Summit County Jail is a secure detention center in Akron, Ohio, run by the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. It holds people waiting for trial or serving short sentences. The jail gives inmates medical care, education, job training, and ways to stay in touch with family. It also offers rehab programs to help people return to the community safely. This page explains how to find an inmate, visit, send money, and use all jail services. All information is up to date and based on official sources.
How to Search for an Inmate in Summit County Jail
You can look up anyone in Summit County Jail using the online inmate search tool. This free service shows current inmates, their charges, bond amount, court dates, and housing location. The roster updates every few hours so you get the latest info.
Steps to Use the Inmate Lookup Tool
- Go to the official Summit County Sheriff website.
- Click “Inmate Roster” or “Inmate Search.”
- Type the person’s full name or inmate ID number.
- Check spelling—even one wrong letter can hide results.
- View details like booking date, charges, bond, and next court date.
Offline Search Options
If the website is down or you prefer phone help, call the jail at (330) 643-2000. Give the staff the inmate’s full name and date of birth. You can also visit in person at 501 East 4th Street, Akron, OH 44304. Bring a photo ID. Staff will assist you during business hours.
What You’ll See on the Inmate Roster
| Information Type | Details Included |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Legal first and last name |
| Booking Date | When the person entered jail |
| Charges | Current criminal charges |
| Bond Amount | Set by the judge, if applicable |
| Court Dates | Next hearing or trial date |
| Housing Unit | Which part of the jail they’re in |
Visiting Someone at Summit County Jail
Visits help inmates stay connected. Summit County Jail offers both in-person and video visits. All visits must be scheduled ahead of time. No walk-ins allowed.
In-Person Visitation Rules
- Schedule online or call (330) 643-2000.
- Visits happen Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM.
- Each visit lasts 30 minutes max.
- Only two visitors per inmate per day.
- Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
Dress Code for Visitors
Wear modest clothes. No shorts, tank tops, hats, sunglasses, or clothes with bad words or pictures. If you dress wrong, you’ll be turned away. This keeps the jail safe and respectful.
Virtual Video Visits
Video visits work through a secure online system. You’ll need a computer or phone with a camera and internet. Schedule at least 24 hours ahead. Video calls are monitored for safety. They’re a great option if you live far away or can’t come in person.
Items Not Allowed During Visits
Do not bring phones, bags, food, drinks, weapons, or anything that could hide contraband. All visitors go through a metal detector. Jail staff may search you if needed.
Sending Money to an Inmate
Inmates can buy snacks, hygiene items, and phone time from the jail commissary. Friends and family can add money to their account in three ways.
Online Deposits
Use the jail’s official payment partner website. Enter the inmate’s name and ID. Pay with credit or debit card. Funds show up in minutes. There’s a small fee per transaction.
Kiosk at the Jail
A payment kiosk sits in the jail lobby. You can use cash, credit, or debit cards. The kiosk gives a receipt. Money is added right away. The lobby is open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Mail a Money Order
Send a money order by mail. Make it payable to the inmate. Write their full name and ID on the memo line. Mail to: Summit County Jail, 501 East 4th Street, Akron, OH 44304. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong name or ID number—double-check before sending.
- Sending cash—it will be returned or lost.
- Late deposits—allow 1–2 days for mail to process.
Phone Calls and Mail for Inmates
Inmates can call approved contacts. They cannot receive calls. All calls are recorded and limited to 15 minutes. Rates are set by the phone service provider.
How Inmate Phone Calls Work
- Inmates use prepaid accounts.
- Family adds money online or at the kiosk.
- Calls go to landlines or cell phones on the approved list.
- No three-way calls or call forwarding.
Sending Mail to an Inmate
Mail is allowed but inspected. Use plain white envelopes and standard paper. Write the inmate’s full name, ID number, and jail address clearly.
Allowed Items
- Letters written in pen or pencil
- Plain photos (no Polaroids or stickers)
- New books or magazines sent directly from the publisher
Not Allowed
- Anything that can hide drugs or weapons
- Glossy paper, tape, or plastic covers
- Gang symbols or violent images
Email Messages
The jail offers a secure email system. Family sends messages online. Inmates read and reply on jail tablets. Messages are screened. This is faster than regular mail.
Commissary: What Inmates Can Buy
The commissary lets inmates buy extra food, soap, toothpaste, socks, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly. Items arrive within 2–3 days.
Common Commissary Items
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Food | Chips, cookies, instant coffee, ramen |
| Hygiene | Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo |
| Clothing | White socks, undershirts (jail-approved only) |
| Stationery | Paper, envelopes, pens |
Prices are low. Most items cost $1 to $5. Inmates must have money in their account to buy things. Commissary helps them feel more normal and less stressed.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Summit County Jail gives all inmates medical care. New inmates get a health check within 24 hours. Doctors, nurses, and mental health staff work on-site.
Medical Services
- Treatment for colds, infections, injuries
- Prescription medications (given daily)
- Dental care for emergencies
- Eye exams and glasses if needed
Mental Health Support
- One-on-one counseling
- Group therapy for anger, trauma, or addiction
- Medication for depression, anxiety, or psychosis
- Crisis intervention 24/7
Staff screen every inmate for mental health issues at booking. Those in crisis get help fast. The jail works with local hospitals for serious cases.
Education and Job Training Programs
Summit County Jail offers classes to help inmates build skills for life after release. These programs reduce repeat offenses and improve job chances.
GED and Basic Education
Inmates can earn a high school diploma through the GED program. Classes are free. Teachers come from local schools. Many inmates pass and feel proud of their achievement.
Vocational Training
- Carpentry: Learn to build and repair furniture
- Plumbing: Basic pipe and fixture installation
- Electrical: Safe wiring for homes and buildings
- Computer Skills: Typing, email, job search tools
These skills lead to real jobs. The jail partners with Ohio job centers to help inmates find work after release.
Bail and Release Process
Bail lets an inmate go free while waiting for trial. The judge sets the amount based on the crime and risk of running away.
How to Post Bail
- Call the Booking Office at (330) 643-2181 to confirm the amount.
- Pay with cash, credit card, or through a bail bondsman.
- Go to the jail lobby or use the online payment system.
- Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork.
Release Procedures
When an inmate is released, they get their personal items back. If they have a job or housing, staff help them connect with support services. Some inmates go to rehab or halfway houses.
Safety and Security at the Jail
Summit County Jail uses strict rules to keep everyone safe. Cameras watch all areas 24/7. Staff train regularly in emergency response.
Security Features
- Electronic locks on all doors
- Inmate tracking with wristbands
- Daily headcounts
- Separate housing for high-risk inmates
- Fire drills and medical emergency plans
All staff wear body cameras during shifts. This protects both inmates and officers. The jail has never had a major escape or riot.
Inmate Rights and Responsibilities
Every inmate has rights under Ohio law. They must also follow jail rules.
Basic Rights
- See a doctor when sick
- Practice religion
- File complaints without punishment
- Receive mail and make phone calls
- Be treated fairly regardless of race or gender
Responsibilities
- Follow all staff orders
- Keep your cell clean
- Do not fight or threaten others
- Attend required programs
- Pay for damages if you break something
Staff explain these rights during intake. Inmates get a handbook in English and Spanish.
Community Programs and Support
Summit County Jail works with local groups to help inmates succeed after release.
Reentry Services
- Help finding housing
- Job placement assistance
- Substance abuse counseling
- Legal aid for child support or custody
Family Support
The jail hosts workshops for families. Topics include how to talk to kids about a parent in jail, managing stress, and rebuilding trust. These are free and open to all.
Contact Information and Location
For questions or help, use these official contacts:
- Address: 501 East 4th Street, Akron, OH 44304
- Phone: (330) 643-2000
- Website: https://www.summitoh.net/sheriff
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
Emergency Contact
In case of medical emergency or urgent issue, call (330) 643-2000 and ask for the shift supervisor. Do not call 911 unless it’s a life-threatening situation inside the jail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Summit County Jail. Below are clear answers based on current policies and official sources.
How do I find out if someone is in Summit County Jail?
Use the free online inmate search tool on the Summit County Sheriff website. Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID. You’ll see their booking date, charges, bond, and housing unit. If you can’t find them, call (330) 643-2000. Have their name and date of birth ready. The roster updates every few hours, so info is current.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits—in-person and video—must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. Go online or call the jail to pick a time slot. In-person visits run Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Video visits need 24-hour notice. Bring a photo ID and follow the dress code or you’ll be denied entry.
How much does it cost to send money to an inmate?
Online deposits have a small fee (usually $2–$3). Kiosk payments at the jail may charge $1–$2. Money orders by mail are free but take longer. Funds appear instantly online or at the kiosk. Mail can take 2–3 days. Always double-check the inmate’s name and ID to avoid delays.
Are mugshots public record in Summit County?
Yes. Mugshots taken during booking are public records. You can request them through a FOIA form sent to the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. There may be a processing fee. If charges are dropped or the person is found not guilty, they can ask to have the mugshot removed—but this isn’t automatic and may require legal help.
What happens if an inmate gets sick or has a mental health crisis?
All inmates get a medical check within 24 hours of arrival. Doctors and nurses are on-site daily. For mental health crises, staff respond immediately with counseling or medication. Serious cases go to local hospitals. The jail tracks all health issues and treats them under Ohio law and national standards.
Can inmates earn time off their sentence?
Yes, through good behavior and program participation. Inmates can reduce their sentence by up to 10% in Ohio. This is called “good time credit.” It’s automatic unless they break rules. Judges may also allow early release for rehab success or community service. Talk to a lawyer for specifics.
How do I report abuse or misconduct at the jail?
Call the Summit County Sheriff’s Office at (330) 643-2000 and ask for Internal Affairs. You can also write a letter to the Sheriff at 501 East 4th Street, Akron, OH 44304. All complaints are reviewed. You may stay anonymous. The jail takes abuse claims seriously and investigates every report.