Bronx County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Bronx County?

Inmate records in Bronx County are official government documents that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional system. These records are systematically maintained by the New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC), which oversees detention facilities in all five boroughs of New York City, including the Bronx.

Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, correctional authorities are required to maintain detailed records of all persons in custody. These records are distinct from court records, which document legal proceedings and are maintained by the court system. While court records focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document an individual's custody status and institutional history.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual first enters the correctional system. According to the New York State Commission of Correction, these records include photographs, fingerprints, personal information, and details about the alleged offense. Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant information. Upon release, records are finalized with discharge information but remain in the system as historical documentation.

The NYC DOC maintains these records in accordance with New York Public Officers Law Article 6, commonly known as the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), which governs the retention and accessibility of public records throughout New York State.

Are Inmate Records Public In Bronx County?

Inmate records in Bronx County are partially accessible to the public under New York State law. The New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) establishes that government records, including certain inmate information, are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute.

According to Public Officers Law § 87, government agencies must make records available for public inspection and copying, with certain exceptions. For inmate records specifically, some information is readily available to the public, while other details may be restricted due to privacy concerns or security considerations.

Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
• Booking date and facility location
• Charges filed
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Court appearance information

However, certain information is generally restricted from public access, including:

• Medical and mental health records
• Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Detailed disciplinary records
• Information that would compromise facility security
• Records pertaining to juvenile offenders

The New York City Department of Correction provides a publicly accessible online inmate lookup system that allows members of the public to verify if an individual is currently in custody and obtain basic information about their status, in compliance with applicable disclosure laws.

What's Included Inmate Records in Bronx County

Inmate records in Bronx County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. The following details are typically included in these official records:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Fingerprints and other biometric data
• Assigned identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of admission
• Booking agency
• Current housing location
• Custody classification level
• Previous incarceration history within the NYC DOC system
• Disciplinary incidents and sanctions
• Program participation and work assignments

Charge Information:

• Current charges (including statute numbers)
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Warrant information (if applicable)
• Charge disposition (pending, dismissed, convicted)
• Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor, violation)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount(s)
• Bond type (cash, bond, partially secured, unsecured)
• Bond status (posted, not posted)
• Bail conditions (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Next scheduled court appearance
• Judge assigned to case
• Court case numbers
• Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Sentence length and terms
• Conviction date
• Sentencing date
• Credit for time served
• Parole eligibility date
• Good time/merit time calculations
• Concurrent or consecutive sentence specifications

Release Information:

• Projected release date
• Actual release date (upon discharge)
• Type of release (bail, time served, transfer, etc.)
• Post-release supervision requirements
• Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions

These records are maintained in accordance with New York Correction Law § 500-f, which mandates proper record-keeping for all individuals in custody.

Bronx County Prison System

The Bronx County correctional system operates as part of the larger New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC), which manages jail facilities across all five boroughs. Unlike many counties that maintain independent jail systems, Bronx County's correctional services are integrated into the citywide system administered by NYC DOC.

The primary function of the NYC DOC facilities serving Bronx County is to detain individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of one year or less, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities. This distinction is important, as individuals sentenced to more than one year of incarceration for felony convictions are transferred to the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) facilities, commonly referred to as state prisons.

The NYC DOC system primarily consists of jail facilities located on Rikers Island and borough-based facilities. While the Vernon C. Bain Center (also known as "The Boat") is physically located in the Bronx, it serves the entire NYC system rather than exclusively Bronx County inmates.

For information regarding individuals in custody within the NYC DOC system, including those from Bronx County, the public may contact:

New York City Department of Correction
75-20 Astoria Boulevard
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-1500
NYC Department of Correction

For matters specifically related to Bronx County criminal cases and custody status:

Bronx County District Attorney's Office
198 East 161st Street
Bronx, NY 10451
(718) 590-2000
Bronx District Attorney

Types of Correctional Facilities In Bronx County

Bronx County utilizes several types of correctional facilities within the New York City Department of Correction system. These facilities serve different populations and security needs:

Vernon C. Bain Center (VCBC)
1 Halleck Street
Bronx, NY 10474
(718) 546-1500
NYC Department of Correction Facilities

The Vernon C. Bain Center is a unique 800-bed jail barge anchored near Hunts Point in the Bronx. This maritime facility, often referred to as "The Boat," primarily houses male inmates and serves as the main correctional facility physically located within Bronx County. VCBC operates as a medium to maximum security facility and houses individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of less than one year.

Rikers Island Facilities
15-15 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-1500
NYC Department of Correction Facilities

While physically located in Queens, Rikers Island houses many individuals arrested in the Bronx. The complex includes several facilities:

• Robert N. Davoren Complex (RNDC): Primarily houses male adolescents and young adults
• Anna M. Kross Center (AMKC): Houses male detainees and sentenced individuals
• Rose M. Singer Center (RMSC): Houses female detainees and sentenced individuals
• Eric M. Taylor Center (EMTC): Houses male sentenced individuals
• Otis Bantum Correctional Center (OBCC): Houses male detainees
• George R. Vierno Center (GRVC): Maximum security facility for male detainees
• North Infirmary Command (NIC): Houses individuals requiring medical attention

Borough-Based Jails (Future Facilities)
As part of New York City's plan to close Rikers Island, a new Bronx facility is planned at:

745 East 141st Street
Bronx, NY 10454

This facility, currently under development, will eventually replace the use of Rikers Island for Bronx detainees as part of the city's borough-based jail system initiative.

Court Detention Facilities
Bronx County Hall of Justice
265 East 161st Street
Bronx, NY 10451
(718) 618-1000

These temporary holding facilities are located within the courthouse complex and are used to house individuals during court appearances.

Who's in Prison In Bronx County

The correctional facilities serving Bronx County house several distinct categories of individuals. Under current New York State law and NYC Department of Correction policies, these facilities primarily contain:

Pre-trial Detainees: The largest population consists of individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are legally presumed innocent and are detained because they:

• Could not afford to post bail
• Were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
• Are being held on a remand status by court order
• Have holds from other jurisdictions

City-Sentenced Individuals: These are people who have been convicted of misdemeanors or lesser offenses and sentenced to terms of incarceration of one year or less. According to New York Penal Law § 70.15, misdemeanor sentences cannot exceed one year of incarceration.

Technical Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their parole but have not necessarily committed new crimes may be held pending parole revocation hearings.

State Ready: These are individuals who have been sentenced to state prison terms (over one year) but are awaiting transfer to New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) facilities.

Detainer Cases: Some individuals are held on immigration detainers issued by federal authorities or on warrants from other jurisdictions.

Adolescent Offenders: Following the implementation of the Raise the Age legislation, 16 and 17-year-olds charged with non-violent offenses are typically housed in specialized juvenile detention facilities rather than adult jails. However, those charged with serious offenses may still be detained in specialized units within the adult system.

According to NYC Department of Correction data, the demographic composition of the jail population reflects significant racial and socioeconomic disparities, with Black and Hispanic individuals disproportionately represented. The majority of individuals in custody are male, though female detainees are housed in designated facilities or units.

Most individuals in Bronx County custody are awaiting trial rather than serving sentences, reflecting the pre-trial detention focus of the county jail system.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Bronx County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Bronx County may utilize several methods to access this information. The New York City Department of Correction maintains current systems that allow for verification of an individual's custody status and location.

Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Visit the NYC Department of Correction's official Person in Custody Lookup system
2. Enter the individual's first and last name, or their New York State Identification Number (NYSID) or Book and Case Number
3. Review the results, which typically include:
   • Full name
   • Age
   • Custody status
   • Facility location
   • Next court date (if applicable)
   • Case information

Telephone Verification:

1. Contact the NYC Department of Correction Central Office at (718) 546-1500
2. Provide the operator with the name of the person you are inquiring about
3. Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested
4. Receive basic custody status information

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the NYC Department of Correction headquarters during regular business hours: NYC Department of Correction
   75-20 Astoria Boulevard
   East Elmhurst, NY 11370
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
2. Complete an information request form at the public information desk
3. Present valid identification
4. Specify the information being requested

Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request: For more detailed records beyond basic custody information:

1. Submit a written FOIL request to: NYC Department of Correction
   Records Access Officer
   75-20 Astoria Boulevard
   East Elmhurst, NY 11370
2. Include in your request:
   • Your contact information
   • Specific records being requested
   • Time period covered by the request
   • As much identifying information about the inmate as possible
3. Allow up to 20 business days for a response, as required by Public Officers Law § 89(3)

New York State Prison Records: For individuals who have been transferred to state custody:

1. Visit the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Inmate Lookup Service
2. Enter the individual's name or Department Identification Number (DIN)
3. Review the information provided, which includes current location and earliest release date

How To Find an Inmate in Bronx County for Free?

Locating an individual in custody in Bronx County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by government agencies. The following resources are available to the public without charge:

NYC Department of Correction Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Access the NYC Department of Correction's Person in Custody Lookup system
2. Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
3. Alternatively, search using the individual's NYSID (New York State ID) number or Book and Case number if available
4. Review the search results, which provide current custody status and facility location
5. The system updates information daily and is available 24 hours a day

NYS Commission of Correction Locator Services: The New York State Commission of Correction provides links to various inmate locator services, including those for NYC jails. This centralized resource connects users to the appropriate system based on jurisdiction.

Telephone Information Services:

1. Call the NYC DOC information line at (718) 546-1500
2. Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person you are trying to locate
3. Request information about their custody status and location
4. This service is available during regular business hours, Monday through Friday

Bronx Criminal Court Records:

1. Contact the Bronx Criminal Court Clerk's Office at (718) 618-2460
2. Provide the defendant's name and, if possible, the docket or case number
3. Request information about custody status and next court appearance
4. This service is available during court business hours

Visiting a Facility: If you believe you know which facility the person is housed in, you may:

1. Visit the facility's reception area during regular visiting hours
2. Provide the individual's full name to reception staff
3. Staff will verify if the person is housed at that location
4. If confirmed, you can register for a visit and receive information about their status

When using any of these methods, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, date of birth, and any known identification numbers. This information helps ensure accurate results, particularly for individuals with common names.

How To Visit an Inmate In Bronx County

Visiting individuals in custody in Bronx County facilities follows specific protocols established by the New York City Department of Correction. These procedures are designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections for those in custody.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (21 or older)
• All visitors must pass through security screening, including metal detectors
• Visitors must register at least 30 minutes before the end of visiting hours
• Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-j, visitors may be subject to search

Visit Schedule: Vernon C. Bain Center (VCBC):

• Wednesday through Sunday
• 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM (registration closes at 8:00 PM)
• Visits limited to one hour
• Maximum of three visitors per incarcerated individual per session

Rikers Island Facilities:

• Wednesday through Sunday
• Various sessions between 1:00 PM and 9:00 PM, depending on housing area
• Visit schedules are determined by the first letter of the incarcerated person's last name
• Current schedules are available on the NYC DOC Visit Schedule page

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.)
• Locker key deposit ($1.00 in exact change)
• Medications needed during visit time (must be declared)
• Up to $20 in singles for vending machines (where available)
• Baby care items if visiting with infant (limited to essentials)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons or items that could be used as weapons
• Illegal substances or alcohol
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, etc.)
• Food or beverages
• Cigarettes or tobacco products
• Excessive jewelry or valuables
• Large bags or backpacks
• Any contraband items

Dress Code:

• No revealing or provocative clothing
• No gang-affiliated colors or symbols
• No clothing resembling DOC uniforms
• No hooded garments, hats, or head coverings (except religious)
• No open-toed shoes or flip-flops
• No clothing with offensive language or images

Visit Types:

• Contact visits (standard for most detainees)
• Non-contact visits (through glass partition) for certain security classifications
• Special visits (arranged through counselors for exceptional circumstances)
• Attorney/legal visits (separate from regular visiting hours)

Visit Restrictions:

• Individuals may be denied visitation based on security concerns
• Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval
• Disruptive behavior may result in visit termination
• Visitors suspected of bringing contraband may be detained and referred to law enforcement

For the most current visiting information, visitors should consult the NYC Department of Correction Visitor's Guide or call the facility directly before planning their visit.

How To Send Money to a Bronx County Inmate

Individuals in custody in Bronx County facilities can receive funds through several approved methods. These funds are deposited into the individual's commissary account, allowing them to purchase items from the facility commissary and pay for services such as telephone calls.

In-Person Deposit Methods:

1. Lobby Kiosks

   • Available at all NYC DOC facility lobbies
   • Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
   • Provide immediate deposit to inmate accounts
   • $3.00 fee per transaction
   • Maximum deposit: $1,000 per transaction

2. Visitor Deposit (during visits)

   • Cash only
   • No service fee
   • Maximum deposit: $50 per visit
   • Funds available within 24-48 hours

Remote Deposit Methods:

1. Online Deposits

   • Through the JPay system
   • Credit card or debit card accepted
   • Fees range from $3.95 to $11.95 depending on amount
   • Maximum deposit: $1,000 per transaction
   • Funds typically available within 24-48 hours

2. Telephone Deposits

   • Call 1-800-574-5729
   • Credit card or debit card accepted
   • Fees similar to online deposits
   • Available 24/7
   • Maximum deposit: $1,000 per transaction

3. Mobile App Deposits

   • Download the JPay mobile app
   • Credit card or debit card accepted
   • Same fee structure as online deposits
   • Maximum deposit: $1,000 per transaction

4. Money Order by Mail

   • Send to: NYC Department of Correction
     Inmate Accounts 75-20 Astoria Boulevard
     East Elmhurst, NY 11370
   • Must include inmate's full name and NYSID number
   • No fee from NYC DOC (postal money order fees may apply)
   • Processing time: 7-10 business days
   • Maximum amount: No specific limit

Amount Limits:

• Daily deposit limit: $3,000 per inmate
• Weekly deposit limit: $3,000 per inmate
• Monthly deposit limit: $3,000 per inmate

What the Money Can Be Used For:

• Commissary purchases (food, hygiene items, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Tablet services (where available)
• Certain approved educational materials
• Postage for personal mail

What the Money Cannot Be Used For:

• Payment of bail or bond
• Legal fees or court costs
• Outside purchases or bills
• Transfers to other inmates
• Contraband items

All monetary transactions are subject to monitoring in accordance with New York Correction Law § 500-c. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially referred to law enforcement authorities.

How To Send Jail Mail In Bronx County

Correspondence with individuals in custody in Bronx County facilities is subject to specific regulations established by the New York City Department of Correction. All mail must comply with these guidelines to ensure delivery.

General Mail Guidelines:

• All incoming mail must include:
  • Sender's full name and return address
  • Recipient's full name, NYSID number (if known), and facility
• Address format example:

  Inmate Full Name, NYSID# (if known)
  Facility Name
  Facility Address
  Bronx, NY (Zip Code)
  

Mailing Address for Vernon C. Bain Center (VCBC):

Inmate Name, NYSID#
Vernon C. Bain Center
1 Halleck Street
Bronx, NY 10474

Permitted Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 15 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
• Money orders (must be postal money orders)
• Photos (maximum 4"x6", limit 10 per envelope)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only)
• Magazines and newspapers (must come directly from publisher)
• Paperback books (must come directly from publisher or approved vendor)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Hardcover books
• Packages from individuals
• Clothing or personal items
• Food items or candy
• Stickers or adhesive labels
• Polaroid photos
• Crayon or marker writings
• Perfumed or stained paper
• Cash or personal checks
• Contraband or illegal items
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related materials

Mail Inspection Process: All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband before delivery to the recipient. Mail may be read if there is reasonable suspicion that it contains plans for illegal activities, pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c.

Privileged Mail: Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government officials is considered privileged mail. This mail:

• Should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Privileged Correspondence"
• Will be opened in the presence of the recipient
• Will be inspected for contraband but not read by staff

Electronic Messaging: The NYC Department of Correction offers a limited electronic messaging service through tablets available in some facilities:

• Messages can be sent via the Securus Technologies platform
• Fees apply per message
• Character limits apply
• No attachments permitted
• All electronic messages are subject to monitoring

Mail Restrictions:

• Individuals on special security status may have additional mail restrictions
• Mail may be withheld if it poses a security threat
• Senders who attempt to send contraband may be banned from future correspondence
• Mail containing threats or planning criminal activity will be referred to law enforcement

For the most current mail regulations, interested parties should consult the NYC Department of Correction Inmate Correspondence page or contact the specific facility directly.

Lookup Inmate Records in Bronx County

NYC Department of Correction Person in Custody Lookup

New York State Department of Corrections Incarcerated Individual Lookup

New York City Inmate Information System

New York State Commission of Correction Incarcerated Individual Locators