Notice to family members and loved ones of detainees in custody at the Cook County Department of Corrections

Circuit Court of Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans has issued an order postponing many court proceedings, effective March 17, 2020, as a precautionary measure due to COVID-19.  This order does not affect certain court matters, including:

• Jury trials in progress
• Motions to review bail
• Plea agreements
• Arraignments and preliminary hearings

Questions about the status of your loved one’s case should be directed to their attorney. If they are represented by a Public Defender, please visit this website for contact information: https://www.cookcountypublicdefender.org/contact

For information about COVID-19, please call the Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-889-3931

Cook County Resumption of  Court Operations and Services Plan

The Cook County Sheriff’s Office supports strong families and encourages families and friends to keep in touch with loved ones if they are confined to the jail.  As we continue to be vigilant against the spread of the Covid-19 virus, we offer two ways for families and friends to visit:

1. In-Person Visitation
2. Family Video Visitation (via SKYPE)

Currently, all visitation is on a modified schedule to best accommodate the entire detainee population.  Both in-person visits and video visits require visitors to submit applications and be approved by the CCDOC.  Once approved, the visitor will be contacted to schedule the visitation day and time.  To submit an application: https://inmatelocator.ccsheriff.org/

In-Person Visits – Detainees are allowed two visitors at a time.  Children are permitted and will be counted towards the detainee’s visitor count.  Facial masks must be worn at all times and social distancing must be maintained.

Family Video Visits – Conducted via SKYPE.  The visitor must have an active SKYPE account set up with an email address.  To set up an account visit:   https://www.skype.com/en/.   

Violations – CCDOC Rules and Regulations apply to video visits – no drinking, smoking, inappropriate behavior or nudity.  Violations can result in the revocation of visiting privileges.  To view additional CCDOC Rules and Regulations please visit: https://inmatelocator.ccsheriff.org/Home/RulesandRegulations

Family and friends wishing to participate and receive either an In-Person or Video Visit may consult with their loved one, the division the loved one is housed in or the Visitor Information Center at 773-674-8225. 

Divisional Phone Numbers for Skype Questions:

Skype Visits Dedicated Telephone Numbers

HOW-TO GUIDE LINK HERE

During this time, attorneys and clergy members will be able to visit detainees but will be screened by staff for symptoms of COVID-19. Staff are also working to expand opportunities for detainees to communicate with their loved ones by phone. The health and safety of DOC staff, detainees, and the public will continue to be the primary concern of the Sheriff’s Office.