Madison County Inmate Search
How To Search for Inmate Records in Madison County in 2026
MadisonNYRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to inmate records in Madison County, New York. Members of the public may find data pertaining to current custody status, booking details, charges, bond information, and facility assignments. Record categories available through official and third-party sources include arrest records, jail rosters, court case information, and incarceration history. Access and completeness of records may vary depending on the custodial agency and the nature of the inquiry.
Records may be searched through official county and state resources, clerk offices, public access terminals, and online government tools. The following methods outline the primary channels through which inmate information is currently accessible.
1. County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
The Madison County Sheriff's Office maintains custody of individuals held at the county jail and publishes inmate roster information through its official web presence. Members of the public may access the Madison County Correction Division page to obtain information about the jail's operations and inmate population.
To conduct a search, members of the public should navigate to the official roster page, select a search type — by name, booking number, or date of booking — and enter the applicable criteria. Results display available inmate records, and selecting an individual record provides additional detail.
Information displayed in search results may include:
- Full legal name and aliases
- Booking photograph
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Bond type and bond amount
- Facility location and housing status
- Booking date
- Expected release date (where available)
The roster is updated on a regular basis; however, recent bookings may require several hours to appear in the online system. A mobile application is not currently offered for this search function.
Madison County Sheriff's Office — Correction Division North Court Street, Wampsville, NY 13163 Phone: (315) 366-2318 Correction Division — Madison County, NY
2. State Department of Corrections Inmate Search (for State Prison)
Individuals who have been convicted and sentenced to a term exceeding one year are transferred from county jail to a New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) facility. The DOCCS Incarcerated Lookup tool allows members of the public to search for individuals currently or formerly held in a state correctional facility.
To conduct a search, the user enters the individual's first name, last name, or DOCCS identification number. Results include the individual's current facility, sentence information, projected release date, and parole eligibility data where applicable. Information on formerly incarcerated individuals is also available through this tool.
The distinction between county jail and state prison is significant: county facilities house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of one year or less, while state facilities house those serving longer post-conviction sentences. Transfer from county to state custody typically occurs within several weeks of sentencing, though timelines vary.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator (for Federal Inmates)
Individuals charged with federal offenses are held in facilities operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), not in county or state institutions. The BOP Inmate Locator is the appropriate resource when an individual is believed to be in federal custody. The locator provides the individual's current facility, projected release date, and register number. This tool is available at no cost and requires no registration.
Phone Search:
Members of the public may contact the Madison County Sheriff's Office directly at (315) 366-2318 to request inmate status information. Staff can confirm current custody status, facility location, and scheduled court dates. Callers should have the individual's full legal name and date of birth available. The office is staffed during regular business hours, Monday through Friday.
In-Person Inquiry:
Members of the public may visit the Madison County Sheriff's Office in person to request inmate information. Government-issued photo identification is required. Staff at the front desk can confirm custody status and provide basic booking information.
Madison County Sheriff's Office North Court Street, Wampsville, NY 13163 Phone: (315) 366-2318 Madison County Sheriff's Office
By Mail:
Written requests for inmate information may be directed to the Madison County Sheriff's Office at the address above. Requests should include the full legal name of the individual, date of birth, and the specific information sought. Processing times vary based on the nature and volume of requests received.
Search Tips:
- Use the individual's full legal name as it appears on official documents
- Try name variations, including nicknames and maiden names
- Include the date of birth to narrow results
- Search by booking number if that information is available
- Check both current and recently released inmate records
- Allow several hours for recent bookings to appear in the online system
- Individuals who have been transferred may not appear in the county roster
What If You Cannot Find an Inmate:
- The individual may have been transferred to a state prison — search the DOCCS Incarcerated Lookup
- The individual may be in federal custody — search the BOP Inmate Locator
- The individual may have been released
- The individual may be held in another county's jurisdiction
- A recent booking may not yet be reflected in the online system
- Name spelling variations may affect search results
- Contact the jail directly at (315) 366-2318 for confirmation
Are Inmate Records Public in Madison County?
Inmate records maintained by the Madison County Sheriff's Office are subject to public disclosure under New York's Freedom of Information Law, codified at New York Public Officers Law § 87. Under current law, government agencies are required to make records available to the public upon request, subject to specific exemptions. Inmate records, including booking information, charges, and custody status, are treated as public records accessible to any member of the public without a demonstrated need or legal standing.
Information That Is Public:
- Current inmate roster and population data
- Booking information, including date and arresting agency
- Criminal charges and charge descriptions
- Bond and bail amounts
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Expected release date (where available)
- Scheduled court dates
Information With Restricted Access:
- Medical records and health conditions
- Mental health evaluations and treatment information
- Prescription medication records
- Detailed disciplinary records (may be withheld)
- Visitor contact lists (may be restricted)
- Confidential informant status
- Juvenile detention records
- Witness protection participant information
- Specific cell assignments for security purposes
Why Inmate Records Are Public:
The public availability of inmate records serves several recognized governmental interests. Government transparency requires that the public have access to information about individuals held in publicly funded facilities. Public safety considerations support the disclosure of custody status and charge information. Families and legal representatives rely on inmate records to locate individuals and coordinate legal proceedings. The bail bond industry depends on timely access to booking and bond information to fulfill its regulatory obligations.
Privacy Considerations:
New York law recognizes a balance between the public's right to access government records and the privacy interests of individuals. Pursuant to New York Public Officers Law § 89, agencies may withhold records that, if disclosed, would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. Medical, mental health, and certain administrative records fall within this protected category. The release of inmate records may carry consequences for individuals' employment prospects and family relationships, and agencies are directed to apply exemptions with care.
As the New York Committee on Open Government has stated, "The Freedom of Information Law is based upon a presumption of access. Stated differently, all records of an agency are available, except to the extent that records or portions thereof fall within one or more grounds for denial."
What Is Inmate Records in Madison County?
Inmate records are official government documents created and maintained by correctional authorities to document the custody, charges, legal status, and administrative classification of individuals held in detention. These records serve as the authoritative source of information regarding an individual's incarceration history and current custodial status. In Madison County, inmate records are created at the point of booking and updated throughout the period of custody.
The Madison County Sheriff's Office, through its Correction Division, serves as the official custodian of records for individuals held at the county jail. The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision maintains records for individuals held in state facilities.
The principal categories of inmate records include:
- Booking records: Created at the time of arrest and intake, documenting the individual's identity, charges, and initial custody information
- Custody records: Ongoing documentation of an individual's housing status, classification, and movements within the facility
- Incarceration history: A cumulative record of all prior bookings and periods of custody within the jurisdiction
- Release records: Documentation of the circumstances and date of an individual's release from custody, including the basis for release
The distinction between county jail records and state prison records is significant for research purposes. County jail records pertain to individuals held pre-trial or serving sentences of one year or less. State prison records, maintained by DOCCS, pertain to individuals serving longer post-conviction sentences. Federal prison records, maintained by the Bureau of Prisons, pertain to individuals convicted of federal offenses.
What's Included in Inmate Records in Madison County
Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Inmate or booking number
- Date of birth and age
- Sex and gender
- Race and ethnicity
- Height, weight, and physical description
- Booking photograph
- Identifying marks, scars, and tattoos
Custody Information:
- Current facility location
- Housing unit or cell block (subject to security restrictions)
- Custody date and booking date
- Expected release date (if available)
- Actual release date (following release)
- Custody status: in custody, released, or transferred
Charges and Legal Information:
- Current criminal charges
- Charge descriptions and statutory citations
- Case numbers
- Court jurisdiction
- Arrest date and arresting agency
- Warrant information
Bond and Bail Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Bond type: cash, surety, or no bond
- Bond status: posted or pending
- Bail bondsman information, where applicable
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates and hearing types
- Court location and division
- Attorney information, where available
Sentence Information (for sentenced inmates):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length and start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date, where applicable
- Good time credit calculations
Previous Custody History:
- Prior bookings within the county
- Previous charges and custody dates
Administrative Information:
- Security classification level
- Special housing designations
- Work assignments, where applicable
- Program participation records
What Is Not Typically Included in Public Records:
- Medical history and health conditions
- Mental health evaluations
- Prescription medication records
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Visitor contact information
- Inmate account balances
- Phone call logs
- Specific cell assignments
Madison County Prison System
The Madison County jail system is operated by the Madison County Sheriff's Office through its Correction Division. The division is responsible for the safe and secure housing of pre-trial detainees, sentenced misdemeanor offenders, and individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities. The facility operates under the oversight of the New York State Commission of Correction, which establishes minimum standards for county correctional facilities pursuant to New York Correction Law § 45.
As stated on the Madison County Correction Division's official page, the division's goals include "providing a safe and secure environment for staff and inmates, and offering programs that reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for successful reintegration into the community."
Administration:
The Correction Division operates under the authority of the Madison County Sheriff. Administrative inquiries may be directed to the Sheriff's Office at the address below.
Madison County Sheriff's Office — Correction Division North Court Street, Wampsville, NY 13163 Phone: (315) 366-2318 Correction Division — Madison County, NY
Facility Operations:
The facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals sentenced to terms of one year or less, and individuals awaiting transfer to state custody. Classification of inmates is conducted upon intake and determines housing assignments and program eligibility.
Inmate Services:
- Medical care provided on-site
- Mental health services and referrals
- Substance abuse programming
- Educational programs, including GED preparation
- Religious services and chaplaincy
- Library access and legal materials
- Recreation and physical activity
Reentry Programs:
The Correction Division offers pre-release planning services designed to assist individuals in transitioning back into the community. Services include coordination with community-based substance abuse treatment providers, housing referrals, and employment assistance.
Oversight and Accountability:
The New York State Commission of Correction conducts periodic inspections of county correctional facilities and publishes findings. Inmates may file grievances through the facility's internal grievance process, and unresolved complaints may be referred to the Commission.
Types of Correctional Facilities in Madison County
Madison County Jail
Madison County Jail North Court Street, Wampsville, NY 13163 Phone: (315) 366-2318 Correction Division — Madison County, NY
The Madison County Jail is the primary county correctional facility, operated by the Madison County Sheriff's Office. The facility houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced misdemeanor offenders, and felony holdovers awaiting transfer to state custody. The jail is classified as a medium-security facility and serves the adult population of Madison County.
Alternative Custody Programs
Home Detention and Electronic Monitoring
The Madison County Sheriff's Office administers an electronic monitoring program for eligible individuals. Eligibility is determined by the court and the Correction Division based on the nature of the offense, criminal history, and assessed risk level. Participants are required to remain at an approved residence and comply with all monitoring conditions.
Work Release
A work release program is available for eligible sentenced inmates, permitting participation in employment outside the facility during designated hours. Eligibility is subject to review by the Correction Division and approval by the court.
State Prison Facilities
Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to facilities operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. Members of the public may find an incarcerated individual at a correctional facility through the official NY.gov portal, which provides real-time information on current and certain former incarcerated individuals. State facilities are distinct from county jails in their population, programming, and administrative structure.
Federal Detention Facilities
Individuals charged with federal offenses are held in facilities operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. No federal detention facility is currently located within Madison County. Members of the public seeking to locate a federally held individual should use the BOP Inmate Locator.
Facility Contact Information Summary:
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Madison County Jail | North Court Street, Wampsville, NY 13163 | (315) 366-2318 |
| DOCCS (State Prisons) | The Harriman State Campus, Albany, NY 12226 | (518) 457-8126 |
| Federal Bureau of Prisons | 320 First St NW, Washington, DC 20534 | (202) 307-3198 |
How To Find an Inmate in Madison County for Free?
All primary inmate search resources available through official government channels are provided at no cost to members of the public.
1. Official County Inmate Roster
The Madison County Sheriff's Office publishes a current inmate roster that is accessible without registration or payment. The roster includes current inmates, booking information, charges, bond amounts, facility location, and booking photographs. The roster is updated on a regular basis throughout the day.
2. State Department of Corrections Free Search
The DOCCS Incarcerated Lookup provides free access to information on individuals currently or formerly held in New York State correctional facilities. Historical incarceration data is available for formerly incarcerated individuals as well as those currently in custody.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
The BOP Inmate Locator provides free access to information on individuals held in federal custody, including current facility, projected release date, and register number.
4. Court Records Search
Members of the public may search court records through the New York State Unified Court System to verify custody status through associated case filings. Court records may reflect upcoming hearing dates and case dispositions.
Free Phone Information:
Members of the public may call (315) 366-2318 to request basic inmate status information at no charge. Staff can confirm current custody status and facility location during regular business hours.
Free In-Person Search:
Members of the public may visit the Madison County Sheriff's Office during business hours to request inmate information. No fee is charged for basic information provided at the front desk. Public access terminals may be available for self-service searches.
What Is Free vs. What Costs Money:
The following services are provided at no cost:
- Online inmate roster search
- Current custody status inquiry
- Basic booking information
- Phone inquiry for basic information
- In-person information at the front desk
The following services involve fees:
- Depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account
- Video visitation services
- Phone calls placed by inmates to outside parties
- Commissary orders placed on behalf of an inmate
- Certified copies of booking records
- Comprehensive background check reports
Scam Warning:
Members of the public are advised to use only official government websites when searching for inmate information. Numerous commercial websites charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official sources. Verified government websites carry a .gov domain extension. Payment should not be made to any third-party service for basic inmate location or custody status information.