Suffolk County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Suffolk County?

Inmate records in Suffolk County are official government documents maintained by the Suffolk 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 an individual from initial booking through release.

Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, the Suffolk County Sheriff is required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to county correctional facilities. These records are distinct from court records, which document judicial proceedings and are maintained by the court system. While court records focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document an individual's custodial status and institutional history.

Inmate records are created at the time of booking and intake when an individual is first processed into a correctional facility. The booking process includes:

• Collection of personal identifying information
• Documentation of arrest circumstances
• Recording of charges
• Capture of biometric data (fingerprints, photographs)
• Medical screening information
• Personal property inventory

Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, medical care, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains on file with the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office as required by New York State Archives Retention Schedule LGS-1.

Are Inmate Records Public In Suffolk County?

Inmate records in Suffolk County are partially accessible to the public in accordance with the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified in Public Officers Law Article 6, §§ 84-90. While certain basic information about currently incarcerated individuals is readily available, access to comprehensive inmate records is subject to specific limitations and exemptions.

The following inmate record information is generally considered public and accessible:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
• Booking date and time
• Charges filed
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

However, significant portions of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under FOIL exemptions, including:

• Medical and mental health information
• Disciplinary records
• Security-related information
• Information that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
• Information that could endanger the life or safety of any person

Members of the public seeking access to inmate records must submit a FOIL request to the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Records Access Officer. Requests may be subject to redaction of exempt information prior to disclosure. The Sheriff's Office must respond to requests within five business days, either providing the records, denying access with specific reasons, or acknowledging receipt with an approximate date when the request will be granted or denied.

What's Included Inmate Records in Suffolk County

Suffolk County inmate records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. 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 distinguishing physical characteristics
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Fingerprints and other biometric data
• State identification number and/or booking number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of admission
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Classification status
• Housing assignments and transfers
• Disciplinary incidents and actions
• Program participation
• Visitation records
• Commissary account activity

Charge Information:

• Current charges (including statute citations)
• Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor, violation)
• Warrant information
• Prior criminal history (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond/bail amount
• Bond/bail type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond/bail status (posted, not posted)
• Bond/bail conditions

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Case/docket numbers
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction charges
• Sentence length and terms
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Parole eligibility date (if applicable)

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Release type (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions (if applicable)
• Post-release supervision requirements (if applicable)

The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with New York State Correction Law § 500-j, which mandates specific record-keeping requirements for county correctional facilities.

Suffolk County Prison System

The Suffolk County correctional system operates under the authority of the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of up to one year, or awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions. The system is distinct from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), which manages state prisons housing individuals serving sentences longer than one year.

Suffolk County maintains two primary correctional facilities: the Suffolk County Correctional Facility in Riverhead and the Suffolk County Correctional Facility in Yaphank. These facilities house approximately 1,300 inmates on any given day, making it one of the largest county jail systems in New York State.

The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office, led by an elected Sheriff, oversees all aspects of jail operations including security, inmate classification, transportation, medical services, food services, and rehabilitative programming. The office operates in accordance with standards established by the New York State Commission of Correction.

Suffolk County Sheriff's Office
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
Phone: (631) 852-2200
Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Suffolk County

Suffolk County operates two primary correctional facilities, each serving different populations and security needs within the county's incarceration system:

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Riverhead
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
Phone: (631) 852-2200
Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Riverhead

The Riverhead facility is the primary intake and processing center for all individuals arrested in Suffolk County. This maximum-security facility houses:

• Male pre-trial detainees
• Individuals serving sentences of up to one year
• Federal detainees (through agreement with U.S. Marshals Service)
• Special housing units for administrative segregation and disciplinary confinement
• Medical and mental health units

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Yaphank
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980
Phone: (631) 852-5900
Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Yaphank

The Yaphank facility serves as a medium-security facility housing:

• Female inmates (both pre-trial and sentenced)
• Male inmates classified for medium-security housing
• Specialized treatment programs
• Work release programs
• DWI alternative incarceration program

In addition to these primary facilities, Suffolk County operates specialized units including:

Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Correctional Rehabilitation Unit
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980
Phone: (631) 852-5900

This specialized unit provides substance abuse treatment, educational programming, vocational training, and re-entry services to eligible inmates.

Who's in Prison In Suffolk County

The Suffolk County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals who fall under several distinct legal categories. The inmate population primarily consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are legally presumed innocent and are held in custody because:

• They could not afford to post bail
• They were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
• They are awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings

Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of up to one year. Under New York State law, sentences exceeding one year are typically served in state prisons operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

Technical Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their parole and are being held pending parole revocation hearings or transfer to state facilities.

Federal Detainees: Through an intergovernmental agreement with the U.S. Marshals Service, Suffolk County houses some federal detainees awaiting trial in federal court.

Immigration Detainees: Individuals held under the authority of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pending immigration proceedings.

Temporary Holds: Individuals temporarily housed while awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions or facilities.

According to data from the New York State Commission of Correction, the average daily population in Suffolk County correctional facilities is approximately 1,300 inmates, though this number fluctuates based on seasonal arrest patterns, court processing times, and other factors. Demographically, the population reflects the broader patterns of criminal justice involvement in the region, with disproportionate representation of individuals from economically disadvantaged communities and communities of color.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Suffolk County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in Suffolk County correctional facilities have several methods available to access basic inmate records. The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems that provide public access to limited inmate information.

Online Inmate Lookup:

The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office provides an online inmate lookup system accessible through the county's official website. To utilize this service:

1. Visit the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Information" section
3. Select "Inmate Lookup"
4. Enter search criteria (at least one of the following):
   • Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
   • Date of birth
   • Suffolk County booking number (if known)
5. Review the search results, which typically include:
   • Inmate's name
   • Date of birth
   • Booking date
   • Current charges
   • Bond/bail information
   • Expected release date (if applicable)
   • Current housing facility

Telephone Information:

For those without internet access, basic inmate information is available by telephone:

1. Call the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line at (631) 852-2200
2. Follow the automated prompts to access inmate information
3. Provide the requested identifying information for the inmate
4. Record the information provided by the automated system

In-Person Requests:

Members of the public may request inmate information in person at either correctional facility:

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Riverhead
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Yaphank
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

FOIL Requests for Detailed Records:

For access to more comprehensive inmate records beyond the basic information provided through the above methods, individuals must submit a formal request under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL):

1. Submit a written FOIL request to:

   Records Access Officer Suffolk County Sheriff's Office 100 Center Drive Riverhead, NY 11901

2. Include in the request:

   • Requestor's full name and contact information
   • Specific records being requested
   • Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
   • Booking number or case number (if known)
   • Time period covered by the request

3. Allow up to five business days for an initial response, which may include:

   • Provision of the requested records
   • Denial of access with specific reasons
   • Acknowledgment of receipt with an approximate date when the request will be granted or denied

How To Find an Inmate in Suffolk County for Free?

Suffolk County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated within the county correctional system. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties.

Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:

The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the official online inmate locator:

1. Access the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to "Inmate Information" and select "Inmate Lookup"
3. Enter the individual's information (last name is required; first name is recommended)
4. Review results, which include current housing location and basic case information

This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody.

New York State Inmate Locator Systems:

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody or whose location is uncertain, the following state-level resources are available:

• New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Inmate Lookup - For individuals in state prison facilities
• New York State Commission of Correction County Jail Inmate Search - For individuals in county jails throughout New York State

Telephone Inquiry:

For those without internet access, basic inmate location information is available by telephone:

1. Call the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office at (631) 852-2200
2. Request inmate location information
3. Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
4. Record the information provided by staff

In-Person Inquiry:

Individuals may inquire about an inmate's location in person at either correctional facility's public reception area during normal business hours:

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Riverhead
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Yaphank
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

When using any of these methods, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, any known aliases, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest or incarceration.

How To Visit an Inmate In Suffolk County

The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office facilitates visitation at both correctional facilities under specific guidelines designed to maintain security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. All visits are subject to the regulations established pursuant to New York State Correction Law § 500-j.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
• Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Minors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
• All visitors are subject to search prior to entry
• Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled visitation period
• Visitors exhibiting signs of intoxication or disruptive behavior will be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Riverhead
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901

• General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
• Special Housing Units: Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• No visits on Mondays or county holidays

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Yaphank
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980

• General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
• Work Release Program: Saturday-Sunday, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
• Locker key deposit ($1.00 exact change)
• Medication required during visit (must be declared and approved)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Drugs or alcohol
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products
• Excessive cash (over $50)
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Keys (except car keys)

Dress Code:

• No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, see-through materials)
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections attire
• No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
• Appropriate footwear required (no bare feet)

Visit Types:

• Contact Visits: Available for general population inmates; allows limited physical contact (brief embrace at beginning and end of visit)
• Non-Contact Visits: Conducted through glass partition with telephone communication; required for certain classification levels
• Professional Visits: Available for attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals during extended hours

Visit Restrictions:

• Maximum of three visitors per inmate per visit session
• Visit duration limited to one hour during regular sessions
• Former inmates must receive special approval and may be subject to waiting periods
• Individuals on probation or parole must provide written permission from their supervising officer

For additional information or to verify current visitation policies, contact the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Visitation Unit at (631) 852-2210 or visit the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office website.

How To Send Money to a Suffolk County Inmate

Suffolk County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the facility commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, writing materials, and other permitted items.

In-Person Cash Deposits:

Funds may be deposited in person at kiosks located in the lobby of each correctional facility:

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Riverhead
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
Kiosk Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Suffolk County Correctional Facility - Yaphank
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980
Kiosk Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

For in-person deposits, visitors must:

• Present valid government-issued photo identification
• Know the inmate's full name and booking number
• Deposit cash only (no checks or money orders)
• Pay the applicable service fee ($2.50 per transaction)

Online Deposits:

The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office contracts with TouchPay for online deposits:

1. Visit the TouchPay website
2. Select "Suffolk County Correctional Facility" from the facility list
3. Create an account or log in
4. Enter the inmate's information
5. Select payment amount
6. Provide credit/debit card information
7. Complete transaction

Online deposits are subject to the following fees:

• $2.95 for deposits up to $50.00
• $3.95 for deposits of $50.01 to $100.00
• $4.95 for deposits of $100.01 to $200.00
• $5.95 for deposits of $200.01 to $300.00

Telephone Deposits:

Funds may be deposited by telephone:

1. Call TouchPay at 1-866-232-1899
2. Follow the automated prompts
3. Provide the inmate's information
4. Provide credit/debit card information
5. Complete transaction

Telephone deposits are subject to the same fee structure as online deposits.

Mail Deposits:

Money orders may be sent by mail to:

Inmate Accounts Suffolk County Sheriff's Office 100 Center Drive Riverhead, NY 11901

For mail deposits:

• Make money orders payable to the inmate's full name and booking number
• Include sender's full name and return address
• Do not send cash, personal checks, or correspondence with the money order
• No service fee for money orders

Deposit Limits and Restrictions:

• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
• Funds typically post to inmate accounts within 24-48 hours
• Deposits from individuals with active warrants or criminal cases may be rejected
• All deposits are subject to verification and may be held pending investigation

Permitted Uses of Funds:

Inmates may use commissary funds for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Restitution payments (if court-ordered)

Prohibited Uses of Funds:

Inmates may not use commissary funds for:

• Payments to other inmates
• Gambling activities
• Purchase of contraband items
• Payment for services from other inmates

For additional information regarding inmate accounts, contact the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Inmate Accounts Department at (631) 852-2265.

How To Send Jail Mail In Suffolk County

The Suffolk County Sheriff's Office has established specific procedures for sending mail to individuals incarcerated in county correctional facilities. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations as authorized under New York State Correction Law § 500-c.

Addressing Mail:

All mail must be properly addressed in the following format:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number Suffolk County Correctional Facility [Facility Address]

Riverhead Facility:
100 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901

Yaphank Facility:
200 Glover Drive
Yaphank, NY 11980

The sender's full name and complete return address must appear in the upper left corner of the envelope. Mail without a return address will not be delivered.

Permitted Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6", no Polaroids)
• Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only)
• Approved periodicals (must be sent directly from the publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages (all packages must be pre-approved and sent through approved vendors)
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or pre-stamped envelopes
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Crayon or marker writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Greeting cards with electronic components
• Plastic or metal items
• Hardcover books
• Photographs depicting nudity, gang symbols, or criminal activity
• Any items containing biohazards or contraband

Publications and Books:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble. These items must be soft-cover only and are subject to content review by facility staff.

Legal Mail:

Mail clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and sent from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies receives special handling:

• It must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
• It must include the sender's bar number or official letterhead
• It will be opened in the presence of the inmate
• It will not be read by staff but will be inspected for contraband

Electronic Messaging:

Suffolk County contracts with SmartJailMail to provide secure electronic messaging services:

1. Create an account on the SmartJailMail website
2. Purchase message credits
3. Compose and send messages to inmates
4. Attach approved digital photos (additional fee applies)

Electronic messages are subject to review and typically delivered within 24 hours.

Mail Restrictions:

• All incoming mail is inspected for contraband and inappropriate content
• Mail may be rejected if it contains threats, criminal plans, or other prohibited content
• Senders of rejected mail will receive notification of the rejection and reason
• Inmates may receive an unlimited amount of mail, subject to storage limitations

For additional information regarding mail procedures, contact the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Mail Room at (631) 852-2275 or visit the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office website.

Lookup Inmate Records in Suffolk County

New York State Department of Corrections Incarcerated Lookup

New York State Commission of Correction Incarcerated Individual Locators