About New York City Department of Corrections
Use this website for informational purposes only.
The correctional system in New York State is a broad network of correctional facilities that handle the incarceration, rehabilitation, and parole of individuals who have been convicted of criminal offenses. The system encompasses a range of institutions, including state prisons, county jails, and city jails, each serving a unique role in the state's efforts to maintain law and order.
The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) oversees the state correctional facilities and parole system, while county and city jails are managed by their respective local governments. Additionally, federal prisons in New York are under the jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP).
Types of Correctional Institutions in New York State
State Prisons: State prisons in New York are overseen by the DOCCS. These facilities house individuals who have been convicted of felonies and sentenced to more than one year in prison. Some of the well-known state prisons include Sing Sing, Attica, and Clinton Correctional Facilities.
County Jails: County jails typically hold defendants awaiting trial or sentencing, or individuals convicted of misdemeanors and sentenced to less than one year. They are managed at the county level. Examples include the Monroe County Jail and the Erie County Holding Center.
City Jails: In New York State, the most notable city jail system is the New York City Department of Correction, which manages a network of jails including the Rikers Island complex. City jails typically hold defendants awaiting trial or sentencing, similar to county jails.
Federal Prisons: There are a few federal prisons in New York State, under the jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. These facilities house individuals convicted of federal crimes. Examples include Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City and Federal Correctional Institution, Ray Brook.
Inmate Search Options in New York State
For State Prisons:
Online: The DOCCS provides an Inmate Lookup service. You can use this tool to search for inmates by their DIN (Department Identification Number), or by their name and other personal information.
Offline: For those without online access, information about inmates can be obtained by contacting the DOCCS directly at (518) 457-5000.
For County Jails:
Each county jail in New York has different methods for inmate searches. Many offer online search tools on their respective websites. For example, Monroe County provides an Inmate Information page, while Erie County has an Inmate Lookup tool. If the county jail does not provide an online search, you can contact the county sheriff's office directly.
For City Jails:
Online: The New York City Department of Correction offers an Inmate Lookup Service where you can search for inmates using their Book and Case Number, or their name and other personal information.
Offline: You can also call the New York City Department of Correction at (718) 546-1500.
For Federal Prisons:
Online: The Federal Bureau of Prisons provides an Inmate Locator where you can search for inmates using their BOP Register Number, DCDC Number, FBI Number, or INS Number.
Offline: For those without internet access, information can be obtained by contacting the Federal Bureau of Prisons directly at (202) 307-3198.
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