How to Find Out if Someone Is in Prison?

Check the state department of corrections inmate search website

Check the county jail inmate roster or booking search

Search federal Bureau of Prisons inmate locator if applicable

Call the local jail, county sheriff, or prison records office

Use the person’s full legal name and date of birth

Search court records for recent sentencing or custody information

Contact the arresting police department or sheriff’s office

Check online public records databases

Ask the person’s attorney, if known and appropriate

Submit a public records request to the relevant agency

Verify the exact spelling of the name and any aliases

Check multiple jurisdictions if the person may have been moved

Look for transfer information if the person was recently arrested

Suggested for You

Trending Today