Minnesota Inmate Search

Are Inmate Records Public in Minnesota?

Yes, inmate records in Minnesota are public. According to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, all government records, including inmate records, are accessible to the public unless specifically classified as non-public or confidential. However, certain information may be exempted from inmate records, such as medical records, attorney-client communications, and other sensitive information that could jeopardize the safety or security of individuals involved.

How to Search for Inmate Records in Minnesota

Members of the public can search for inmate records in Minnesota by following these steps:

1. Visit the Minnesota Department of Corrections website at https://coms.doc.state.mn.us/PublicViewer.
2. Click on the "Public Viewer" link to access the inmate search tool.
3. Enter the inmate's first and last name or offender ID number, if known, in the search fields.
4. Click the "Search" button to retrieve the inmate's record.

Residents may also be able to obtain inmate records from the Minnesota Department of Corrections directly. For further assistance, individuals can contact the Minnesota Department of Corrections at:

Minnesota Department of Corrections 1450 Energy Park Drive, Suite 200, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55108 Phone: 651-361-7200

How Do I Send Money to an Inmate in Minnesota?

Sending money to an inmate in Minnesota is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Friends and families can send money to an inmate by using the online inmate lookup tool provided by the Minnesota Department of Corrections. This tool allows users to search for the inmate and access their account information.
2. Once the inmate is located through the inmate lookup tool, follow the instructions provided to deposit money into their account.
3. Alternatively, money orders can be sent through mail directly to the correctional facility where the inmate is housed. Make sure to include the inmate's full name and offender ID number on the money order.
4. The maximum amount that can be sent to an inmate in Minnesota may vary. It is advisable to check with the correctional facility or the Minnesota Department of Corrections for specific limits.

For more information on how to send money to an inmate in Minnesota, please visit the Minnesota Department of Corrections website.

How do I Find an Inmate in Minnesota for Free?

To find an inmate in Minnesota for free, individuals can conduct an inmate search using various sources of information. These may include the inmate's full name, date of birth, or offender ID number. Online inmate search tools provided by the Minnesota Department of Corrections can be utilized for this purpose. It is important to note that while the search itself may be free, obtaining detailed inmate records or additional information may require a fee. It is also possible to obtain inmate records directly from the correctional facility, but fees or restrictions may apply.

How to Visit an Inmate in Minnesota

When visiting an inmate in Minnesota, friends and families should follow these steps:

1. Check the inmate lookup tool provided by the Minnesota Department of Corrections to find the correct facility where the inmate is housed.
2. Contact the facility to inquire about visitation rules, schedules, and any specific requirements.
3. Plan the visit accordingly and ensure compliance with all rules and regulations, such as dress codes, identification requirements, and prohibited items.
4. Visitors are required to meet certain rules, which may include passing a background check, providing valid identification, and adhering to specific visitation hours. For example, some facilities may require visitors to schedule appointments in advance.

For more information on visiting an inmate in Minnesota, including specific rules and guidelines, please visit the Minnesota Department of Corrections website.

Types of Correctional Facilities in Minnesota

Correctional facilities in Minnesota include prisons, jails, and juvenile detention centers. These facilities are designed to house individuals who have been convicted of crimes or are awaiting trial. Prisons are long-term correctional institutions where individuals serve sentences for serious offenses. Jails, on the other hand, are short-term facilities that hold individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for less serious offenses. Juvenile detention centers are specifically for individuals under the age of 18 who have committed offenses. Each type of facility serves a different purpose within the criminal justice system, with the goal of maintaining public safety and facilitating rehabilitation.