Ohio Inmate Search

Are Inmate Records Public in Ohio?

Yes, inmate records are public in Ohio. According to the Ohio Public Records Act, individuals have the right to access and obtain public records, including inmate records. However, there are certain exemptions to public records that may apply to inmate records. These exemptions include medical records, security plans, and any information that could jeopardize the safety and security of the correctional facility or individuals involved.

How to Search for Inmate Records in Ohio

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

1. Visit the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's website at Ohio Department of Corrections.
2. Use the inmate search feature on the website to enter the required information, such as the inmate's name or offender number.
3. Review the search results to find the desired inmate record. The information provided may include the inmate's current location, conviction details, and release date.
4. Residents may also be able to obtain inmate records by contacting the Ohio Department of Corrections directly at the following address and telephone number:

Ohio Department of Corrections 4545 Fisher Road, Suite D, Columbus, OH 43228 Phone: 614-387-0588

How Do I Send Money to an Inmate in Ohio?

Sending money to an inmate in Ohio is a straightforward process. Here's how friends and families can do it:

1. Visit the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's website at Ohio Department of Corrections.
2. Use the inmate lookup feature on the website to find the inmate's information, such as their location and offender number.
3. Follow the instructions provided on the website to set up an account and deposit funds into the inmate's account. Payment options may include online payments or money orders.
4. There may be a maximum limit on the amount of money that can be sent to an inmate, so it is advisable to check the specific guidelines provided by the Ohio Department of Corrections.

How do I Find an Inmate in Ohio for Free?

To find an inmate in Ohio for free, individuals can conduct an inmate search using various sources of information. These sources may include online inmate search databases, county jail websites, or contacting the Ohio Department of Corrections directly. By using keywords such as "inmate search" in search engines, individuals can find websites that provide access to inmate records. It is important to note that while some sources may offer free access to inmate records, others may require a fee or subscription. Additionally, it may be possible to obtain inmate records for free directly at the correctional facility, but this will depend on the specific policies and procedures of each facility.

How to Visit an Inmate in Ohio

To visit an inmate in Ohio, friends and families must follow these steps:

1. Check the inmate's location and any specific visitation rules by using the inmate lookup feature on the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's website.
2. Review the visitation policies and guidelines provided by the correctional facility where the inmate is located. These rules may include restrictions on clothing, personal belongings, and behavior during visits.
3. Schedule a visitation appointment by contacting the correctional facility directly. Some facilities may require visitors to complete an application process or provide identification before being approved for visitation.
4. Visitors should familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations of the correctional facility they plan to visit. Examples of common rules may include no cell phones or cameras allowed, no physical contact with inmates, and no bringing in outside food or drinks.

For more detailed information on visiting an inmate in Ohio, refer to the Visiting Packet provided by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

Types of Correctional Facilities in Ohio

In Ohio, the types of correctional facilities include state prisons, county jails, and community-based correctional facilities. State prisons are operated by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction and house inmates serving sentences of more than one year. County jails are operated by local sheriffs and house inmates serving sentences of one year or less, as well as individuals awaiting trial or sentencing. Community-based correctional facilities are residential facilities that provide treatment, programming, and supervision for individuals transitioning from prison back into the community. These facilities aim to reduce recidivism and help individuals successfully reintegrate into society.