Oakland County Jail Annex is a secure correctional facility attached to the main Oakland County Jail in Pontiac, Michigan. It serves as a direct-supervision housing unit designed to hold minimum-medium and low-medium security inmates who participate in work programs, education, and rehabilitation services. The annex adds 487 licensed beds to the county’s total jail capacity, bringing the combined system to over 1,200 secure positions. Located at 1200 North Telegraph Road, the annex supports inmates with medical care, mental health services, vocational training, and structured visitation. Information about inmates housed here is accessible through the CLEMIS Inmate Locator or by calling the facility’s 24-hour line at (248) 858-1800.
Facility Overview and Security Design
The Oakland County Jail Annex operates under the authority of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and follows strict security protocols. Built in March 1989, the annex uses a direct-supervision model, meaning correctional officers monitor inmates from a central control hub rather than isolated guard towers. This design improves staff-inmate interaction and enhances safety. Each housing block features controlled-access doors, motion-sensor lighting, and on-site counseling rooms. These elements support daily operations and help maintain order. The annex houses up to 398 inmates classified as “worker inmates” who assist with facility maintenance, food service, and vocational tasks. This classification allows eligible inmates to contribute to daily operations while preparing for reintegration.
Housing Units and Daily Operations
Inmates at the Oakland County Jail Annex live in dormitory-style housing units. Rows of bunks are arranged in secure sections, each monitored by correctional staff. The layout promotes supervision while giving inmates access to common areas for meals, recreation, and programming. Daily routines include scheduled work assignments, educational classes, and health checks. Inmates follow strict schedules for meals, headcounts, and program participation. The annex’s design supports efficient movement between housing, work zones, and service areas. Staff conduct regular safety inspections and maintain logs for accountability. All activities align with Michigan Department of Corrections standards and local sheriff policies.
Medical and Mental Health Services
The annex includes a 24-hour health clinic staffed by licensed medical professionals. Services include emergency care, medication administration, routine checkups, and mental health assessments. The clinic has seven isolation cells for inmates needing quarantine or intensive observation due to illness or behavioral concerns. Mental health counselors provide individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and referrals for specialized care. Inmates can request medical attention through staff or automated kiosks. All health records are confidential and comply with HIPAA regulations. The clinic coordinates with outside hospitals when advanced treatment is required. Regular health screenings help prevent outbreaks and ensure inmate well-being.
Rehabilitation and Educational Programs
Rehabilitation is a core focus at the Oakland County Jail Annex. The Program Services Unit offers anger-management workshops, GED preparation, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training. Courses in automotive repair, culinary arts, and basic computer skills help inmates build employable abilities. Participation is encouraged through referrals from staff, family members, or self-request. Case managers assess each inmate’s needs and create individualized plans. Programs aim to reduce recidivism by addressing root causes of criminal behavior. Completion certificates are issued and can be used in parole hearings or job applications. The annex also partners with local community colleges for distance learning opportunities.
Inmate Classification and Work Assignments
Inmates at the annex are classified as minimum-medium or low-medium security. This classification determines eligibility for work programs and housing placement. Worker inmates perform tasks such as cleaning, laundry, kitchen duties, and facility upkeep. Assignments are based on skill level, behavior, and program progress. Work hours are scheduled around educational and counseling sessions. Inmates earn small stipends for their labor, which can be used for commissary purchases. Supervised work helps maintain order and teaches responsibility. Staff evaluate performance regularly and adjust assignments as needed. Good behavior can lead to expanded privileges or transfer to lower-security facilities.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation at the Oakland County Jail Annex requires advance approval. Families must contact the central booking office at (248) 858-5000 to schedule a visit. Visitors need a valid government-issued photo ID and must complete an online registration form on the sheriff’s website. Each visitor is subject to a background check and dress code review. Visits occur in designated areas with supervision. The annex and main jail have separate visitation schedules, so confirmation is essential. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Special accommodations can be requested for inmates with disabilities. All visits are logged, and rules are enforced to ensure safety and privacy.
Inmate Communication and Mail Policies
Inmates can send and receive mail through the facility’s secure system. Personal mail must be addressed to the inmate’s full name and number at PO Box 9103, Pontiac, MI 48341. All incoming mail is inspected for contraband but not read unless suspicious. Outgoing mail is sealed by staff to prevent unauthorized content. Inmates may also use email through approved kiosks, with messages monitored for security. Phone calls are allowed during designated hours and recorded for safety. Collect calls are permitted, and prepaid accounts can be set up by families. Communication rules are posted in each housing unit and explained during intake.
Legal Access and Attorney Visits
Legal representatives have priority access to inmates at the annex. Attorneys can schedule private meetings through the corrections office. These visits occur in secure rooms without audio or video recording. Inmates have the right to consult with counsel regarding charges, court dates, and defense strategies. Legal mail is not opened in front of staff and is marked as confidential. The facility provides access to law libraries and legal forms. Inmates can request copies of their case files through proper channels. Staff assist with scheduling court appearances and transport coordination. All legal interactions follow state and federal guidelines.
Commissary and Personal Property
Inmates can purchase items from the jail commissary using funds deposited by family or earned through work. Approved items include snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and approved clothing. Orders are placed weekly and delivered to housing units. Personal property is limited to reduce clutter and contraband risk. Inmates may keep legal documents, religious items, and approved reading materials. All belongings are inventoried upon arrival and stored securely. Lost or damaged items are reported to staff for investigation. Commissary balances are displayed on kiosks, and transaction histories are available upon request.
Disciplinary Procedures and Grievances
The annex follows a clear disciplinary process for rule violations. Minor infractions result in warnings or loss of privileges. Serious offenses may lead to segregation, work reassignment, or extended sentences. Inmates receive written notice of charges and a hearing before a disciplinary board. They can present evidence and call witnesses. Appeals are reviewed by senior staff. A formal grievance system allows inmates to report concerns about treatment, medical care, or facility conditions. Forms are available in housing units and submitted confidentially. Responses are provided within a set timeframe. All actions are documented to ensure fairness and accountability.
Release and Reentry Support
As release dates approach, inmates receive reentry planning services. Case managers help arrange housing, employment, and counseling referrals. The annex connects individuals with community programs for job training, mental health, and substance abuse treatment. Inmates can request help with ID replacement, Social Security, and benefit applications. Transportation is coordinated for those returning to other counties or states. Families are notified of release plans when authorized. The goal is to reduce repeat offenses by supporting successful transitions. Follow-up services may include phone check-ins and resource guides.
CLEMIS Inmate Locator System
The CLEMIS Inmate Locator is the official tool for finding current inmates in Oakland County facilities, including the annex. The system is updated daily and includes name, booking date, charges, bond amount, and housing location. Users can search by name or ID number. The September 2023 CLEMIS Inmate Locator Application Guide explains how to interpret data fields and verify information. Results may lag up to 72 hours due to processing times. For real-time updates, call (248) 858-1800 and speak with the Shift Supervisor. The system integrates data from multiple agencies, including Warren PD Jail, for accurate tracking.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office manages all communications for the annex. The main phone line (248) 858-1800 operates 24/7 for inmate inquiries, incident reports, and transfer coordination. Written questions can be sent to the protected email on the Sheriff’s Corrections Division page. Mail is checked three times per shift. The physical address is 1200 North Telegraph Road, Pontiac, MI 48341. For court-related details like bond conditions or sentencing, contact the Oakland County Circuit Court directly. Office hours for administrative staff are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Emergency contacts are available at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about the Oakland County Jail Annex. Below are answers to the most common concerns from families, attorneys, and researchers. Each response is based on current policies and verified sources.
How do I find out if someone is housed at the Oakland County Jail Annex?
Use the CLEMIS Inmate Locator online or call (248) 858-1800. Search by full name or inmate ID. The system shows current location, charges, and bond status. If the person was recently booked, wait 24–72 hours for updates. For urgent cases, ask to speak with the Shift Supervisor. Bring a valid ID when requesting information. The annex shares data with the main jail, so searches cover both facilities. Results include housing unit and program participation. Always verify details before making travel plans.
Can I visit an inmate at the annex without prior approval?
No. All visits require advance approval from the central booking office at (248) 858-5000. Submit the online registration form and wait for confirmation. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Approved visitors receive a time slot and rules sheet. Bring a government-issued photo ID and follow the dress code. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Visits last 30–60 minutes and occur in supervised areas. Late arrivals may be denied. Check the sheriff’s website for holiday schedules and special rules.
What medical services are available at the annex?
The annex has a 24-hour clinic with nurses, doctors, and mental health staff. Services include emergency care, prescription management, routine exams, and crisis counseling. Inmates can request appointments through staff or kiosks. Isolation cells are used for contagious illnesses or behavioral issues. Mental health assessments are conducted upon intake and as needed. Outside hospitals are used for surgeries or specialized care. All treatments follow medical ethics and privacy laws. Families can inquire about general health policies but not specific inmate records.
How can an inmate apply for work or education programs?
Inmates can request program participation through their case manager or housing officer. Eligibility depends on classification, behavior, and available space. Work assignments include kitchen, cleaning, and maintenance. Education programs offer GED classes, vocational training, and life skills. Applications are reviewed weekly. Priority goes to those with clean records and long-term stays. Certificates are awarded upon completion. Programs aim to reduce recidivism and improve job readiness. Staff provide progress reports and support reentry planning.
What happens if an inmate violates facility rules?
Rule violations trigger a disciplinary process. Minor infractions result in warnings or privilege loss. Serious offenses lead to hearings before a disciplinary board. Inmates receive written notice and can present evidence. Possible outcomes include segregation, work reassignment, or extended confinement. Appeals go to senior staff. All actions are documented. The goal is fair enforcement while maintaining safety. Inmates retain the right to file grievances for unfair treatment. Staff are trained to handle conflicts professionally and consistently.
How do I send money to an inmate at the annex?
Deposit funds online through the sheriff’s approved vendor, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Use the inmate’s full name and ID number. Funds appear in their commissary account within 24 hours. Minimum deposit is $5, maximum varies by method. Fees may apply. Cash is not accepted by mail. Money orders must be sent to PO Box 9103. Inmates use funds for snacks, hygiene items, and phone time. Balances are shown on kiosks. Refunds are processed upon release. Keep receipts for all transactions.
Can attorneys meet with clients at the annex?
Yes. Attorneys can schedule private visits through the corrections office. Meetings occur in secure, non-recorded rooms. Legal mail is not opened by staff and marked confidential. Inmates have access to law libraries and legal forms. Staff assist with court transport and document requests. Visits are prioritized over regular visitation. Proof of licensure and client relationship is required. Emergency legal issues can be reported to the Shift Supervisor. All interactions follow attorney-client privilege laws.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, use these official sources:
Website: https://www.oakgov.com/government/sheriff/corrections
Phone: (248) 858-1800
Address: 1200 North Telegraph Road, Pontiac, MI 48341
Visiting Hours: By appointment only; call (248) 858-5000 to schedule
Email: Use the protected contact form on the Sheriff’s Corrections Division page