Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster gives families, legal teams, and the public instant access to current detainee records in Olivia, Minnesota. The jail holds up to 72 inmates at a time and updates its roster daily with new bookings, release dates, charges, and bond status. As of December 8, 2023, the most recent booking was Earnie Clarion Ahrens, age 51, held on a federal charge under Bureau of Prisons custody with no bail posted. His case is pending federal court action. The roster includes names, photos, booking numbers, arrest dates, charges, and housing assignments. All data follows Minnesota Open Records laws and is verified by the Renville County Sheriff’s Office.
How to Search the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster
Anyone can search the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster online or by phone. The official portal shows live updates every few hours. Users can search by full name, booking number, or date of birth. Results show current inmates only—released individuals are removed within 24 hours. The system does not show past bookings or closed cases. For historical records, contact the Sheriff’s Office directly. The search tool works on mobile phones, tablets, and computers. No login or fee is required. All information is free and public under state law.
Official Sources for the Renville County Inmate Roster
The most reliable source for the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster is the Sheriff’s Office website. It links to a live custody dashboard that refreshes automatically. Third-party sites like Minnesota Jail Roster and Inmate Search MN pull data from this official feed but may lag by a few hours. Always double-check with the county for the latest status. The jail also posts physical rosters at its front desk during business hours. Phone inquiries are accepted at 320-523-3600. Staff can confirm if someone is currently held but cannot discuss case details due to privacy rules.
Renville County Jail Facility Overview
The Renville County Jail opened in 2008 and sits at 105 South 5th Street, Suite 210, Olivia, MN 56277. It serves as the main detention center for the county, housing men and women awaiting trial or sentencing. The facility follows strict guidelines from the Minnesota Department of Corrections. Inmates receive three meals daily, medical care, mental health support, and access to GED and job training programs. The jail has separate units for general population, protective custody, and medical isolation. All staff are certified correctional officers trained in safety, de-escalation, and inmate rights.
Visitation Rules and Schedules
Visits at Renville County Jail happen on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 AM to 5 PM for general population inmates. Protective custody inmates have limited slots on alternate days. Visitors must call 320-523-3600 at least 24 hours in advance to schedule. Walk-ins are not allowed. Each inmate can have two visitors per session. All visitors must show valid photo ID and pass a brief security check. No bags, phones, or food are permitted inside. Children under 18 must be with a parent or guardian. Visits last 30 minutes and occur in a monitored room. Late arrivals forfeit their time slot.
Mailing Address and Inmate Communication
Mail for inmates must be sent to 104 South 4th Street, Olivia, MN 56277. Use the inmate’s full name and booking number on the envelope. Letters are opened and inspected for contraband but not read unless there’s a security concern. Packages are not accepted—only letters, photos (4×6 inches max), and approved reading materials. Money can be deposited online through the jail’s approved vendor or via money order mailed to the same address. Do not send cash. Inmates receive a commissary account once processed. Funds appear within 48 hours.
Phone Calls, Voicemail, and Text Messages
Inmates can make outgoing calls using a third-party service that records all conversations. Families cannot call in directly. To leave a voicemail, call 320-400-3018. The system guides you through recording a message the inmate can hear during call time. Text messaging is limited and used mainly to confirm money deposits. Inmates can send up to five texts per week. Content is monitored. Fees apply for calls and texts, paid by the caller or deducted from the inmate’s account. Call rates vary by provider and time of day.
Bail, Bond, and Release Information
Bail amounts are set by judges during first court appearances. The Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster shows whether bail was posted. If no bail is listed, the inmate remains in custody until trial or a judge approves release. Bond can be paid in cash, through a bondsman, or via property lien. Once paid, release happens within two hours if staffing allows. Federal inmates like Earnie Ahrens cannot post bail and stay under Bureau of Prisons control. State and local charges follow Minnesota sentencing guidelines. Release times depend on court schedules and transport availability.
Mugshots and Public Records Requests
Mugshots of current inmates are available online through the jail’s roster portal. Media or researchers can request copies by calling 320-523-3600 or mailing a written request to 104 South 4th Street, Olivia, MN 56277. Include the inmate’s name, booking number, and purpose of request. Photos are provided free under Minnesota’s public access laws unless restricted by an active investigation. Released inmates’ mugshots may be archived but are not routinely published. All records follow privacy protections for juveniles and sensitive cases.
Contact Numbers and Office Hours
The main phone line for Renville County Jail is 320-523-3600. Use this number for inmate lookup, visitation scheduling, and general questions. For emergencies, dial 911. The administrative office at 105 South 5th Street, Suite 210, Olivia, MN 56277, is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. The jail itself operates 24/7. Staff answer phones during business hours only. After hours, calls go to voicemail or the sheriff’s dispatch center. Fax documents to 320-523-3787. Email inquiries should go through the official county website contact form.
Rehabilitation and Inmate Programs
Renville County Jail offers education and recovery programs to reduce repeat offenses. Inmates can enroll in GED classes, vocational training in carpentry and food service, and substance abuse counseling. Mental health professionals visit weekly. Religious services are available for all faiths. Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Completion certificates may help with parole or job placement after release. Programs run year-round and are funded by county budgets and state grants. Staff track progress and report to courts when requested.
Capacity, Security, and Daily Operations
The jail holds a maximum of 72 inmates split between male and female units. Security includes surveillance cameras, controlled door access, and regular headcounts. Officers conduct checks every 30 minutes at night. Meals are served at 6 AM, 11 AM, and 5 PM. Medical staff respond to emergencies immediately. Non-urgent requests go through a nurse triage system. The facility meets all state fire, health, and safety codes. Inspections happen annually by the Minnesota Department of Corrections. Results are public record.
How the Roster Is Updated and Verified
The Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster updates automatically when new bookings or releases occur. Data syncs between the jail’s internal system and the public website every 15 minutes. Each entry includes a timestamp, officer initials, and source document (arrest report or court order). Duplicate or incorrect entries are corrected within one business day. The Sheriff’s Office reviews all changes for accuracy. If you spot an error, call 320-523-1161 or email the corrections unit. Updates reflect only current custody status—past arrests require a formal records request.
Federal vs. State Inmates in Renville County
Some inmates, like Earnie Ahrens, are held on federal charges and managed by the Bureau of Prisons. These individuals appear on the roster but are not eligible for local bail or release. Their cases move through federal courts, not state systems. State inmates face Minnesota laws and can post bond if approved. The jail houses both types but keeps them in separate units. Federal inmates may be transferred to other facilities at any time. Their status is noted clearly on the roster with “BOP Hold” or “Federal Inmate” labels.
Common Reasons for Inmate Lookup
People search the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster to confirm someone’s location, check bail status, plan visits, or send mail. Lawyers use it to track client custody. Employers verify employee absences. Families monitor loved ones during legal trouble. Journalists report on local arrests. The roster helps the public stay informed while respecting privacy. It does not include conviction records—only current detention. For criminal history, contact the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension or local court clerk.
Accuracy and Limitations of Public Rosters
While the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster is updated frequently, it is not a legal document. Always verify critical details with the Sheriff’s Office. Names may be misspelled. Booking numbers can change. Release times vary. The roster does not show charges dismissed before booking or sealed records. It also excludes juveniles, who are processed separately. Use the information as a starting point, not a final source. For legal matters, consult an attorney or official court records.
Third-Party Websites and Data Accuracy
Sites like PrisonRoster, JailExchange, and Minnesota Inmate Search display Renville County data but are not official sources. They may have outdated info or formatting errors. Some charge fees for background reports that the county provides for free. Always cross-check with the Sheriff’s Office before acting on third-party data. The county does not endorse or control these sites. Report inaccuracies directly to the jail. Official records remain the most reliable.
Emergency Contacts and Crisis Support
If an inmate is in medical or mental health crisis, call 911 immediately. Jail medical staff are trained in emergency response. For non-urgent health concerns, families can call 320-523-3600 and ask to speak with a nurse. Suicide prevention protocols are in place. All inmates are screened upon intake. Confidential counseling is available. The jail partners with local hospitals for serious cases. Never delay calling 911 if life is at risk.
Legal Rights of Inmates and Visitors
Inmates retain basic rights under the U.S. Constitution and Minnesota law. They can practice religion, receive medical care, file grievances, and communicate with lawyers. Visitors have the right to be treated respectfully and denied entry only for safety reasons. Discrimination based on race, gender, or disability is prohibited. Complaints can be filed with the Sheriff’s Office or the Minnesota Department of Corrections. All policies are posted in the jail and online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Roster
Below are common questions about the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster. Answers come directly from the Sheriff’s Office and state law. If you don’t find what you need, call 320-523-3600 during business hours. Staff are trained to help with lookup requests, visitation rules, and mail procedures. Keep your questions clear and provide the inmate’s full name if possible.
Can I search for someone who was released last week?
No. The Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster only shows people currently in custody. Once an inmate is released, their record is removed within 24 hours. To find past bookings, submit a public records request to the Sheriff’s Office. Include the person’s name, date of birth, and approximate booking date. There may be a small fee for copying. Federal inmates may require a FOIA request through the Bureau of Prisons. The jail cannot provide arrest records—only custody status.
Why doesn’t the roster show bail amounts for all inmates?
Bail is only listed if a judge has set it during a court hearing. Some inmates, like those on federal holds or probation violations, are not eligible for bail. Others may be awaiting their first appearance. The roster updates as courts process cases. If bail isn’t shown, the inmate remains in custody until a judge decides. Check back daily or call the jail for updates. Bond amounts can change if new charges are added.
Can I send clothes or personal items to an inmate?
No. Renville County Jail does not accept clothing, shoes, or personal items from outside. All clothing is provided by the facility. Exceptions include religious head coverings approved in advance. Letters and photos are allowed. Books must come directly from publishers or bookstores. Packages containing non-approved items will be returned or destroyed. This rule keeps contraband out and ensures fairness. Inmates can buy hygiene products and snacks from the commissary using deposited funds.
How do I know if an inmate has been transferred?
If someone disappears from the Renville County MN Jail Inmate Roster, they may have been released or transferred. Call 320-523-3600 to confirm. Federal inmates are often moved to BOP facilities quickly. State inmates might go to prison after sentencing. The jail will not disclose destination details for security reasons but can confirm if the person is no longer in Renville County custody. For transfers within Minnesota, contact the Department of Corrections inmate locator tool.
Are mugshots of released inmates still public?
Yes, but not on the current roster. Mugshots taken during booking become public records under Minnesota law. Once released, they are archived and can be requested through a formal records application. Media outlets may publish them, but the jail does not proactively share them. Some third-party sites keep old photos online. To request a copy, mail a written request with the inmate’s name and booking number to 104 South 4th Street, Olivia, MN 56277. Processing takes 5–10 business days.
Can I visit if I have a criminal record?
It depends. Visitors with felony convictions may be denied if the jail determines a safety risk. Misdemeanors are reviewed case by case. You must disclose your record when scheduling. False information leads to permanent ban. The final decision rests with the visitation supervisor. All visitors are subject to background checks. If approved, follow all rules strictly. One violation can end your visiting privileges.
What if I see wrong info on the roster?
Report errors immediately to the Renville County Sheriff’s Office at 320-523-1161. Include the inmate’s name, booking number, and the mistake (e.g., wrong charge or release date). Staff will verify and correct it within one business day. The roster is automated, so typos happen. Your report helps keep the system accurate for everyone. Do not contact third-party sites—they cannot fix official data.
Official Resources and Direct Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, use these official sources:
– Live Inmate Roster: https://custody.renvillecountymn.com/custody.html
– Sheriff’s Office Inmate Page: https://www.renvillecountymn.gov/sheriff/divisions/jail/inmate_information.php
– Jail Overview and Programs: https://www.renvillecountymn.gov/sheriff/divisions/jail/index.php
– Phone and Voicemail System: https://www.renvillecountymn.gov/sheriff/divisions/jail/inmate_e-mail_phone_voicemail.php
Contact Information
Renville County Sheriff’s Office
Jail Division
105 South 5th Street, Suite 210
Olivia, MN 56277
Non-Emergency Phone: 320-523-1161
Inmate Roster Line: 320-523-3600
Voicemail for Inmates: 320-400-3018
Visitation Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9 AM – 5 PM
Mailing Address for Inmates: 104 South 4th Street, Olivia, MN 56277