Find Indiana Inmate Records

Inmate records in Indiana are catalogs that detail the data, holding facility, visits, and status of a convicted individual. Inmate files begin the minute an arrest takes place. It officially starts with local enforcement authorities writing up a rap sheet and then passing those records to other agencies that take possession of the prisoner. Inmate records in Indiana are the sole responsibility of the Indiana Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the sheriff's department in each county.

Are Incarceration Records Public Information in Indiana?

Yes, the Indiana Access to Public Records Act (APRA) declares that files generated by government-owned agencies are public records unless the court says otherwise. According to the APRA, agencies must provide a duly updated record to members of the public who request the documents.

Public record information is sometimes mirrored on third-party websites that are privately operated and separate from government agencies. These websites are designed to offer convenience, as their search tools remove geographic restrictions and allow inquiries across multiple states or counties. When initiating a search, the user is generally required to input the individual's name (excluding minors) and the associated jurisdiction. Since these third-party companies operate independently, they are not guaranteed to provide the same level of detail, accuracy, or timeliness as government sources. The scope of data can vary significantly depending on the provider.

What Information is Contained in an Indiana Inmate Record?

Details included in an inmate record in Indiana include:

• The name and aliases of the inmate
• Information on the inmate's crime
• Personal information, such as date of birth, age, ethnicity, gender, race, and marital status
• Identification information, including mugshots, fingerprints, DNA samples, facial recognition, and other biometrics
• The date and time of incarceration
• The address, security level, and detention facility where the inmate is held
• Past convictions and sentences
• Bail and bond

Where do I Look Up an Inmate in Indiana?

Interested persons can search for inmates in Indiana online through the Indiana Offender Database Search, managed by the Indiana Department of Correction, and the Inmate Lookup. Parties can search by the offender's name or number. Mailing options are available, and interested persons will make a written request stating the inmate's necessary information as identifiers. Send the application by mail to:

302 W. Washington Street,
Rm E–334
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Alternatively, interested persons can visit the local county jail or correctional facilities to look up inmates.

How Do I Conduct an Inmate Search in Indiana?

The Indiana Offender Database Search is the online portal to search for Indiana inmates. On the webpage, requestors are to provide the last name or both the first and last name of the offender and the offender's number. Searching by the offender's number helps narrow down results and eliminates a longer process. The offender's mugshots, which show the face and side, will be displayed to aid recognition, along with bookings and other related photographs.

Alternatively, inquirers may email COAOffenderRecordRequest@idoc.in.gov to inquire about incarcerated persons in Indiana or call the Records Division at (317) 232–5765 to obtain physical copies.

Inquirers can also visit county jails to obtain physical information on all inmates, incarceration dates, and crimes. However, the requester must know the inmate's location before the search.

How Can I Find an Inmate for Free in Indiana?

In Indiana, inmate records are free to the general public by contacting the Indiana Department of Corrections in person or online through the Indiana Offender Database Search. Also, most county/city correctional facilities provide information on inmates serving sentences without charges. Information reviewable includes the inmate's full name, inmate number, date of birth, gender, race, and current holding facility. To search for Indiana inmates in person:

• Contact the Indiana Department of Corrections at:

302 West Washington Street
IGCS, Room E334
Indianapolis, IN 46204

• Request the inmate information by name or DOC number
• Enter any supplementary information required
• Review inmate records and available mug shots
• Find inmate records and inmate location

Indiana has statewide automated victim information and notification (SAVIN), through which residents receive alerts about offenders. The service is free and available 24/7. Persons can also access SAVIN at (866) 891-0330. Indiana citizens are encouraged to register to get real-time information about convicts.

How to Find Old Inmate Records in Indiana

After ten years of release, the National Archives Records Administration (NARA) maintains incarceration files of old inmates in Indiana. As such, users seeking information on old convicts are encouraged to direct NARA inquiries to confirm availability. The party should provide the following details:

• Inmate's full name (including middle name and initials)
• Date of birth or approximate age at the time of imprisonment
• Race
• Approximate dates in prison

Inmate Release Date Lookup In Indiana

The Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) maintains an Offender Search Tool that allows members of the public to locate inmates and review details, including sentencing, facility location, and anticipated release dates. Searches may be completed using the inmate's name or DOC number.

For direct inquiries, correspondence may be sent to the Indiana Department of Correction, or by calling (317) 232-5715. All release dates are subject to adjustment based on parole eligibility, earned credits, or disciplinary actions. Juvenile offender information is handled separately by the Division of Youth Services and is unavailable online.

How do I Find Inmate Death Records in Indiana?

After ten years, the Indiana Department of Corrections transfers records of dead or released convicts to the Indiana State Archives. Records are obtained at the Indiana Archives and Records Administration by appointment only. Interested persons can book an appointment by emailing arc@iara.in.gov or calling (317) 591–5222.

How do I Conduct a Federal Prison Inmate Search?

The inmate locator tool, provided by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), helps interested persons locate federal inmates. On the locator tool, requestors are to provide either:

• Full name, age, race, and sex (optional) to identify the particular inmate.
• Or the inmate number:
  • Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Register
  • D.C. Department of Corrections (DCDC)
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS) (for inmates who violated immigration laws)

Following the First Step Act, courts review sentences to address pending time changes due to inmates' good conduct. Hence, the dates revealed may not be up-to-date, and interested persons can continue to check to see if there are any changes.

How Long Does it Take For An Inmate's Information to Be Published in Indiana Inmate Locator?

The Indiana Department of Correction makes a conscious effort to ensure the offender database is current. Inmate information is published in the Indiana Offender Database an average of 2 to 6 weeks. Sometimes, the database is updated every 24 hours.

Why Is An Inmate Not Showing Up In Search?

Individuals housed in county jails will not appear in the state's offender database, and juveniles are typically excluded from the IDOC search system. Records may also be missing due to processing delays, recent admissions, or transfers. If an inmate cannot be located, it is advisable to contact IDOC directly or inquire with the county jail believed to have custody.