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Durham County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Durham County?

Inmate records in Durham County are official government documents maintained by the Durham County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county detention facilities. These records document the entire custody lifecycle of an individual from initial booking through release. Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-220, county detention facilities must maintain specific records on each person committed to custody.

Inmate records differ substantially from court records in both content and maintenance responsibility. While the Durham County Courthouse maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and dispositions, the Sheriff's Office maintains custody records documenting the physical detention and management of individuals in custody. These distinct record systems serve different governmental functions but may contain overlapping information regarding criminal charges.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, where detention officers collect and document:

  • Biographical information
  • Photographs (mugshots)
  • Fingerprints
  • Personal property inventory
  • Medical screening information
  • Charge information
  • Warrant details

Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, court appearances, and other significant events. Upon release, final disposition information is added, completing the custody record. The Durham County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with North Carolina records retention schedules.

Are Inmate Records Public In Durham County?

Inmate records in Durham County are partially public under North Carolina law. The North Carolina Public Records Act § 132-1 establishes that records made or received in the transaction of public business are public property and accessible to citizens upon request. However, this general right of access is limited by specific statutory exemptions that protect certain information within inmate records.

Under current North Carolina law, the following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

  • Inmate name
  • Current charges
  • Booking date
  • Booking photograph (mugshot)
  • Custody status
  • Bond/bail amount
  • Next scheduled court date
  • Expected release date (if sentenced)
  • Housing facility

Certain information within inmate records is explicitly protected from public disclosure under § 132-1.7, including:

  • Medical and mental health information
  • Social Security numbers
  • Detailed security procedures
  • Personal identifying information that could compromise safety
  • Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)

The Durham County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides public access to basic information about currently incarcerated individuals. This system implements the balance between public access rights and privacy protections established under state law.

What's Included Inmate Records in Durham County

Inmate records in Durham County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's detention. The specific content of these records is governed by North Carolina Administrative Code Title 10A, Chapter 14, Subchapter J, which establishes minimum standards for local confinement facilities. These records typically include:

Basic Identifying Information:

  • Full legal name and any known aliases
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Race/ethnicity
  • Height, weight, and identifying marks (scars, tattoos)
  • Booking photograph (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints
  • Last known address
  • Emergency contact information

Custody Information:

  • Booking date and time
  • Arresting agency and officer
  • Intake screening results
  • Classification assessment
  • Housing assignment history
  • Disciplinary incidents and actions
  • Visitation records
  • Telephone call logs
  • Commissary account activity

Charge Information:

  • Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Warrant or citation numbers
  • Arresting agency
  • Case numbers
  • Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
  • Bond amount
  • Bond status (posted, not posted)
  • Bondsman information (if applicable)

Court Information:

  • Court case numbers
  • Scheduled court appearances
  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Court outcomes and dispositions

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Conviction date
  • Sentence length
  • Sentence start date
  • Projected release date
  • Good time/work time credits earned
  • Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions

Release Information:

  • Release date and time
  • Release type (bond, time served, transfer)
  • Conditions of release (if applicable)
  • Post-release supervision requirements

These records are maintained in the Durham County Sheriff's Office jail management system and are updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration.

Durham County Prison System

The Durham County detention system operates under the authority of the Durham County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of less than one year. This local detention system is distinct from the North Carolina state prison system, which houses individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences under the authority of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.

The primary detention facility in Durham County is the Durham County Detention Center, which houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders. Pre-trial detainees comprise individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted, while sentenced offenders include those serving misdemeanor sentences of up to one year as prescribed by North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-1340.23.

Individuals sentenced to more than one year for felony convictions are transferred to the state prison system after processing at the county level. The Durham County Sheriff's Office coordinates with the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction for these transfers in accordance with state law.

Durham County Sheriff's Office
510 South Dillard Street
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 560-0897
Durham County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Durham County

Durham County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security needs and inmate populations. Each facility operates under the authority of the Durham County Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services' Division of Health Service Regulation.

Durham County Detention Center
219 South Mangum Street
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 560-0910
Durham County Detention Center

The Durham County Detention Center is the primary detention facility in the county, housing both male and female inmates. This medium-security facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year. The facility provides various programs including educational services, substance abuse treatment, and religious services.

Durham County Detention Facility Annex
326 East Main Street
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 560-0940
Durham County Detention Facility

This auxiliary facility provides additional housing capacity for the county detention system. It typically houses minimum-security inmates and those participating in work release programs. The annex focuses on rehabilitation and reentry preparation for inmates approaching their release dates.

Durham County Youth Home
2804 South Roxboro Street
Durham, NC 27707
(919) 560-0840
Durham County Youth Home

While not operated by the Sheriff's Office but rather by Durham County Government, the Youth Home provides secure detention for juveniles awaiting adjudication or placement. This facility operates under juvenile justice standards rather than adult corrections standards and provides educational and counseling services appropriate for youth.

Each facility maintains its own records system that feeds into the centralized inmate records database maintained by the Durham County Sheriff's Office. Facility-specific information may be included in an inmate's record, such as housing unit assignments, participation in facility programs, and facility-specific disciplinary actions.

Who's in Prison In Durham County

The Durham County detention facilities house several categories of individuals under legal detention. Understanding the composition of the inmate population provides context for interpreting inmate records. Currently, the Durham County detention system primarily houses:

Pre-trial Detainees: The largest segment of the population consists of individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are legally presumed innocent and are detained because they:

  • Could not afford to post bail
  • Were denied bail due to public safety concerns
  • Violated conditions of pre-trial release
  • Are awaiting initial appearance before a judge

Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year as prescribed by North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-1340.23. Common offenses include:

  • Driving While Impaired (DWI)
  • Simple assault
  • Shoplifting
  • Drug possession (small amounts)
  • Probation violations

Temporary Holds: Individuals temporarily housed in Durham County facilities who are:

  • Awaiting transfer to state prison after felony conviction
  • Held on behalf of other jurisdictions (interstate detainers)
  • Federal detainees awaiting transfer to federal facilities
  • Probation/parole violators awaiting hearings

Weekend Confinement: Individuals serving sentences on weekends only, allowing them to maintain employment and family responsibilities while serving their sentence incrementally.

Work Release Participants: Sentenced individuals who are permitted to leave the facility for employment during working hours but must return to custody during non-working hours.

According to data from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, the demographic composition of Durham County's detention population generally reflects statewide trends, with disproportionate representation of minority populations and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Durham County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Durham County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Durham County Sheriff's Office provides multiple channels for inmate record searches to accommodate different needs and technological capabilities.

Online Inmate Search:

  1. Visit the Durham County Sheriff's Office Inmate Population Search portal
  2. No login or account creation is required for basic searches
  3. Enter search criteria in at least one field:
    • Last name (required)
    • First name (optional, improves accuracy)
    • Date of birth (optional, improves accuracy)
  4. Click "Search" to view results
  5. Results display basic information including name, booking date, charges, and bond amount
  6. For additional details, click on the inmate's name

In-Person Record Requests:

  1. Visit the Durham County Sheriff's Office Records Division
    • 510 South Dillard Street, Durham, NC 27701
    • Public counter hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  2. Complete an Inmate Record Request Form (available at the counter)
  3. Provide identification (government-issued photo ID required)
  4. Specify the information requested
  5. Pay applicable fees:
    • $5.00 for basic inmate information
    • $10.00 for certified copies
    • $0.25 per page for photocopies

Written Record Requests:

  1. Submit a written request to:
    • Durham County Sheriff's Office
    • Records Division
    • 510 South Dillard Street
    • Durham, NC 27701
  2. Include in your request:
    • Your full name and contact information
    • Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
    • Specific information requested
    • Purpose of request (optional)
  3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
  4. Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)

Telephone Inquiries:

  1. Call the Durham County Detention Center at (919) 560-0910
  2. Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
  3. Basic information may be provided verbally
  4. For detailed records, staff will direct callers to submit formal requests

All record requests are processed in accordance with the North Carolina Public Records Act and applicable privacy laws. Response times typically range from immediate (online searches) to 5-7 business days (written requests).

How To Find an Inmate in Durham County for Free?

Durham County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody. These free resources are designed to provide basic information about an inmate's status and location without requiring payment or subscription fees.

Durham County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Search:

  1. Access the Durham County Sheriff's Office Inmate Population Search website
  2. Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
  3. For more precise results, include first name and/or date of birth
  4. Review the search results, which include:
    • Full name
    • Booking date
    • Current charges
    • Bond amount
    • Housing facility
    • Next court date (if scheduled)

North Carolina Department of Adult Correction Offender Search:

  1. Visit the NC Offender Public Information Search portal
  2. Select "Offender Search" from the available options
  3. Enter search criteria (last name required)
  4. Review results for current custody status and location
  5. This system includes both county jail and state prison inmates

Telephone Verification:

  1. Call the Durham County Detention Center at (919) 560-0910
  2. Provide the operator with the inmate's full name
  3. Request confirmation of custody status and basic information
  4. Available 24 hours daily, though non-emergency inquiries are best made during business hours

In-Person Inquiry:

  1. Visit the Durham County Detention Center lobby
    • 219 South Mangum Street, Durham, NC 27701
    • Open 24 hours for basic inquiries
  2. Speak with the reception officer
  3. Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
  4. Receive basic custody information and visitation guidelines

When using these free search methods, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name, any known aliases, and date of birth. This information improves search accuracy, particularly for individuals with common names.

How To Visit an Inmate In Durham County

Visitation with inmates at Durham County detention facilities is governed by specific policies established by the Durham County Sheriff's Office in accordance with North Carolina Administrative Code 10A NCAC 14J .1513. These policies balance the importance of maintaining family and community connections with security requirements and operational constraints.

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 may have up to 8 approved visitors (excluding attorneys and clergy)
  • Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
  • All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification

Visit Schedule:

  • General Population:
    • Tuesday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
    • Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Monday: No regular visitation (reserved for special visits)
  • Special Housing Units:
    • Schedule varies by unit; information provided upon request
  • Professional Visits (attorneys, clergy):
    • Daily: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo identification (required)
  • Vehicle keys (permitted)
  • Medication needed during visit (must be declared)
  • Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)
  • Visiting order or appointment confirmation (if applicable)

What NOT to Bring:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Tools
  • Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
  • Food or beverages
  • Tobacco products or vaping devices
  • Purses, bags, or backpacks
  • Excessive jewelry or accessories
  • Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

  • Conservative, appropriate attire required
  • No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, crop tops)
  • No clothing with offensive language or images
  • No gang-related colors or symbols
  • No law enforcement or security-style uniforms
  • Shoes and shirts required at all times

Visit Types:

  • Non-Contact Visits:
    • Standard visitation through glass partition
    • Communication via telephone handset
    • 30-minute duration
  • Video Visitation:
    • Available at designated terminals in the facility
    • 20-minute duration
    • Scheduling available online through GTL VisitMe
  • Professional Visits:
    • Attorneys and legal representatives
    • Conducted in private interview rooms
    • Not counted against regular visitation allowance

Visit Restrictions:

  • Visitors with criminal histories may be denied (case-by-case basis)
  • Former employees of correctional facilities require special approval
  • Visitors appearing to be under the influence of substances will be denied
  • Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
  • Three missed scheduled visits in 30 days results in 30-day suspension

For additional information or to verify current visitation policies, contact the Durham County Detention Center directly at (919) 560-0910.

How To Send Money to a Durham County Inmate

Durham County provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 148-18.1, which governs inmate trust accounts.

Online Deposits:

  1. Visit the TouchPay Payment Services website
  2. Select "Durham County Detention Center" from the facility list
  3. Create an account or proceed as a guest
  4. Enter the inmate's information:
    • Full name (as booked)
    • Inmate ID number (if known)
  5. Enter payment amount
  6. Provide credit/debit card information
  7. Complete transaction
  8. Save or print receipt

Mobile App Deposits:

  1. Download the "ConnectNetwork" app from App Store or Google Play
  2. Create an account
  3. Select "Durham County Detention Center"
  4. Enter inmate information
  5. Select payment amount
  6. Complete payment using credit/debit card
  7. Transaction receipt will be emailed

Kiosk Deposits:

  1. Visit the kiosk in the Durham County Detention Center lobby
    • 219 South Mangum Street, Durham, NC 27701
    • Available 24/7
  2. Follow on-screen instructions
  3. Enter inmate information
  4. Insert cash or credit/debit card
  5. Collect printed receipt

Money Order Deposits:

  1. Purchase a money order payable to "Durham County Inmate Trust Fund"
  2. Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
  3. Complete a deposit slip (available at the facility or printable online)
  4. Mail to:
    • Durham County Detention Center
    • Inmate Accounts
    • 219 South Mangum Street
    • Durham, NC 27701

Amount Limits:

  • Minimum deposit: $5.00
  • Maximum single deposit: $300.00
  • Maximum weekly deposits: $500.00
  • Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Transaction Fees:

  • Online/Mobile deposits: $2.95 per transaction up to $100; $5.95 for $100.01-$300
  • Kiosk deposits: $2.00 per transaction
  • Money order deposits: No fee

Prohibited Funds:

  • Personal checks
  • Cash sent through mail
  • Third-party checks
  • Cashier's checks from foreign banks
  • Money orders with erasures or alterations

Approved Uses of Funds:

  • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
  • Telephone calls
  • Video visitation sessions
  • Medical co-pays
  • Release funds

Restricted Uses:

  • Payments to outside vendors
  • Transfers to other inmates
  • Payment of fines or court costs (separate process required)
  • Bail or bond payments

Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the Durham County Detention Center Inmate Accounts Office at (919) 560-0932.

How To Send Jail Mail In Durham County

Correspondence with inmates in Durham County detention facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain security while facilitating communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail procedures comply with North Carolina Administrative Code 10A NCAC 14J .1515, which establishes standards for inmate mail.

Regular Mail:

  1. Address envelope precisely:
    • Inmate's full name (as booked)
    • Inmate ID number (if known)
    • Durham County Detention Center
    • 219 South Mangum Street
    • Durham, NC 27701
  2. Include your complete return address
  3. Use standard white envelopes only
  4. Write in blue or black ink only
  5. Mail is processed Monday-Friday (excluding holidays)
  6. All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected before delivery

Legal/Privileged Mail:

  1. Mark envelope clearly as "Legal Mail" or "Privileged Correspondence"
  2. Include attorney bar number or official letterhead
  3. Address as with regular mail
  4. Will be opened only in the presence of the inmate

Permitted Items:

  • Letters (maximum 10 pages)
  • Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope)
    • Must be 4"x6" or smaller
    • No Polaroids
    • No explicit content
  • Pre-approved religious materials
  • Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
  • Money orders (following proper procedure)

Prohibited Items:

  • Cash or personal checks
  • Stamps or envelopes
  • Stickers or labels
  • Crayon or marker writings
  • Perfumed or scented items
  • Greeting cards with glitter, pop-ups, or electronic components
  • Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
  • Photos showing gang signs, weapons, or explicit content
  • Any items with adhesives, glue, or tape
  • Plastic or laminated items

Books and Publications:

  1. Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
  2. Paperback only
  3. Subject to content review
  4. Limited to 3 books in possession at one time

E-Messages:

  1. Register at GTL ConnectNetwork
  2. Purchase message credits
  3. Compose message (character limits apply)
  4. Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
  5. Fees apply per message

All incoming mail is subject to inspection and may be rejected if it violates facility rules or poses security concerns. Rejected mail will be returned to sender with explanation or held as evidence if it contains contraband or evidence of criminal activity.

For questions regarding mail policies, contact the Durham County Detention Center at (919) 560-0910.

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