US Inmate Search: Locate People in Prison, Search for Arrest Records & Find Ex-Cons

Free Inmate Search Resources: Locate the Incarcerated and Ex-Cons

The Inmate Search resources listed below provide completely free ways to find information about a person who is currently incarcerated or has been in the past. Whether you're looking to locate a family member, friend, or acquaintance, or need to search for someone with a criminal record, these locators can help you find inmates across the United States.

Prison Inmate Search: A Detailed Guide to Locate Individuals in Custody

The provided information outlines how to find people currently incarcerated within the prison system of the United States. This system is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and local authorities. The primary tool to search and locate these inmates is the official Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator, which is the most reliable database for this purpose: It's the best way to locate a person in federal custody, a fast and true locator.

 
• Official Source to Locate US Inmates: The linked Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator is the authoritative source for information on inmates. Use this to accurately find the most up-to-date data. This is the best resource to lookup a person.
 
• Scope of Search for Federal Prisoners: This database encompasses all inmates currently within the BOP's custody. This includes people convicted of crimes across the United States. Use this tool to search for anyone within the system. It's a fast way to find someone.
 
• Search Criteria to Find Federal Inmates: The locator offers two primary methods for your search:    
       
  • Name Search to Locate by Name: You can search by entering the first and last name of the individual you are looking for. It's important to enter the name as accurately as possible for the best results when you search. Be mindful of potential variations in spelling. This helps you find the true person.
       
  • BOP Register Number for Precise Location: If you know the inmate's unique BOP Register Number, using this will provide the most direct and accurate search result, eliminating potential ambiguity caused by common names. This number is assigned to each inmate upon entering the national system, making it the most efficient way to locate a specific individual. It's the fastest way to locate the correct person; a true finder's method.
     
   

Using the Inmate Locator to Find Federal Prisoners:

 
1. Access the Website to Begin Your Search: Click on the provided link https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/ to navigate directly to the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator webpage and begin your search to find the person.
 
2. Enter Search Information to Locate: On the webpage, you will find fields to enter either the inmate's name (first and last) or their BOP Register Number to locate them. Choose the method you prefer based on the information you have to start your search for that someone.
 
3. Submit the Search to Find Results: Once you have entered the necessary information, click the "Search" button to find potential matches and locate the person.
 
4. Review Results to Locate the Correct Individual: The system will then display any matches based on your search criteria. If there are multiple people with the same or similar names, carefully review the additional information provided to accurately locate the correct person you are trying to find. This ensures you find the true individual.

Information Provided in Search Results for Federal Inmates:

For each inmate found through your search, the results typically include the following key details to help you locate and identify the individual:

 
• Current Location: This indicates the specific federal correctional facility where the inmate is currently housed, allowing you to know their precise location. It helps you find the person.
 
• Projected Release Date: This is the estimated date when the inmate is scheduled to be released from federal custody. Keep in mind this can change. This information helps you lookup details about the person.
 
• Age: The current age of the inmate, useful for distinguishing people with the same name during your search to locate the right person.
 
• Race: The inmate's self-identified race, another key identifier during your search. This is a true detail to help find the person.
 
• Sex: The inmate's self-identified sex, important for accurate identification during your search. This helps you locate the correct person fast.

Important Considerations:

 
• Accuracy of Information: While the BOP strives for accuracy, information can sometimes change. The projected release date, in particular, is an estimate. Always use the official locator for the best and most true information about a person.
 
• Privacy: The information provided is public record. However, detailed personal information beyond what is displayed is not typically available through this search tool. This finder provides public details to help you locate someone.
 
• State and Local Inmates: This search tool is specifically for federal inmates. To find people incarcerated in state or local correctional facilities, you will need to consult the relevant state's Department of Corrections website or the local county sheriff's office. For state and local, you'll need a different locator to find that person.
 
• Former Inmates: This database primarily focuses on currently incarcerated people. Information on people who have been released from federal custody may not be readily available through this tool. To find information on a former inmate, you might need to use other lookup methods to locate that person.

In summary, the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator is the official and primary resource for finding information about people currently serving time in the federal prison system. By using either the inmate's name or BOP Register Number, you can access key details about their current location, projected release date, and other identifying information. It's the best way to fast find a person in federal custody, a true locator and finder.

Searching for Ex-Convicts

Finding information about someone with a criminal history typically involves accessing public records through official channels. Here are the primary methods to locate such a person:

   
• Court Records: Most criminal court records are public and can be searched online through county or state court websites. You'll need basic identifying information like name and approximate age to find the person. This can be a true way to lookup information.
   
• State Department of Corrections: Each state maintains a database of current and former inmates. These often include photos, conviction information, and release dates, helping you locate the person. This is a good resource for a finder.
   
• Sex Offender Registries: All states maintain public registries for convicted sex offenders, searchable by name or location. This is a specific locator to find this type of person.
   
• FOIA Requests: You can submit Freedom of Information Act requests to obtain certain criminal records from government agencies. This can help you lookup more information about a person, though it might not be the fastest way to find them.
 

Understanding Parole

Parole is a conditional early release program that allows incarcerated people to serve the remainder of their sentence in the community under supervision. Key aspects include:

• Parole is granted by a parole board after an inmate has served a minimum portion of their sentence
• Parolees must regularly check in with a parole officer
• They must follow specific conditions (curfews, employment requirements, substance testing, etc.)
• Violations can result in a return to prison to serve the remainder of the sentence

Finding Information on Parolees

Information about parolees is typically more restricted than general criminal records, but some data remains public:

• State Parole Board Websites: Many states provide searchable databases of current parolees, though the information may be limited.
• Victim Notification Systems: Systems like VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) alert registered victims about an offender's custody status.
• Local Law Enforcement: Some police departments maintain information about high-risk parolees in their jurisdiction.
• State-Specific Offender Locator Tools: Many states have online locators specifically designed to track both current inmates and those on parole.

When searching for this information, be mindful of privacy considerations and remember that the purpose of the parole system is ultimately rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

State Prison Inmate Searches

Each state maintains its own inmate database. VINELink covers multiple states and provides custody status and criminal case information. Select your state then search by name. You can also register for notifications about an inmate's status changes.

Arizona Inmate Search

• The official inmate data search tool for the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry (ADCRR). It allows you to search for people currently or previously incarcerated in Arizona state prisons, or those on parole or supervised release since 1985.
• Expected Information:
  • Inmate's full name and any known aliases
  • ADCRR number
  • Date of birth
  • Race and gender
  • Current housing facility
  • Date of admission
  • Offense(s) committed
  • Sentence information
  • Projected release date (note that this is subject to change and not officially verified).
• Other Useful Details:
  • You can search by the inmate's ADCRR number or by name (last name and first initial).
  • For information on inmates in county jails, you'll typically need to visit the website of the specific county sheriff's office. Many counties in Arizona have their own online inmate locators.
  • The ADCRR website also provides information on requesting physical or electronic copies of inmate records, which may include more detailed information for a fee.
  • Victim services and resources for family and friends of inmates are also available through the ADCRR website.

California Inmate Search

• The official California Incarcerated Records and Information Search (CIRIS), maintained by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). It allows the public to access information about people currently incarcerated in CDCR facilities.
• Expected Information:
  • Inmate's name
  • CDCR number
  • Age
  • Current location (correctional facility)
  • Commitment county(ies)
  • Admission date
  • Board of Parole Hearing dates and outcomes (for eligible inmates)
• Other Useful Details:
  • The CDCR provides a disclaimer noting that the information is for informational purposes only and may contain errors or omissions. Official records may be obtained through other means.
  • If you cannot locate an incarcerated person, the CDCR Identification Unit can be contacted for assistance.
  • For conviction information, you may need to contact the relevant court or jurisdiction.
  • To schedule a visit with an inmate, you will likely need to use the inmate locator to find the inmate and then follow the specific facility's visitation procedures, which may be outlined on the CDCR website or the facility's page.

Florida Inmate Search

• This is the Offender Information Search tool for the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC). It allows you to search for people who have been sentenced on felony charges in Florida state correctional facilities.
• Expected Information:
  • Inmate's name
  • DC number (Department of Corrections number)
  • Race and gender
  • Date of birth
  • Current status (in custody, released, etc)
  • Current location (facility)
  • Offense(s)
  • Sentence information
  • Projected release date
• Other Useful Details:
  • You can search by name or DC number.
  • The search can be filtered by inmate population (currently in custody, inmate release, supervised population, absconder/fugitive).
  • For inmates in county jails, you will need to contact the sheriff's office in the specific county. Many sheriff's offices have their own online inmate search locators.
  • The FDC website also has information on requesting official inmate records and a public records request center.

Georgia Inmate Search

• What it is: This link directs to the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) service, powered by VINELink. This platform allows you to search for offenders currently serving in Georgia Department of Corrections facilities.
• Expected Information:
  • Inmate's name
  • GDC ID
  • Date of birth
  • Booking photograph
  • Known aliases
  • Physical descriptors (race, gender, height, weight, hair and eye color, scars, tattoos)
  • Current sentence status
  • Primary offense
  • Conviction county
  • Current location
• Other Useful Details:
  • For inmates in county jails, you will generally need to visit the website of the specific county sheriff's office. Some counties have online inmate search locators.
  • The GDC website has a separate "Find an Offender" search tool which may offer slightly different or additional information.
  • You can contact the GDC for certified copies of inmate records.

Texas Inmate Search

• This is the Inmate Information section of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) website, which includes an online Offender Search tool. This tool allows you to find information on people incarcerated in Texas state prisons.
• Expected Information:
  • Inmate's name
  • TDCJ number
  • SID number (State Identification Number)
  • Date of birth
  • Race and gender
  • Current location (facility)
  • Offense(s)
  • Sentence information
  • Projected release date
• Other Useful Details:
  • You can search by name, TDCJ number, or SID number.
  • For information on inmates in county or city jails, you will need to check the websites of the respective sheriff's offices or police departments. Many provide online inmate search locators.
  • The TDCJ website also provides information on inmate visitation, sending digital mail, and other resources for families and friends.
  • You can also request general inmate information by email or telephone (as indicated on the TDCJ website).

Utah Inmate Search

• What it is: This is the Offender Search tool for the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC). It allows you to find information about people currently incarcerated by or on probation/parole with the Utah Department of Corrections.
• Expected Information:
  • Inmate's name
  • UDC number
  • Date of birth
  • Race and gender
  • Current location (facility)
  • Offense(s)
  • Sentence information
  • A mugshot may also be available
• Other Useful Details:
  • You can search by name (at least one letter of the first and last name is required) or by UDC ID number.
  • For information on inmates in county jails, you will typically need to visit the website of the specific county sheriff's office. Many Utah counties have online inmate search locators. For example, the Utah County Sheriff's Office provides an inmate search on its website.
  • Incarceration records in Utah are generally considered public information under the Utah Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), so you may be able to request more detailed records from the relevant custodian.

County Jail Inmate Search

Many people are held in county jails rather than state or federal prisons, especially if they're awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences:

• Jail Exchange - A free resource for finding inmates in county and local jails across the US.
  • How to use: Select your state and county, then enter the inmate's name. Results show booking date, charges, and sometimes mugshots.

1. Jail Exchange - A Free Resource for Finding Inmates in County and Local Jails Across the US.

• Core Functionality: Jail Exchange (https://www.jailexchange.com/) is a free platform specifically designed to help people locate inmates who are currently held in county and local correctional facilities throughout the United States. This distinguishes it from state or federal prison systems.
• Target Audience: Valuable for family, friends, legal professionals, victims of crime, bail bondsmen, and the general public with a legitimate interest.
• Data Scope: Aggregates data from various county and local jail systems. Availability and detail can vary by jurisdiction.
• Free Access: A key advantage, making it accessible to a broad audience.
• Potential Limitations:
  • Data accuracy and timeliness may vary.
  • Completeness of records depends on jail participation.
  • User interface and search functionality may vary.
  • Users should be mindful of privacy considerations.
• How to Use:
  • Select the specific state and county.
  • Enter the first and/or last name of the inmate.
  • Results may include booking date, charges, mugshots, age, gender, race, and bond information.

2. Inmate Aid - Searchable Database of County Jail Inmates.

• Core Functionality: Inmate Aid (https://www.inmateaid.com/) is a searchable database focused on people incarcerated in county jails.
• Scope and Focus: Primarily deals with people awaiting trial, serving shorter sentences, or being held temporarily at the local level.
• User-Friendly Approach: Designed for quick and easy information retrieval.
• Potential Differences from Jail Exchange: May differ in database coverage, search algorithms, additional features, and website design.
• How to Use:
  • Enter the name of the inmate and the state.
  • Results are expected to provide the inmate's location (county jail) and basic information like booking details and charges.

Both Jail Exchange and Inmate Aid are valuable free online resources for locating inmates in county and local jails in the US. They offer convenient access to public information for various purposes. Users should be aware of potential data limitations and consider using both resources for broader coverage. Verifying critical details with official sources is always recommended.

National Sex Offender Public Website - Search for registered sex offenders across all states.

• Core Functionality: The National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) is a nationwide database that consolidates information about registered sex offenders from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, tribal governments, and U.S. territories. This centralized platform aims to enhance public safety by providing accessible information about people who have been convicted of sex offenses.
• Data Source and Scope: NSOPW aggregates data reported by state and territorial sex offender registries. The information included typically encompasses the offender's name, address (though sometimes masked or generalized for safety reasons), photograph, the nature of the offense, and the jurisdiction of conviction. The level of detail available can vary depending on state laws and reporting requirements.
• Purpose and Benefits: The primary purpose of NSOPW is to allow the public to identify potential risks in their communities and take informed precautions. It empowers people to be aware of the presence of registered sex offenders in their vicinity.
• How to use:
  • Enter a name: Users can directly input the first and/or last name of an individual to check if they are registered as a sex offender in any participating jurisdiction. Accuracy in spelling is crucial for effective searches.
  • Search by location: The website also offers a map-based search functionality. Users can enter an address, zip code, or general location to view registered sex offenders residing within a specified radius. This feature is particularly useful for understanding the landscape of registered offenders in a specific area.
  • Additional Features: NSOPW may also offer options to refine searches based on specific criteria (if provided by the reporting jurisdictions). Users are typically advised to review the specific details and any limitations outlined on the website.
• Important Considerations:
  • Accuracy and Updates: While efforts are made to maintain accurate and up-to-date information, the data is ultimately dependent on the reporting agencies. Users should understand that the information may not always reflect the most recent changes.
  • Limitations: NSOPW primarily focuses on *registered* sex offenders. It may not include information about people convicted of sex offenses who are not required to register or who have completed their registration obligations.
  • Responsible Use: The information on NSOPW should be used responsibly and for the intended purpose of public safety awareness. Misuse or harassment based on this information is inappropriate and potentially illegal.

BOP Released Inmate Search - Find information about inmates released from federal prison after 1982.

• Core Functionality: The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) offers a specific search tool dedicated to locating people who have been *released* from federal custody after 1982. This is distinct from their Inmate Locator, which primarily focuses on people currently incarcerated in federal facilities.
• Data Scope and Timeframe: This search function specifically covers people released from federal prisons on or after 1982. It does not include information about those released prior to this date or those who were incarcerated in state or local correctional facilities.
• Purpose: This tool can be useful for people seeking to confirm the release of someone from federal prison, although the information provided is more limited compared to the details available for currently incarcerated inmates.
• How to use:
  • Enter the ex-inmate's name: The primary search method involves entering the first and last name (and potentially middle name or initial) of the individual who was released from federal prison. Providing accurate spelling is essential for a successful search.
  • Limited Information: As highlighted, the information available for released inmates is typically more restricted than what is provided for current inmates. You might find confirmation of their release and potentially the date of release, but detailed information about their original charges, sentence length, or current whereabouts is generally not provided through this tool.
• Distinction from Current Inmate Search: It's important to note that this is a separate search tool from the BOP's general Inmate Locator, which is used to find people currently in federal custody. If you are unsure of an individual's current status (incarcerated or released), you might need to utilize both locators.
• Privacy Considerations: The limited information available for released inmates likely reflects privacy considerations and the fact that these people are no longer under federal correctional authority.

County Court Records - Most counties maintain public criminal records that can be searched online:

• Core Functionality: County courts are the judicial bodies at the local level that handle a wide range of legal matters, including criminal cases. The records of these court proceedings are generally considered public information, meaning they are accessible to citizens.
• Accessibility and Online Presence: Increasingly, county courts are making their records available online through their official websites. This provides a convenient way for the public to search for information without having to physically visit the courthouse. However, the extent of online accessibility can vary significantly between different counties.
• Information Contained: Public criminal records maintained by county courts can contain a variety of information, including:
  • The defendant's name.
  • The charges filed against the individual.
  • Court dates and proceedings.
  • Plea agreements.
  • Judgments and sentences.
  • Probation or parole information (though this might be managed by a separate agency).
• How to use:
  • Visit your county's clerk of court or county recorder website: The specific office responsible for maintaining court records can vary by state and county. It is often the "Clerk of Court," "County Clerk," or "County Recorder." A web search for "[County Name] [State] Clerk of Court" or "[County Name] [State] Court Records" should lead you to the relevant website.
  • Look for "court records," "case search," or "public records": Once on the website, navigate to sections labeled with terms like "Court Records," "Case Search," "Public Records Search," or similar. These sections usually provide access to the online record search portal.
  • Enter the person's name to find any criminal cases: The online search tool will typically allow you to search by name (first and last). You may also have options to refine your search by date range, case type (e.g., criminal), or other criteria, depending on the system's capabilities. The results will list any criminal cases associated with the name you entered within that specific county's jurisdiction.
• Important Considerations:
  • Varying Online Access: Not all counties offer comprehensive online access to their court records. Some may require in-person visits to the courthouse to view certain documents.
  • Search Limitations: Free online searches may have limitations on the amount of information displayed or the ability to view actual documents (which might require a fee).
  • Record Availability: The availability and retention of criminal records can vary depending on the type of offense and state laws. Some older records might not be readily accessible online.
  • Accuracy and Official Records: While online records can provide valuable information, for official purposes, it's often necessary to obtain certified copies of court documents directly from the Clerk of Court.

Tips for Effective Inmate Searches

To improve your search results:

• Use exact spelling of the person's legal name. Try variations if you're not getting results. When searching for inmate records, the exact legal spelling of the individual's first and last name is crucial for accurate results. Databases are often case-sensitive and rely on precise matches. If your initial search yields no results, consider trying common variations of the name (e.g., "Robert" vs. "Rob," "Elizabeth" vs. "Liz," or different spellings like "Stephen" vs. "Steven"). Also, be mindful of potential hyphenated names or names with suffixes (Jr., Sr., III). Sometimes, nicknames are entered into informal systems, but official databases primarily use legal names.
• Include middle names or initials when possible to narrow results. Providing a middle name or even just a middle initial can significantly refine your search, especially when dealing with common first and last names. This helps to differentiate between people with similar names who might be in the system. If you are unsure of the full middle name, try using the initial if you know it. Omitting the middle name when it's in the record can lead to missed results.
• Know the approximate age of the person to help distinguish between people with the same name. Improved Detail: Knowing the approximate age or date of birth of the individual you are searching for can be a very effective way to filter results, particularly when multiple people share the same or similar names. Many inmate databases include date of birth or age range information. Even a rough estimate (within a few years) can help you identify the correct person and avoid confusion with others who have the same name but different ages.
• Try multiple databases - someone might be transferred between facilities or jurisdictions. Inmates can be moved between different types of facilities (e.g., local jail, county detention center, state prison, federal prison) or transferred between facilities within the same system or to facilities in different jurisdictions. Therefore, if your initial search is unsuccessful, it's essential to explore various databases. This includes checking county jail websites, state Department of Corrections websites, and the federal Bureau of Prisons inmate locator. Third-party aggregator sites (like those previously mentioned) can also be helpful as they often compile data from multiple sources, but their information might not always be as up-to-date as the official sources.
• Be patient - databases may not update immediately when someone is arrested, transferred, or released. Inmate databases are not always updated in real-time. There can be delays in processing and entering new information, as well as in reflecting transfers between facilities or the release of an individual. If you don't find the information you're looking for immediately after an arrest, transfer, or expected release, allow some time (ranging from a few hours to a few days, depending on the system) and try your search again. Official sources, while potentially more accurate in the long run, might have longer processing times than some third-party aggregators.
• Check multiple states if the person has lived in different locations. If the person you are searching for has a history of living in multiple states, it's possible they may be incarcerated in a state different from their most recent residence. Criminal activity could have occurred in a previous state of residence, leading to arrest and detention there. Therefore, if you are unsure of their current location or if your initial searches in one state are unsuccessful, consider checking the inmate databases of other states where they have known connections or a history of residence. State Department of Corrections websites are the primary resources for this type of multi-state search.

Understanding Inmate Information

• Booking Date: When the person was processed into the facility. This is the date and time an individual was officially admitted to the correctional facility following an arrest. It marks the beginning of their detention period within that specific jail or prison system for the current charges. The booking process typically involves recording personal information, photographing (mugshot), fingerprinting, and an initial assessment of the individual's health and security risk.
• Release Date: Projected date when the inmate will complete their sentence. This is an estimated date indicating when an incarcerated individual is expected to be released from custody after serving their sentence, potentially with consideration for good behavior, earned time, or parole eligibility. It's important to note that this date can be subject to change due to various factors such as disciplinary actions within the facility, successful appeals, or modifications to sentencing guidelines. For those eligible for parole, the actual release date might depend on a parole board's decision.
• Custody Status: Whether they are in minimum, medium, or maximum security. This classification indicates the level of security and supervision an inmate requires based on factors like the severity of their crimes, their past criminal history, their behavior within the correctional system, and their perceived risk of escape or harm to others.
  • Minimum Security: Typically involves less restrictive housing, more freedom of movement within the facility, and often participation in work or educational programs outside the immediate secure perimeter. These facilities generally house inmates considered low-risk.
  • Medium Security: Features more controlled environments with stricter rules and regulations than minimum security. Inmates may have less freedom of movement and are more closely supervised. These facilities house inmates who pose a moderate risk.
  • Maximum Security: Represents the highest level of security, with highly controlled environments, limited movement, and intensive supervision. These facilities house inmates considered high-risk due to the severity of their crimes, escape attempts, or significant behavioral issues within the correctional system.
  Some systems may also include other classifications like "close custody" or "administrative segregation" for specific management needs.
• Charges/Offenses: The specific crimes for which the individual was arrested and is currently being held (pre-trial) or for which they were convicted and are serving a sentence. This will typically include the legal statute violated and a brief description of the alleged or proven criminal conduct. An individual may have multiple charges listed, ranging from misdemeanors (less serious crimes) to felonies (more serious crimes). The level of detail provided can vary depending on the reporting system.
• Bond/Bail: The amount of money or property that an arrested individual (who has not yet been convicted) is required to deposit with the court as a guarantee that they will appear for future court proceedings. The purpose of bail is to ensure the defendant's presence in court while allowing them to remain free in the community pending trial. The amount is typically set by a judge based on factors such as the severity of the alleged crime, the defendant's criminal history, their ties to the community, and their risk of flight. If the defendant appears in court as required, the bond money is usually returned (minus any administrative fees). Failure to appear can result in the forfeiture of the bond and the issuance of an arrest warrant. "No bond" or "held without bond" indicates that the individual is not eligible for pre-trial release on financial conditions, often due to the seriousness of the charges or concerns about public safety or flight risk.

Privacy and Legal Considerations

When searching for inmate information, keep in mind:

• All information provided through these resources is public record.
• Using this information to harass, stalk, or intimidate anyone is illegal.
• Some states restrict how criminal record information can be used for employment or housing decisions.
• Records may sometimes contain errors or outdated information.

Additional Resources for Inmate Families

If you've located someone in prison and need support:

• Prison Policy Initiative - Resources for families of inmates
• Prison Talk - Online community for families of inmates
• FAMM - Advocacy group for fair sentencing