Portsmouth County Jail Inmate Lookup

Portsmouth County Jail, VA, serves as a secure detention center for individuals who have been convicted or are pending trial in Portsmouth County. This correction facility, designed for both short-term and long-term stays, adheres to strict protocols to ensure public safety and fair treatment for inmates.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

Finding an inmate in the detention center is a straightforward process facilitated by an online platform. The facility maintains an updated list of current inmates to streamline the search process.

Steps for Searching an Inmate

1. Navigate to the Inmate Search Page of the Portsmouth County Jail, VA website.

2. Enter the inmate's details in the search bar, which may include their First Name, Last Name, or Booking Number.

3. Click the 'Search' button.

4. Review the search results. Click the inmate's name to view more information.

If you do not find the inmate you are looking for, verify the information you entered. It's important to input accurate data for a successful search.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The jail roster for the Portsmouth County Jail provides comprehensive data about each inmate, facilitating easier search and information retrieval. Details available include:

• Booking Number: The unique identifier assigned to each inmate upon their arrival at the detention facility.

• Last Name: The surname of the inmate.

• First Name: The inmate's given name.

• Date of Birth: The inmate's birthdate.

• Release Date: The expected date of release for the inmate, if available.

• Criminal Charges: The criminal charges filed against the inmate.

Tips for Inmate Search

• Ensure the correct spelling of the inmate's name.
• If the inmate has a common name, use the booking number for a more precise search.
• Keep in mind that an inmate's release date may change based on various factors, such as behavior or legal proceedings.
• If the inmate has been released or transferred to another facility, they will not appear in the Portsmouth County Jail's roster.

Advanced Search

Apart from the basic search feature, the facility's Inmate Search Page also allows for advanced search options. These include more specific criteria such as age range, gender, race, or even the date of incarceration.

Information Update Frequency

The prison roster of the detention facility is typically updated every 24 hours. However, for immediate or specific concerns, contacting the jail directly may provide more timely information.

Using Booking Number for Inmate Search

Using the booking number can make your search process quicker and more precise. Each inmate is assigned a unique booking number upon intake into the facility, and this number remains associated with them throughout their time in the correction facility.

Understanding Criminal Charges

The jail roster includes a section detailing the charges against each inmate. These charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, and the severity of the charge often determines the inmate's sentencing and placement within the jail.

Information Confidentiality

While most of the information on the jail roster is publicly accessible, some details about inmates, especially concerning their health or ongoing investigations, may be withheld due to privacy laws and regulations.

Verifying Information

Should there be any discrepancies or issues with the information found in the prison roster, it is recommended to contact Portsmouth County Jail directly. They can provide confirmation or rectification of the details in question.

Inmate Transfers

If an inmate has been transferred to another facility, the Portsmouth County Jail's database may still provide a record of their stay. It may also provide information on the destination of the transfer, helping track an inmate's current location.

Release Dates

Release dates are often estimated and can be subject to change. They may be influenced by factors such as the inmate's behavior, successful appeals, sentence reductions, or other legal factors. This date is typically set by court officials and can be updated throughout the inmate's incarceration period.

Remember, when trying to locate an inmate or understand their status, patience and attention to detail are key. The process can be complex, but the resources provided by Portsmouth County Jail aim to make it as smooth as possible.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Interacting with the outside world is crucial for inmates' morale and rehabilitation. To facilitate this, the Portsmouth County Jail has implemented a set of guidelines and procedures for visits.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

1. Visitors must register on the Visitor Registration Page of the Portsmouth County Jail website.

2. Once registered, schedule your visit online using the provided calendar tool.

3. Visits should be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

4. On the day of the visit, bring a valid photo ID. All visitors will undergo a security screening.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

• Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, or accompanied by a legal guardian.
• All visitors must wear appropriate clothing.
• No personal items, including mobile devices, are allowed in the visiting area.
• Offensive, disruptive, or illegal behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit.
• Visitors who appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be allowed entry.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours vary by the inmate's housing assignment and are subject to change. It's recommended to confirm the scheduled time a day before your visit. The general visitation hours are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Sunday.

Inmate Communications

Maintaining communication with the outside world is crucial for inmates' mental well-being. Portsmouth County Jail provides regulated call services for this purpose.

Inmate Call System

Inmates have access to telephones in their housing areas and can make collect calls or use prepaid calling cards, which can be purchased from the jail commissary.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines

The main contact number for the detention center is (757) 488-7500. Please note:

• This number is not for inmate direct calls.
• Inmates can't receive incoming calls or messages.
• Call times may be limited to ensure all inmates have an equal opportunity to use the phones.
• All calls, except to legal counsel, are recorded and subject to monitoring.

Inmate Call Regulations

• Inmates are responsible for setting up their call account and managing their call times.
• Inmates can make calls during approved hours only.
• Any attempt to make a three-way call or call transfer will result in immediate call termination.
• Harassment or threatening language will not be tolerated and may result in call privileges being revoked.

Overall, communication and visitation regulations aim to maintain security while also fostering positive social interactions for inmates. These rules and procedures are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the Portsmouth County Jail website for the most current information.

Inmate Mail 

Inmates at the Portsmouth County Jail are allowed to receive mail from friends, family, and legal counsel. The process is designed to be simple yet secure.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

1. All mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service.
2. The sender must include the full name of the inmate and the inmate's booking number.
3. The sender's return address must be clearly stated on the envelope.

The mailing address for the Portsmouth County Jail is:

Inmate Full Name and Booking Number Portsmouth County Jail  

2690 Elmhurst Ln, Portsmouth, VA 23701

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

• Only letters, money orders, and approved photos are allowed. No packages, books, or magazines may be sent.
• Letters should not contain stickers, glitter, glue, or anything else that could be used to conceal contraband.
• Explicit or offensive material is prohibited and will result in the mail being returned or discarded.
• All mail is opened and inspected by staff for security purposes. Only legal mail may be opened in the presence of the inmate.

Sending Money to Inmates 

Inmates have access to a commissary, and funds can be added to their account to purchase items.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

1. Mail: A money order made payable to the inmate can be sent via mail. Do not send cash or checks.
2. Online: Funds can be deposited to the inmate's account through the Online Inmate Deposits portal. A small processing fee may apply.
3. Kiosk: A kiosk is available in the jail lobby for cash or credit card deposits.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

• The maximum limit an inmate can have in their account at any given time is set by the facility, typically 0.
• The sender's name and return address must be included on all money orders.
• Inmates may not transfer funds between accounts.
• Funds are subject to seizure for payment of fines or fees owed by the inmate.

Before sending money or mail to an inmate, it's advisable to review the rules and regulations outlined by the Portsmouth County Jail on their official website. This ensures your items reach the inmate without any hindrance or violation of jail policies.

Inmate Commissary

The commissary at Portsmouth County Jail serves as an in-house store where inmates can purchase items that are not provided by the facility.

Definition and Purpose of the Commissary

The commissary is an institution within the jail that allows inmates to purchase additional items such as snacks, personal hygiene items, stationery, and more. These items are often supplemental to what the jail provides and can improve the quality of life for the inmates.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can use funds from their personal jail account to purchase items from the commissary. Orders are typically placed once a week and delivered directly to the inmates. The list of available items and their prices are provided to the inmates, allowing them to make their selections.

Restrictions on Commissary Use

• There may be a spending limit per week, set by the jail.
• Not all items are available to all inmates. Some items may be restricted based on the inmate's behavior, security level, or health needs.
• The facility reserves the right to limit quantities of certain items.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots are part of an inmate's public record and can be accessed with the proper channels and procedures.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records can be obtained by submitting a request to the Portsmouth County Jail or through online portals provided by the state or county. These records typically include details such as the inmate's name, booking number, charges, court dates, and projected release date.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photograph taken by law enforcement during the booking process. It typically includes a front and side view of the individual. Mugshots are used for identification purposes and are part of the public record.

The availability of mugshots can vary. Some jurisdictions release mugshots as a matter of public record, while others may restrict access due to privacy concerns. In Portsmouth County, mugshots can be accessed through the online inmate search tool on the jail's website, or by submitting a formal request to the Portsmouth County Sheriff's Office. Please note that release of these records may be subject to fees and waiting periods.

Inmate Population

The Portsmouth County Jail typically holds a diverse group of inmates who are either serving short sentences, awaiting trial, or serving time for more serious offenses.

Current Population Statistics

As of the latest update, Portsmouth County Jail houses around 400 inmates. However, this number may vary depending on various factors like court proceedings, releases, transfers, and new intakes.

Average Inmate Stay Duration

On average, inmates stay in the Portsmouth County Jail for around 90 days. However, this duration can significantly vary depending on the severity of the charges and the progress of legal proceedings. Inmates with serious offenses may stay for longer periods awaiting trial or sentencing.

Racial, Age, and Gender Demographics

Portsmouth County Jail houses a diverse population of inmates. While exact demographics can change, generally the facility holds a relatively balanced number of Caucasian and African-American inmates, with a smaller number of individuals from other ethnic backgrounds. Ages range from 18 to over 60 years, with most inmates falling between 20-40 years of age. The facility houses both male and female inmates, with males making up the majority.

Security Level

Portsmouth County Jail adheres to high standards of security to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.

General Description of Security Measures

The facility uses a combination of physical security measures, such as secure cells and surveillance systems, along with procedural methods like routine checks and strict visitation policies. Advanced technology is utilized to monitor and control access throughout the facility, and all areas are overseen by trained correctional officers.

Categories of Offenders Housed

Portsmouth County Jail houses a range of offenders, from individuals awaiting trial for minor offenses to inmates serving sentences for serious felonies. The facility separates inmates based on their security classification, ensuring the safety of all individuals.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a vital role in maintaining order and safety in the jail. They supervise inmates, enforce rules, prevent disturbances, and ensure that inmates are secure and receiving the necessary services. Officers receive specialized training to handle various situations and to interact appropriately with inmates of different backgrounds and offenses. They are integral to the smooth operation of the Portsmouth County Jail and the fair treatment of all individuals in the facility.

Location and Contact Details

To contact the Portsmouth County Jail for any inquiries or concerns, you can use the following information:

Official Mailing Address

Portsmouth County Jail
2690 Elmhurst Ln, Portsmouth, VA 23701

Official Phone Number

For general inquiries, please contact the main phone number at: (757) 488-7500

Official Website

www.portsmouthva.gov/368/Inmate-Information

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search and Arrests Lookup

1. How can I find information about an inmate currently held in a particular facility?

To find information about an inmate currently held in a specific facility, you can typically use that facility's inmate locator or lookup service, which is often provided on the facility's official website. For example, the Federal Bureau of Prisons offers an online inmate locator for federal inmates.

2. What information do I need to perform an inmate search?

To perform an inmate search, you will typically need the inmate's full name, and possibly their date of birth or inmate ID number, depending on the specifics of the search system. Some systems may also allow searches by other criteria, like offense or arrest date.

3. Can I look up recent arrests in my area? If yes, how?

Yes, many law enforcement agencies provide online resources to look up recent arrests. This could be through a local police department's website, or through a county sheriff's office. The information available and the specifics of accessing it will depend on the local jurisdiction.

4. Are inmate searches and arrest lookups confidential?

Most inmate searches and arrest lookups are public records and are not confidential. However, the individual conducting the search usually remains anonymous. Note that certain information, such as juvenile records, may be restricted and not publicly accessible.

5. Why can't I find a specific inmate or arrest record?

There may be several reasons you can't find a specific inmate or arrest record. The individual may have been released, their records could be sealed or expunged, the data might not have been updated yet, or you may not have the correct or complete information needed for the search.

Jail Bookings

6. Where can I find recent jail booking records?

Recent jail booking records can often be found through the county sheriff's office or local police department's website. Some jurisdictions may also publish booking records in local newspapers or on social media.

7. What information does a jail booking record include?

A jail booking record typically includes the inmate's name, booking date, charges, bail amount (if applicable), and upcoming court dates. It may also include personal information like date of birth, physical description, and a mugshot.

8. Is there a way to be notified of a specific person's booking?

Some jurisdictions offer notification services that will inform you if a specific person is booked into jail. This often requires you to register with the service and provide the individual's name.

9. Can I get information about why a person was booked?

Yes, the reason for booking, such as the specific charges or allegations against the person, are typically included in the booking record.

Inmate Calls and Inmate Mail

10. How can I receive calls from an inmate?

Inmates can typically make outgoing calls to approved phone numbers using the phone system in their facility. The rules for these calls vary by facility. Some facilities use a pre-paid system where the inmate or their family members add funds to an account, while others may allow collect calls.

11. What are the restrictions on inmate phone calls?

Restrictions on inmate phone calls can vary by facility, but common restrictions include limits on call duration, times when calls can be made, and the need for recipients to be on an approved call list. All calls are typically recorded and may be monitored, with the exception of calls to legal counsel.

12. How can I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, you typically need to address it to the inmate using their full name and inmate ID number, and send it to the facility's mailing address. Some facilities may have specific procedures or restrictions on mail.

13. Are there any restrictions on what I can send in inmate mail?

Yes, restrictions on inmate mail can include prohibitions on certain items like contraband, cash, or explicit materials. It's recommended to check the specific facility's mail policy for detailed restrictions. Most facilities will also open and inspect incoming mail for security reasons.

Visitation

14. How can I schedule a visit to an inmate?

The process for scheduling a visit to an inmate will depend on the specific facility, but typically involves submitting a visitor application, being approved for visitation, and then scheduling the visit, often through an online system or by phone.

15. What are the rules and regulations for visitation?

Visitation rules can vary significantly by facility, but generally include rules about when visits can occur, how long they can last, how many people can visit at once, and what visitors can bring. Visitors are typically subject to search, and must follow all facility rules during the visit.

16. Can children visit an inmate? If yes, what is the process?

Most facilities allow children to visit inmates, but the rules can vary. Generally, a parent or guardian must accompany the child, and the child may need to be included on the approved visitor list. Some facilities may have additional rules or restrictions for child visitors.

17. What identification do I need to bring for visitation?

Visitors typically need to bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. For children without a photo ID, a birth certificate may be acceptable.

Sending Money and Posting Bond

18. How can I send money to an inmate?

Money can often be sent to an inmate through a variety of methods, including online payment systems, money orders, or cashier's checks. The specific methods available and the process for using them will depend on the facility.

19. What are the regulations and restrictions on sending money to an inmate?

Regulations on sending money to inmates can include limits on the amount that can be sent at one time or in a certain period, fees for sending money, and rules on who can send money. Money sent to inmates typically goes into a commissary account that the inmate can use to purchase items while incarcerated.

20. How can I post bond for an inmate?

To post bond for an inmate, you can typically pay the full bond amount directly to the court or jail, or use a bail bond service that will charge a fee to post bond on your behalf. The process and payment methods available can vary by jurisdiction and facility.

21. What are the methods for posting bond?

Methods for posting bond can include paying cash directly to the court or jail, using a credit or debit card, wiring funds, using a bail bond service, or, in some cases, using property as collateral. The available methods will depend on the specific jurisdiction and facility.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

22. How can inmates access legal assistance?

Inmates can access legal assistance through public defenders, if they cannot afford private attorneys, and through legal aid organizations that offer services to inmates. In some cases, law libraries or legal resources may be available within the facility.

23. Can I arrange legal assistance for an inmate?

Yes, you can arrange legal assistance for an inmate. This could involve hiring a private attorney to represent the inmate, or contacting a legal aid organization on their behalf.

24. What types of legal services are available to inmates?

Legal services available to inmates can include criminal defense, appeal representation, civil legal services (like lawsuits related to conditions of confinement or denial of medical care), and assistance with other legal issues such as familylaw or immigration issues.

Inmate Release

25. How can I find out when an inmate is due to be released?

Inmate release dates are often a matter of public record and can be found through the same resources used to locate inmates, such as the facility's inmate lookup system. Keep in mind that release dates can change due to factors like earned good time or parole decisions.

26. What is the process when an inmate is released?

When an inmate is released, they typically go through a discharge process that includes returning any property held by the facility, receiving any personal belongings, and settling any account balances for commissary or other fees. They may also receive assistance with arranging transportation or transitional housing, if needed.

27. How can I be notified of an inmate's release?

Some jurisdictions offer victim notification systems that can inform registered users of an inmate's release. For specific information, contact the facility or jurisdiction where the inmate is held.

Criminal Records Lookup and Background Check

28. How can I perform a criminal records lookup for a specific individual?

Criminal records can often be accessed through online databases provided by local, state, or federal courts or law enforcement agencies. Some third-party websites also provide access to criminal records. Remember, you typically need the person's full name, and possibly other identifying information, to perform the search.

29. Is a criminal records lookup the same as a background check?

A criminal records lookup is a part of a background check, but a background check can include much more. In addition to criminal records, a background check might include information on employment history, education, credit history, driving records, and other aspects of a person's background.

30. How can I conduct a background check on someone?

To conduct a background check, you can use an online background check service, which typically charges a fee. For employment-related checks, you may need the individual's written consent due to privacy laws. Some government agencies also provide background check services for specific purposes, like working with vulnerable populations.

31. What information is included in a criminal record or background check?

A criminal record typically includes information on an individual's past arrests, charges, convictions, and sentences. A background check can include this information, along with additional details like employment history, education records, credit history, driving records, and other public records.

32. Is there a fee associated with accessing criminal records or conducting a background check?

Fees for accessing criminal records or conducting a background check can vary. Some government agencies provide free access to certain public records, but others charge fees. Online background check services typically charge for their services, with the cost depending on the depth of the check.

33. What laws or restrictions apply to using the information obtained from a criminal record lookup or background check?

In the United States, laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulate the use of background checks for employment purposes, and require the subject's consent in many cases. Misuse of criminal record information can also violate privacy laws or lead to discrimination claims. Always check with a legal expert if you're unsure about using this kind of information.