Search Ohio Inmate Records Online
Are Ohio Inmate Records Open to the Public?
Yes, under Ohio Revised Code 149.43 (A), inmate records are public information. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction and local correctional agencies are required to provide access to these records. Individuals seeking this information are not required to reveal their identity. However, certain records, such as those of juvenile inmates or those deemed a threat to public safety, are exempt from public access.
Ohio Inmate Search
Ohio inmate records include personal and official details about individuals incarcerated in state-run or locally managed facilities. Typically, these records are maintained and disseminated by the correctional facility where the inmate is held or through online resources provided by law enforcement agencies. Inmate records may contain:
- Full names
- Physical descriptors
- Mugshots
- Bail/bond conditions
- Custody status
- Release dates
To access inmate records, requesters must provide specific information such as the inmate's name and the location of the record, including the state, county, and city where the inmate is held.
How to Conduct an Ohio Jail Inmate Search
To search for an inmate in Ohio, interested parties can utilize the central inmate search tool maintained by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Local jails operate independently and may require direct contact with the county sheriff's office. Requesters can visit or call the local sheriff's office to obtain inmate records. Some county jails also provide online inmate lookup tools or rosters for easier access.
Differences Between Ohio State Prisons and County Jails
Ohio's correctional facilities include state prisons and county jails. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction oversees state prisons, while county jails are managed by individual counties. State prisons typically house inmates serving longer sentences, whereas county jails hold individuals awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences of one year or less. The state prison system includes 28 facilities, while the county jail system comprises 108 facilities.
Sending Money to an Inmate in Ohio Prisons or Jails
Funds can be sent to inmates by individuals listed on the inmate's approved visitation list. Money can be sent via mail, online, or by phone transactions. Mail deposits are made through the approved vendor, JPay, using a Money Order Deposit Form. Online payments can be made through ConnectNetwork, and phone deposits can be made by calling a specified number. Each transaction is limited to $200, with a monthly cap of $400.
How to Contact Inmates in Ohio Prisons and Jails
Inmates in Ohio have mail and phone privileges. To receive phone calls, individuals must be on the inmate’s approved call list. Phone calls can be paid for via collect calls or prepaid credits, which can be purchased at prison kiosks or credited to the inmate's commissary. For mail correspondence, the sender must follow the guidelines provided by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction to avoid contraband issues.
Getting Approved for Inmate Visitation in Ohio Prisons and Jails
To visit an inmate, individuals must first confirm the inmate's location using an Ohio inmate search tool. Visitors must complete an application form, which includes up to 15 visitors, and pass a verification and background check. Visits must be scheduled in advance, and visitors must present a government-issued photo ID. Each facility has unique visitation schedules and guidelines, which should be reviewed before planning a visit. Video visitations are also available for a fee.
How to Locate Someone Incarcerated in Ohio
To locate an inmate, individuals can use the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s inmate lookup page. This tool provides details about current inmates, including their custody status and release dates. If the inmate is in a county jail, contacting the local sheriff's office or using online inmate lookup tools may be necessary.
Finding a County Inmate Roster in Ohio
County inmate rosters provide public information about incarcerated individuals without needing specific details like names or booking numbers. These rosters typically include the inmate's name, booking date, charges, jail number, court hearing dates, release date, and the arresting agency. Not all county jails provide online rosters; some require the use of inmate lookup sites.
How to Conduct an Ohio Prison Inmate Search
The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction manages information about inmates in state correctional facilities. An inmate search can be performed on the department’s website, which also includes resources on inmate correspondence, welfare, commissary, and visitation. Third-party websites may also offer inmate search services, but the accuracy of information may vary.
How to Find an Inmate’s Release Date in Ohio
To find an inmate’s release date, individuals can query the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s inmate lookup page. This page provides details about inmates, including tentative release dates. Sealed release dates are accessible only to immediate family, crime victims, attorneys, and authorized law enforcement officers.
Facilities Managed by the Ohio Department of Corrections
The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction oversees 27 state prisons for adults, three juvenile facilities, and privately run prisons. Local law enforcement manages county and city jails as well as detention centers. Each facility operates under guidelines set by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, although some may have unique operational strategies.