Ingham County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Ingham County?
Inmate records in Ingham County are official government documents maintained by the Ingham County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records focus on case proceedings, legal filings, and judicial decisions, inmate records specifically document an individual's physical custody status and institutional history. Court records are maintained by the Ingham County Circuit Court or District Courts, whereas inmate records are under the purview of the Sheriff's Office and jail administration pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.267.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial creation occurs during booking/intake when an individual is first processed into custody
- Records contain demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge information
- Documentation is continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Records track housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Medical and mental health information is maintained in separate confidential sections
- Records are formally closed upon the individual's release from custody
The Ingham County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and Michigan's Correctional Facility Reimbursement Act, which establishes guidelines for record maintenance and accessibility.
Are Inmate Records Public In Ingham County?
Inmate records in Ingham County are partially public under Michigan law. The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (MCL § 15.231 et seq.) establishes the public's right to access certain government records, including basic inmate information. However, this access is balanced against privacy concerns and security considerations.
The following inmate record components are generally accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (listing of individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information including name, age, and gender
- Charges filed and their status
- Mugshot photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, significant portions of inmate records remain confidential under various exemptions in the Michigan FOIA and other statutes, including:
- Medical and mental health information (protected under HIPAA)
- Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records related to ongoing investigations
The Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 01.06.110 further clarifies the specific categories of information that may be released regarding inmates in state custody, which generally aligns with county-level practices.
Members of the public seeking inmate information should be aware that while basic custody status is public information, detailed personal or medical information about inmates is generally not subject to disclosure.
What's Included Inmate Records in Ingham County
Inmate records in Ingham County contain comprehensive documentation organized into several key categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Fingerprints and mugshot photographs
- Last known address (partial information may be redacted)
Custody Information:
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency and officer
- Custody classification level
- Housing assignment history
- Disciplinary incidents and outcomes
- Program participation and work assignments
- Visitation logs (names of approved visitors)
Charge Information:
- Current charges with statute citations
- Case numbers for pending cases
- Warrant information if applicable
- Charge disposition (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Criminal history information (may be restricted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond conditions
- Information on bondsperson if applicable
Court Information:
- Jurisdiction of cases (District or Circuit Court)
- Judge assigned to case
- Court dates and appearances
- Court orders affecting custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction offense(s)
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Parole eligibility date
- Maximum release date
- Special conditions of sentence
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Type of release (completed sentence, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release address (restricted information)
- Notification requirements under Michigan law
These records are maintained in both electronic and physical formats, with the Ingham County Sheriff's Office transitioning increasingly toward digital record-keeping systems for improved efficiency and accessibility.
Ingham County Prison System
The Ingham County correctional system operates under the authority of the Ingham County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, are awaiting trial, or are serving sentences of typically one year or less. This local system is distinct from the Michigan Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons housing individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences.
The Ingham County Jail serves as the primary detention facility for the county, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals. The jail system is designed to accommodate various custody levels and provides essential services including medical care, food service, and limited programming opportunities.
Key distinctions between the county jail and state prison systems include:
- Length of stay (county: typically under one year; state: longer sentences)
- Proximity to courts (county facilities prioritize court access)
- Programming scope (state facilities offer more extensive rehabilitation programs)
- Security classifications (state system has more varied security levels)
- Governing authority (county under Sheriff; state under MDOC)
The Ingham County correctional system operates under the oversight of:
Ingham County Sheriff's Office
630 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
517-676-2431
Ingham County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office coordinates with the Michigan Department of Corrections for transfers of individuals sentenced to state custody and works closely with the Ingham County Courts to manage the pre-trial population and court appearances.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Ingham County
Ingham County maintains several distinct correctional facilities, each serving specific functions within the local criminal justice system:
Ingham County Jail - Main Facility
640 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
517-676-8299
Ingham County Jail
This maximum-security facility serves as the primary detention center for Ingham County, housing both male and female inmates across various classification levels. The facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year. The main jail includes specialized housing units for administrative segregation, disciplinary detention, and inmates requiring protective custody.
Ingham County Jail - Post 1
630 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
517-676-8299
Ingham County Jail
This medium-security facility primarily houses minimum and medium-security male inmates who are serving sentences or are stable pre-trial detainees. This facility often accommodates inmates participating in work release programs and those assigned to inmate worker positions within the jail system.
Ingham County Jail - Post 2 (Female Housing Unit)
640 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
517-676-8299
Ingham County Jail
This specialized housing unit is dedicated to female inmates of all classification levels. The facility provides gender-specific programming and services tailored to the needs of the female inmate population.
Ingham County Youth Center
700 East Jolly Road
Lansing, MI 48910
517-483-6100
Ingham County Youth Center
While not technically part of the adult correctional system, this facility houses juvenile offenders under the jurisdiction of the Ingham County Family Court. The Youth Center provides secure detention for juveniles awaiting adjudication or placement, as well as short-term sentenced juvenile offenders.
Each facility operates under standardized policies and procedures established by the Ingham County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Michigan state law and professional correctional standards set by the Michigan Sheriff's Association and the American Correctional Association.
Who's in Prison In Ingham County
The Ingham County Jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals, each with different legal statuses and lengths of stay. Understanding this population breakdown provides context for those seeking inmate information:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary examination, or trial
- Typically represent approximately 60-70% of the jail population
Sentenced Inmates:
- Individuals serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanors or certain felonies
- Those convicted of ordinance violations with jail terms
- Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
- Typically represent approximately 20-30% of the jail population
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations
- Those awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions (via inter-agency agreements)
- Federal detainees held under contract with U.S. Marshals Service
- Typically represent approximately 10-15% of the jail population
Demographic Characteristics:
- Predominantly male (approximately 85-90%)
- Primarily adults aged 18-45
- Diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds reflecting the county's demographics
- Varying educational and socioeconomic backgrounds
The Ingham County Jail population fluctuates daily based on arrests, court proceedings, releases, and transfers. The facility operates under capacity management protocols established by the Michigan Jail Overcrowding Emergency Powers Act, which provides mechanisms for population control when facilities approach capacity limits.
According to data from the Michigan Department of Corrections County Jail Information System, the average daily population in Ingham County correctional facilities typically ranges between 400-500 inmates, though this number varies based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Ingham County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Ingham County currently have several methods available to access these records. The following procedures outline the standard process for conducting inmate record searches:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Ingham County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" section
- Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
- Additional identifiers such as first name or date of birth improve search accuracy
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and age
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if available)
- Facility location
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Ingham County Jail at 517-676-8299
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
- Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested
- Note that certain information may not be provided over the telephone due to privacy and security protocols
In-Person Request:
- Visit the Ingham County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Excluding county holidays
- Complete an inmate information request form at the public counter
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for printed records (typically $1-5 per page)
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request:
For more comprehensive inmate records beyond basic custody information:
-
Submit a written FOIA request to: Ingham County FOIA Coordinator
341 S. Jefferson Street
Mason, MI 48854
517-676-7200 -
Clearly identify the records being requested
-
Provide sufficient detail to locate the specific records
-
Include contact information for response
-
Be prepared to pay reasonable fees for search, retrieval, and copying as permitted under Michigan FOIA law
The Ingham County Sheriff's Office typically responds to routine inmate status inquiries immediately for online and telephone requests, while written requests may take 5-10 business days to process under current procedures.
How To Find an Inmate in Ingham County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Ingham County without incurring costs is straightforward through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Ingham County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Ingham County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search portal
- No account creation or login is required
- Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
- Add first name or date of birth if known for more precise results
- Review the search results showing current inmates
- Information typically includes:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond amount
- Next court date (if scheduled)
- Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
Vine Link Notification System:
- Visit VINELink or call 1-800-770-7657
- Select Michigan as the state
- Search by the inmate's name
- Review custody status and location information
- Optional: Register for free notifications regarding changes in custody status
Michigan Department of Corrections Offender Tracking System:
For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Access the MDOC Offender Search
- Enter the individual's name
- Review results to determine if the person is in state custody
- Note that this system only shows state prisoners, not county jail inmates
Telephone Inquiry to Jail Information Desk:
- Call the Ingham County Jail at 517-676-8299
- Request inmate location information during regular business hours
- Provide the full name of the person you're seeking
- Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested
In-Person Inquiry at Sheriff's Office Public Counter:
Ingham County Sheriff's Office
630 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Visit the public counter during business hours
- Request basic inmate location information
- No fee is charged for simple status inquiries
- Bring identification, though it's not typically required for basic inquiries
These free methods provide access to fundamental custody information. For more detailed records, a formal records request may be necessary, which could involve processing fees as permitted under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act.
How To Visit an Inmate In Ingham County
Visiting an inmate at the Ingham County Jail requires adherence to established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines outline the current visitation procedures:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor request forms during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted up to 8 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years or older unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
- Pre-registration is required at least 24 hours before the intended visit
- Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval
Visit Schedule:
The Ingham County Jail currently operates visitation during the following hours:
- Tuesday through Saturday
- Morning sessions: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Evening sessions (Tuesday and Thursday only): 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Visits are scheduled in 30-minute increments
- Inmates are typically allowed two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitor registration confirmation
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medications needed during visit time (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $50
- Letters, photos, or items for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
- No excessively baggy clothing
Visit Types:
-
On-site Video Visitation:
- Primary visitation method at Ingham County Jail
- Conducted via video terminals in the visitation area
- No physical contact with inmates
- Free for on-site visits
-
Remote Video Visitation:
- Available through third-party provider
- Conducted from home computer or mobile device
- Fees apply (typically $5-15 per 20-minute session)
- Must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
-
Professional Visits:
- Available for attorneys, clergy, and social workers
- Separate scheduling system and extended hours
- Requires professional credentials verification
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Persons on probation or parole require written permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors appearing under the influence of substances will be denied
- Disruptive behavior results in immediate termination of visit
- Three visit rule violations may result in permanent visitation ban
All visitation policies are subject to modification based on facility security needs and public health considerations. Current procedures are established pursuant to Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6607 governing correctional facility visitation.
How To Send Money to a Ingham County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Ingham County Jail have several secure methods available for transferring funds. These systems are designed to maintain security while ensuring inmates have access to commissary and other permitted services.
Available Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits via TouchPay:
- Visit the TouchPay website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Ingham County Jail" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Complete the payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically $2.00-$8.95 depending on amount)
- Funds typically available within 24 hours
-
TouchPay Kiosk at Jail Lobby: Ingham County Jail Lobby
640 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
Available: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, 7 days a week- Touch screen kiosk accepts cash, credit, or debit cards
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Service fee: $2.00-$5.00 per transaction
- Funds typically available within 1-4 hours
-
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase money order from post office or financial institution
- Make payable to "Ingham County Jail Inmate Trust"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Mail to:
Ingham County Jail Inmate Accounts
640 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854 - No service fee (cost of money order only)
- Processing time: 3-5 business days
- Maximum amount: $500.00
Amount Limits and Restrictions:
- Daily deposit limit: $300.00 per inmate
- Weekly deposit limit: $500.00 per inmate
- Monthly deposit limit: $1,500.00 per inmate
- No minimum balance requirement for inmate accounts
- Maximum account balance permitted: $2,500.00
Associated Fees:
- TouchPay online: $2.00 for deposits up to $20.00; $8.95 for deposits $300.00+
- TouchPay kiosk: $2.00 for deposits up to $50.00; $5.00 for deposits $200.00+
- Money orders: No processing fee charged by jail
- Account maintenance fee: None
- Inactive account fee: $1.00 per month after 90 days of inactivity
Prohibited Funding Sources:
- Personal checks
- Cash sent through mail
- Wire transfers
- Third-party checks
- Business checks (except for inmate payroll)
- Transfers from other inmates' accounts
Permitted Uses of Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone account funding
- Medical co-pays
- Haircut services
- Educational materials
- Release preparation expenses
- Court-ordered payments and restitution
Prohibited Uses of Inmate Funds:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for unauthorized services
- Gambling activities
- Purchase of contraband items
- Payment to staff members
- External bill payments (with limited exceptions)
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 04.02.105 regarding prisoner funds. Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release or can be transferred to an approved family member.
How To Send Jail Mail In Ingham County
Corresponding with inmates at the Ingham County Jail requires adherence to specific guidelines designed to maintain facility security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following procedures outline the current mail policies:
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Facility name and address:
Ingham County Jail
640 North Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
- Return address with full name is required
- Mail lacking proper addressing will be returned to sender
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery
- Mail is typically distributed within 24-48 hours of receipt
- Inmates may receive an unlimited amount of mail
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
- Money orders (must follow money sending procedures)
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
- Legal documents (marked as legal mail)
- Newspaper clippings (maximum 3 per envelope)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Hardcover books or magazines
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Blank paper or stationery
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Plastic or laminated items
Books and Publications:
- Books must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Soft-cover books only
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Subject to content review
- Approved vendors include:
- Amazon
- Barnes & Noble
- Books-A-Million
- Approved religious organizations
Legal Mail Procedures:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney name, bar number, and return address
- Opened in presence of inmate
- Not subject to content inspection, only contraband check
- No page limit for legal documents
E-Messaging Options:
The Ingham County Jail offers electronic messaging through the SmartJailMail system:
- Create an account on SmartJailMail website
- Add the inmate to your contacts using their ID number
- Purchase message credits (fees apply)
- Compose and send messages (maximum 2,000 characters)
- Attach photos for additional fee (subject to approval)
- Messages typically delivered within 24 hours
- Inmates can respond using kiosks in housing units
All mail procedures are established in accordance with Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6603 governing prisoner mail. The Ingham County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to modify mail procedures as necessary to maintain facility security and public safety.