Marathon County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Marathon County?
Inmate records in Marathon County are official government documents maintained by the Marathon County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county detention facilities. These records document the entire custody lifecycle of an individual from initial booking through release or transfer to another facility.
Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.35, these records constitute public documents subject to specific disclosure requirements and exemptions. Unlike court records, which primarily document legal proceedings and are maintained by the Marathon County Circuit Court, inmate records specifically track custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, where the following information is typically collected:
- Biographical data (name, date of birth, physical description)
- Arrest information and charges
- Booking photographs ("mugshots")
- Fingerprints and other biometric identifiers
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening information
Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Court appearances
- Medical treatments (subject to privacy restrictions)
- Program participation
The Marathon County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Wisconsin Statute § 59.27, which outlines the sheriff's responsibilities regarding custody of persons detained in the county jail.
Are Inmate Records Public In Marathon County?
Inmate records in Marathon County are generally considered public records under the Wisconsin Public Records Law, which establishes a presumption of accessibility to government records. However, access is subject to specific limitations and exemptions designed to balance transparency with privacy and security concerns.
The following inmate record components are typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, age, gender, race)
- Charges filed and case numbers
- Booking photographs ("mugshots")
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility
Certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.36, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Information related to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking access to Marathon County inmate records may submit requests through the Marathon County Sheriff's Office or utilize the online inmate lookup system. The custodian of records must respond to requests "as soon as practicable and without delay" as required by state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Marathon County
Marathon County inmate records contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender and race
- Height, weight, hair color, eye color
- Distinguishing physical characteristics (scars, marks, tattoos)
- Last known address
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
Custody Information:
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency
- Booking number and inmate identification number
- Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, awaiting transfer)
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
Charge Information:
- Current charges (felony, misdemeanor, ordinance violations)
- Warrant information if applicable
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Arresting agency and officer
- Date and location of alleged offense
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount set by court
- Bond type (cash, signature, property)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions (no contact orders, travel restrictions)
Court Information:
- Next scheduled court appearance
- Court location and department/branch
- Judge assigned to case
- Court case numbers
- Previous court appearances
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Projected release date
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Special conditions of sentence
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Type of release (time served, bond posted, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release conditions
This information is maintained in compliance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309, which governs resources for inmates, and relevant provisions of the Wisconsin Statutes.
Marathon County Prison System
The Marathon County correctional system operates under the authority of the Marathon County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals arrested within the county jurisdiction. The system consists primarily of the Marathon County Jail, which houses both pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year as prescribed by Wisconsin law.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the Wisconsin state prison system. The Marathon County Jail houses individuals who:
- Are awaiting trial or court proceedings
- Have been sentenced to incarceration of less than one year
- Are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Are being temporarily held on behalf of other jurisdictions
By contrast, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year. Individuals initially booked into the Marathon County Jail who receive longer sentences are subsequently transferred to state custody.
The Marathon County Sheriff's Office maintains administrative oversight of all county detention facilities in accordance with Wisconsin Statute § 302.336, which establishes standards for county jails and houses of correction.
Marathon County Sheriff's Office
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403
Phone: (715) 261-1200
Marathon County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Marathon County
Marathon County maintains several distinct correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations:
Marathon County Jail
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403
Phone: (715) 261-1700
Marathon County Jail
The Marathon County Jail serves as the primary detention facility for the county, housing both male and female inmates. This medium-security facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals serving terms of up to one year. The facility provides various rehabilitative programs, including substance abuse treatment, educational services, and religious programming.
Marathon County Juvenile Detention Center
400 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403
Phone: (715) 261-1500
Marathon County Juvenile Detention
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are awaiting adjudication or serving court-ordered detention. The center provides age-appropriate educational services, counseling, and rehabilitation programs designed specifically for youth.
Marathon County Work Release Center
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403
Phone: (715) 261-1750
Marathon County Work Release Program
This minimum-security facility houses eligible inmates who qualify for work release programs. Participants are permitted to leave the facility for employment during scheduled hours while returning to custody during non-working hours. This program facilitates community reintegration and helps inmates maintain employment while serving their sentences.
Each facility operates under the administrative authority of the Marathon County Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and relevant state statutes.
Who's in Prison In Marathon County
The Marathon County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
- Individuals convicted of ordinance violations with jail time
- Those serving sentences for contempt of court
- Offenders participating in alternative sentencing programs
Temporary Holds:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Persons held on behalf of other counties or jurisdictions
- Federal detainees awaiting transfer to federal facilities
- Immigration detainees held under contract with federal authorities
According to data from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, the Marathon County Jail typically operates at approximately 80-90% of its rated capacity, with an average daily population of 250-300 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects:
- Approximately 80-85% male and 15-20% female inmates
- Average age range of 20-45 years
- Predominant offenses include drug-related crimes, property crimes, domestic violence, operating while intoxicated (OWI), and probation/parole violations
The Marathon County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate population statistics in compliance with Wisconsin Statute § 59.27(1), which requires the sheriff to "take the charge and custody of the jail maintained by the county and the persons in the jail."
How To Search for Inmate Records In Marathon County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Marathon County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate record searches:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Marathon County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Jail/Inmate Information" section
- Select the "Inmate Lookup" option
- Enter search criteria (last name, first name, or booking number)
- Review results displaying current inmates and their basic information
- Note that the online system typically displays only current inmates, not historical records
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Marathon County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Complete an inmate record request form, available at the front desk
- Provide specific information about the inmate (full name, approximate booking date)
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable fees for copies of records ($0.25 per page for photocopies)
- Allow up to five business days for processing of more complex requests
Written Requests:
-
Submit a written request to:
Marathon County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403 -
Include the following information:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Purpose of request (optional)
-
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
-
Include payment for applicable fees (contact Records Division for current fee schedule)
Telephone Inquiries:
- Call the Marathon County Jail at (715) 261-1700
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
- Note that basic custody status information may be provided by phone, but detailed records require written requests
All record requests are processed in accordance with the Wisconsin Public Records Law and applicable exemptions. Certain information may be redacted to protect privacy or security interests as permitted by law.
How To Find an Inmate in Marathon County for Free?
Marathon County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody. These free resources enable family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties to verify an individual's incarceration status and obtain basic custody information:
Marathon County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Marathon County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Jail Information" section
- Select the "Current Inmates" option
- Enter the individual's last name (first name optional)
- Review results showing current custody status, charges, and bond information
- This service is available 24/7 at no cost to users
Wisconsin Vinelink System:
- Visit the Wisconsin VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Choose Wisconsin from the state dropdown menu
- Enter the inmate's first and last name
- Review search results for custody status and location
- This statewide system includes individuals in county jails and state prisons
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Marathon County Jail directly at (715) 261-1700
- Provide the full name and date of birth (if known) of the person you're seeking
- Request basic custody status information
- Note that jail staff can confirm if someone is in custody but may limit other details provided by phone
Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA):
- Visit the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access website
- Enter the individual's name in the search fields
- Review court records that may indicate current custody status
- Look for recent court appearances or scheduled hearings that might confirm incarceration
- This resource provides case information but not direct confirmation of custody status
In-Person Inquiry:
-
Visit the Marathon County Jail lobby during regular business hours:
Marathon County Jail
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403 -
Speak with jail staff at the information desk
-
Provide the name of the person you're seeking information about
-
Request basic custody status information
-
No fees are charged for basic custody status inquiries
These free resources provide basic information about current inmates. For more detailed records or historical incarceration information, formal records requests may be required, which could involve processing fees as permitted under Wisconsin Statute § 19.35(3).
How To Visit an Inmate In Marathon County
The Marathon County Sheriff's Office maintains specific protocols for inmate visitation to ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with established procedures:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit up to 8 names for their visitor list
- Changes to visitor lists are processed on Mondays only
- Visitors must be 18 years or older unless accompanied by a parent/guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
- Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval
Visit Schedule:
- Non-contact visits are conducted Wednesday through Sunday
- Morning sessions: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Evening sessions: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Wednesday and Friday only)
- Maximum visit duration: 30 minutes
- Inmates are limited to two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medications needed during visit duration (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, cleavage, or undergarments)
- No shorts above mid-thigh
- No tank tops, halter tops, or sleeveless garments
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
- No excessively baggy clothing
Visit Types:
- Standard non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
- Video visitation services available for remote connections
- Special contact visits require advance approval from jail administration
Visit Rules:
- No physical contact between inmates and visitors
- Conversations must be conducted in English or approved interpreter present
- No disruptive behavior or excessive noise
- No passing of items between inmates and visitors
- Visitors may be subject to search upon entry
- All visits are monitored and recorded (except privileged legal visits)
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Individuals on probation/parole require advance approval from their supervising officer
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
- Visitors who violate rules may have visiting privileges suspended or revoked
These visitation policies are established pursuant to Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.06, which governs visitation procedures in correctional facilities.
For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:
Marathon County Jail Visitation Office
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403
Phone: (715) 261-1740
Marathon County Jail Visitation Information
How To Send Money to a Marathon County Inmate
Marathon County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services while incarcerated:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Select "Marathon County Jail" from the facility dropdown menu
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Enter payment amount and credit/debit card information
- Processing fee: $2.50 for transactions up to $50; $3.50 for transactions $50.01-$100
- Maximum online deposit: $300 per transaction
- Funds typically available in inmate accounts within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
-
Visit the Marathon County Jail lobby during regular hours:
Marathon County Jail
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403 -
Use the TouchPay kiosk located in the public lobby
-
Follow on-screen instructions to locate inmate
-
Insert cash or credit/debit card for payment
-
Processing fee: $2.00 for cash transactions; $2.50 for credit/debit card transactions
-
Maximum kiosk deposit: $300 per transaction
-
Funds typically available in inmate accounts within 2-4 hours
Mail-In Money Orders:
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Purchase a money order payable to "Marathon County Jail" with inmate's name in memo line
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Complete a deposit slip (available on county website or at jail lobby)
-
Mail to:
Marathon County Jail
Inmate Accounts
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403 -
No processing fee for money orders
-
Maximum mail-in deposit: $500 per money order
-
Funds typically available in inmate accounts within 3-5 business days
-
Personal checks and cash are not accepted by mail
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
- Maximum single transaction: $300 (online/kiosk) or $500 (money order)
- Maximum weekly deposit limit: $500 per inmate
- Maximum account balance allowed: $1,000
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts and other personal services
- Restitution and court-ordered payments
- Release funds
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bail or bond payments (must be processed separately through court system)
- Payments to outside vendors or individuals
- Transfers to other inmates' accounts
- Purchase of prohibited items or contraband
All inmate accounts are managed in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.45, which governs inmate funds and accounts in correctional facilities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Marathon County
The Marathon County Sheriff's Office maintains specific procedures for sending mail to inmates. All correspondence must adhere to established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery:
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include:
-
Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
-
Inmate ID number (if known)
-
Marathon County Jail address:
Marathon County Jail
[Inmate Name & ID#]
500 Forest Street
Wausau, WI 54403
-
- Return address with full name is required on all correspondence
- Mail without proper addressing will be returned to sender
- All incoming mail is opened and inspected for contraband (except legal mail)
- Mail is typically distributed to inmates within 24 hours of receipt
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, no padding)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4"x6" or smaller)
- Money orders (must follow money deposit procedures)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved periodicals sent directly from publisher
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Padded or oversized envelopes
- Plastic or metal items
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Personal checks or cash
- Stamps or envelopes
- Food items or cosmetics
- Clothing or fabric items
- Hardcover books
Books and Publications:
- Books must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor (Amazon, Barnes & Noble)
- Softcover books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Publications must not contain prohibited content
- Used books are not accepted
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Privileged"
- Must be sent from an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Subject to inspection for contraband but contents not read by staff
E-Messages:
- Visit the SmartJailMail website
- Create an account and purchase credits
- Select Marathon County Jail from facility list
- Compose message (maximum 2,000 characters)
- Cost: $0.50 per message
- Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
- Responses from inmates cost $0.50 per message
Photographs:
- Maximum size: 4"x6"
- No Polaroid or instant photos
- No sexually explicit content
- No gang symbols or hand signs
- No images of weapons or drug paraphernalia
- No images of current or former inmates
- Photos with writing on back are accepted
All mail procedures are established in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code DOC 309.04, which governs inmate mail in correctional facilities.