Niagara County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Niagara County?
Inmate records in Niagara County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Niagara County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been detained, arrested, or incarcerated. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals throughout their involvement with the county's correctional system, from initial booking through release.
Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, county sheriffs are responsible for maintaining accurate records of all persons committed to their custody. These records differ significantly from court records, which document legal proceedings and are maintained by the judicial system. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations, inmate records specifically document an individual's physical custody status and conditions of confinement.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge information are collected. Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Medical treatments
- Visitation logs
- Program participation
- Court appearances
- Classification status changes
Upon an inmate's release, records are updated to reflect discharge information but are retained according to New York State Archives Schedule CO-2 retention requirements, which typically mandate preservation for a minimum of 10 years after release.
The Niagara County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in county correctional facilities.
Are Inmate Records Public In Niagara County?
Inmate records in Niagara County are partially accessible to the public under the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified in Public Officers Law Article 6, §§ 84-90. This law establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate information, should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by statute.
The publicly accessible portions of inmate records typically include:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
- Primary charges
- Booking date
- Facility location
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (if determined)
- Bail/bond amounts
However, significant portions of inmate records remain confidential under various exemptions to protect privacy, security, and law enforcement interests. According to Public Officers Law § 87(2), the following inmate information is generally not publicly accessible:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Security classification documents
- Personal identifying information (Social Security numbers, exact birth dates)
- Victim information
- Informant information
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
The Niagara County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides limited public information about current inmates. For more comprehensive record requests, members of the public must submit formal FOIL requests to the Sheriff's Office Records Division, which processes these requests in accordance with state law timeframes and exemptions.
What's Included Inmate Records in Niagara County
Inmate records in Niagara County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Date of birth (year publicly available, exact date restricted)
- Gender
- Assigned identification numbers (booking number, inmate ID)
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, held for other jurisdiction)
- Classification level
- Housing assignment
- Disciplinary incidents (restricted from public disclosure)
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Incident reports (partially restricted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond/bail type
- Bond/bail status
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders affecting custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time calculations
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
Release Information:
- Release date
- Release type (bail, sentence completion, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-f, correctional facilities must maintain detailed records of each inmate's property, funds, visitation, and correspondence, which also form part of the comprehensive inmate record but are subject to varying levels of confidentiality protection.
Niagara County Prison System
The Niagara County correctional system operates under the authority of the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the custody and care of individuals who are arrested, awaiting trial, or serving sentences of up to one year. This local correctional system is distinct from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), which manages state prisons housing individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.
The cornerstone of the Niagara County correctional system is the Niagara County Jail, which serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice framework:
- Pre-trial detention for individuals awaiting court proceedings
- Incarceration for individuals serving sentences of up to one year
- Temporary holding for individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Housing for individuals held on immigration detainers
- Detention for parole and probation violators
The Sheriff's Office Corrections Division operates under the guidelines established by the New York State Commission of Correction, which sets minimum standards for county jails throughout the state.
Niagara County Sheriff's Office
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094
(716) 438-3370
Niagara County Sheriff's Office
The Niagara County correctional system works in conjunction with other criminal justice agencies, including the Niagara County Probation Department, District Attorney's Office, Public Defender's Office, and the courts to manage the flow of individuals through the criminal justice process.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Niagara County
Niagara County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security requirements. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Niagara County Jail
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094
(716) 438-3370
Niagara County Jail
The Niagara County Jail serves as the primary detention facility for the county, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. This medium-security facility includes:
- General population housing units
- Special management units
- Medical housing
- Intake/booking area
- Visitation facilities
- Program spaces for educational and rehabilitative services
Niagara County Correctional Facility
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094
(716) 438-3370
Niagara County Correctional Facility
This facility operates as an extension of the main jail, typically housing:
- Minimum and medium-security sentenced inmates
- Work release program participants
- Inmates in specialized treatment programs
Niagara County Juvenile Detention Center
1001 11th Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14301
(716) 278-8500
Niagara County Juvenile Detention
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders who are awaiting adjudication or placement. The facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities, with an emphasis on:
- Educational programming
- Rehabilitative services
- Family involvement
- Age-appropriate supervision and housing
In addition to these county-operated facilities, Niagara County coordinates with several state-operated facilities located within or near the county:
Orleans Correctional Facility
3531 Gaines Basin Road
Albion, NY 14411
(585) 589-6820
Orleans Correctional Facility
This medium-security state prison, while located in neighboring Orleans County, houses many offenders from Niagara County serving sentences longer than one year.
Who's in Prison In Niagara County
The Niagara County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted constitute approximately 60% of the jail population. These individuals are detained because:
- They could not afford to post bail
- They were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
- They are awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
- They violated conditions of pre-trial release
Sentenced Inmates: Approximately 35% of the population consists of individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of up to one year. These include:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanors
- Individuals convicted of certain non-violent felonies
- Individuals serving split sentences (partial incarceration followed by probation)
- Individuals serving intermittent sentences (weekends only)
Specialized Populations: The remaining 5% includes:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held for other jurisdictions under inter-agency agreements
- Probation and parole violators awaiting hearings
According to data from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, the average daily population of Niagara County correctional facilities fluctuates between 300-400 inmates, with demographic patterns reflecting:
- Approximately 80% male and 20% female inmates
- Disproportionate representation of racial and ethnic minorities
- Significant prevalence of substance use disorders
- High rates of mental health conditions
- Varying educational backgrounds, with many lacking high school diplomas
The length of stay varies considerably, from less than 24 hours for individuals who quickly post bail to one year for those serving maximum sentences at the county level.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Niagara County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Niagara County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide varying levels of detail depending on the requester's relationship to the inmate and the specific information sought.
Online Inmate Lookup:
- Visit the Niagara County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" or "Jail Information" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically name or booking number)
- Review the basic information provided, which generally includes:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Primary charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Record Requests:
-
Visit the Niagara County Sheriff's Office Records Division during business hours: Niagara County Sheriff's Office Records Division
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(716) 438-3370 -
Complete a records request form, providing:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate dates of incarceration
- Specific records requested
- Requester's contact information
- Relationship to the inmate (if applicable)
-
Present valid government-issued photo identification
Written FOIL Requests:
-
Prepare a written request citing the New York Freedom of Information Law
-
Include specific details about the records sought
-
Submit the request via mail, email, or fax to: Niagara County Sheriff's Office FOIL Officer
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094
Email: sheriff.foil@niagaracounty.gov
Fax: (716) 438-3376 -
Allow up to five business days for an acknowledgment and up to 20 business days for a response
New York State Department of Corrections Lookup: For individuals who have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision inmate lookup
- Enter the individual's name or Department Identification Number (DIN)
- Review the information provided about current state custody status
Requesters should note that certain information remains confidential under Public Officers Law § 87(2) and may require court orders or specific authorization for release.
How To Find an Inmate in Niagara County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Niagara County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to family members, legal representatives, and members of the public.
Niagara County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Niagara County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review results showing current inmates only
- Information provided typically includes:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Primary charges
- Bond amount
- Next court date
Telephone Inquiry System:
- Call the Niagara County Jail information line at (716) 438-3370
- Follow the automated prompts or request to speak with the records division
- Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
- Basic custody status information will be provided verbally
- Available 24 hours a day, though detailed information may only be available during business hours
New York State Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE):
- Visit the NY-VINE website or call 1-888-846-3469
- Enter the inmate's name
- Receive information about custody status in both county and state facilities
- Register for automated notifications about changes in custody status
- Available in multiple languages
In-Person Inquiry:
-
Visit the Niagara County Jail during regular business hours: Niagara County Jail
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094
Lobby Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, seven days a week -
Provide the name of the individual to the reception officer
-
Receive basic custody information and visitation guidelines
New York State DOCCS Inmate Lookup: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the DOCCS Inmate Population Information Search
- Enter the individual's name
- Review custody status, facility location, and earliest release date information
These free resources provide basic custody information, though they may not include comprehensive details about charges, case status, or release dates for pre-trial detainees. For more detailed information, formal records requests may be necessary.
How To Visit an Inmate In Niagara County
Visitation with inmates at Niagara County correctional facilities follows structured protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with established rules and procedures.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may add or remove visitors by submitting internal request forms
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or on active probation/parole may be denied entry
- Former inmates must receive special approval and wait 90 days after release before visiting
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- No visits on Mondays (facility maintenance day)
- Visits limited to 30 minutes when facility is at capacity
- Maximum of two adults and two children per visit
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medications needed during visit (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
- Up to $50 in cash for vending machines (coins and $1 bills only)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Outside food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Controlled substances or alcohol
- Letters, photos, or documents for inmates (must be mailed)
Dress Code:
- No revealing clothing (shorts/skirts must reach knees when seated)
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or low-cut tops
- No see-through or tight-fitting clothing
- No clothing with offensive language/images
- No gang-affiliated colors or symbols
- No uniforms resembling staff attire
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Contact Visits: Available for general population inmates, allowing limited physical contact
- Non-Contact Visits: Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
- Professional Visits: Separate accommodations for attorneys, clergy, and service providers
- Video Visitation: Available for certain housing units and special circumstances
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Visitors attempting to pass contraband face criminal prosecution
- Three missed scheduled visits in 30 days results in 30-day suspension
- Visitation privileges may be restricted based on inmate disciplinary status
All visitation policies are subject to modification under New York Correction Law § 500-j and facility administrative directives. For current information, contact the Niagara County Jail Visitation Office at (716) 438-3376.
How To Send Money to a Niagara County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Niagara County correctional facilities have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "New York" and "Niagara County Jail"
- Enter inmate information and payment details
- Processing fees: $2.95 for deposits up to $50; $3.95 for deposits $50.01-$100; $4.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
- Funds typically available within 1-24 hours
-
Lobby Kiosk:
- Available in the jail lobby during visiting hours
- Touch-screen system accepts cash, credit, and debit cards
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum deposit: $300.00 per transaction
- Processing fee: $2.50 per transaction
- Funds available immediately
-
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase money order from U.S. Post Office or authorized vendor
- Make payable to "Niagara County Jail" with inmate's name and ID number in memo line
- Mail to:
Niagara County Jail Inmate Accounts
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094 - No processing fee
- Funds typically available within 3-5 business days after receipt
-
Phone Deposits:
- Call 1-866-345-1884
- Follow automated prompts
- Higher processing fees apply ($6.95-$10.95 based on amount)
- Funds available within 1-24 hours
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00 (all methods)
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposits per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposits per inmate: $1,500.00
Transaction Fees:
- Fees vary by deposit method and amount
- Money orders have no fees but longer processing times
- Online and kiosk methods have convenience fees ranging from $2.50-$4.95
- Phone deposits carry the highest fees ($6.95-$10.95)
Prohibited Funding Sources:
- Funds from other inmates or their families
- Funds from victims of the inmate's offense
- Funds from individuals with active protection orders against the inmate
- Funds derived from illegal activities
- Funds from unidentified sources
Authorized Uses of Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls and video visits
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Restitution and court-ordered payments
Restricted Uses:
- Cannot be used for bail or bond payments
- Cannot be transferred to other inmates
- Cannot be used for outside purchases
- Cannot be used for special privileges
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and reported to appropriate authorities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Niagara County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Niagara County correctional facilities follows strict guidelines to maintain security while supporting important connections with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with established regulations.
General Mail Guidelines:
-
All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Facility name and address:
Niagara County Jail
5526 Niagara Street Extension
Lockport, NY 14094 - Sender's full name and complete return address on envelope
-
Standard mail processing times:
- Regular mail: 24-48 hours after receipt
- Legal/privileged mail: 24 hours after receipt
- Mail without proper addressing may be returned to sender
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (must be separate from letters)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
- Newspaper clippings (maximum 5 per envelope)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind (must be sent through approved vendors only)
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps inside the envelope
- Crayon, marker, colored pencil, or glitter writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Plastic or laminated items
- Cash or personal checks
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Threatening or harassing content
- Escape plans or contraband instructions
- Unused stationery, stamps, or envelopes
Legal/Privileged Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Privileged Correspondence"
- Must be from licensed attorney, court, or government agency
- Will be opened in inmate's presence to inspect for contraband only
- Contents will not be read by staff
- Send to same address with "LEGAL MAIL" prominently displayed
Electronic Messaging: Niagara County Jail offers secure electronic messaging through:
- Visit GTL ConnectNetwork
- Create an account and purchase message credits
- Compose message (character limits apply)
- Attach up to 2 photos per message (additional fees apply)
- Submit for review (all messages screened before delivery)
- Fees: $0.25 per message, $0.50 per photo attachment
Publications and Books:
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Soft-cover books only (hardcover prohibited)
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Subject to content review
- Approved vendors include Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books Through Bars
All mail procedures comply with New York Correction Law § 500-c and facility directives. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges.