Maryland Inmate Search

Charles County Jail Inmate Lookup

Charles County Jail, MD is a secured correctional facility located in Maryland, primarily housing individuals detained before or during their trials, or inmates serving short-term sentences. Managed under the Charles County Sheriff's Office, the jail ensures inmates' rights, safety, and welfare while also protecting the local community.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

The Charles County Jail provides a system to locate and obtain information on individuals currently detained within the facility. This information is crucial for family, friends, legal counsel, and any parties interested in the inmates' status.

Searching for an Inmate

You can search for inmates in the Charles County Jail using the Online Inmate Locator System. Follow the steps listed below:

  1. Click on the link above to access the inmate locator system.
  2. Once on the website, locate and click on the "Inmate Search" tab.
  3. You will be prompted to enter specific information about the inmate - Booking Number, Last Name, First Name, or Date of Birth.
  4. Click "Search" once you've entered the information. If the person you're looking for is indeed housed in the detention center, their information will appear.

Remember that accurate and detailed information can make your search more successful. In case of difficulty, contact the detention center's helpline for further assistance.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The Charles County Jail roster provides detailed information about inmates. Here's a list of the information you can expect:

  • Booking Number: This is a unique identifier given to each inmate upon admission into the facility.
  • Last Name and First Name: The inmate's full legal name.
  • Date of Birth: The inmate's birthdate.
  • Release Date: This indicates when the inmate is scheduled to be released from the facility.
  • Criminal Charges: The specific charges the inmate is facing or convicted of.

These details help keep a clear record of who is in the detention facility and provide necessary information to interested parties.

Tips for Successful Inmate Search

Here are a few tips for a successful inmate search:

  • Always ensure to enter accurate details. Even a minor error in spelling can prevent the system from finding the inmate's information.
  • The Booking Number is the most direct way to find an inmate. If you know it, always use it.
  • If you don't have the Booking Number, use the full legal name and the date of birth.
  • In case of common names, the date of birth can be especially helpful in identifying the right person.
  • If the person was recently arrested and their information is not yet in the system, try again later or contact the jail directly for assistance.

Remember, the online system is updated regularly, and if an inmate is transferred to another facility or released, this will be reflected in the system.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Visiting an inmate can be a supportive way to maintain contact and morale while they are serving time at Charles County Jail. However, all visits must be scheduled, and certain rules and regulations must be followed.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

  1. Visitation appointments can be scheduled by contacting the Charles County Jail's Visitation Department.
  2. You will need to provide the inmate's full name and Booking Number during the appointment request.
  3. Once the visitation request is confirmed, ensure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled visit. Late arrivals may result in the cancellation of the visit.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

  • All visitors must provide a valid photo ID (Driver's license, Military ID, Passport, etc.) before being allowed to visit.
  • Visitors must be appropriately dressed, as defined by the detention center's visitation policy.
  • Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
  • All visitors and their belongings are subject to search.
  • Visitors must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Violent, disruptive, or inappropriate behavior will result in the termination of the visit.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours can vary depending on the facility's rules and the inmate's classification. Always confirm the time while scheduling the appointment.

Inmate Communications

Maintaining communication with loved ones can be a vital part of an inmate's time in Charles County Jail. The facility provides means for inmates to communicate with the outside world.

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Inmates can make outgoing phone calls, but they cannot receive incoming ones.

  • Inmates can make collect calls, where the charges are borne by the recipient of the call.
  • Inmates also have the option to purchase a prepaid calling card from the detention center's commissary.
  • All calls, except those to legal counsel, are recorded and subject to monitoring.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The phone number for Charles County Jail is 301-932-2222. However, remember that this number is for jail administration, not for inmate communications. To communicate with an inmate, you must wait for them to call you.

Follow these guidelines when dealing with the inmate phone system:

  • Ensure to set up your phone to accept collect calls if you want to receive calls from an inmate.
  • Be aware of the costs associated with receiving collect calls or calls from a prepaid card, which can be high.
  • Avoid discussing sensitive legal matters over the phone, as calls are monitored (except calls to legal counsel).
  • Treat the phone system with respect and follow the instructions provided by the jail.

Adherence to these rules and guidelines will ensure that your experience visiting or communicating with an inmate at the Charles County Jail is smooth and beneficial to all parties.

Inmate Mail 

Communication via mail is another accessible way to keep in touch with inmates at Charles County Jail. This correspondence is encouraged to help maintain inmates' mental well-being.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

  1. All mail must be sent via the US Postal Service.
  2. Address the mail as follows:
Inmate’s Full Name
Booking Number
Charles County Jail
6905 Crain Highway
La Plata, MD 20646

Remember, mail should include both the inmate's full name and booking number to ensure it reaches the correct individual.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

  • Mail must not contain any materials considered contraband, such as weapons, drugs, or explicit content.
  • Mail should not contain any electronic devices, metal, plastic, or glass items.
  • Letters should be written in blue or black ink. No crayons, markers, or colored pencils are permitted.
  • Polaroid photos, stamps, and envelopes are not allowed due to security reasons. Regular photos are allowed but may be limited in quantity.
  • All mail will be inspected for contraband, which can delay delivery.

Sending Money to Inmates 

Inmates can use funds in their commissary account to purchase various items. Family and friends are permitted to contribute towards an inmate's account balance.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

  1. Online: You can deposit money using a credit or debit card via an approved inmate commissary deposit system. Visit the Charles County Jail's Official Website for details.
  2. Postal Mail: Money orders can be mailed directly to the jail. Ensure to include the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order.
  3. In-Person: The detention facility also has a kiosk in the lobby where you can deposit money directly into an inmate's account.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

  • There may be a maximum limit to the amount of money an inmate can have in their account at any given time. Contact the jail directly for specifics.
  • The facility may impose a cap on the amount you can send at a time.
  • All money orders should be made payable to the "Charles County Jail" with the inmate’s full name and booking number in the memo line.
  • Any funds sent to an inmate may be subject to a small processing fee.
  • Note that the jail is not responsible for cash sent through the mail.

Following these guidelines ensures that funds are safely and correctly delivered to the inmate's account, and mailed items reach the intended recipient without any issues.

Inmate Commissary

The commissary at Charles County Jail serves as a store within the correction facility, providing inmates access to products that are not regularly issued by the facility.

The inmate commissary is a privilege that allows inmates to purchase items like toiletries, snacks, stationery, and more. It's meant to increase the quality of life for inmates and provides a way to reward good behavior.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates use funds from their individual accounts, which can be replenished by themselves (through facility work programs) or received from outside sources. Purchases are made via an ordering system, with the items delivered directly to the inmates.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

  • There is usually a spending limit per week to prevent hoarding of goods and maintain fairness.
  • Some items may be restricted based on an inmate's behavior, health conditions, or security level.
  • The use of commissary is a privilege that can be revoked due to disciplinary issues.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots are part of an inmate's criminal record, available to the public in most cases.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records, which detail an individual's history within the criminal justice system, can often be accessed through state or county corrections departments. For Charles County Jail:

  1. Visit the Maryland Department of Corrections website.
  2. Navigate to the 'Inmate Locator' section and enter the inmate's name or ID number.
  3. If the information entered matches an inmate, their incarceration record should appear.

Please note that available information can vary by state and the individual's status (e.g., current or former inmate).

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

Mugshots are photos taken by law enforcement agencies after an individual's arrest. They typically include a frontal and a side view of the person. Mugshots are often part of the public record, but their availability depends on state laws and the agency responsible for the information.

In Maryland, mugshots can be obtained through a formal request to the Maryland Department of Corrections or the local law enforcement agency. However, understand that the release of such records may depend on the specifics of the request and whether it complies with Maryland's public records laws.

Security Level

Charles County Jail takes the safety of its inmates, staff, and visitors seriously. Thus, they have robust security measures in place.

General Description of Security Measures

Security measures include but are not limited to constant surveillance, routine inmate and cell checks, controlled access to different areas of the facility, and stringent visitor screening. In addition, all inmates undergo a classification process that assesses their risk level, which then determines their housing and program assignments.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The Charles County Jail houses a diverse group of inmates, including individuals awaiting trial, serving short-term sentences, and those awaiting transfer to a state or federal prison for longer sentences. The facility may house both minimum and maximum security inmates, segregated according to their risk level.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a critical role in maintaining order and safety within the jail. They are responsible for supervising inmates, enforcing rules, preventing disturbances, and responding to any emergencies. They also facilitate various inmate services such as meal distribution, visitations, and inmate transportation for court proceedings or medical services.

Location and Contact Details

To get in touch with Charles County Jail, you can use the following official contact details:

Mailing Address:

Charles County Jail
6905 Crain Highway
La Plata, MD 20646

Official Phone Number: 301-932-2222

Official Website: Charles County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division

As of the time of writing this guide, the Charles County Jail does not provide a public email address for contacting the facility. All communication should be conducted through the provided phone number, mailing address, or via the contact form on their official website.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search and Arrests Lookup

  1. How can I search for an inmate in a specific jail or prison? To search for an inmate, you would typically need to visit the official website of the prison system or the county jail in which you believe the person is incarcerated. Many of these websites offer an online inmate locator tool that allows you to search by the person's name or inmate number.

  2. Are all inmates listed in the public search database? Generally, most inmates are listed in public search databases. However, exceptions can be made for safety or security reasons, or if the inmate is under 18.

  3. How often is the inmate search database updated? The frequency of updates depends on the specific database. Many are updated daily, but some may be updated less frequently.

  4. How can I find arrest records for a specific individual? You can typically find arrest records by visiting the relevant county or city's official government website. Some jurisdictions also provide this information through an online portal or database.

  5. What information is included in an inmate's profile? An inmate's profile typically includes their full name, inmate number, location of incarceration, expected release date, charges, and sometimes, mugshots and physical descriptions.

Jail Bookings

  1. What does 'jail booking' mean? Jail booking is the process by which law enforcement officials record the arrest of a person. This includes taking down the individual's personal information, taking fingerprints and mugshots, and logging the reason for arrest.

  2. How can I find information about a person's jail booking? Jail booking information is usually part of the public record. You can find this information by visiting the local law enforcement agency's website or by contacting the agency directly.

  3. What details are provided in the jail booking records? Jail booking records usually contain the inmate's name, age, physical characteristics, mugshots, arrest details, charges, bail/bond amount, and jail booking number.

  4. Can I find out if someone was released after being booked? Yes, most jail and prison systems update their public databases when an inmate is released. This information is usually searchable online.

Inmate Calls

  1. Can inmates make phone calls to people outside of jail? Yes, inmates are typically allowed to make outgoing phone calls, but the rules and regulations can vary by institution.

  2. How can I accept calls from an inmate? Generally, you will need to set up a prepaid account with the phone service provider used by the jail or prison. When the inmate calls, the charges will be deducted from this account.

  3. Are the calls made by inmates recorded or monitored? Yes, most jails and prisons record and monitor inmates' phone calls for security reasons.

  4. Can I initiate a call to an inmate? Usually, you cannot directly call an inmate. They must call you. However, you can usually leave a voicemail for an inmate through the prison phone system.

  5. How are call charges determined for inmate calls? Charges for inmate calls are typically set by the phone service provider contracted by the correctional institution. The rates can vary based on factors such as call duration, time of day, and distance.

Inmate Mail

  1. Can I send mail to an inmate? Yes, inmates are generally allowed to receive mail. However, all correspondence is typically inspected for contraband before delivery.

  2. What are the rules for sending mail to an inmate? The rules for sending mail can vary by institution, but usually, you must include the inmate's full name and inmate number. Certain items, such as stamps, stickers, and inappropriate content, may be prohibited.

  3. Are all mails screened before they reach the inmates? Yes, for security reasons, all mail sent to inmates is usually opened and inspected before delivery.

  4. Can inmates send mail to the outside world? Yes, inmates are generally allowed to send mail to individuals outside of the correctional facility.

Visitation

  1. What are the rules for visiting an inmate? Visitation rules vary by institution, but generally, you must be on the inmate's approved visitor list, abide by specific dress codes, and follow all institution rules during the visit.

  2. How can I schedule a visit to an inmate? Most correctional facilities require you to schedule visits in advance. This can typically be done online or over the phone.

  3. Can children visit inmates? Yes, children are usually allowed to visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult and the visitation must be approved by the facility.

  4. What items can I bring to a visit? The items you can bring to a visit vary by facility, but generally, most personal items are prohibited. You may be allowed to bring a small amount of cash for vending machines.

Sending Money

  1. How can I send money to an inmate? You can usually send money to an inmate via postal mail, online services, or at kiosks in the jail or prison lobby. The money is then placed in the inmate's commissary account.

  2. Are there restrictions on how much money I can send? Most institutions have limits on how much money can be sent to an inmate, and this amount can vary.

  3. What can the inmates use this money for? Inmates can typically use the money in their commissary account to purchase items such as snacks, toiletries, stationery, and phone credits.

Posting Bond

  1. What does 'posting bond' mean? Posting bond is the process of paying money to the court to secure the release of a person who has been arrested. The money serves as a guarantee that the person will appear in court at a later date.

  2. How can I post bond for an inmate? You can usually post bond at the court or at the jail or prison where the person is being held. The process and accepted payment methods can vary by jurisdiction.

  3. What happens if the inmate doesn't appear in court after bond has been posted? If the person doesn't appear in court, the bond is typically forfeited and a warrant is issued for their arrest.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

  1. Can inmates receive legal assistance while in jail? Yes, inmates have the right to legal counsel. If they cannot afford a lawyer, one will be provided for them.

  2. How can an inmate get in touch with a lawyer? Inmates can usually make phone calls to legal counsel, and lawyers can visit their clients in jail or prison.

  3. Can I hire a lawyer on behalf of an inmate? Yes, you can hire a lawyer on behalf of an inmate.

Release

  1. How can I find out when an inmate will be released? The expected release date is usually listed in the inmate's public record, which can typically be found using online inmate locator tools.

  2. What procedures are followed when an inmate is released? Upon release, the inmate's belongings are returned, and the release is documented. The specifics of the process can vary by institution.

  3. Can I pick up an inmate upon their release? Yes, you can usually arrange to pick up an inmate upon their release. However, the specifics of when and where the pick-up occurs can vary by institution.

Criminal Records Lookup

  1. How can I look up someone's criminal record? Criminal records are usually public records. You can request them from the relevant government agency, use an online public records database, or hire a background check service.

  2. What kind of information is included in a criminal record? A criminal record typically includes personal information (like name and date of birth), arrest records, court records, convictions, and, in some cases, current and past incarcerations.

  3. Are all criminal records public? Most criminal records are public, but laws vary by state. Some information, such as juvenile records or expunged records, may not be publicly accessible.

Background Check

  1. How can I perform a background check on an individual? You can perform a background check by using an online background check service, contacting a private investigator, or requesting records from relevant government agencies. Note that you may need the person's permission, depending on the purpose of the background check and your jurisdiction's laws.

  2. What information is revealed in a background check? A background check can reveal information such as criminal records, credit history, driving records, education and employment history, and civil records (like marriages and divorces).

  3. Can anyone request a background check on someone else? Generally, anyone can request a basic background check. However, for more detailed background checks, especially those involving sensitive information (like credit history), you usually need the individual's consent. Laws on who can request a background check and what information can be accessed vary by jurisdiction.

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