Barnstable County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Barnstable County?
Inmate records in Barnstable County are official government documents maintained by the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office that chronicle an individual's incarceration history within the county correctional system. These records constitute comprehensive documentation of persons who are or have been in custody at Barnstable County correctional facilities. Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 127, § 2, correctional facilities are required to maintain detailed records of all persons committed to their custody.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and daily management of incarcerated individuals
- Court records are maintained by the Massachusetts Trial Court system
- Inmate records are maintained by the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual first enters custody. During this process, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, and record the legal basis for detention. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document.
The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state recordkeeping requirements and departmental policies.
Are Inmate Records Public In Barnstable County?
Inmate records in Barnstable County are partially accessible to the public under the Massachusetts Public Records Law, G.L. c. 66, § 10, which establishes the presumption that government records are public unless specifically exempted by law. However, access to inmate records is subject to certain limitations to protect privacy interests and security concerns.
The following inmate record information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking information (date and time of admission)
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshot photographs (with certain exceptions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
Certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure under G.L. c. 4, § 7(26)(c), which protects "personnel and medical files or information" and other materials relating to a specifically named individual, the disclosure of which would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. This typically includes:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Program participation details
- Victim information
- Security classification assessments
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic details through the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office inmate lookup system or by submitting a formal public records request for more detailed information.
What's Included Inmate Records in Barnstable County
Inmate records maintained by the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. 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 physical description
- Distinguishing marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Booking officer information
- Custody classification
- Housing assignment history
- Scheduled and actual release dates
- Release type (e.g., bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
Charge Information:
- Arresting agency
- Arrest date and location
- Criminal charges (including statute numbers)
- Case numbers
- Charge status (pending, convicted, dismissed)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bondsman information (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time credits
- Parole eligibility date
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (e.g., bail, sentence completion, transfer)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
- Post-release supervision requirements
The comprehensiveness of these records ensures proper management of the inmate population and provides necessary documentation for legal proceedings, administrative decisions, and public safety purposes.
Barnstable County Prison System
The Barnstable County correctional system operates under the authority of the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county's detention facilities. The system primarily consists of the Barnstable County Correctional Facility, which serves as the main detention center for the county. This facility houses both pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings and individuals serving sentences of up to 2.5 years for misdemeanors and certain felony convictions, as prescribed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 279, § 23.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Massachusetts:
- County jails (like Barnstable's facility) house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of 2.5 years or less
- State prisons, operated by the Massachusetts Department of Correction, house individuals serving sentences longer than 2.5 years for more serious offenses
The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office, which oversees the county's correctional operations, can be contacted at:
Barnstable County Sheriff's Office
6000 Sheriff's Place
Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 563-4300
Barnstable County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining the security of the facility, ensuring the safety of inmates and staff, providing necessary services to the inmate population, and facilitating rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Barnstable County
Barnstable County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around its primary facility. The county's correctional infrastructure includes:
Barnstable County Correctional Facility
6000 Sheriff's Place
Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 563-4300
Barnstable County Correctional Facility
This medium-security facility serves as the main detention center for Barnstable County. Constructed in 2004, it replaced the outdated Barnstable County House of Correction in Barnstable Village. The facility has a capacity of approximately 588 inmates and features modern security systems, medical facilities, and programming spaces. The design incorporates multiple housing units organized by classification level, allowing for appropriate separation of different inmate populations.
Barnstable County Community Corrections Center
770 Attucks Lane
Hyannis, MA 02601
Phone: (508) 375-6982
Community Corrections
While not a detention facility, this center provides supervision and services for individuals under court-ordered community corrections programs. It offers an alternative to incarceration for eligible offenders, providing substance abuse treatment, educational programs, and employment assistance under the supervision of the Sheriff's Office.
The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office also operates specialized units within these facilities, including:
- Pre-release unit for inmates nearing the end of their sentences
- Medical and mental health units for inmates requiring specialized care
- Segregation units for disciplinary cases and protective custody
- Educational and vocational training areas
- Substance abuse treatment programs
These facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Massachusetts Department of Correction and are subject to regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Who's in Prison In Barnstable County
The Barnstable County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals who fall into several distinct categories based on their legal status and the nature of their involvement with the criminal justice system. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
- Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- Individuals held on probation or parole violation warrants pending hearings
Sentenced Inmates:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of up to 2.5 years
- Individuals convicted of certain felonies with sentences of 2.5 years or less
- Those serving "split sentences" with a portion to be served in the county facility followed by probation
- Inmates transferred from state facilities who are nearing release and returning to Barnstable County
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals participating in court-ordered substance abuse treatment programs
- Persons in work release programs who leave the facility for employment during the day
- Inmates participating in educational or vocational training programs
- Those awaiting transfer to state facilities or other jurisdictions
According to data from the Massachusetts Department of Correction, the demographic composition of Barnstable County's inmate population generally reflects broader incarceration patterns in Massachusetts, with variations based on the county's specific demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.
The average daily population fluctuates based on seasonal factors, court activity, and law enforcement operations, but typically ranges between 300-400 inmates, which is below the facility's maximum capacity of 588. This allows for appropriate classification and housing assignments to maintain safety and security within the facility.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Barnstable County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently or previously incarcerated in Barnstable County have several methods available to access inmate records. The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office maintains systems for public access to certain inmate information in accordance with state public records laws.
Online Inmate Lookup:
- Visit the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" or "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or inmate ID number)
- Review the results, which generally include basic custody information, charges, and release date
- Note that the online system typically only displays current inmates, not historical records
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Barnstable County Correctional Facility at (508) 563-4300
- Request to speak with the records department or inmate information
- Provide the name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
- Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate and reason for inquiry
- Understand that certain information may not be provided over the telephone due to privacy and security concerns
Written Public Records Request:
- Prepare a written request specifying the information sought and the individual's identifying information
- Address the request to:
Barnstable County Sheriff's Office Records Department
6000 Sheriff's Place
Bourne, MA 02532
- Include your contact information for response
- Specify the format in which you wish to receive the records (paper copies, electronic files)
- Be aware that fees may apply for copying and staff time in accordance with Massachusetts Public Records Law
In-Person Request:
- Visit the Barnstable County Correctional Facility during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
- Bring government-issued photo identification
- Complete a records request form available at the facility
- Specify the information being requested
- Be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies of records
When requesting inmate records, it is important to note that response times may vary based on the complexity of the request and current workload of the records department. By law, agencies must respond to public records requests within 10 business days.
How To Find an Inmate in Barnstable County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Barnstable County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Barnstable County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Inmate Locator" section
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Facility location
- Expected release date
- Basic charge information
Massachusetts Inmate Search System:
- Visit the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security website
- Access the statewide inmate search function
- Enter the required search parameters
- Review results from all state and county facilities, including Barnstable County
Telephone Inquiry to Barnstable County Correctional Facility:
- Call the main facility number at (508) 563-4300
- Request basic inmate location information
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
- Receive confirmation of whether the person is in custody and basic status information
Court Docket Search:
- Access the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access system
- Search for the individual's criminal case
- Review docket entries, which often indicate custody status and location
- Note that this method provides case information rather than direct custody details
Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE):
- Visit VINELink or call 1-866-277-7477
- Register for the service (free of charge)
- Search for the inmate by name
- Receive custody status and location information
- Optionally register for notifications regarding changes in custody status
When using these free resources, it is important to have accurate identifying information about the individual being sought. Common names may return multiple results, requiring additional details such as date of birth or middle name to identify the correct person. Additionally, very recent bookings or releases may not be immediately reflected in online systems due to processing time.
How To Visit an Inmate In Barnstable County
Visitation at Barnstable County correctional facilities is governed by specific policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks. The following guidelines outline the current visitation procedures:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
- Changes to visitation lists are typically processed on the 1st and 15th of each month
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
- Visitors are subject to search upon entry to the facility
- Visitation may be terminated at any time for rule violations or security concerns
Visit Schedule:
- General population visitation occurs on designated days based on inmate housing unit
- Each inmate is typically allowed two 1-hour visits per week
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) occur during designated hours separate from social visits
- Special housing units may have modified visitation schedules
- Current schedules are available by calling (508) 563-4300 or visiting the facility website
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- Vehicle keys (limited to one key or fob)
- Medication required during visit (e.g., asthma inhaler, nitroglycerin)
- Up to $20 in cash for vending machines (in small bills)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one diaper, one bottle, one pacifier)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tools
- Electronic devices (cell phones, smartwatches, cameras, recording devices)
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Medications not required during visit
- Letters, messages, or any items for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops, see-through materials)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No uniforms resembling those worn by correctional staff
- No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Contact visits (general population)
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Special visits (approved by facility administration for exceptional circumstances)
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 12 months after release before visiting
- Persons on probation or parole must obtain written permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors with active warrants or pending criminal charges may be denied entry
- Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Visitors who have previously violated facility rules may have visitation privileges suspended
For the most current information on visitation policies and schedules, contact the Barnstable County Correctional Facility directly at (508) 563-4300 or visit the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office website. Visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations in accordance with 103 CMR 483: Inmate Visitation.
How To Send Money to a Barnstable County Inmate
The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. The following options are currently available:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in if you already have one
- Select "Massachusetts" and "Barnstable County Correctional Facility"
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number if available)
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of the deposit amount)
- Funds are usually available in the inmate's account within 24-48 hours
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Barnstable County Correctional Facility lobby during normal business hours
- Locate the automated kiosk machine
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use a credit/debit card
- Obtain and retain the receipt
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 1-2 hours
- Smaller service fees apply compared to online deposits
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from a post office, bank, or authorized retailer
- Make the money order payable to the inmate (full legal name and ID number)
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or business checks
- Mail the money order to:
Barnstable County Correctional Facility
Inmate Accounts Department
6000 Sheriff's Place
Bourne, MA 02532
- Include the sender's full name and return address on the envelope
- No service fees apply for money orders
- Processing typically takes 3-5 business days
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
- Special approval is required for deposits exceeding these limits
Deposit Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
- Lobby kiosk (cash): $2.00 flat fee
- Lobby kiosk (credit/debit): 3% of deposit amount
- Money orders: No fee
What the Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing, etc.)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging where available
- Educational materials
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments
- Release funds
What the Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Purchasing contraband
- Paying for services not approved by the facility
- Transferring funds to other inmates
- Paying for items prohibited by facility rules
- Bail or bond payments
All deposits are subject to review and may be held pending investigation if suspicious activity is detected. Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 127, § 3, a portion of incoming funds may be applied to any outstanding debts the inmate owes, including restitution, fees, and other financial obligations.
How To Send Jail Mail In Barnstable County
Correspondence with inmates at Barnstable County correctional facilities is subject to specific guidelines designed to maintain security while allowing for important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following procedures apply to sending mail to inmates:
General Correspondence:
- Address the envelope or package as follows:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number (if known)
Barnstable County Correctional Facility
6000 Sheriff's Place
Bourne, MA 02532
- Include a complete return address with your full name
- Use standard white envelopes for letters
- Write in blue or black ink only
- Do not use markers, crayons, colored pencils, or glitter
- Do not include stickers, labels, tape, or white-out on the envelope
- All incoming mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery to inmates
Permitted Items:
- Letters (limited to 10 pages per envelope)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
- Money orders (as described in the previous section)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Newspaper clippings (limited to 5 per envelope)
Prohibited Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Polaroid photographs
- Laminated items
- Cardboard or hardcover materials
- Adhesive labels or stickers
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Plastic or metal items
- Food or clothing items
- Illegal substances or contraband
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related materials
Legal Mail:
- Clearly mark "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" on the envelope
- Include your bar number if you are an attorney
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Legal mail must come directly from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies
Publications and Books:
- Books, magazines, and publications must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
- Hardcover books are not permitted
- Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
- Address packages as described above, with clear indication that the package contains publications
Electronic Messaging (where available):
- Create an account on the approved electronic messaging platform
- Add the inmate to your contact list using their full name and ID number
- Purchase messaging credits as needed
- Compose and send messages according to system guidelines
- Be aware that all electronic communications are monitored and recorded
- Attachments and photos may be subject to additional fees and restrictions
All mail is subject to inspection for contraband and content that violates facility rules or poses security concerns. Mail containing prohibited items or content will be rejected and may be returned to sender, destroyed, or held as evidence if it appears to violate the law. The Barnstable County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to restrict mail privileges for security reasons in accordance with 103 CMR 481: Inmate Mail.
For the most current mail policies, contact the Barnstable County Correctional Facility at (508) 563-4300 or visit the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office website.