Massachusetts Inmate Search

Are Inmate Records Public in Massachusetts?

Yes, inmate records are public in Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Public Records Law, which is also known as Chapter 66, Section 10 of the Massachusetts General Laws, the public has the right to access and obtain copies of public records, including inmate records. However, there may be certain exemptions to the public disclosure of inmate records, such as personal medical information, security procedures, and confidential informants.

How to Search for Inmate Records in Massachusetts

Members of the public can search for inmate records in Massachusetts by following these steps:

1. Visit the Massachusetts Department of Corrections website.
2. Use the inmate lookup tool provided on the website to search for specific inmates by their name, inmate number, or other identifying information.
3. Review the search results to find the desired inmate's record, which may include information such as their current location, sentence length, and release date.

Residents may also be able to obtain inmate records from the state Department of Corrections by visiting their website at Massachusetts Department of Corrections or by contacting them directly at: Massachusetts Department of Corrections 50 Maple Street, Milford, MA 01757 Phone: (617) 660-4600.

How Do I Send Money to an Inmate in Massachusetts?

Sending money to an inmate in Massachusetts can be done by following these steps:

1. Friends and families can deposit money into an inmate's personal account by using the Massachusetts Department of Corrections' online deposit system.
2. To do so, they can visit the Massachusetts Department of Corrections' website and follow the instructions provided to create an account and make a deposit.
3. The online system allows for secure and convenient transactions, ensuring that the inmate has access to funds for various purposes, such as purchasing items from the commissary or making phone calls.

The maximum amount that can be sent to an inmate in Massachusetts may vary, but it is typically around $300 per transaction. It is advisable to check with the specific correctional facility for any limitations or restrictions.

How do I Find an Inmate in Massachusetts for Free?

To find an inmate in Massachusetts for free, individuals can conduct an inmate search using various sources of information. This may include using online inmate search tools provided by the Massachusetts Department of Corrections or other third-party websites. By entering the inmate's name, inmate number, or other identifying information, individuals can access public records and obtain information about the inmate's current location, sentence length, and release date. It is important to note that while some information may be available for free through online searches, more detailed or confidential information may require a fee or a visit to the correctional facility.

How to Visit an Inmate in Massachusetts

Visiting an inmate in Massachusetts can be done by following these steps:

1. Friends and families must first complete an inmate lookup to find the correct correctional facility where the inmate is housed.
2. Once the correctional facility is identified, visitors must review and comply with the specific visitation rules and regulations of that facility.
3. These rules may include requirements such as pre-registration, approved visitor lists, dress code, and identification documents.
4. Visitors can download the visitor application form from the Massachusetts Department of Corrections' website and submit it according to the instructions provided.

Visitors are required to meet certain rules, which may include passing a background check, adhering to specific visitation hours, and following all security protocols. For example, visitors may be required to pass through metal detectors and have their belongings searched before entering the facility. It is important to review and comply with the specific rules of the correctional facility to ensure a smooth and successful visit.

Types of Correctional Facilities in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the types of correctional facilities include state prisons, county jails, and houses of correction. State prisons are operated by the Massachusetts Department of Corrections and house inmates who have been sentenced to longer-term incarceration. County jails, on the other hand, are operated by individual counties and typically house inmates who are awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences. Houses of correction are similar to county jails and are also operated by individual counties. These facilities may offer different levels of security and provide various programs and services to inmates, such as educational and vocational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and reentry programs.