New York County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In New York County?
Inmate records in New York County are official government documents that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within correctional facilities under the jurisdiction of New York County. These records are systematically maintained by the New York City Department of Correction (DOC) and document the entire custodial history of individuals from intake through release.
Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, correctional authorities are required to maintain detailed records of all persons remanded to their custody. These records are distinct from court records, which document legal proceedings and are maintained by the New York County Clerk's Office and the New York State Unified Court System. While court records focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document an individual's custody status and institutional history.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where identifying information is collected and documented. Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant information. Upon release, records are finalized but maintained in accordance with New York State Archives retention schedules.
Are Inmate Records Public In New York County?
Inmate records in New York County are partially accessible to the public under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified in Public Officers Law Article 6, §§ 84-90. This law establishes the public's right to access government records, including certain information contained in inmate records.
The New York City Department of Correction maintains a publicly accessible inmate lookup system that provides limited information about currently incarcerated individuals. Information typically available to the public includes:
- Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Pending charges
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Bail/bond amount (if applicable)
However, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly accessible. Pursuant to Public Officers Law § 87(2), certain categories of information are exempt from disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Information that would endanger the life or safety of any person
- Information that would interfere with law enforcement investigations
- Records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records beyond what is available through the online lookup system must submit a formal FOIL request to the New York City Department of Correction's Records Access Officer.
What's Included Inmate Records in New York County
Inmate records in New York County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Classification status
- Housing assignment
- Security level
- Disciplinary incidents and sanctions
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Warrant information
- Criminal history (if applicable)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount
- Bond type
- Payment status
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders
- Legal representation information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time credits
- Parole eligibility
Release Information:
- Release date
- Release type (e.g., bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
New York County Prison System
The New York County correctional system operates as part of the larger New York City Department of Correction (DOC), which manages jail facilities throughout the five boroughs of New York City. New York County, also known as Manhattan, does not operate independent county jail facilities; instead, individuals arrested in Manhattan are held in facilities operated by the NYC DOC.
The primary function of the NYC DOC facilities is to detain individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of one year or less, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities. This distinguishes the local jail system from the New York State prison system, which is operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) and houses individuals serving sentences longer than one year.
New York City Department of Correction
75-20 Astoria Boulevard
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-1500
New York City Department of Correction
Types of Correctional Facilities In New York County
New York County utilizes several correctional facilities operated by the New York City Department of Correction. These facilities serve different populations and security needs:
Manhattan Detention Complex (MDC)
125 White Street
New York, NY 10013
(212) 266-1500
Manhattan Detention Complex
The Manhattan Detention Complex, also known as "The Tombs," primarily houses male detainees awaiting trial on charges filed in Manhattan courts. The facility has a capacity of approximately 900 inmates.
Vernon C. Bain Center (VCBC)
1 Halleck Street
Bronx, NY 10474
(718) 589-7500
Vernon C. Bain Center
While physically located in the Bronx, this floating jail barge sometimes houses detainees from Manhattan. This unique facility is anchored off the shore of Hunts Point and has a capacity of approximately 800 inmates.
Rikers Island Complex
15-15 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-1500
Rikers Island
Rikers Island houses the majority of NYC's jail population across several facilities, including:
- Robert N. Davoren Complex (RNDC)
- Anna M. Kross Center (AMKC)
- George R. Vierno Center (GRVC)
- Eric M. Taylor Center (EMTC)
- Rose M. Singer Center (RMSC) - for female detainees
- North Infirmary Command (NIC) - for inmates requiring medical attention
Individuals arrested in Manhattan may be housed at any of these facilities based on classification, security needs, and available space.
Who's in Prison In New York County
The New York County jail population consists of several categories of individuals:
Pre-trial Detainees: The majority of individuals held in New York County correctional facilities are awaiting trial and have not been convicted of the charges against them. These individuals are either unable to post bail or have been remanded without bail due to the nature of their charges or flight risk concerns. According to the NYC Department of Correction, approximately 75% of the jail population consists of pre-trial detainees.
Sentenced Individuals: Those who have been convicted of misdemeanors or certain non-violent felonies and sentenced to terms of one year or less serve their sentences in NYC DOC facilities. This includes individuals convicted in Manhattan courts.
Technical Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their parole but have not committed new crimes may be held in NYC DOC facilities pending parole revocation hearings.
Individuals Awaiting Transfer: Those who have been sentenced to terms longer than one year and are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
Federal Detainees: In some cases, individuals facing federal charges may be housed in NYC DOC facilities through agreements with the U.S. Marshals Service.
According to data from the NYC Department of Correction, the average daily population across all NYC DOC facilities is approximately 5,500 individuals, with New York County cases representing a significant portion of this population.
How To Search for Inmate Records In New York County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in New York County may utilize several methods to access inmate records:
Online Inmate Lookup System: The New York City Department of Correction maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides basic information about currently incarcerated individuals. To use this system:
- Visit the NYC DOC Inmate Lookup portal
- Enter the individual's first and last name, or their New York State ID Number (NYSID) or Book and Case Number
- Review the search results, which typically include the individual's name, age, custody status, facility location, and next court date
- For more detailed information, note the individual's Book and Case Number for reference when contacting the facility directly
In-Person Inquiry: Information about currently incarcerated individuals may also be obtained by visiting the central booking facility:
NYC Department of Correction Central Booking
100 Centre Street
New York, NY 10013
(212) 669-7900
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
FOIL Request: For more comprehensive inmate records, members of the public may submit a formal request under the Freedom of Information Law:
- Submit a written request to the Records Access Officer at:
NYC Department of Correction Records Access Officer
75-20 Astoria Boulevard
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
-
Include the following information in your request:
- Your full name and contact information
- The incarcerated individual's full name and date of birth (if known)
- The specific records or information you are seeking
- Your relationship to the incarcerated individual (if applicable)
-
Allow up to 20 business days for a response, as specified in Public Officers Law § 89(3)
How To Find an Inmate in New York County for Free?
Several free resources are available to locate individuals incarcerated in New York County:
NYC Department of Correction Inmate Lookup: The most direct method is using the official NYC DOC Inmate Lookup Service, which provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody. This service requires the individual's name or identification number and provides basic custody information at no cost.
New York State Commission of Correction Inmate Locator: The New York State Commission of Correction maintains a centralized resource page with links to various inmate locator tools, including those for NYC DOC facilities.
Telephone Inquiry: Members of the public may contact the NYC DOC Information Center at (718) 546-1500 to inquire about an individual's custody status. Be prepared to provide the individual's full name and date of birth.
Court System Resources: The New York State Unified Court System maintains a public case information system that can sometimes provide information about custody status in connection with court proceedings.
Legal Aid Society: The Legal Aid Society offers assistance to family members trying to locate incarcerated individuals and can be reached at (212) 577-3300.
When searching for an incarcerated individual, it is helpful to have the following information:
- Full legal name (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth
- NYSID number (if known)
- Book and Case number (if known)
How To Visit an Inmate In New York County
Visiting individuals incarcerated in New York County facilities requires adherence to specific protocols established by the NYC Department of Correction:
Visit Rules and Procedures: All visitors must register in advance through the NYC DOC Visitor Registration System. Registration can be completed online or by calling (718) 546-1500. Visitors must be on the incarcerated individual's approved visitor list, which can include immediate family members and up to four additional approved visitors.
Visit Schedule: Each facility maintains specific visiting hours:
- Manhattan Detention Complex: Wednesday through Sunday, 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Rikers Island facilities: Wednesday through Sunday, with morning sessions (9:00 AM to 1:00 PM) and afternoon sessions (1:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
Visits are typically limited to one hour, with a maximum of three visitors allowed per visit, including children.
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Visitor registration confirmation
- Up to $50 in cash to deposit into the incarcerated individual's commissary account
- Medications needed during the visit (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with an infant (limited to one bottle, two diapers, and baby wipes)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons or items that could be used as weapons
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Electronic devices (cell phones, cameras, recording devices)
- Food or beverages
- Cigarettes or tobacco products
- Excessive jewelry or valuables
- Bags larger than 8" x 8"
Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code that prohibits:
- Revealing or provocative clothing
- Gang-affiliated colors or symbols
- Clothing resembling DOC uniforms
- Hooded garments
- Shorts or skirts above the knee
- See-through clothing
- Sleeveless shirts or tank tops
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for most incarcerated individuals
- Non-contact visits: Required for certain security classifications or disciplinary status
- Attorney visits: Conducted in private attorney-client meeting rooms
Visit Restrictions: Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-j, visits may be denied or terminated if:
- The visitor appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- The visitor refuses to submit to security screening
- The visitor or incarcerated individual violates visiting rules
- The facility is under lockdown or emergency conditions
How To Send Money to a New York County Inmate
Several methods are available for depositing funds into an incarcerated individual's commissary account:
In-Person Deposits: Funds may be deposited in person at any NYC DOC facility during regular visiting hours. Cash deposits are limited to $50 per visit.
Online Deposits: The NYC DOC contracts with JPay for electronic deposits. To send money online:
- Create an account on the JPay website
- Select "New York City Department of Correction" as the facility
- Enter the incarcerated individual's information (name and Book & Case number)
- Select the deposit amount
- Complete the payment using a credit/debit card or bank account
Telephone Deposits: Funds may be deposited by calling JPay at 1-800-574-5729. Credit/debit card information will be required.
Mail Deposits: Money orders may be sent by mail to:
NYC Department of Correction Inmate Accounts
75-20 Astoria Boulevard
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Money orders must include the incarcerated individual's full name and Book & Case number on the memo line.
Amount Limits:
- Single deposit limit: $1,000
- Weekly deposit limit: $3,000
- Monthly deposit limit: $5,000
Fees:
- Online/phone deposits: $3.95 - $11.95 (depending on amount)
- Money order deposits: No fee
- In-person cash deposits: No fee
Prohibited Uses: Funds in commissary accounts cannot be used for:
- Posting bail
- Paying court fees or fines
- Purchasing prohibited items
- Transferring money to other incarcerated individuals
Authorized Uses: Funds may be used for:
- Commissary purchases (food, hygiene items, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Tablet rentals and digital content
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
How To Send Jail Mail In New York County
Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in New York County facilities must follow specific guidelines established by the NYC Department of Correction:
Regular Mail: All non-legal mail must be sent to:
Incarcerated Individual's Full Name, Book & Case Number
Facility Name
15-15 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
For example, mail to the Manhattan Detention Complex would be addressed:
John Doe, #1234567
Manhattan Detention Complex
15-15 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Legal Mail: Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and include the sender's bar registration number or official letterhead.
Permitted Items:
- Letters (on plain white paper)
- Photographs (maximum 4" x 6", limit of 10 per envelope)
- Money orders (made payable to the incarcerated individual)
- Greeting cards (plain cards without electronic or 3D components)
- Religious materials (soft-cover only)
- Drawings from children
Prohibited Items:
- Packages or parcels
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps
- Clothing or food items
- Any items with gang symbols or inappropriate content
All incoming mail is inspected for contraband and may be photocopied, with the copies provided to the incarcerated individual and originals stored in their property. Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, correctional authorities may restrict mail privileges for security reasons.
For more information about mail policies, visit the NYC DOC Mail Guidelines page or call the Information Center at (718) 546-1500.
Lookup Inmate Records in New York County
Incarcerated Individual Lookup
NYC Department of Correction Person in Custody Lookup
New York State Commission of Correction Incarcerated Individual Locators