Albany County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Albany County?
Inmate records in Albany County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Albany County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who are currently incarcerated or have previously been detained in Albany County correctional facilities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the Albany County Court system, document legal proceedings, case filings, and judicial decisions, inmate records specifically track an individual's custody status and institutional history. Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, county sheriffs are responsible for maintaining accurate records of all persons committed to their custody.
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During this initial phase, correctional staff collect and document:
- Biographical information
- Photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprints
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening information
- Security classification assessments
Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary incidents
- Program participation
- Visitation logs
- Medical treatments
- Court appearances
Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains on file with the Albany County Sheriff's Office in accordance with New York State records retention schedules.
Are Inmate Records Public In Albany County?
Inmate records in Albany County are partially accessible to the public under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified in Public Officers Law Article 6, §§ 84-90. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate information, should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.
The Albany County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible inmate roster that provides limited information about currently incarcerated individuals. According to New York State regulations and the New York Personal Privacy Protection Law, the following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Full name of the inmate
- Booking date and time
- Current charges
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release date (if determined)
- Current housing facility
- Inmate identification number
- Mugshot photographs
However, certain categories of inmate information are exempt from public disclosure under FOIL exemptions and privacy protections. These protected elements include:
- Social Security numbers
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Personal addresses and telephone numbers
- Information that would endanger the life or safety of any person
- Information that would interfere with law enforcement investigations
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records must submit a formal FOIL request to the Albany County Sheriff's Office Records Access Officer. The agency is required to respond to such requests within five business days, either providing the requested records, denying access with specific citation to applicable exemptions, or acknowledging receipt with an approximate date when the request will be granted or denied.
What's Included Inmate Records in Albany County
Inmate records maintained by the Albany County correctional facilities contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Fingerprints and mugshot photographs
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Classification status
- Housing assignment history
- Scheduled court appearances
- Disciplinary incidents and sanctions
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge severity (A, B, C, D, E felonies or misdemeanors)
- Statute citations for alleged violations
- Case numbers
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Prior criminal history accessible to correctional staff
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond/bail type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond/bail status (posted or not posted)
- Bond company information (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Jurisdiction of case(s)
- Assigned judge
- Court dates and appearances
- Court orders affecting custody
- Attorney of record
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Parole eligibility date (if applicable)
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in compliance with New York Correction Law § 500-j, which mandates specific record-keeping requirements for county jails and penitentiaries.
Albany County Prison System
The Albany County correctional system operates under the authority of the Albany County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody, care, and transportation of individuals remanded to county custody by the courts. The system primarily consists of the Albany County Correctional Facility, which serves as the central detention facility for the county.
The Albany County correctional system is designed to house individuals who are:
- Awaiting trial or court proceedings (pre-trial detainees)
- Serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor convictions
- Temporarily held for transfer to state prison facilities following felony convictions
- Detained on immigration holds
- Held on behalf of other jurisdictions through inter-agency agreements
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the New York State prison system. The Albany County Correctional Facility, operated by the county, primarily houses pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences for less serious offenses. In contrast, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.
For information regarding the Albany County correctional system, members of the public may contact:
Albany County Sheriff's Office
16 Eagle Street
Albany, NY 12207
(518) 487-5400
Albany County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Albany County
Albany County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Albany County Correctional Facility
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211
(518) 869-2600
Albany County Correctional Facility
This is the primary detention facility for Albany County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility has a capacity of approximately 1,040 beds and accommodates various security classifications. The facility includes:
- Maximum security housing units
- Medium security housing units
- Minimum security housing units
- Special housing units for inmates requiring protective custody
- Medical and mental health units
- Intake and processing center
Albany County Alternative Sentencing Program
58 North Russell Road
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 447-7176
Albany County Probation Department
This program provides alternatives to incarceration for eligible non-violent offenders, including:
- Electronic monitoring/home detention
- Community service placements
- Day reporting requirements
- Substance abuse treatment coordination
Albany County Juvenile Detention Center
838 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211
(518) 456-2327
Albany County Juvenile Detention
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) who are awaiting adjudication or placement. The facility provides:
- Age-appropriate housing
- Educational services
- Counseling and rehabilitation programs
- Family visitation accommodations
In addition to these county-operated facilities, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision maintains several state correctional facilities in the greater Albany region that house individuals serving longer sentences for felony convictions.
Who's in Prison In Albany County
The Albany County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system at various stages. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted constitute a significant portion of the jail population. These individuals are either awaiting trial or unable to post bail. Under New York Criminal Procedure Law § 510.10, these individuals are legally presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanors and sentenced to terms of incarceration up to one year serve their sentences in the county jail. These offenses typically include:
- Petit larceny
- Simple assault
- Driving while intoxicated (first offense)
- Criminal mischief
- Possession of controlled substances (small amounts)
Parole/Probation Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their community supervision may be held in the county jail pending revocation hearings or as a sanction for technical violations.
Federal Detainees: Through intergovernmental agreements, Albany County may house federal detainees awaiting trial in federal court or transfer to federal prison facilities.
Immigration Detainees: Individuals held on behalf of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pending immigration proceedings or deportation.
Temporary Transfers: State inmates temporarily housed in the county facility for court appearances, medical treatment, or other administrative purposes.
According to data from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, the average daily population of the Albany County Correctional Facility fluctuates between 400-600 inmates, with demographic patterns generally reflecting:
- Approximately 85-90% male inmates
- Disproportionate representation of racial and ethnic minorities
- Significant percentage with substance abuse disorders
- High prevalence of mental health conditions
- Majority under age 40
It is important to note that individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year are typically transferred to state correctional facilities operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision rather than remaining in county custody.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Albany County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Albany County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Albany County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate rosters and provides multiple channels for record searches:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Albany County Sheriff's Office Inmate Lookup Portal
- Enter the required search criteria (at least one field is mandatory):
- Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Review the search results, which typically display:
- Inmate's full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Current housing location
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Albany County Correctional Facility Records Division at (518) 869-2600
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
- Be prepared to verify your identity and relationship to the inmate
- Note that certain information may not be disclosed over the telephone due to privacy regulations
In-Person Request:
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Visit the Albany County Correctional Facility during public office hours (Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
Albany County Correctional Facility
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211
(518) 869-2600
Albany County Correctional Facility -
Complete an Inmate Information Request Form
-
Present valid government-issued photo identification
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Specify the information being requested
Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request:
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Submit a written FOIL request to the Records Access Officer:
Records Access Officer
Albany County Sheriff's Office
16 Eagle Street
Albany, NY 12207 -
Include in your request:
- Your full name and contact information
- Specific records being requested
- Time period covered by the request
- Preferred format for receiving records
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Allow up to five business days for an initial response as required by Public Officers Law § 89(3)
For individuals seeking historical inmate records or information about former inmates, a formal FOIL request is typically required, as the online system generally only displays current inmates.
How To Find an Inmate in Albany County for Free?
Albany County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated within the county correctional system. These free resources are accessible to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public:
Albany County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Albany County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the inmate's information (last name is required; first name is recommended)
- The system will display current inmates matching the search criteria
- Results include booking date, charges, and facility location
New York State VINE System (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):
- Visit the New York VINE website or call 1-888-846-3469
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Enter the inmate's first and last name
- Review matching results from participating facilities statewide, including Albany County
- VINE provides custody status and facility information
Telephone Inquiry to Albany County Correctional Facility:
- Call the Albany County Correctional Facility at (518) 869-2600
- Request the Inmate Records Division
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person you are trying to locate
- Basic custody information can be provided over the phone
In-Person Inquiry at Facility Reception:
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Visit the Albany County Correctional Facility during business hours:
Albany County Correctional Facility
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211 -
Speak with reception staff
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Provide the name of the individual you are attempting to locate
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Present identification if requested
New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Inmate Lookup:
- For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody, visit the DOCCS Inmate Lookup
- Enter the individual's name or DIN (Department Identification Number)
- Review results to determine if the individual is in state custody
When using these free resources, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, any known aliases, approximate age or date of birth, and, if available, the booking date or arrest date.
How To Visit an Inmate In Albany County
Visitation at Albany County correctional facilities is governed by established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks. The following information outlines the current visitation procedures:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit up to 8 names for their approved visitor list
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors are subject to search procedures, including metal detection and personal item inspection
- Visitors with active warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
Visit Schedule:
- General Population Inmates: Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Maximum Security Units: Monday and Thursday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes when visitation areas are at capacity
- A maximum of two adults and two children may visit an inmate at one time
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
- Baby care items if accompanied by infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, baby wipes)
- Locker tokens or quarters for facility storage lockers
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Drugs or alcohol
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Large bags or purses
- Cash exceeding $50
- Letters, photos, or documents for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate attire (solid orange or khaki)
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
- No open-toed shoes or sandals
- No excessive jewelry
Visit Types:
- Contact Visits: Available for general population inmates
- Non-Contact Visits: Required for maximum security inmates and those with disciplinary restrictions
- Professional Visits: Attorneys, clergy, and social service providers (separate scheduling)
- Virtual Visits: Video visitation available through the GTL VisitMe platform
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Visitors with felony convictions must receive advance approval
- Former inmates must wait 180 days after release before visiting
- Visitors on probation or parole must provide written permission from their supervising officer
Special Accommodations:
- ADA accommodations are available upon request
- Foreign language interpretation services can be arranged with 48 hours notice
- Religious accommodations should be requested in advance
For additional information or to verify current visitation hours, contact:
Albany County Correctional Facility Visitation Office
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211
(518) 869-2600 ext. 2
Albany County Correctional Facility
All visitation procedures are subject to modification based on facility security requirements and public health considerations in accordance with New York Correction Law § 500-j.
How To Send Money to a Albany County Inmate
The Albany County Correctional Facility provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds enable inmates to purchase approved items from the facility commissary, make telephone calls, and access certain services.
Methods for Sending Money:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the JailATM website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Albany County Correctional Facility"
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and inmate ID)
- Enter payment information and deposit amount
- Transaction fees apply (typically 3.5-8% of deposit amount)
-
Mobile App Deposits
- Download the JailATM mobile app from App Store or Google Play
- Follow the registration and deposit procedures
- Transaction fees apply (similar to online deposits)
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Telephone Deposits
- Call 1-888-465-2286
- Follow the automated prompts
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Transaction fees apply (typically $4.95-$9.95 per transaction)
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Lobby Kiosk
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Visit the Albany County Correctional Facility lobby during business hours:
Albany County Correctional Facility
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211 -
Use the self-service kiosk
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Follow on-screen instructions
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Cash, credit, or debit cards accepted
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Lower transaction fees than remote options (typically $2.00-$3.00)
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-
Money Order by Mail
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Purchase a money order payable to "Albany County Correctional Facility"
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Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
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Include sender's full name and address
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Mail to:
Albany County Correctional Facility
Inmate Accounts Office
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211 -
No transaction fees
-
Processing time: 5-7 business days
-
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Transaction Fees:
- Online/Mobile/Phone: Fees range from $2.95 to $9.95 based on deposit amount
- Lobby Kiosk: $2.00 flat fee for cash deposits; $3.00 for credit/debit card deposits
- Money Orders: No fee
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging services
- Educational materials
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments (if court-ordered)
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fees or fines (unless specifically authorized)
- Transfers to other inmates
- Outside purchases
- Staff gratuities
Account Balance Information:
- Inmates receive regular account statements
- Family members can check balances through the JailATM website or app
- Balance inquiries can be made via the inmate telephone system
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with New York Correction Law § 500-c. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially reported to law enforcement authorities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Albany County
Correspondence with inmates at Albany County correctional facilities is permitted but subject to specific regulations to ensure facility security and safety. The following guidelines apply to all mail sent to individuals incarcerated in Albany County:
Addressing Mail Properly:
- All mail must include:
-
Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
-
Inmate ID number (if known)
-
Facility name and address:
Albany County Correctional Facility
840 Albany Shaker Road
Albany, NY 12211
-
- Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
- Mail without a return address will not be delivered
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (on plain white or light-colored paper)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, electronic, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved periodicals and publications (must be sent directly from publisher)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages (without prior approval)
- Padded or reinforced envelopes
- Plastic or metal items
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Food items or cosmetics
- Clothing or accessories
- Homemade crafts
- Cards larger than 8"x10"
- Items with glitter, glue, or other substances
Mail Inspection Procedures:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
- Mail may be read if there is reasonable suspicion of security concerns
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in disciplinary action
- Mail containing threats, criminal activity, or escape plans will be forwarded to appropriate authorities
Electronic Messaging:
- The facility offers secure electronic messaging through the GTL ConnectNetwork
- Family and friends must create an account and purchase messaging credits
- Messages are subject to monitoring and character limits
- Photos and attachments may be sent for additional fees
- Electronic messages are typically delivered more quickly than postal mail
Publications and Subscriptions:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved retailer
- Publications must be paperback only (no hardcover books)
- Content is subject to review and may be rejected if deemed inappropriate
- Subscriptions must be pre-paid and in the inmate's name
Mail Restrictions:
- Inmates on disciplinary status may have limited mail privileges
- Correspondence between inmates at different facilities requires prior approval
- Mail may be rejected if it contains threats, contraband, or escape plans
- Rejected mail will be returned to sender with explanation
All mail procedures comply with New York Correction Law § 500-c and are subject to change based on facility security requirements. For current mail regulations or to inquire about specific items, contact the Albany County Correctional Facility at (518) 869-2600.