North Carolina Inmate Search

Are Inmate Records Public in North Carolina?

Yes, inmate records in North Carolina are public. According to the North Carolina Public Records Law, the public has the right to access and inspect records maintained by public agencies, including inmate records. However, there are certain exemptions to public access, such as medical records, security plans, and certain personal information that could jeopardize the safety of individuals. It's important to note that while most inmate records are public, there may be restrictions on accessing specific information for security reasons.

How to Search for Inmate Records in North Carolina

Members of the public can search for inmate records in North Carolina by following these steps:

1. Visit the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website at http://webapps6.doc.state.nc.us/opi/offendersearch.do?method=view.
2. Enter the inmate's name or offender number in the search fields.
3. Click the "Search" button to retrieve the inmate's records.
4. Review the information provided, which may include the inmate's name, mugshot, offense, sentence, and location.

Residents may also be able to obtain records from the state Department of Corrections directly. The address and telephone number of the North Carolina Department of Corrections are:

North Carolina Department of Corrections 512 North Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27604 Phone: 919-733-2126, 800-368-1985.

How Do I Send Money to an Inmate in North Carolina?

Sending money to an inmate in North Carolina is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:

1. Friends and families can send money to an inmate by visiting the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website at https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/adult-correction/prisons/send-money-offender.
2. Use the inmate lookup feature to find the inmate for whom you want to send money.
3. Follow the instructions provided on the website to create an account and add funds to the inmate's account.
4. The maximum amount that can be sent to an inmate in North Carolina may vary. It is best to check the specific facility's guidelines for the maximum amount allowed.

How do I Find an Inmate in North Carolina for Free?

To find an inmate in North Carolina for free, you can conduct an inmate search using the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website. Simply visit their website and use the inmate search feature to enter the inmate's name or offender number. This will provide you with information about the inmate, such as their location and offense. It's important to note that while the search itself is free, there may be fees associated with obtaining copies of certain records directly from the correctional facility.

How to Visit an Inmate in North Carolina

To visit an inmate in North Carolina, follow these steps:

1. Friends and families must first complete an inmate lookup to find the inmate they wish to visit.
2. Once you have identified the inmate, you can find the specific visitation rules and guidelines for the facility they are located in on the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website at https://www.ncdps.gov/node/6785#visitor-applications.
3. Review the rules and guidelines to ensure compliance, which may include dress code, identification requirements, and visitation hours.
4. Visitors are required to follow the rules and regulations set by the correctional facility. For example, visitors may be required to pass through a security screening, provide valid identification, and adhere to a strict code of conduct during the visitation.

Types of Correctional Facilities in North Carolina

In North Carolina, there are several types of correctional facilities, including state prisons, county jails, and federal prisons. State prisons are operated by the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and house inmates who have been convicted of state crimes and sentenced to longer terms of incarceration. County jails, on the other hand, are operated by individual counties and typically house inmates who are awaiting trial or have been sentenced to shorter terms. Finally, federal prisons are operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and house inmates who have been convicted of federal crimes.