Luzerne County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Luzerne County?
Inmate records in Luzerne County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities that chronicle an individual's incarceration history. These comprehensive records document the custody, care, and control of persons remanded to correctional supervision within Luzerne County's jurisdiction. Pursuant to Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law, these records constitute official documentation of government operations.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations maintained by the judicial system, inmate records specifically document the physical custody and daily management of incarcerated individuals. The Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas maintains case files, whereas the Luzerne County Division of Corrections maintains custody records.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes behavioral incidents, program participation, and visitation
- Records are administratively closed upon release, though maintained according to retention schedules
Under § 9102 of Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, inmate records are defined as official documentation pertaining to individuals in custody, subject to specific disclosure provisions and privacy protections.
Are Inmate Records Public In Luzerne County?
Inmate records in Luzerne County are partially accessible to the public under Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. §§ 67.101-67.3104). This statute establishes the presumption that government records are public unless specifically exempted by law, court order, or privilege. However, correctional records are subject to specific limitations outlined in § 67.708(b)(16) of the Right-to-Know Law.
The following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently incarcerated)
- Basic booking information (date of intake, facility location)
- Charges filed (public criminal charges, not sealed or juvenile matters)
- Mugshot photographs (subject to law enforcement discretion)
- Bond/bail amounts as set by the court
- Scheduled release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility
Certain information is explicitly exempt from public disclosure:
- Medical, psychiatric, and psychological records
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Records that could threaten an individual's personal safety
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records protected by other statutes or court orders
The Luzerne County Division of Corrections maintains these records in accordance with state law and county policies governing records retention and disclosure.
What's Included Inmate Records in Luzerne County
Inmate records in Luzerne County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Assigned inmate identification number
- Fingerprints and biometric data
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Booking officer information
- Custody classification level
- Housing assignment within facility
- Disciplinary incidents and outcomes
- Program participation and work assignments
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Arresting agency and officer
- Incident reports related to arrest
- Court docket numbers
- Charge disposition (pending, convicted, dismissed)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount set by court
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond payment status
- Bond hearing dates and outcomes
Court Information:
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case numbers and docket information
- Court orders affecting custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Length of sentence
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/earned time calculations
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time
- Type of release (completed sentence, bail, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in accordance with Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Policy 1.1.4 regarding inmate record management and retention.
Luzerne County Prison System
The Luzerne County prison system operates under the authority of the Luzerne County Division of Corrections, which is responsible for the secure confinement and rehabilitation of individuals remanded to county custody. The system primarily serves two distinct populations: pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings and sentenced offenders serving terms of incarceration up to two years less one day, as prescribed by Pennsylvania law.
It is important to distinguish between county and state correctional facilities. The Luzerne County prison system handles local offenders with shorter sentences, while the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections manages state facilities housing individuals with longer sentences, typically felony convictions exceeding two years. This bifurcated approach to corrections is established under 61 Pa.C.S. § 1762.
The primary facility within the Luzerne County prison system is:
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
(570) 825-1701
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
The facility operates under the administrative oversight of the Luzerne County Manager and is governed by policies established by the Luzerne County Council in accordance with state regulations for county correctional institutions.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Luzerne County
Luzerne County maintains several correctional facilities designed to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Luzerne County Correctional Facility (Main Facility)
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
(570) 825-1701
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
This maximum/medium security facility serves as the primary detention center for Luzerne County, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility provides various rehabilitative programs, medical services, and educational opportunities for inmates.
Luzerne County Minimal Offenders Building
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
(570) 825-1701
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
This minimum security facility houses non-violent offenders and work release participants. Inmates at this facility typically have demonstrated good behavior and pose minimal security risks.
Luzerne County Day Reporting Center
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
(570) 825-1701
Luzerne County Day Reporting Center
This non-residential facility provides supervision and services for offenders who do not require secure confinement but need structured oversight. Participants report regularly for drug testing, counseling, and other mandated programs while residing in the community.
These facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations for county correctional institutions as outlined in 37 Pa. Code § 95.
Who's in Prison In Luzerne County
The Luzerne County correctional facilities house several categories of individuals under various legal statuses. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not been granted or cannot afford bail
- Persons charged with crimes deemed too serious for release
- Those who present flight risks or dangers to the community
- Individuals who have violated conditions of pre-trial release
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons serving sentences of up to two years less one day for misdemeanors
- Individuals convicted of certain non-violent felonies with shorter sentences
- Offenders serving partial confinement sentences (weekends only)
- Those participating in work release programs while completing sentences
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities
- Persons held on probation or parole violations
- Those temporarily detained on court orders
- Individuals serving contempt of court sentences
Other Categories:
- Persons held on detainers from other jurisdictions
- Individuals awaiting extradition proceedings
- Those serving sentences for technical violations of supervision
According to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, approximately 60% of county jail inmates are pre-trial detainees, while the remaining 40% are serving sentences. The average length of stay for sentenced inmates is approximately 6 months, though this varies based on offense severity and individual circumstances.
The demographic composition of the Luzerne County inmate population generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals and those with substance use disorders or mental health challenges.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Luzerne County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Luzerne County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate data while protecting sensitive information in accordance with state law.
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Luzerne County Correctional Facility website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
- Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or inmate ID number
- Review the search results, which typically display basic information including:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Records Department at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Complete a Record Request Form, available at the facility
- Provide proper identification (government-issued photo ID required)
- Specify the exact records being requested
- Pay applicable fees for document reproduction (currently $0.25 per page)
- Allow processing time as required by Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law
Written Requests:
- Submit a formal written request to:
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
Records Department
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
-
Include in your request:
- Full name of the inmate
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate dates of incarceration
- Specific records requested
- Your contact information
- Purpose of request (may be required for certain records)
-
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
-
Allow up to 5 business days for processing as required under 65 P.S. § 67.901
All requests are subject to review to ensure compliance with privacy laws and security protocols before release.
How To Find an Inmate in Luzerne County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Luzerne County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information while maintaining appropriate security and privacy safeguards.
Luzerne County Inmate Locator:
The primary resource for locating inmates in Luzerne County is the online inmate search tool:
- Access the Luzerne County Correctional Facility website
- Select the "Inmate Lookup" function
- Enter the inmate's last name (required)
- Optionally enter first name for more precise results
- Review the list of current inmates matching search criteria
- Information typically displayed includes:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current housing status
- Scheduled court dates
- Projected release date (if sentenced)
Telephone Inquiry:
For those without internet access, basic inmate location information can be obtained by telephone:
- Contact the Luzerne County Correctional Facility at (570) 825-1701
- Request the Records Department or Inmate Information
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the inmate
- Basic custody status information may be provided verbally
- Call during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System:
For inmates with active court cases, the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal provides case information that may indicate custody status:
- Visit the UJS Portal
- Select "Common Pleas Court Case Search"
- Choose "Luzerne County" from the dropdown menu
- Enter the individual's name
- Review case information, which often includes custody status
In-Person Verification:
Individuals may verify an inmate's presence at the facility by visiting during regular business hours:
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Front desk staff can confirm whether an individual is currently in custody, though detailed information may require formal records requests.
These free resources provide basic location information in accordance with Pennsylvania's Criminal History Record Information Act, which governs the dissemination of criminal justice information.
How To Visit an Inmate In Luzerne County
Visitation with inmates at Luzerne County correctional facilities is governed by established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with these regulations to be permitted entry.
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 processed on the 1st and 15th of each month
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult
- Maximum of two adults and two children permitted per visit
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Former inmates must receive special approval and wait 6 months after release
Visit Schedule:
Visitation hours at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility are organized by housing unit:
- A-Block: Monday and Thursday, 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- B-Block: Tuesday and Friday, 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- C-Block: Wednesday and Saturday, 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- Minimal Offenders Building: Sunday, 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time for processing.
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitor's pass (issued at check-in)
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medications needed during visit (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $50 (for vending machines)
- Letters, photos, or items for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short skirts/shorts, see-through materials)
- No clothing resembling inmate attire (solid orange, tan, or white)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or halter tops
- Shoes required (no flip-flops or open-toed footwear)
- No hats, hoods, or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for minimum security inmates and special circumstances
- Non-contact visits: Standard visitation through glass partition with telephone
- Professional visits: Attorneys, clergy, and approved service providers
- Video visitation: Available through the GTL VisitMe system
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior results in immediate termination of visit
- Visitors with active warrants or pending criminal charges may be denied
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
- All visits are subject to monitoring except privileged attorney visits
These regulations are established pursuant to 37 Pa. Code § 95.233, which governs visitation policies in county correctional facilities.
How To Send Money to a Luzerne County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Luzerne County correctional facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These systems are designed to maintain security while providing convenient options for family and friends.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the GTL ConnectNetwork
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Luzerne County Correctional Facility"
- Enter inmate information (name and ID number)
- Follow prompts to complete payment via credit/debit card
- Processing fees apply (currently 3.5% of deposit amount)
-
Lobby Kiosk
- Available in the main lobby of the Luzerne County Correctional Facility
- Accessible during regular business hours (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, 7 days a week)
- Touch-screen system accepts cash, credit, and debit cards
- Receipt provided for all transactions
- Lower fee structure than online deposits (flat $2.00 fee)
-
Money Order by Mail
- Send money orders (no personal checks) to:
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
Inmate Accounts Department
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702- Make payable to the inmate with their ID number
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No processing fees for money orders
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing
Amount Limits:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
- Maximum monthly deposit total: $1,500
- Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
- Special approval required for larger deposits
Transaction Fees:
- Online deposits: 3.5% of deposit amount
- Lobby kiosk (cash): $2.00 flat fee
- Lobby kiosk (credit/debit): $2.00 plus 2.5% of deposit amount
- Money orders: No fee
- All fees are subject to change and are set by the service provider, not Luzerne County
Prohibited Items:
- Personal checks are not accepted
- Cash sent through mail will be returned to sender
- Third-party checks cannot be processed
- Cashier's checks from non-banking institutions
- Money from unidentified sources
Authorized Fund Uses:
Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Restitution and court costs (may be automatically deducted)
Funds cannot be used for:
- Contraband purchases
- Payments to other inmates
- Staff gratuities
- Outside purchases beyond approved vendors
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with 61 Pa.C.S. § 1102, which governs inmate welfare funds in Pennsylvania correctional facilities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Luzerne County
Correspondence with inmates at Luzerne County correctional facilities must adhere to specific guidelines established to maintain security and efficient mail processing. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection, with the exception of privileged legal correspondence.
General Mail Guidelines:
- All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
- Address envelopes clearly with inmate's full name and ID number:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Luzerne County Correctional Facility
99 Water Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Handwritten or typed letters must be on plain white, lined, or unlined paper
- Envelopes must be standard white or manila
- Letters may not exceed 10 pages per envelope
- All mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
Permitted Items:
- Personal letters on plain paper
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope)
- Photos must be 4"x6" or smaller
- No Polaroid or self-developing photos
- No sexually explicit or gang-related images
- Money orders (properly addressed to inmate with ID number)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Religious materials (subject to review by chaplain)
- Legal documents from attorneys or courts
Prohibited Items:
- Packages of any kind (must be sent through approved vendors only)
- Cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Stamps, envelopes, or blank paper
- Stickers, labels, tape, or adhesives
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented papers
- Cardboard or hardened materials
- Newspaper or magazine clippings
- Photos with borders or frames
- Plastic or laminated items
- Food items or contraband of any kind
Publications and Books:
Books, magazines, and publications must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor such as:
Publications are subject to content review and may be rejected if they contain:
- Instructions for manufacturing weapons or drugs
- Sexually explicit material
- Content advocating violence or criminal activity
- Material deemed to present a security threat
Legal Mail:
Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and include the sender's bar registration number or official letterhead. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate to verify absence of contraband while maintaining confidentiality of contents.
These mail procedures are established in accordance with 37 Pa. Code § 95.234, which governs inmate mail privileges in county correctional facilities.