Are Inmate Records Public in New Jersey?
Yes, inmate records in New Jersey are public. According to the Open Public Records Act, the public has the right to access certain records, including inmate records. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Inmate records that contain sensitive information, such as medical records or information that could compromise the safety and security of the facility, may be exempted from public access.
How to Search for Inmate Records in New Jersey
Members of the public can search for inmate records in New Jersey by following these steps:
- Visit the New Jersey Department of Corrections website at https://www20.state.nj.us/DOC_Inmate/inmatesearch.
- Use the inmate lookup tool provided on the website to search for an inmate by their first and last name or their state identification number.
- Review the search results to find the desired inmate's information, including their current location and release date if applicable.
Residents may also be able to obtain records from the state Department of Corrections directly by contacting them at:
New Jersey Department of Corrections
Whittlesey Road PO Box 863 Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: (609) 292-4036
How Do I Send Money to an Inmate in New Jersey?
Sending money to an inmate in New Jersey is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Friends and families can send money to an inmate by using the Offender Accounts system provided by the New Jersey Department of Corrections.
- To send money, visit the Offender Accounts page on the New Jersey Department of Corrections website.
- Follow the instructions on the website to create an account and add funds to the inmate's account.
- The maximum amount that can be sent to an inmate in New Jersey may vary, so it is advisable to check the specific guidelines provided by the Department of Corrections.
How do I Find an Inmate in New Jersey for Free?
To find an inmate in New Jersey for free, you can conduct an inmate search using various types of information, such as the inmate's full name, date of birth, or state identification number. You can use online inmate search tools provided by the New Jersey Department of Corrections or other reliable sources. It is possible to obtain inmate records for free directly at the correctional facility, where you may be able to access information about an inmate's current location, release date, and other relevant details.
How to Visit an Inmate in New Jersey
To visit an inmate in New Jersey, follow these steps:
- Friends and families must first use an inmate lookup tool, such as the one provided by the New Jersey Department of Corrections, to find the inmate's current location and contact information.
- Contact the correctional facility to inquire about their visitation policies and schedule. Each facility may have specific rules and regulations regarding visitation hours, dress code, and other requirements.
- Make sure to bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and follow all the rules and guidelines set by the facility.
- Visitors are required to meet certain rules, such as passing a security check, adhering to dress code guidelines, and following the facility's code of conduct. For example, some facilities may require visitors to remove jewelry or electronic devices, while others may have restrictions on the types of clothing allowed.
Types of Correctional Facilities in New Jersey
In New Jersey, there are several types of correctional facilities, including state prisons, county jails, and juvenile detention centers. State prisons house inmates who have been convicted of more serious offenses and sentenced to longer terms of incarceration. County jails typically hold inmates who are awaiting trial or have been sentenced to shorter terms. Juvenile detention centers are specifically for individuals under the age of 18 who have been charged with juvenile offenses. These different types of facilities serve distinct purposes and have separate systems for managing inmates based on their classification.