El Dorado County Jail Overview

El Dorado County Jail, located in Placerville, California, has a long history dating back to the Gold Rush era. Established initially as a small wooden facility in 1850, it has evolved over time into a modern detention center. The current facility primarily holds both male and female inmates awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanors or felonies. The jail is operated by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office and includes facilities for medical care and mental health treatment

This facility serves as a critical component of the local justice system, and in addition to its main role in housing inmates, it also offers various rehabilitation programs. These include educational courses, substance abuse treatment, and counseling to help inmates reintegrate into society

El Dorado County Jail

Contact Information for El Dorado County Jail

  • Address:
    El Dorado County Jail
    300 Forni Road
    Placerville, CA 95667
  • Phone: (530) 621-6000
  • Email: Information not directly provided; inquiries should be directed via phone.
  • Website: El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office​

Visiting Information for El Dorado County Jail

Visiting an inmate at El Dorado County Jail involves strict guidelines and schedules. Visitation is available daily and is divided into two time blocks:

  • Daytime Visits: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
  • Evening Visits: Monday – Thursday, 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
    Each visit lasts up to 30 minutes, and inmates are allowed three visits per week​

Things to Bring to a Visit:

  • A government-issued photo ID for adults.
  • Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with a valid ID.
  • No personal belongings such as cell phones or bags are allowed inside, but lockers are provided​

How to Book a Visit to El Dorado County Jail

Visits must be scheduled in advance. You can either call the jail directly at (530) 621-6000 or use the online system to secure a visit. It’s important to have the inmate’s name and ID number ready when booking. Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code and behavioral guidelines during visits​

Directions and Parking at El Dorado County Jail

The jail is located at 300 Forni Road, Placerville, CA, just off US Highway 50. For those traveling by car, ample parking is available on-site. Public transportation options are limited, so driving or arranging a ride is recommended. Be sure to arrive early to secure parking and check-in for your visit​

Life Inside El Dorado County Jail

Inmates at El Dorado County Jail experience a structured daily routine that includes meals, recreation, and participation in educational or rehabilitative programs. Mental health and substance abuse counseling are offered to inmates in need. The facility emphasizes reentry preparation by providing inmates with skills training and support services​. The jail has faced challenges with overcrowding in the past, but recent expansions have improved conditions

Famous Prisoners at El Dorado County Jail

Over the years, El Dorado County Jail has housed several notorious criminals from California’s early days, including the infamous stagecoach robber Black Bart and members of the Dalton Gang. These historic figures played a part in shaping the law enforcement history of the region during the Wild West era​

FAQs About El Dorado County Jail

  • Where is El Dorado County Jail located?
    El Dorado County Jail is located at 300 Forni Road, Placerville, CA 95667.

  • How do I contact an inmate at El Dorado County Jail?
    You can send mail to inmates at the facility address. Electronic messages can be sent via the JailFunds system​

  • What are the visitation rules at El Dorado County Jail?
    Visits are allowed three times per week and last 30 minutes each. All visitors must adhere to strict rules, including a dress code and behavioral guidelines​

  • How do I book a visit to El Dorado County Jail?
    Visitations must be scheduled in advance by phone or online. You will need the inmate’s information for booking

  • What items can I bring to a visit?
    Visitors should bring only a valid photo ID. Personal items are not allowed in the visitation area​

  • Does El Dorado County Jail offer any rehabilitation programs?
    Yes, inmates have access to educational courses, counseling, and substance abuse programs​

  • Can inmates receive mail at El Dorado County Jail?
    Yes, inmates can receive letters and limited packages, provided they meet the jail’s guidelines​

  • Are there any famous inmates who were held at El Dorado County Jail?
    Notable inmates include Black Bart and the Dalton Gang from the Gold Rush era​

  • What is life like inside El Dorado County Jail?
    Inmates follow a strict routine with access to educational and rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism​

  • How do I find more information about an inmate?
    You can use the inmate locator available on the El Dorado County Sheriff’s website or call the jail directly

Summary and Conclusion

El Dorado County Jail serves a critical role in the local justice system, providing secure housing for inmates while offering rehabilitation programs to support their reentry into society. With its rich history, dating back to the Gold Rush era, and modern facilities, it continues to be a key institution in California’s correctional landscape.

For more information, you can visit the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office.

Sources:

  1. El Dorado County Jail Info
  2. El Dorado County Jail History
  3. El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office

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