Alabama Inmate Search

Alabama Inmate Search is an essential tool that provides information about individuals incarcerated in the state. The Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) has an online inmate search tool that allows individuals to find information about inmates in its correctional facilities.

The inmate search aims to provide transparency in the criminal justice system. It is a crucial tool for families, friends, and inmates' advocates who want to know the whereabouts of their loved ones. Additionally, it is a vital instrument for journalists, researchers, and policymakers who wish to access information about the state's criminal justice system.

By entering an inmate's name or identification number, the user of the inmate search tool can retrieve information about the inmate, such as their name, conviction details, sentence length, incarceration status, and release date.

Despite being a valuable resource, the state inmate search tool has some limitations that must be considered.

One significant limitation is that the database only contains information about currently incarcerated inmates. Historical data is not available, meaning users cannot access information about inmates released from correctional facilities in the past.

Moreover, the Alabama Institutional Serial (AIS) number field precedes all searches. It implies that if a user inputs data in the AIS number field, the only record visible will be the one with the database's actual AIS number. This limitation may make it difficult for users to find a particular inmate if they do not have the correct AIS number.

The first and last name fields also have restricted functionality. These fields may locate prisoner records alone or together. If a user inputs just a partial name, the search results may yield several entries, making it challenging to identify the inmate.

Finally, users cannot access information about individuals incarcerated under the Youthful Offender Act through this inmate search tool.

What Are Alabama Inmate Records?

Alabama Inmate Records are an essential component of the criminal justice system, providing comprehensive and accurate information about inmates in the state.

Unlike relying solely on Alabama Inmate Search, which may not provide the most up-to-date or comprehensive information, inmate records offer a complete overview of an individual's criminal history. This information can be critical for various purposes, such as law enforcement investigations, court proceedings, and background checks.

Some of the information that these records may include are as follows:

Inmate's full name, any known aliases, date of birth, gender, race, height, weight, and physical description
Arrest and booking information, including the date of arrest, arresting agency, and charges filed against the inmate
Fingerprints and mugshot
Details about the inmate's criminal history, including previous convictions, sentencing information, and court records
Information about the inmate's behavior while incarcerated, including disciplinary actions taken against them and any medical or mental health issues they may have experienced
Parole or probation status, including any conditions of release and the inmate's release date
Custody status, including the inmate's location within the prison system
Information about the inmate's education, work history, and other personal details

It is important to note that the specific information in Alabama Inmate Records may vary depending on the circumstances of the individual case and the information available to the authorities.

In Alabama, the Open Records Law provides public access to state government records, including inmate records. It mandates that all public records be made available for inspection by any person, with certain exceptions for confidential or sensitive records.

What Are Alabama Prison and Jail Records?

Alabama Prison and Jail Records refer to the various statistical records and reports documenting the correctional facilities and their inmate populations. These records contain a wealth of data and information on the number of individuals incarcerated, their demographic and criminal profiles, and the costs and resources associated with the operation of these facilities.

Based on these records, Alabama holds the dubious distinction of having the highest incarceration rate among any state in the U.S. and internationally.

Of the roughly 25,000 inmates incarcerated in Alabama, approximately 55% are serving sentences for capital offenses such as murder, robbery, sexual assault, or other types of violent crime. It is partly due to the state's tough stance on crime, particularly violent crimes, which has resulted in longer prison sentences and mandatory minimum sentencing laws.

However, this aggressive approach to law enforcement and sentencing has also led to a significant overcrowding problem in Alabama's county jails and prisons. The state's prison system is currently operating at over 170% capacity, resulting in inhumane living conditions for inmates and an increased risk of violence and disease outbreaks.

In response to these challenges, Alabama officials have implemented several reforms, including reducing non-violent offenders, expanding diversion programs, and improving prison conditions.

Over 33 years, there has been a staggering 262% increase in the amount spent on corrections by state and local governments in Alabama. The amount rose from $188M in 1979-1980 to $680M in 2012-2013.

This substantial increase highlights the significant investment in Alabama's correctional system over the years, reflecting the state's tough stance on crime and its economic impact.

While progress has been made, the state still has a long way to go to address the systemic issues that have led to its high incarceration rates and overcrowded prisons.

What Are the Types of Prisons and Jails in Alabama?

The correctional system of Alabama encompasses a diverse range of facilities, each designed with unique functions and purposes. If someone wants to look up inmates or learn important information about the state's criminal justice system, they must be thoroughly aware of these facilities.

Below are Alabama's various types of prisons and jails:

Alabama State Prisons

Alabama state prisons are correctional facilities operated by the ADOC.

These facilities incarcerate individuals convicted of crimes and sentenced to serve time in prison. Alabama has a total of 14 state prisons, which range from maximum-security to medium-security facilities.

The maximum-security prisons in Alabama house the most dangerous and violent criminals and have strict security measures to prevent escapes and protect staff and other inmates.

Examples of maximum-security prisons in Alabama include the St. Clair Correctional Facility, Holman Correctional Facility, and Donaldson Correctional Facility.

On the other hand, medium-security facilities in Alabama house inmates deemed less dangerous than those in high-security prisons. These facilities typically have fewer security measures than maximum-security prisons but still maintain high control and supervision.

Examples of medium-security prisons in Alabama include the Bibb Correctional Facility, Easterling Correctional Facility, and Bullock Correctional Facility.

While Alabama state prisons are an integral part of the state's criminal justice system, they also face challenges related to overcrowding, staff shortages, and budget constraints. Despite these challenges, the state remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for inmates and staff while promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.

For the complete list of state prisons in Alabama and their contact details, check the table under "Major Correctional Facilities" on the ADOC Correctional Facilities web page.

Alabama Private Prisons

Private prisons in Alabama are correctional facilities owned and operated by private companies rather than the ADOC. The state contracts these private prisons to house inmates, and they are subject to state oversight and regulations.

As of 2023, Alabama has only one private prison, which is the Alabama Therapeutic Education Facility (ATEF), owned and operated by the GEO Group.

The ATEF currently provides various programs and services to its inmates. These include:

Educational services
Substance abuse programs
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Relapse prevention
Life skills training
Family services programs
Cultural diversity programs
Faith-based services
Work release services
Workforce development activities
Community volunteer services
Aftercare programs

Alabama Community-Based Facilities/Community Work Centers

Alabama has 12 community-based facilities or community work centers, which the ADOC operates. These facilities provide a less restrictive environment for low-risk inmates nearing the end of their sentence. They offer inmates the opportunity to work and participate in educational and vocational programs while also providing a chance to reintegrate into society gradually.

Some examples of these Alabama correctional facilities are the Birmingham Community-Based Facility, the Alex City Community-Based Facility/Community Work Center, and the Red Eagle Community Work Center. Inmates in these facilities are typically classified as minimum or medium custody, depending on the level of supervision and security required.

For the complete list of community-based facilities or community work centers in Alabama and their contact details, check the table under the "Community-Based Facilities/Community Work Centers" on the ADOC Correctional Facilities web page.

Alabama County Jails

County jails in Alabama are correctional facilities run by the Sheriff's Office of each county. They are responsible for holding inmates awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences of less than one year.

These correctional facilities are typically smaller than state prisons and have a maximum capacity of several hundred inmates. They may include individuals convicted of misdemeanors, non-violent crimes, or awaiting transfer to a state prison.

County jails in Alabama offer a range of services to inmates, including medical care, mental health services, and educational and vocational programs. These programs help inmates successfully reintegrate into society once they are released.

As of 2020, Alabama is home to 132 jails, each located within one of the state's 67 counties. However, this number may have been updated since then.

To obtain an updated list of county jails and their contact information in Alabama, one can request it from the Alabama Sheriffs Association. Alternatively, the Sheriff's Directory available on the association's website can be used to contact the appropriate Sheriff's Office and inquire about their current jails.

Furthermore, some offices have websites that may provide information on their county jails, including contact details and visiting hours.

Alabama Federal Prisons

Federal prisons are managed and overseen by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP), a U.S. Department of Justice branch.

The FBOP is responsible for federal inmates' care, custody, and control. Their tasks include providing inmates with medical care, food, and housing and offering education and job training programs to help prepare them for reentry into society. They ensure that all federal prisons operate safely and securely while upholding inmates' rights and dignity.

Alabama is home to four federal prisons, which are as follows:

Alabama Juvenile Detention Centers

Alabama juvenile detention centers are secure facilities that detain youth awaiting court hearings or serving sentences. These centers provide a safe and secure environment for juveniles who have committed offenses that violate state law.

The Department of Youth Services (DYS) is responsible for administering and operating juvenile detention centers in Alabama.

They oversee 12 juvenile detention centers in the state. These centers provide education, counseling, and treatment services to juveniles to help them rehabilitate and reintegrate into society.

To access a comprehensive directory of juvenile detention centers in Alabama and their respective contact information, refer to this page.

How To Perform Inmate Search in Alabama

When looking for someone in ADOC correctional facilities (state prisons, private prisons, community-based facilities/community work centers), performing an inmate search can be daunting. However, the ADOC has made it relatively easy with their "Search for Inmates" feature on their website.

In this system, the ADOC emphasizes the importance of using the AIS number assigned to each inmate to find a perfect match. However, users can also try the first and last names to search. The search function will return up to 50 results at a time, which can be narrowed down by age, gender, location, race, or release date.

In addition to the Alabama Inmate Search tool, public members can obtain inmate records by submitting a public record request to the ADOC.

All requests must be made using a Public Records Request Form and sent through email or mail. The email and mailing addresses are available on the ADOC Contact page. The ADOC charges a non-refundable processing fee for all public record requests.

For county jail inmate records, individuals must contact the local county Sheriff's Office. Some Sheriff's Offices may have an online offender search feature, while others may provide jail rosters or inmate lists that may offer basic jail inmate information.

To find information on a federal prison inmate in Alabama, one must contact the FBOP or the facility directly or use the "Find an Inmate" feature on the FBOP website.

Unfortunately, records about juveniles are confidential and unavailable to the general public. Thus, to locate a juvenile inmate within Alabama juvenile detention system, one must contact the DYS or the facility directly for information. Access to these inmate records is only for authorized personnel and immediate family members.

How To Contact an Inmate in Alabama

There are two common ways to contact an inmate in ADOC correctional facility.

The first option is to send a letter. Correspondence is an excellent way to keep in touch with inmates, and it is one of the most reliable methods of communication.

To send a letter to an inmate in the ADOC, one must have the inmate's full name, AIS number, and the address of the current housing facility of the inmate. One can verify this information through the Alabama Inmate Search tool or by directly contacting the facility.

Aside from letters, Alabama prison authorities allow inmates to receive cards and photos, provided the images are no larger than 4"x6" and do not contain sexually suggestive or nude content. Note that a single envelope must only have up to five photos and requires a single stamp.

Prison staff will thoroughly inspect all incoming and outgoing mail for contraband and may also read letters.

Another option for communication with an inmate is through the use of phones. Inmates in Alabama can access telephones and make calls to approved phone numbers.

To add a phone number to an inmate's approved list, one must contact the facility that currently houses the inmate.

Individuals who wish to receive calls from ADOC inmates may create an account with any ADOC inmate calling service providers to prepay for these calls.

Prison staff record and monitor all phone calls made by inmates. If a call made by an inmate is interrupted due to call waiting or three-way calling, the call may be terminated.

County jails, federal prisons, and juvenile detention centers may have similar communication options to those in the ADOC facilities. Still, it is best to contact the responsible agency or facility directly for the accurate methods available. Visiting the facility's website can also provide helpful information on communication options.

How To Visit an Inmate in Alabama

Maintaining contact with and supporting incarcerated friends or family members is crucial, but visiting them can be daunting. However, the ADOC recognizes the importance of inmate visitation and encourages loved ones to visit inmates while adhering to its Visitation Guidelines.

To visit an inmate in Alabama, one must first determine the inmate's current housing facility, which can be confirmed by accessing the Alabama Inmate Search system. Once verified, the prospective visitor can proceed with the visitation application process.

Generally, prospective visitors must complete an Alabama inmate visitors application form, typically available on the facility's website. Alternatively, an individual can download the ADOC Visitation Guidelines and print the last pages of the paper to obtain the necessary form.

The application must be completed correctly and submitted for approval, which usually takes two to six weeks. Upon approval, the visitor may visit the inmate according to the prison's visiting schedule.

During the visit, visitors must adhere to specific guidelines, such as limiting the number of visitors to eight at a time. All adult visitors must bring a valid photo ID, while minors must provide birth certificates or court documents.

Additionally, visitors must comply with the prison's visitation and dressing guidelines, which may vary depending on the county or city that hosts the penitentiary. Thus, it is essential to consult the facility's website for specific regulations before visiting.

The general instructions above are only for ADOC facilities. Individuals who wish to visit an inmate outside the ADOC facilities must contact the appropriate agency or the inmate's housing facility. They can also refer to the facility's website for current visitation rules, protocols, and schedules.

How To Send Money to an Inmate in Alabama

When someone has a loved one or friend incarcerated in Alabama, they may want to send them money for various reasons. Fortunately, the ADOC has provided guidelines on how interested parties can send money to inmates.

Below are the four ways to send money to an inmate in Alabama:

Online Deposits

The ADOC allows the general public to utilize Access Corrections, a third-party business, to send money online to inmates. With this system, interested parties must set up accounts to conduct transactions, and they may use any major credit card.

Online deposits are also possible through Access Corrections App. The app can be conveniently accessed on both Android and iOS platforms.

This option is quick and easy, with inmates receiving the funds within minutes of processing the transaction.

Money Order Deposits

Another method to send money to an inmate is by money order. To do so, interested parties must attach a completed deposit form to the money order and mail it to the Secure Deposits mailing address provided in the slip. This option may take longer for the funds to be received by the inmate than with the online method.

Phone Deposits

One can conveniently send money to inmates using a debit or credit card by calling (866) 345-1884. This service is available round the clock, seven days a week, providing a hassle-free payment method to individuals who prefer to pay by phone.

Cash Deposits

Lastly, interested parties can send cash to inmates through Cash Pay, which the ADOC authorizes. Those who choose this option may visit the website or call (844) 340-2274 to locate the nearest Cash Pay location.

The sender must be aware that the ADOC imposes fees for transferring money to convicts; fee schedules are available on the department's website. It is advisable to check the fee schedules beforehand to ensure the appropriate amount is sent.

Sending money to inmates in ADOC facilities differs from other correctional facilities in Alabama. Thus, individuals who plan to send money to an inmate in a county jail, federal prison, and juvenile detention center must contact the responsible agency or facility or visit their website for specific and accurate information

Counties in Alabama

List of Content

What Are Alabama Inmate Records?
What Are Alabama Prison and Jail Records?
1. What Are the Types of Prisons and Jails in Alabama?
How To Perform Inmate Search in Alabama
How To Contact an Inmate in Alabama
How To Visit an Inmate in Alabama
How To Send Money to an Inmate in Alabama