Memphis, TN Shelby County Jail View

Shelby County Jail in Memphis, Tennessee, is a county detention facility serving Shelby County and the local courts. It is operated by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and is used to hold adults who are awaiting trial, awaiting transfer, serving short county sentences, or being held on local charges or court orders. The facility supports the local justice system by processing arrests, maintaining custody of eligible detainees, coordinating court appearances, and managing releases after bond, sentence completion, transfer, or court order.

Contact and Location Information

Jail Name: Shelby County Jail
Type: County Jail
Security Level: Medium Security
Address: 201 Poplar Avenue
City: Memphis
Zip: 38103
Phone: 901-222-4700
Shelby County Jail Contact Details

How to Find an Inmate at Shelby County Jail

Members of the public can use the official inmate search link available on this page to look for someone held at the facility. County jail rosters typically list the person’s name, booking date, charges, bond information when available, housing or custody status, and release status if applicable. Records usually become searchable after booking and intake are completed, but processing can take several hours, so a newly arrested person may not appear immediately. If the person is not listed, check again later or contact the facility for general custody information.

FAQs

How do I visit an inmate at Shelby County Jail?

Visitation is usually scheduled in advance and may be offered in person, by video, or both depending on current facility rules. Check the facility’s visitation schedule, registration requirements, and any restrictions before making plans.

What do I need to bring when visiting Shelby County Jail?

Visitors generally need a valid government-issued photo ID. Bring only approved items, follow the dress code, and arrive early enough for check-in and security screening.

How do I make phone or video calls with an inmate?

Inmates typically make outgoing calls through the facility’s approved phone or video service provider. Family and friends may need to create an account, add funds, and follow the provider’s rules for call times and fees.

How do I send mail to an inmate?

Mail should include the inmate’s full name and booking or ID number if available, along with the facility’s mailing address. All mail is normally inspected, and items such as cash, contraband, or unapproved materials may be rejected.

How does the commissary work?

Commissary allows inmates to buy approved items such as snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. Money can usually be added through the facility’s approved deposit system, and spending limits or ordering days may apply.

How is bail set and how do I post bond at Shelby County Jail?

Bail is set by a judge or according to local court procedures based on the charge and other factors. Bond may be posted through the court, the facility’s bond office, or a licensed bonding company, depending on the case and local rules.

What happens during the intake process at Shelby County Jail and when will the inmate appear in the system?

During intake, staff confirm identity, record the arrest information, review charges, screen for medical or safety needs, and assign custody status. It can take several hours for this process to finish, so the person may not appear in the online system right away.

Mailing to Shelby County Jail Inmates and Staff

Inmate Visiting Days and Hours

Day of Week Hours
Monday 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Tuesday 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Wednesday 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Thursday 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Friday 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Saturday 7:30 Am to 2:30 PM
Sunday 7:30 Am to 2:30 PM

How to Send Money to Shelby County Jail

Family and friends can send money to inmates at Shelby County Jail through approved methods to help them purchase essential items from the commissary.