitation order will not be able to attend visitation.
Jail visitation policies change often, so make sure that you check the official site before you visit an inmate.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are collect calls or through a pre-paid phone account. Phone calls made in jail are typically pricier than phone calls made outside of jail. There are certain restrictions about when you can make phone calls, how long you can talk, and how often you can make calls, but you should keep in mind that a long line can form at the phones, because everyone wants to use the phone, too. If you are disciplined for an infraction, phone privileges could be reduced or totally denied.

The Portage County Jail phone number is: (715) 346-1400

All mail is required to be mailed using the US Postal Service. You shouldn’t use any other method of mail delivery. You should write or type the inmate’s name, inmate ID, and jail address on the envelope. Do not mail anything in a package, padded envelope, bag, or an envelope with metal inside. Any mail is opened and reviewed by the officers at the jail, and will get returned if it can’t be delivered.

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

Portage County Jail
1500 Strongs Avenue
Stevens Point, WI 54481

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Portage County Jail
1500 Strongs Avenue
Stevens Point, WI 54481

The Portage County Jail inmate mail policy changes frequently, so you should review the site before you send a letter to an inmate there.

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Even if you’ve been arrested, you have certain rights, and an important one is that you have the right to request an attorney. You only get so many phone calls when you get arrested, so make sure to ask a friend or family member to find an attorney when you call. I know you’re probably asking yourself right now ‘why do I need an attorney?’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal lawyer will advise you about your rights, help protect your interests and help you understand the legal system in Portage County. The quicker you hire an attorney to represent you and work on your situation, the better your chances.

For more information on the benefits of and how to hire an attorney, click: How to Find an Attorney

If you cannot afford a lawyer, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. In addition, the Public Defender’s Office has access to investigators, experts in forensics as well as social case workers. You will be reassured to know that Public Defenders are actual attorneys that are admitted to the State Bar and are fully licensed to practice law and represent you in court.

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

Portage County court records are public and available to anyone who requests them. Court records include a court case file containing a docket sheet and all of the motions, documents, and evidence that have been filed in your case. You, and anyone else, can access your court records with the internet service, or by going to the Clerk of Court where the case was filed.

The Clerk of Court is a member of the court that maintains the records. They also administer the oath for any court participant who must be under oath, and also read the verdict when decided by the jury. All records, documents, and evidence relating to your case are held at the Portage County Clerk of Court.

Court fees and costs are the costs associated with your case, for example filing charges, motion and claim fees, and court appearance fees. If you don’t have the money to pay these fees and have a court appointed attorney, you may get out of having to pay them.

A Magistrate is the type of judge that presides over your case in court. They do different tasks, like setting your bail amount, issuing arrest warrants, and presiding over initial court appearances and detention proceedings.

A pre-sentencing report is put together to include information about your background and information about the arrestee’s life, which the magistrate judge will review and take into consideration when determining the sentence. Information and personal details will be solicited from the person on trial, the defendant’s family, and if necessary the victim of the crime. Remember you can request to receive your own copy of the report before your sentencing, so you can go over it and correct any mistakes in it.

After being convicted of a crime, you will then get sentenced. There are several different options for sentencing, which include community service and probation, to even prison or jail time. Depending on sentencing guidelines and the severity of your crime, you could be locked up immediately, or you could be given a date that you must report to jail to serve your jail term according to your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if some you know is locked up, or has ever been in jail?

To find this out you will have to visit the jail’s website, and do a search using:

• Name.
• Birthdate.
• Their approximate booking date.
• and their jail ID.

If you think this person is in jail, you should call the jail get confirmation.

If you think you might have an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you can find out by checking the arrest warrants online or you are able to call the court. You have to have the person’s first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask the officer in charge. Bear in mind that if there is a warrant for your arrest, you will be taken into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s first and last name, as well as the date of their arrest, contact the Portage County jail, by phone, go there in person, or find out online. An arrest is public record and these records are freely available.

Civil processes are when you get served with legal papers, which can be court orders. You can access civil process orders by going to the Sheriff’s office, online or by phone.

All convicted sex offenders must be registered and listed on either a national or state sex offender database. Those listed on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex crime. You are able to view sex offenders online, but remember that you can’t find the exact address, rather the neighborhood block they live on.

Court Records are public records and available to anyone. Court Records include a case file containing a docket sheet and any of the documents and filings filed in your case. You can access court records on the internet, or at Clerk of Court where the case was filed.

Each and every state maintains a record of someone’s criminal past. These online databases are all connected so you can track criminal convictions from another state. You can go to the Portage County Courthouse and make an inquiry, or check the website. You must know which county the crime occurred in, and if it was in a different state entirely, you may have to pay a fee for a more comprehensive search.

When you look up someone’s criminal record you can find out if a person has ever been arrested, charged or convicted for the following crimes:

• DUI or DWI.
• Drug offenses.
• Kidnapping.
• Sexual offenses including rape, assault.
• Violent crimes including assault, battery and murder.
• Theft.

When you do a criminal history search, you generally won’t discover if they have had any infractions like moving violations:

• Speeding or reckless driving.
• Drivers license revoked or suspended.
• Traffic accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

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

Have you ever had to search for criminal records of someone you know? How hard was it? Did you do your search online or did you have to make a phone call to the Portage County courthouse? Was the information you received correct? There are lots of reasons that people look up criminal records, and your story could help other people.

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Most Wanted

For Federal crimes, the FBI has their list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Portage County, the Portage County Sheriff has a list of most wanted criminals, too.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List: Link


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

While the prospect of serving a jail sentence in Portage County Jail is very scary, you will soon settle into the daily routine there. You will get an alarm to wake up every morning at 6am, and then roll call. You will then eat breakfast. When you finish breakfast you will work in the work program or other activity that you are assigned. 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 Portage 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 Portage 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 funds to people in jail is likely to change, so be sure to review the official Portage County Jail site before you send any money.


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 Portage County Jail

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

Tell Your Story


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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:

• Victims have the right to protection from the accused.
• Victims have the right to notification.
• Victims have the right to attend proceedings.
• Victims have the right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• Victims have the right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• Victims have the right to restitution.
• Victims have the right to a speedy trial.
• Victims 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 been a prisoner at Portage County Jail? Do you have a family member or friend there? Have you ever visited an inmate in this jail?

If yes, then you should leave a comment below about it. Tell us about what you experienced because others will know what to expect.

Things you can write in what you write:

• Conditions at the jail.
• Jail and pod facility and layout
• Guards and jail staff
• Commissary and food
• Having Visitors
• The other inmates.
• Safety
• Gangs
• Programs and activities


Click here to review Portage County Jail

Tell Your Story

Everybody who’s been arrested and thrown in jail has some stories about their time ‘inside’. Why’d you end up in jail? Did you experience fair treatment? What was your daily routine in jail? Tell us about the other inmates. How did getting locked up affect your life?

Click here to tell your story about Portage County Jail

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you meet some cool folks in jail? Do you need to reconnect with someone from jail? Write your message below.

Send a message


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