Queens County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Queens County?
Inmate records in Queens County are official government documents that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously in custody within correctional facilities operated by the New York City Department of Correction (DOC). These records, also referred to as "custody records" or "jail records," document an individual's entire period of incarceration from initial booking through release.
Pursuant to New York Public Officers Law § 86, these records constitute public records maintained by a governmental entity. Inmate records are distinct from court records in that they focus specifically on an individual's custodial status rather than case proceedings. While courts maintain files related to charges, hearings, and legal decisions, correctional facilities document the physical custody and daily management of incarcerated persons.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where identifying information is collected and documented. Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Current housing location
- Disciplinary incidents
- Visitation logs
- Medical information (subject to privacy restrictions)
- Program participation
- Release planning
The New York City Department of Correction maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and applicable laws governing public records. Upon an individual's release, their inmate record is closed but typically retained according to established records retention policies.
Are Inmate Records Public In Queens County?
Inmate records in Queens County are partially accessible to the public under New York State's Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified in Public Officers Law Article 6. This law establishes the public's right to access government records with certain exceptions and limitations.
The New York City Department of Correction maintains a publicly accessible database that provides limited information about currently incarcerated individuals. According to Correction Law § 500-f, jail administrators must maintain records of all commitments and discharges, which forms the basis for public inmate information.
Information that is typically available to the public includes:
- Inmate name and identification number
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Scheduled court appearances
- Charges filed
- Bail/bond amount
- Expected release date (if determined)
However, certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure under FOIL exemptions, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Information that would endanger the life or safety of any person
- Information that would interfere with law enforcement investigations
- Personal information protected by privacy laws
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records beyond what is available in the online database may submit a FOIL request to the NYC Department of Correction Records Access Officer. Each request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
What's Included Inmate Records in Queens County
Inmate records in Queens County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's period of incarceration. These records are maintained by the New York City Department of Correction and typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Fingerprints
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Classification status
- Housing assignment
- Disciplinary records
- Program participation
- Visitation logs
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Warrant information
- Criminal history (as relevant to custody decisions)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount(s)
- Bond type
- Payment status
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court transport records
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- 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 (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole contact information (if applicable)
The NYC Department of Correction maintains these records in compliance with New York State Archives retention schedules and applicable laws governing correctional records.
Queens County Prison System
The Queens County correctional system operates as part of the larger New York City Department of Correction (DOC), which manages jail facilities across the five boroughs. Unlike many counties that maintain independent jail systems, Queens County's correctional facilities are integrated into the citywide system administered by the DOC.
The primary function of these facilities is to house individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of one year or less, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities. This differs from New York State prisons, operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, which house individuals serving sentences longer than one year.
The Queens Detention Complex, located in Kew Gardens, previously served as the main correctional facility for Queens County but has been closed as part of the city's plan to replace Rikers Island with borough-based jails. Currently, most individuals arrested in Queens are housed at facilities on Rikers Island until the completion of the new Queens facility.
Oversight of correctional operations in Queens County involves multiple agencies:
New York City Department of Correction
75-20 Astoria Boulevard
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-1500
NYC Department of Correction
New York City Sheriff's Office - Queens Division
30-10 Starr Avenue
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 707-2170
NYC Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office works in conjunction with the Department of Correction and is responsible for executing court orders, including civil arrests, and transporting certain prisoners.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Queens County
Queens County's correctional system consists of several facility types that serve different populations within the criminal justice system. These facilities operate under the jurisdiction of the New York City Department of Correction.
Rikers Island Facilities
While not geographically located in Queens County (it sits in the East River between Queens and the Bronx), Rikers Island currently houses most individuals arrested in Queens. The complex includes several distinct facilities:
Robert N. Davoren Complex (RNDC)
11-11 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-7000
NYC Department of Correction Facilities
This facility primarily houses male adolescents and young adults (18-21).
Anna M. Kross Center (AMKC)
18-18 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-7000
NYC Department of Correction Facilities
AMKC is one of the largest jails on Rikers Island, housing adult male detainees.
Rose M. Singer Center (RMSC)
19-19 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-7000
NYC Department of Correction Facilities
RMSC houses all female detainees and sentenced individuals.
Eric M. Taylor Center (EMTC)
10-10 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
(718) 546-7000
NYC Department of Correction Facilities
EMTC typically houses male sentenced individuals serving city sentences of one year or less.
Borough-Based Facilities
Queens Detention Complex (Currently Closed)
126-01 82nd Avenue
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
This facility is currently closed but is being replaced as part of the city's borough-based jail plan.
Future Queens Borough-Based Jail
126-02 82nd Avenue
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
This facility is under development as part of New York City's plan to close Rikers Island and establish smaller, modern detention facilities in each borough by 2027, as mandated by Local Law 192 of 2019.
Hospital Prison Wards
Elmhurst Hospital Prison Ward
79-01 Broadway
Elmhurst, NY 11373
(718) 334-4000
This secure unit within Elmhurst Hospital provides medical care to incarcerated individuals requiring hospitalization.
Who's in Prison In Queens County
The Queens County correctional facilities, as part of the New York City Department of Correction system, house several categories of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The population primarily consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees
The majority of individuals in Queens County correctional facilities are awaiting trial and have not been convicted of the charges against them. These individuals are either:
- Unable to post bail
- Remanded without bail
- Awaiting arraignment
- Detained on probation or parole violations
According to the NYC Department of Correction, approximately 75% of the city's jail population consists of pre-trial detainees.
City-Sentenced Individuals
Those who have been convicted and sentenced to terms of one year or less are housed in city facilities. These individuals have typically been convicted of:
- Misdemeanors
- Non-violent felonies with short sentences
- Technical violations of probation or parole
Technical Parole Violators
Individuals who have violated conditions of their parole but have not necessarily committed new crimes may be held pending parole revocation hearings.
State Prisoners Awaiting Transfer
Some individuals who have been sentenced to state prison terms (over one year) may be temporarily housed in Queens County facilities while awaiting transfer to state custody.
Federal Detainees
In some cases, individuals facing federal charges may be housed in city facilities through agreements with federal authorities.
The demographic composition of Queens County's incarcerated population generally reflects citywide patterns. According to data from the NYC Department of Correction, the jail population is predominantly male (approximately 92%) and disproportionately consists of Black and Hispanic individuals.
The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and policy changes. The city's ongoing criminal justice reforms, including bail reform and diversion programs, have contributed to significant reductions in the jail population in recent years.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Queens County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently in custody in Queens County have several methods available to access inmate records. The New York City Department of Correction maintains digital systems that provide basic custody information to the public.
To search for inmate records in Queens County, follow these steps:
Online Inmate Lookup
- Visit the NYC Department of Correction's online inmate lookup system at NYC Inmate Lookup.
- Enter the required search criteria:
- Book and Case Number (if known), OR
- New York State ID (NYSID) number (if known), OR
- First and last name of the individual
- For name searches, enter the information exactly as it would appear in official records.
- Click "Search" to view results.
- Review the information provided, which typically includes:
- Full name
- Age
- Custody status
- Facility location
- Next court date (if applicable)
- Case information
Telephone Information
For those without internet access, information about individuals in custody can be obtained by calling:
NYC Department of Correction Information Line
(718) 546-1500
Available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Callers should be prepared to provide:
- The full name of the person they are inquiring about
- Date of birth (if known)
- NYSID or Book and Case number (if known)
In-Person Inquiries
In-person inquiries can be made at:
NYC Department of Correction Headquarters
75-20 Astoria Boulevard
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Visitors should bring identification and be prepared to provide the name and identifying information of the person they are inquiring about.
FOIL Requests for Additional Information
For more detailed information beyond what is available through the public lookup system, individuals may submit a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request:
- Visit the NYC Department of Correction FOIL page.
- Complete the FOIL request form, specifying the records sought.
- Submit the request online, by mail, or in person.
- Allow up to 20 business days for a response, as required by Public Officers Law § 89(3).
How To Find an Inmate in Queens County for Free?
Queens County residents and other interested parties can locate individuals in custody without incurring any fees through several official channels. These free resources are provided as a public service by government agencies.
NYC Department of Correction Online Inmate Lookup
The most efficient method for locating someone in custody is through the official online inmate locator:
- Access the NYC Department of Correction Inmate Lookup System.
- Enter the individual's information using one of these options:
- First and last name (most common search method)
- Book and Case Number (if available)
- NYSID (New York State ID) number
- Review the search results, which provide:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Upcoming court dates
- Basic case information
This system updates information multiple times daily and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
New York State Incarcerated Individual Lookup
If the person may have been transferred to state custody (for sentences longer than one year):
- Visit the NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Incarcerated Lookup.
- Enter the individual's name or DIN (Department Identification Number).
- Review the results to determine if the person is in state custody.
Statewide Incarcerated Individual Locator Resources
The New York State Commission of Correction provides links to search for individuals in county jails, NYC jails, and state prisons throughout New York.
Telephone Information Services
For those without internet access, information is available by phone:
NYC DOC Central Office of Public Information
(718) 546-1500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Queens Criminal Court
125-01 Queens Boulevard
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
(718) 298-0792
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Court personnel can provide information about individuals who have recently been arraigned or have pending court appearances.
When using any of these methods, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including:
- Full legal name (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
How To Visit an Inmate In Queens County
Visitation with individuals in custody in Queens County facilities follows specific protocols established by the New York City Department of Correction. These procedures are designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections for those in custody.
Visit Rules and Procedures
Visitors must adhere to the following general procedures:
- Check the NYC DOC Visitor Schedule to determine the appropriate day and time for the facility housing the individual.
- Register for a visit upon arrival at the facility.
- Present valid, government-issued photo identification.
- Complete a visitor registration form.
- Submit to security screening, including metal detectors and possible personal searches.
- Follow all facility rules during the visit.
Visit Schedule
Visitation schedules vary by facility. Currently, most Queens residents in custody are housed at Rikers Island facilities with the following general schedule:
- Weekdays: 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Weekends and Holidays: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Specific visiting hours for each facility can be found on the NYC DOC Visit Schedule page.
What to Bring
Visitors are permitted to bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (required)
- Locker key (provided at facility)
- Medications needed during visit (must be declared)
- Up to $20 in singles for vending machines
- One handkerchief
- One pair of prescription eyeglasses
What NOT to Bring
Prohibited items include:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tools
- Drugs or alcohol
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches)
- Cameras or recording devices
- Food or beverages
- Cigarettes or tobacco products
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Large bags or purses
Dress Code
Visitors must adhere to the following dress code:
- No revealing or provocative clothing
- No gang-affiliated colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling DOC uniforms
- No hooded garments
- No hats (except religious head coverings)
- No open-toed shoes
- No clothing with offensive language or images
Visit Types
The NYC Department of Correction offers:
- In-person contact visits (general population)
- Non-contact visits (through glass, for certain security classifications)
- Video visitation (available at select locations)
Visit Restrictions
Visitation may be restricted under certain circumstances:
- When the individual is in punitive segregation
- During facility lockdowns
- When a court order prohibits contact
- When the visitor has previously violated facility rules
All visitation policies are subject to the provisions of New York Correction Law § 500-j, which establishes the right to visitation while allowing for reasonable restrictions.
How To Send Money to a Queens County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to someone in custody in Queens County have several approved methods for sending funds. These funds are deposited into the individual's commissary account, which can be used to purchase items from the facility commissary or pay for certain services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods
Online Deposits
- Visit the NYC DOC Trust Fund page.
- Select the online deposit option through JPay.
- Create an account if you don't already have one.
- Enter the incarcerated person's information:
- Full name
- NYC Department of Correction Book and Case Number
- Date of birth
- Enter payment information and amount.
- Complete the transaction.
In-Person Cash Deposits
Cash deposits can be made at kiosks located at:
Rikers Island Visitor Center
18-24 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Manhattan Detention Complex Visitor Center
125 White Street
New York, NY 10013
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Mail Money Orders
Money orders may be sent by mail:
- Make the money order payable to the incarcerated person's full name.
- Include the person's Book and Case Number on the money order.
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks.
- Mail to:
NYC Department of Correction
Inmate Cash Processing Center
P.O. Box 975192
St. Louis, MO 63197-5192
Amount Limits and Fees
- Online deposits: $1,000 maximum per transaction
- Money orders: $1,000 maximum per money order
- JPay fees: $3.95 for amounts $0.01-$20.00, with increasing fees for larger amounts
- No fees for money orders or cash deposits at facility kiosks
Funds Usage Restrictions
Funds deposited into an individual's account may be used for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls
- Certain approved services
Funds may not be used for:
- Contraband items
- Services not approved by the facility
- Direct payments to other incarcerated individuals
A portion of incoming funds may be applied to any outstanding fees or debts owed by the individual, including:
- Court-ordered restitution
- Child support obligations
- Facility disciplinary fees
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and must comply with New York Correction Law § 500-c, which governs the handling of incarcerated individuals' funds.
How To Send Jail Mail In Queens County
Maintaining written correspondence with individuals in custody is an important means of communication. The New York City Department of Correction has established specific guidelines for sending mail to those incarcerated in Queens County facilities.
Addressing Mail Correctly
All mail must be properly addressed as follows:
Incarcerated Person's Name (as it appears in DOC records)
Book and Case Number (if known)
Facility Name
18-18 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
For example:
John Doe
NYSID# 12345678Z
Anna M. Kross Center
18-18 Hazen Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Permitted Mail Items
The following items are generally permitted:
- Letters (on plain paper)
- Greeting cards (no musical or electronic components)
- Photos (maximum 4×6 inches, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (see previous section for details)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (soft-cover only)
- Drawings or artwork (no crayon or marker)
Prohibited Mail Items
The following items are prohibited:
- Packages (must go through the package process)
- Hardcover books
- Magazines or periodicals (must come directly from publisher)
- Stickers or adhesives
- Glitter, confetti, or glued items
- Crayon or marker drawings
- Polaroid photos
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or pre-stamped envelopes
- Items with gang symbols or inappropriate content
- Perfumed or scented paper
- Plastic or laminated items
Mail Inspection Process
All non-legal mail is subject to inspection for contraband and prohibited content. Mail may be rejected if it:
- Contains contraband
- Depicts or describes criminal activity
- Contains threats or extortion
- Includes escape plans
- Contains coded messages
- Violates any facility rules
Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the incarcerated individual.
Publication Deliveries
Books, magazines, and periodicals must:
- Be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
- Be soft-cover only
- Not contain prohibited content
- Be addressed with the individual's name and Book and Case number
Approved vendors include Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major booksellers.
Electronic Messaging
The NYC Department of Correction has implemented a limited electronic messaging system through JPay. This service allows for:
- Sending electronic messages to individuals in custody
- Attaching photos (for an additional fee)
- Faster delivery than traditional mail
All electronic communications are subject to monitoring and must comply with the same content restrictions as physical mail.
These mail procedures are established pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-b and are designed to maintain facility security while facilitating communication with family and friends.