Polk County Jail – Balsam Lake, WI

Polk County Jail is in Polk County, WI and is the main correctional facility for that area. Know somebody at Polk County Jail? This guide gives you about anything you might want to know about Polk County Jail: Learn how to locate an inmate. Find mugshots and inmate photos. The jail’s address and phone number. Bail and bail bondsmen. Intake procedures and booking. Court information. And much more…

The chance of going to jail is a daunting and scary thought, not only for whoever goes to jail, but also that person’s family, friends, and loved ones. The purpose of this guide is to give information and advice that you’ll need to make getting locked up less stressful. If you have a question, feel free to ask them, and please leave any tips or comments that could be beneficial to other people in the same situation would be much appreciated.

Do you know someone that is locked up and need to find them?

Has a friend or family member that’s been arrested and you don’t know how to find them?

To see who’s in jail at Polk County Jail you will need to click on their web site and perform an inmate lookup.

The Polk County Jail Inmate Locator is a list of people who were arrested and are now in jail, including custody status, how much their bail is, and times the inmate can have visitors. Also, you can find the same information on anybody arrested and processed or discharged in the past 24-hour period. Prisoners are listed in alphabetical order by their last name. You’ll be able to locate their inmate information quicker if you enter the arrestee’s first and last name, date of birth, or inmate ID Number.

If your friend or family member could possibly be at another county jail you will want to check the other Wisconsin county jails in our Wisconsin County Jail Guide: Other County Jails in Wisconsin

A mugshot, also called a jail booking photograph, is a photo taken by the police when you are processed at the jail intake. A mugshot is actually two photos one face photo and a profile photo. Your name and intake number will be on the mugshot, and they’re kept on file at the jail.

Mugshots of Polk County Jail prisoners can be searched on the Polk County Jail website, or you can see them at the Polk County Jail. When you search for mugshots online you will need to put in their full name, and the booking date.

Trying to figure out how to get your mugshot taken down from the Polk County Jail site? This is difficult, since the mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot removed you need to file a ‘Petition to Expunge’. Basically, this means that all of your arrest records will be sealed, so no one will be able to see them. It is difficult to do this, and you will most likely need the services of a lawyer.

Read our in-depth tutorial about removing your mugshot, the different mugshot sites, and the mugshot removal websites: Mugshot Removal

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Naturally, if you’re in jail, your primary thought is about when you get out. After booking, your bail is decided either through a preset bail schedule or a magistrate. In cases where no bail is set this may mean that you will either be released on your ‘own recognizance’ until your court date, or you have to stay in jail until your trial.

If you do bail out of jail you must agree to go to your court date, and you are not permitted to leave town.

Typically, inmates in the Polk County Jail will be given time off in exchange for good behavior if they follow the rules and act right while they’re in jail.

If you prove to be trustworthy, you may be granted work release. You will have to go back to jail every day when you’re finished working, or you might be permitted to move to a halfway house when you are not working.

Bail is how much money that you have to pay to the court system to be released from jail until you go to court. Your bail amount is determined by how serious your crime is. You will need to pay to the courts 10 percent of the total set before you can bail out of jail. If you miss your court appearance, whoever put up your bail money will not get their money back.

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

Having to bail a friend or family member out of jail is no fun, but usually, it is very simple to do. To start with, you have to find out if their bail is a Cash Only Bond. If this is the case, you won’t be able to use the services of a Bail Bondsman. They only accept cash at the jail, so you have to take cash – they can’t accept checks. Once you have paid the bond, the inmate will be released into your care. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, you will get this money back.

If the bail amount is too high, or you just don’t have the money, you might need to use a bail bondsman. Bondsmen generally charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of total bail, and in most cases have a minimum of $100. The amount you pay to the bondsman is non-refundable and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If bail is very large, the bondsman will use your assets, such as home, property or cars, as collateral for the bond.

You can find a local bail bondsman click here: Bail bondsman

Have you ever had to find a bail bondsman 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 post a comment

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

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The jail intake process takes you through each of these steps:

• You will get put in a holding cell. When the jail is busy, it will take a while to get processed.
• You will answer a bunch of questions, like what is your legal name, address, date of birth and an emergency contact person.
• Also, you will also be asked about your mental and medical history.
• You will be given an inmate number.
• You will get fingerprinted.
• You will get your mugshot taken.
• All personal property will get taken away from you and will be stored until you are released.
• You will then be allowed to use the phone in order to talk to a member of your family, friend, or bondsman to arrange bail.
• If you are expected to be released quickly, you might be allowed to wear your own clothes, but if you are not expected to make bail quickly you will have to wear a jail issued jumpsuit.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If you have, you should tell us what happened. How long did you have to wait? How were you treated? Can you tell us things that might help other people that get arrested get through jail intake?

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When you finally post bail, you will get discharged from jail. This process will take anywhere between 10 minutes to all day. In simple terms, the quicker bail is posted, the quicker you will get out of jail. Also, it might depend on whether or not you have a cash bond or if a magistrate must decide on your bail amount. For lesser charges, you will simply be booked and released on your own recognizance. When you have completed your jail sentence and know the date of your release, you should plan to be discharged between 9am and noon.

If you have a, or if you need to begin your jail sentence, it is recommended that you follow the rules and turn yourself in. In the case of an outstanding warrant, go down to the jail, and tell an officer that think that there is an outstanding arrest warrant out for you. They will check their system to see if there are any outstanding local, state or federal arrest warrants out for you, and if there is one, you will be taken into the sheriff’s custody. If you have a jail sentence to serve, report to the jail on the date and time that the sentence order or court paperwork states. Make sure that you don’t show up late. Only bring things that are allowed when you go, such as your driver’s license or your ID, any prescription medication you might take, along with your doctor’s prescription, as well as a sentencing order from court.

Inmates must give information about each visitor to the jail. Your visitor’s names will be put into the log for the inmate. Every visitor is required to provide a photo ID when visiting. Anyone showing up late or that is not on the visitation list will not be allowed to attend visitation.
Visitation procedures at Polk County Jail are always changing, so make sure that you check the official jail site before go to the jail to 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 more expensive than regular phone calls. Inmates are able to make phone calls, with restrictions on when you can make phone calls, how long you can talk, and how often you can make calls, but inmates must keep in mind that you are just one of many people who want to talk to their loved ones. If you break the rules, phone calls may be limited or totally denied.

Phone Number: 715-485-8370

All mall sent to inmates has to be sent using the US Postal Service. You must not use any other type of mail delivery. You must write the inmate’s name, inmate number, and the address of the jail on the envelope. Don’t send a package, envelope with padding, bag, or an envelope with metal inside. Any mail sent to inmates gets opened and reviewed by the officers at the jail, and will get returned to the sender if it can’t be delivered.

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

Polk County Jail
1005 West Main Street
Balsam Lake, WI 54810

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Polk County Jail
1005 West Main Street
Balsam Lake, WI 54810

The mail policy at Polk County Jail changes often, so be sure to visit the official Polk County Jail site when you send a letter to an inmate there.

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If you have been arrested, you need to be aware that you still have rights, one of these is the right to request a lawyer. You only get so many phone calls when you get arrested, so you would be wise to have a friend or relative find an attorney when you call. You might be thinking ‘why do I need a lawyer?’ You can represent yourself if you really want to, but, a criminal lawyer can advise you of your rights, help protect your interests and show you the way through the complicated court system. The sooner you hire an attorney to represent you and work on your charges, the better your chances.

For more detailed information on the benefits of and how to hire an attorney, read: How to Find a Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested and cannot afford an attorney, you will be assigned a public defender. In addition, the Public Defender Office is staffed by private investigators, forensics experts as well as social case workers. Public Defenders are bona-fide lawyers, members of the Wisconsin State Bar and are licensed to practice law.

Have you or someone you know used a court appointed attorney? Are you happy with how they handled your case?

Polk County court records are public records and are available upon request. They include a court case file containing a docket sheet and each of the motions, documents, and evidence filed in the case. You, and anyone else, can access your court records via the online service, or by going to the Clerk of Court.

The Clerk of Court is an officer and clerk of the court that maintains court records. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath in a court case, and also read the verdict when the jury makes their final decision. All records and documents from your case are kept at the Polk County Clerk of Court.

Court costs and court fees are the charges and fees from your case, such as filing fees, motion fees and various court charges. If you cannot afford these fees and have court appointed legal counsel or a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees.

The magistrate is the type of judge who presides on your case in court. Magistrates are judges that do several different things, like setting your bail amount, issuing arrest warrants, and overseeing preliminary and procedural court proceedings and detention hearings.

A pre-sentencing report is prepared with the defendant’s background information and details of the arrestee’s life and public history, which the magistrate judge will take into consideration when determining the sentence. Information will be gathered from the person on trial, their family, and in some circumstances the victim. Don’t forget you are allowed to ask to see your own copy of this report before you are sentenced, so you can correct any inaccurate information.

If you get convicted of a crime, you will be given a sentence for your crime. There are several different options for sentencing, including community service and probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on the severity of the crime, you may be taken into custody, right there in court, or you could get a date that you are supposed to surrender and report to jail to do your time.

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Do you want to find out if a family member or friend is incarcerated, or has been an inmate in the past?

To do this, just go to the jail website and do an inmate search, and search using:

• The inmate’s name.
• Date of birth.
• Their booking date.
• and their jail ID.

If you’re not sure if this person is in jail or not, you should call the jail confirm whether they’ve been arrested or not.

If you think you have a warrant out for your arrest, you are able to check the arrest warrants inquiry on the Polk County court website or you are able to call the court. You have to have their first and last name. Or, you can just go down to the jail and ask one of the officers. You should be clear that if you do have an outstanding warrant, they will take you into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s name, and the date of their arrest, contact the jail, either by phone, in person, or find out 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 , subpoenas, and arrest warrants. You can find these by getting in touch with the Sheriff’s office, either by phone or through their website.

All people registered as sex offenders are required to be registered and listed on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. The people listed on these databases have been convicted of a sex crime. You are able to view these offenders on the website, but keep in mind that you will not find the precise address, rather the block they live on.

Court Records are considered public records, so they are accessible to anyone who requests them. They include a case file containing a docket and all documents and filings filed in the case. You can access the court records on the website, or at Clerk of Court office where the case was filed.

Every state maintains records of their state citizen’s criminal history. These databases are all linked and you can track criminal histories from another state. You are able to go to the Polk County Courthouse and make an inquiry, or check the website. It helps to know which county the crime occurred in, and if the crime was in a different state, you might have to pay for a more intensive search.

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

• DWI or DUI.
• Drug Possession.
• Kidnapping.
• Rape or other sexual assault.
• Violent crimes.
• Theft, breaking and entering.

But, when you do a criminal records check, usually will not be able to find out if they have had any infractions like moving violations:

• Speeding tickets.
• Drivers license revoked or suspended.
• Accidents.
• Minor infractions or moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To find this kind of information, you must do a driving records search.

Have you ever tried to search for someone’s criminal records? Was it a difficult process? Was your search online or did you have to call the local courthouse? Was the information correct? There are many reasons that folks look up criminal records and backgrounds, and your comments might help other people that are in the same situation.

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Most Wanted

The FBI maintains a list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Polk County, the 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 spending time in the Polk County jail is quite unpleasant, eventually you will get used to the daily routine. Expect an alarm for wake-up at about six in the morning, and next you’ll have roll call. You will then eat breakfast. When you finish eating 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk County Jail inmates changes, so you should review the official Polk County Jail site when you send funds 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 Polk County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Polk 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 Polk 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 leave a comment


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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:

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

If you have, then you should leave a comment below about it. Write about your jail experience because other people can find out what to expect.

Things you might want to include in your comment:

• Conditions at the jail.
• Jail, yard and pod layout and facility
• Jail staff and Guards
• Food and commissary
• Visitation Days
• The other inmates – what are they like?
• Inmate safety
• Gangs
• Activities and programs


Click here to write your review of Polk County Jail

Tell Your Story

Everbody that’s been incarcerated has some stories to tell about the whole experience. How’d you end up in jail? Did you experience fair treatment? What happened to you while you were locked up? Tell us about the other inmates. Did going to jail affect your life? How?

Click here to leave a comment

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you make friends in jail? Are you trying to get in touch with a person you met in jail? Post a message to them below.

Say Hello to people still locked up at Polk County Jail


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