Onondaga County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Onondaga County?
Inmate records in Onondaga County are official government documents maintained by the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office and the Onondaga County Justice Center that chronicle an individual's incarceration history within the county correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial entry into custody through their release or transfer to another facility.
Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, county sheriffs are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody. These records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
- Court records are maintained by the Onondaga County Clerk's Office
- Inmate records are maintained by correctional authorities
The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when individuals are processed into the facility. During this intake procedure, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, and record the legal basis for detention. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, and program participation. Upon release, records are completed with discharge information but remain in the system as historical documentation.
The Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Custody Department serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed at the Onondaga County Justice Center.
Are Inmate Records Public In Onondaga County?
Inmate records in Onondaga County are partially accessible to the public under the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), which governs access to government records. While certain basic information about current inmates is readily available, complete inmate files contain protected information that may be exempt from disclosure.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed
- Mugshots (subject to certain restrictions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, pursuant to New York Public Officers Law § 87(2), certain categories of information may be withheld if disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy, interfere with law enforcement investigations, or endanger the life or safety of any person. This commonly includes:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Information about security procedures
- Victim information
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access the basic public information through the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system or by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly.
What's Included Inmate Records in Onondaga County
Inmate records in Onondaga County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody. 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 identifying marks
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Reason for custody (arrest, court commitment, transfer)
- Housing assignment history
- Classification status
- Disciplinary incidents and hearings
- Visitation records
- Property inventory
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders
- Attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time credits
- Parole eligibility date
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole information
These records are maintained in compliance with New York State Commission of Correction minimum standards, which establish requirements for record-keeping in local correctional facilities.
Onondaga County Prison System
The Onondaga County correctional system operates under the authority of the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office, which maintains custody of individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences of up to one year, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. This system is distinct from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, which manages state prisons housing individuals serving longer sentences.
The county correctional system primarily consists of the Onondaga County Justice Center, located in downtown Syracuse. This facility serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice system:
- Pre-trial detention for individuals who have not yet been convicted
- Housing for individuals serving sentences of up to one year
- Temporary holding for individuals awaiting transfer to state prison
- Processing center for all arrests in Onondaga County
The distinction between county jail and state prison is significant:
- County jails house individuals serving shorter sentences (generally up to one year)
- State prisons house individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses
- County jails are operated by the county sheriff's office
- State prisons are operated by the state department of corrections
The Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Custody Department oversees all jail operations and inmate records:
Onondaga County Sheriff's Office
407 South State Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Phone: (315) 435-3044
Onondaga County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Onondaga County
Onondaga County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations:
Onondaga County Justice Center
555 South State Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Phone: (315) 435-1770
Onondaga County Justice Center
The Justice Center serves as the main detention facility for Onondaga County. This medium/maximum security facility houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to one year. The facility includes specialized housing units for:
- General population
- Administrative segregation
- Disciplinary housing
- Medical observation
- Mental health services
- Juvenile detention (in a separate section)
Onondaga County Correctional Facility at Jamesville
6660 East Seneca Turnpike
Jamesville, NY 13078
Phone: (315) 435-5581
Jamesville Correctional Facility
The Jamesville facility is a medium-security correctional facility that primarily houses:
- Sentenced inmates serving terms of up to one year
- Individuals in work release programs
- Inmates in specialized treatment programs
- Overflow from the Justice Center when necessary
Onondaga County Juvenile Detention Center
4801 Makyes Road
Syracuse, NY 13215
Phone: (315) 435-3439
Juvenile Detention Center
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders who are awaiting adjudication or placement. It operates under different regulations than adult facilities and provides educational and rehabilitative programming specifically designed for youth.
Each facility maintains its own set of inmate records, though all operate under the unified records management system of the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office.
Who's in Prison In Onondaga County
The Onondaga County correctional facilities house several distinct categories of individuals, each with different legal statuses and needs:
Pre-trial detainees constitute approximately 60-70% of the jail population. These individuals:
- Have been charged but not convicted of crimes
- Are awaiting trial or other court proceedings
- Could not post bail or were denied bail
- May remain in custody for periods ranging from days to months
Sentenced inmates make up roughly 30-40% of the population and include:
- Individuals serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanors or certain felonies
- Persons convicted of probation violations
- Individuals serving intermittent sentences (weekends only)
- Those awaiting transfer to state prison after sentencing
The facilities also house specialized populations:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Persons awaiting extradition to other jurisdictions
- Witnesses being held for protection
- Individuals held in contempt of court
According to data from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, the average daily population of Onondaga County correctional facilities fluctuates between 400-600 individuals, though this number varies based on seasonal factors, court activity, and policy changes.
The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds and communities of color. Many inmates also present with substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and histories of trauma that require specialized services during incarceration.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Onondaga County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Onondaga County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains multiple systems for public access to basic inmate data:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the inmate's name or booking number if known
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking number
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Records Division during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Complete a records request form, available at the front desk
- Provide identification and specify the records being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Allow processing time as required by FOIL regulations
Written FOIL Request:
- Prepare a written request that includes:
- Requestor's name and contact information
- Specific records being sought
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Submit the request to:
Onondaga County Sheriff's Office
Records Access Officer
407 South State Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting mailed response
- Allow up to five business days for acknowledgment and up to 20 business days for a response
Telephone Inquiry: For basic information about current inmates only:
- Call the Onondaga County Justice Center at (315) 435-1770
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate and reason for inquiry
Under the provisions of New York Public Officers Law § 89, agencies must respond to records requests within five business days. If a request is denied, the requestor has the right to appeal the decision to the designated appeals officer.
How To Find an Inmate in Onondaga County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Onondaga County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources:
Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
- Enter the inmate's first and last name
- Review search results showing current inmates
- Note that this system only displays individuals currently in custody
- Information typically includes name, charges, and facility location
New York State VINE System:
- Visit the New York State Victim Information and Notification Everyday website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Enter the inmate's name and select Onondaga County
- Review custody status and location information
- Register for notifications about changes in custody status if desired
Telephone Information:
- Call the Onondaga County Justice Center main line at (315) 435-1770
- Request the Inmate Records department
- Provide the full name and date of birth of the person you're seeking
- Ask for basic custody status information
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the public reception area at the Onondaga County Justice Center
- Speak with the reception officer
- Provide the name of the person you're seeking
- Request confirmation of custody status and basic information
When searching for an inmate, having the following information ready will expedite the process:
- Full legal name (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
- Case number (if available)
It's important to note that while basic custody information is available without charge, obtaining copies of detailed records may involve fees for document reproduction. Additionally, the most current information is always available directly from the Sheriff's Office, as third-party websites may contain outdated or incomplete data.
How To Visit an Inmate In Onondaga County
Visitation at Onondaga County correctional facilities follows strict protocols to maintain security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks. The following guidelines apply to visits at the Onondaga County Justice Center and Jamesville Correctional Facility:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must successfully pass security screening before each visit
- Visitors with outstanding warrants may be subject to arrest
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Visitors must register at least 30 minutes before the scheduled visitation period
Visit Schedule:
- Justice Center: Wednesday through Sunday, various times based on housing unit
- Jamesville Facility: Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) available daily during business hours
- Visit duration is typically 30-60 minutes depending on facility population
- Schedule is subject to change during holidays or facility lockdowns
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medication needed during visit duration (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one bottle, two diapers)
- Up to $50 in cash for inmate account deposits
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Tobacco products or smoking materials
- Outside food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Controlled substances or alcohol
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above knee, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate or staff uniforms
- No hooded garments or hats
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for sentenced inmates at Jamesville facility
- Non-contact visits: Standard at Justice Center (through glass partition)
- Video visitation: Available at both facilities
- Special visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with advance approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Maximum of two adult visitors per inmate per session
- Inmates on disciplinary status may have restricted visitation
- Visitors who violate rules may lose visitation privileges
- Visitation may be terminated at any time for security concerns
These regulations are established pursuant to New York State Commission of Correction Minimum Standards § 7008, which governs visitation in local correctional facilities. For the most current visitation information, visitors should contact the facility directly before planning a visit:
Onondaga County Justice Center Visitation
555 South State Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Phone: (315) 435-1770
Jamesville Correctional Facility Visitation
6660 East Seneca Turnpike
Jamesville, NY 13078
Phone: (315) 435-5581
How To Send Money to a Onondaga County Inmate
Individuals in Onondaga County correctional facilities maintain commissary accounts that allow them to purchase approved items. Several methods exist for depositing funds into these accounts:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Select "Onondaga County" from the facility list
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on deposit amount)
- Funds are generally available within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the payment kiosk in the lobby of either correctional facility
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt as proof of transaction
- Funds are typically available within 1-4 hours
- Service fees apply for credit/debit transactions
Money Order by Mail:
- Obtain a money order payable to the inmate (full legal name)
- Write the inmate's ID number on the money order
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to the appropriate facility address:
Onondaga County Justice Center
Inmate Accounts
555 South State Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Jamesville Correctional Facility
Inmate Accounts
6660 East Seneca Turnpike
Jamesville, NY 13078
Deposit Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Fees:
- Online deposits: Sliding scale based on amount ($2.50-$10.00)
- Kiosk credit/debit card: $2.50 per transaction
- Money orders: No fee
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary items (snacks, hygiene products, writing materials)
- Phone calls
- Tablet rentals and services
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fees or fines (separate payment system)
- Sending money to other inmates
- Purchasing items from outside vendors
- Paying for special privileges
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially rejected. Inmates receive account statements showing deposits and expenditures upon request.
How To Send Jail Mail In Onondaga County
Correspondence with inmates in Onondaga County correctional facilities follows specific guidelines to maintain security while allowing important communication. All mail is subject to inspection and must adhere to the following requirements:
General Mail Guidelines:
- Address all mail with the inmate's full committed name and ID number
- Include your full name and return address on the envelope
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Write in blue or black ink only
- Do not use markers, crayons, colored pencils, or glitter
- Do not include perfume, lipstick marks, stickers, or labels
- Mail lacking proper identification may be returned to sender
Mailing Addresses:
Onondaga County Justice Center
Inmate Name, ID Number
555 South State Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Jamesville Correctional Facility
Inmate Name, ID Number
6660 East Seneca Turnpike
Jamesville, NY 13078
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters (limit 5 pages per envelope)
- Legal correspondence (marked as "Legal Mail")
- Plain white paper photographs (limit 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (as described in previous section)
- Greeting cards (plain, no musical or electronic components)
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Newspaper clippings (limit 3 per envelope)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Materials depicting violence or criminal activity
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or accessories
- Homemade crafts or artwork
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Must come from an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the inmate's presence
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
- Must include attorney's name, title, and return address
Publications:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
- Hardcover books are prohibited
- Content is subject to review for security concerns
- Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
- Limit of 3 publications per mailing
All mail procedures comply with New York State Commission of Correction Minimum Standards § 7004, which establishes requirements for inmate correspondence. Mail that violates these guidelines may be returned to sender, placed in the inmate's property, or destroyed if it contains contraband.
Electronic messaging is also available through the GTL ConnectNetwork system, which allows approved individuals to send electronic messages to inmates for a fee. This system requires registration and approval before use.