To obtain an inmate ID number for someone in jail, you can use the following methods:
1. Check the Jail or Prison's Online Inmate Search Tool:
- County Jail: Many county jails have an inmate search feature on their official website. This tool allows you to search by the inmate’s full name and provides details such as their booking number, charges, and inmate ID number.
- State Department of Corrections (DOC): If the person is in state prison, visit the state’s Department of Corrections website and use their inmate locator tool. This search typically requires the inmate's first and last name and will provide the inmate ID, facility location, and other relevant details.
- Federal Inmate Search: For inmates in federal custody, use the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Inmate Locator at BOP Inmate Locator. You can search by name, age, or BOP register number.
2. Contact the Facility Directly:
- Call the Jail or Prison: If you cannot find the information online, call the facility where the inmate is housed. Provide the inmate's full name and any additional identifying details, such as their date of birth, to help the staff locate their record and provide the inmate ID number.
- Visit the Facility: Some jails or prisons allow you to visit the facility’s information or visitation office, where you can request the inmate's ID number in person.
3. Use Inmate Search Websites:
- VINELink (Victim Information and Notification Everyday): VINELink is a nationwide service that provides inmate information for many state and county facilities. You can search by the inmate’s name, and if the inmate is listed in the system, their ID number and current custody status will be provided.
4. Ask the Inmate's Family or Friends:
- If you know someone else who is in contact with the inmate or has recently communicated with them, they might already have the inmate's ID number. This can be a quick way to obtain the information without going through official channels.
Tips for a Successful Search:
- Use the Full Legal Name: Ensure you have the inmate's full legal name, as it appears in their booking record.
- Verify the Facility: If you’re not sure where the inmate is housed, check multiple facilities within the county, state, or federal system, as inmates may be transferred or held in different locations.
By using these methods, you should be able to find the inmate ID number, allowing you to send letters, deposit funds, or arrange phone calls more efficiently.