How to Get Personal Property Released While Someone Is Still in Custody (and What Happens if They Go to State Prison)

Sutter County Jail won't hand over property just because a family member shows up and asks. The process starts when the inmate signs a property release request. Staff verify that request, retrieve the items, and release them only to the person the inmate designated.

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• ✓ Make sure the inmate has submitted a property release request that they signed, with you named as the designated person.
• ✓ Bring a valid photo ID (expired IDs won’t meet the requirement).
• ✓ Expect staff to verify you’re the authorized designee before they release anything to you.
• ✓ Pick up only what the jail is allowed to release; some items (like certain clothing/shoes) may be held back if they’re needed for transport or release.

This usually comes up when someone is close to being moved or released - those basics need to stay with them for safety and logistics. If you're trying to help by clearing out nonessential items, focus on what can actually be released. Don't count on picking up everything, especially clothing and shoes that might be required for a transfer or release.

If no one picks up property while the person is in custody, the process is simple: Sutter County Jail returns all held items to the inmate when they're released.

Don't assume the property will sit there forever after release. Items left more than 90 days after an inmate's release will be destroyed or disposed of. Have a plan for where the property is going once your person gets out - so nothing gets left behind past that window.

If someone has been committed to state prison, timing matters. Property that isn't released before transport will go with them to state prison. Otherwise, the standard rule applies: Sutter County Jail returns held property to the inmate when they're released from custody.

1. Confirm whether a state prison transport is coming up - if they’re headed to state prison, decisions about property need to happen before the move.
2. Have the inmate request a release for what can be picked up - the best time to release items is before transportation, so you can take custody of what doesn’t need to travel with them.
3. Don’t plan on receiving required clothing or shoes - Sutter County Jail won’t release shoes or clothing that are deemed necessary for transportation to another facility or necessary for release, so focus your pickup on other personal items.