Maryland Inmate Search
Maryland Inmate Search is an online database that allows individuals to search for incarcerated individuals in the state. The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) maintains this database, which provides information on inmates in most state correctional facilities.
It is a valuable tool for those seeking information on an inmate in Maryland. The database allows users to search for an inmate by name or state identification (SID) number. Once the search is conducted, the database will provide information on the inmate's location, custody status, sentence length, and other relevant details.
There are several reasons why someone might want to conduct this search. For example, an individual may wish to locate a family member or friend incarcerated in Maryland. Using the database, they can find out where the inmate is being held and how to contact them.
Attorneys, law enforcement officials, and other professionals who need to gather information on an inmate for legal or investigative purposes can also use the database.
While the state inmate search is a valuable resource, it is essential to note that it is not always up-to-date. Sometimes, an inmate's information may not be immediately available due to processing times or other factors. Additionally, the database may not include information on individuals who have been recently arrested and are awaiting processing.
Moreover, it only lists individuals in custody and does not provide information on former inmates who may have been released, transferred to another facility, or escaped from custody.
Therefore, searching for information on a person no longer in custody may require contacting the relevant authorities or conducting additional research to obtain the desired information.
What Are Maryland Inmate Records?
Maryland Inmate Records are vital for law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, and the public. These records provide complete information about individuals incarcerated in the state, including their criminal history, sentencing information, and personal details.
Generally, providing detailed information about an inmate's criminal history and sentencing information helps law enforcement agencies and the public make informed decisions about the safety of their communities.
Inmate records in Maryland, primarily maintained by the DPSCS, offer a wide range of information about inmates beyond the limited data available through the Maryland Inmate Search. These comprehensive records contain a plethora of information about the offender, including but not limited to the following:
- Inmate's full name
- SID number
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Physical description (such as height, weight, and hair and eye color)
- Arrest date
- Arresting agency
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Bond amount
- Court dates and appearances
- Sentencing information, including the length of the sentence and the date and location of sentencing
- Custodial information, including the name and location of the correctional facility
- Disciplinary records, including any infractions committed while in custody, corrective actions taken against the inmate, and their progress in rehabilitation programs
- Educational and vocational records, including any courses or programs completed while in custody
- Work assignments while in custody
- Release date and conditions of release
- Parole eligibility and conditions of parole
- Any prior criminal history, including arrests and convictions in Maryland and other states
- Any aliases or other names used by the inmate
Under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), the public can inspect, copy, and request inmate records unless exempted by specific laws, such as those protecting personal privacy, law enforcement investigations, or security concerns.
What Are Maryland Prison and Jail Records?
Maryland is home to approximately 6 million residents, and according to recent statistics, 0.33% of its population is under correctional control. It means that out of the 6 million people in Maryland, about 19,800 are incarcerated, on probation, or parole.
Perhaps the most concerning statistic related to the Maryland prison system is that the crime of homicide leads to the incarceration of most individuals.
In 2022, about 4,500 incarcerated individuals were serving time for homicide-related offenses. It suggests that the state may need to invest more resources into addressing the root causes of violent crime, such as poverty, mental health issues, and substance abuse.
Another concerning statistic is the increased state and local government expenditures on corrections in Maryland. Between 1979–1980 and 2012–2013, these expenditures increased by 278%, reaching a staggering $1.7B.
It is a concerning trend, as it indicates that the state is allocating more resources toward imprisoning individuals instead of investing in alternative approaches to addressing criminal justice issues.
Despite this, there have been some positive developments in recent years. Between 2007 and 2016, the Maryland prison population decreased by 15%. It suggests that policymakers and criminal justice professionals are beginning to recognize the need for alternative approaches to addressing crime and rehabilitation.
What Are the Types of Prisons and Jails in Maryland?
Like many other states, Maryland has a complex correctional system with various correctional facilities, each serving a unique purpose.
From state prisons to county jails, juvenile detention centers, and federal prisons, understanding the different types of correctional facilities in Maryland is crucial for anyone seeking to conduct a Maryland Inmate Search or to comprehend the state's penal system better.
Here are the types of prisons and jails in Maryland:
Maryland State Prisons
Maryland state prisons, operated by the DPSCS, are a network of correctional facilities responsible for housing individuals convicted of a crime and sentenced to serve time in a state correctional facility. They are spread across the state and have different security levels.
These facilities provide inmates with a safe and secure environment while offering a range of programs and services to promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.
State prisons in Maryland offer a range of programs and services to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society upon their release. These programs include education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health, and religious services.
In addition to these programs, state prisons have strict rules and regulations to maintain safety and security. These rules include maintaining a clean and orderly cell, refraining from violent or disruptive behavior, and attending scheduled activities.
As of 2023, there are 18 state prisons in Maryland. For a complete list or to locate them, use the Correctional Facility Locator of the DPSCS.
Maryland County Jails
Maryland county jails are responsible for housing individuals awaiting trial, serving short-term sentences, or being held on parole or probation violations.
County jails are typically smaller than state prisons and are designed to hold inmates for a shorter period. They may also provide medical care, counseling, and educational programs to help prepare inmates for re-entry into society.
In Maryland, the DPSCS oversees the operation of all county jails. They are responsible for setting standards for the operation of these facilities, ensuring that they comply with state and federal laws and regulations, and providing training and technical assistance to county jail staff.
In addition to state oversight, county jails in Maryland are subject to supervision by local elected officials, such as the county executive and the county council. These officials may provide additional guidance and resources to county jail administrators to help them effectively manage their facilities.
Each county in Maryland has its jail facility, and the administration and operation of these facilities may vary depending on the county. As of 2020, Maryland housed 30 jails spread across 23 counties. However, this number may have changed since then. For the updated list of local jails in each county of Maryland, contact the DPSCS.
Maryland Juvenile Detention Centers
Maryland juvenile detention centers house minors arrested for alleged criminal offenses. The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) operates these centers and provides secure, safe, and structured environments for young people awaiting trial or sentencing.
The DJS works closely with families, schools, and community organizations to provide support and resources to help prevent delinquent behavior and promote positive outcomes for young people.
The agency also collaborates with other state and local agencies, such as law enforcement, courts, and social services, to ensure that youth receive the most appropriate services and interventions at each stage of the juvenile justice system.
As of 2023, there are nine active juvenile detention centers in Maryland. For the complete list and contact details of these facilities, visit the "Facilities and Offices" page of the DJS website.
Maryland Federal Prisons
Maryland is home to several federal prisons managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP). These prisons house inmates convicted of federal crimes ranging from white-collar offenses to violent crimes and serving sentences of varying lengths.
Maryland federal prisons provide inmates various programs and services, such as education, job training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health counseling. The FBOP also has a re-entry program to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society after release.
As of 2023, there are three federal prisons in Maryland:
- Residential Re-entry Management (RRM) Baltimore
- Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Cumberland
- Mid-Atlantic Regional Office
How To Perform Inmate Search in Maryland
To perform Maryland Inmate Search, visit the DPSCS website. Choose the "Find an Inmate" option from the website's menu. This tool will take you to a search form where you can enter the first, last, or both names of the person you are seeking.
After you enter the name information, click the "Search" button. The search results will display a list of inmates that match your search criteria. The list will include the name and date of birth of each inmate. If you find the person you are looking for in the search results, you can click on their name to see additional details about their incarceration.
The exact process applies if you seek an inmate in a county jail. But if the method does not provide the desired results, contact the local police station or county government that detained the person.
Some agencies offer databases, allowing you to access information about inmates in jails quickly. One such example is the inmate locator provided by the Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities.
Finding someone incarcerated in a federal prison differs from locating a person in a DPSCS facility. The FOB provides an inmate locator feature to locate a federal prisoner on its website.
This feature allows you to search for inmates by their first and last names or registration number. The search results will display the inmate's current location, release date, and other relevant details by entering the required information.
Lastly, to gain access to a Maryland juvenile detention center and obtain information about a specific inmate, you can contact the DJS. The department may require proof of identity and legal guardianship or other appropriate documentation before granting access to a juvenile's records since these records are generally sealed to protect the privacy of minors.
How To Contact an Inmate in Maryland
There are several ways to contact an inmate in Maryland, including through the inmate phone system and inmate mail services.
If you prefer to speak with the inmate on the phone, you can set up a phone account through the DPSCS inmate phone system, ConnectNetwork. This account allows you to receive calls from the inmate and make calls to them.
To set up an account with the inmate phone system, visit the ConnectNetwor website or call 1-800-483-8314. Creating an AdvancePay prepaid telephone account is also advisable for receiving calls from an inmate at the DPSCS facility.
With prepaid calling, you can add funds to your phone number, and when your inmate calls, the funds will be automatically deducted from the balance on your prepaid account. It eliminates the need for payment processing during the call, providing a seamless communication experience.
Another option for contacting an inmate in Maryland is through the mail.
When addressing mail to an inmate, include their name, SID number, facility acronym, and your name and return address. Mail must not contain certain items, such as sexually explicit material, aftermarket alterations, references to criminal or illegal gang activity, and any material that threatens the facility's security.
All mail will be opened and inspected by the correctional staff before being delivered to the inmate, so it's essential to follow the rules and guidelines for addressing mail and not include any prohibited items.
The methods above apply only to the facilities that come under the jurisdiction of the DPSCS. If you want to contact an inmate in a different institution, contact the appropriate agency or facility directly or visit their website to explore available communication options.
How To Visit an Inmate in Maryland
Visiting an inmate in Maryland requires strict adherence to rules and regulations set out by the DPSCS.
Only individuals on an inmate's approved visitor list may visit them while serving in a Maryland prison or jail. Therefore, before scheduling a visit, you must ensure the inmate has added you to their approved visitor list.
Most DPSCS facilities require inmate visitors to fill out an application to be on the inmate's visitor list. Depending on the detention center, inmates may be allowed up to 15 visitors on their list.
Once listed, you can begin scheduling a visit. Visits are by appointment only, and you should aim to schedule one at least seven days in advance. You can schedule in-person visitations by emailing the facility's assigned email address where the inmate is incarcerated.
When you arrive for your visitation, present a valid government-issued ID, such as a valid birth certificate or passport, to the correctional facility staff. Visitors must also follow a strict dress code, which may vary depending on the correctional facility.
In addition, the DPSCS prohibits visitors from delivering contraband items to inmates, such as weapons, drugs, cell phones, and other items considered illegal or inappropriate.
For more information about Maryland inmate visitation rules and regulations, contact the DPSCS. It is also advisable to get the specific DPSCS correctional facility of the inmate to inquire about additional visitation requirements.
To visit an inmate in a federal prison or juvenile detention center in Maryland, contact the FBOP or DJS directly or the facility where the inmate is being held. You can also visit their website for up-to-date visitation rules, protocols, and schedule information.
How To Send Money to an Inmate in Maryland
Determining the inmate's exact location within the Maryland correctional system is crucial in sending money to inmates. You can verify this information by utilizing the Maryland Inmate Search tool. Doing so guarantees your funds reach the intended recipient without delay or complications.
Inmates incarcerated under the DPSCS can receive money orders through the Lockbox services of the Maryland Offender Banking System.
To send money to a DPSCS correctional facility inmate, you must send the money order to P.O. Box 17111, Baltimore, MD 21297-0382.
Before sending the money order, ensure it includes the inmate's full name, their SID number, and the name of their housing facility. You must also include your name and address on the money order as the sender.
Once you have completed the money order and sent it to the correct address, the process typically takes between 2 and 7 business days. If you include delivery by mail, it could take up to 10 days. If the amount is $250 or more, the DPSCS will hold it for 30 days.
Aside from Lockbox services, the Offender Banking System includes the Access Corrections Secure Deposits. This service is available to users online or through a toll-free phone number.
Access Corrections Secure Deposits accepts all major credit and debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, and charges a small transaction fee for each deposit.
The payment system mentioned above is specific only to DPSCS correctional facilities. If you wish to know the accepted payment methods of a federal prison or juvenile detention center, contact FBOP, DJS, or the facility directly. Alternatively, you can visit their website for more details.