Onslow County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Onslow County?

Inmate records in Onslow County are official documentation maintained by the Onslow County Sheriff's Office Detention Division that chronicle an individual's incarceration history within the county correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Onslow County detention facilities. Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-220, local confinement facilities are required to maintain specific records on each individual in custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While the North Carolina Judicial Branch maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and dispositions, the Onslow County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records documenting the physical detention and management of individuals within their facilities. This distinction is important for members of the public seeking specific information about incarcerated individuals.

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into the detention facility. During this initial phase, personal identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge information are collected and documented. Throughout the period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant events. Upon the individual's release from custody, the record is closed but maintained according to North Carolina records retention schedules.

The Onslow County Sheriff's Office Detention Division is the primary custodian of these records for individuals detained within county facilities.

Are Inmate Records Public In Onslow County?

Inmate records in Onslow County are generally considered public records under North Carolina law, with certain limitations and exceptions. According to the North Carolina Public Records Act § 132-1, public records include "all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business by any agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions."

However, specific provisions under North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-225 and related corrections laws establish certain limitations on what inmate information may be disclosed. The following information is typically available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking and arrest records
• Charges filed against the inmate
• Mugshot photographs
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
• Housing facility information

Certain sensitive information is exempt from public disclosure, including:

• Medical and mental health records
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
• Information that would compromise facility security
• Personal identifying information beyond what is necessary for identification
• Victim information
• Information related to ongoing investigations

Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic details through the Onslow County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal or by contacting the detention facility directly.

What's Included Inmate Records in Onslow County

Inmate records maintained by the Onslow County Sheriff's Office Detention Division contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. 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 distinguishing physical characteristics
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• State identification number and/or FBI number (if applicable)

Custody Information:

• Booking date and time
• Arresting agency
• Booking number/inmate identification number
• Current custody status
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification level
• Disciplinary records during incarceration
• Visitation logs

Charge Information:

• Current charges (including statute numbers)
• Warrant or citation numbers
• Arresting agency
• Arrest date
• Case numbers
• Court of jurisdiction

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash, etc.)
• Bond amount
• Bond status (posted, not posted, etc.)
• Bondsman information (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Next scheduled court date
• Court location
• Judge assigned to case
• Court case numbers

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction date
• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Parole eligibility date (if applicable)
• Good time/work time credits earned

Release Information:

• Release date and time (if released)
• Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer, etc.)
• Conditions of release (if applicable)

This information is maintained in accordance with North Carolina state regulations governing local detention facilities and is subject to specific retention schedules established by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Onslow County Prison System

The Onslow County correctional system operates under the authority of the Onslow County Sheriff's Office, which maintains local detention facilities for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of up to one year. It is important to distinguish between the county detention system and the state prison system. The Onslow County Detention Center houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences of less than one year, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. In contrast, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of felonies and serving sentences longer than one year.

The Onslow County detention system falls under the direct supervision of the Sheriff and is operated in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-218, which establishes standards for county detention facilities. The primary facility is the Onslow County Detention Center, which provides secure custody for inmates while ensuring compliance with state regulations regarding housing, medical care, and inmate rights.

For information regarding the Onslow County detention system, members of the public may contact:

Onslow County Sheriff's Office
717 Court Street
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 455-3113
Onslow County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Onslow County

Onslow County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's detention system:

Onslow County Detention Center
701 Mill Avenue
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 455-7722
Detention Division

The Onslow County Detention Center is the primary detention facility in the county, housing both male and female inmates. This facility accommodates pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The detention center provides various services including medical care, commissary, visitation, and limited programming.

Onslow County Minimum Security Unit
701 Mill Avenue
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 455-7722
Detention Division

The Minimum Security Unit houses low-risk inmates, typically those serving short sentences for non-violent offenses or approaching their release dates. Inmates in this unit may participate in work release programs, community service initiatives, and other rehabilitative activities.

Onslow County Juvenile Detention Center
(Operated in conjunction with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety)
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 455-7722

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are awaiting adjudication or placement in youth development centers. The juvenile detention center operates under different regulations than adult facilities and provides educational services and age-appropriate programming.

It should be noted that Onslow County does not operate state prison facilities. Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to facilities operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, which maintains medium and maximum-security prisons throughout the state.

Who's in Prison In Onslow County

The Onslow County detention facilities house several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. Understanding the composition of the inmate population provides context for those seeking information about specific inmates or the detention system as a whole.

The Onslow County Detention Center primarily houses:

• Pre-trial detainees who have been arrested and are awaiting court proceedings but have not been convicted. These individuals may be held because they could not post bail, were denied bail, or are awaiting their initial appearance before a judge.

• Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of less than one year, as prescribed by North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-1340.23, which establishes sentencing guidelines for misdemeanor convictions.

• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after being sentenced for felony offenses.

• Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions, including federal detainees, immigration detainees, or those awaiting extradition to other counties or states.

• Probation and parole violators who are temporarily detained pending hearings or revocation proceedings.

The demographic composition of the Onslow County inmate population reflects various factors including local crime patterns, law enforcement priorities, and socioeconomic conditions. The population typically includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and socioeconomic circumstances.

It is important to note that the inmate population fluctuates daily as new arrests are made and others are released through various mechanisms including bond, completion of sentence, or transfer to other facilities. The Onslow County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate rosters that are updated regularly to reflect these changes.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Onslow County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Onslow County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently provides multiple avenues for conducting inmate searches:

1. Online Inmate Search Portal

   • Visit the Onslow County Sheriff's Office website
   • Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Detention Center" section
   • Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
   • Review the results, which typically include basic information such as name, booking date, charges, and bond amount

2. In-Person Requests

   • Visit the Onslow County Detention Center during regular business hours: Onslow County Detention Center
     701 Mill Avenue
     Jacksonville, NC 28540
     Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
   • Complete an inmate information request form
   • Provide proper identification
   • Specify the information being requested

3. Telephone Inquiries

   • Contact the Onslow County Detention Center at (910) 455-7722
   • Provide the name and, if possible, the date of birth of the individual
   • Basic information may be provided over the phone, though detailed records typically require written requests

4. Written Requests

   • Submit a formal written request to: Onslow County Sheriff's Office Records Division
     717 Court Street
     Jacksonville, NC 28540
   • Include specific information about the inmate (full name, date of birth)
   • Specify the information being requested
   • Provide contact information for response
   • Include any applicable fees for record reproduction

For more comprehensive criminal history information beyond current incarceration status, interested parties may need to contact the North Carolina Court System or utilize the state's online court records portal.

When requesting inmate records, it is advisable to provide as much identifying information as possible to ensure accurate results. Pursuant to North Carolina public records laws, certain processing fees may apply for extensive searches or document reproduction.

How To Find an Inmate in Onslow County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Onslow County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:

1. Onslow County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup

   • Access the Onslow County Sheriff's Office website
   • Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
   • Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
   • Review the results, which typically include:
     • Full name
     • Booking date
     • Current charges
     • Bond information
     • Housing facility
   • This service is available 24/7 and provides real-time information about current inmates

2. North Carolina Offender Public Information Search

   • Visit the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction website
   • Use the Offender Public Information Search tool
   • Enter the individual's name or identification number
   • This database includes information about individuals in state custody but may also reflect county detainees who have been processed through the state system

3. Telephone Inquiry

   • Call the Onslow County Detention Center directly at (910) 455-7722
   • Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
   • Basic information about an inmate's custody status is typically provided at no cost
   • Available during regular business hours

4. Jail Roster Kiosk

   • Visit the public lobby of the Onslow County Detention Center
   • Use the public access kiosk to search for current inmates
   • Available during regular lobby hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday-Sunday: Limited hours for visitation only

5. Court Records Search

   • Access the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
   • Use the online court records search function
   • Enter the individual's name
   • Review case information, which may indicate custody status

When using these free resources, it is important to note that the information provided is typically limited to basic custody details. More comprehensive records may require formal requests and associated fees. Additionally, information about recently arrested individuals may not be immediately available in online systems as there is often a processing delay between arrest and database entry.

How To Visit an Inmate In Onslow County

Visitation with inmates at Onslow County detention facilities is governed by specific policies established by the Sheriff's Office to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures

• All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
• Inmates may submit visitor request forms during their first week of incarceration
• Each inmate is permitted a maximum of 5 approved visitors
• Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Visitors must submit to security screening procedures, including metal detection and personal item inspection
• Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied visitation privileges

Visit Schedule

• General Population:
  • Tuesday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Sunday-Monday: No visitation
• Special Housing Units:
  • Restricted visitation hours apply
  • Typically limited to one 30-minute visit per week
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.):
  • Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Special arrangements may be made for after-hours professional visits

What to Bring

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
• Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
• Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
• Funds for inmate accounts may be deposited at designated kiosks in the lobby

What NOT to Bring

• Weapons of any kind
• Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes
• Cellular phones or electronic devices
• Cameras or recording equipment
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Controlled substances or alcohol
• Any items to be passed to inmates

Dress Code

• Conservative attire is required
• No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or miniskirts)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
• No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
• Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times

Visit Types

• Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
• Video visitation (available at designated terminals)
• Special visits may be arranged for out-of-state visitors with advance approval

Visit Restrictions

• Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
• Maximum of one visit per inmate per visitation day
• Maximum of two adult visitors per inmate per session
• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
• Visitors exhibiting signs of intoxication will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit

These visitation policies are established pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-224, which authorizes local detention facilities to establish reasonable visitation regulations. For the most current visitation information, contact the Onslow County Detention Division directly.

How To Send Money to a Onslow County Inmate

The Onslow 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:

Lobby Kiosk Deposits

• Location: Onslow County Detention Center lobby 701 Mill Avenue Jacksonville, NC 28540
• Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Accepted payment methods: Cash, credit cards, debit cards
• Processing fees: $2.50 per transaction
• Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 1 hour

Online Deposits

• Visit the TouchPay payment portal through the Onslow County Sheriff's Office website
• Create an account or log in as a guest
• Enter the inmate's information (full name and inmate ID number)
• Select payment amount
• Complete payment using credit card or debit card
• Processing fees: 3.5% of deposit amount ($1.50 minimum)
• Funds are typically available within 24 hours

Phone Deposits

• Call the automated system at 1-866-232-1899
• Follow voice prompts to complete transaction
• Provide inmate information and payment details
• Accepted payment methods: Credit cards and debit cards
• Processing fees: $3.00 per transaction
• Funds are typically available within 24 hours

Mail-In Money Orders

• Send money orders to: Onslow County Detention Center Inmate Accounts 701 Mill Avenue Jacksonville, NC 28540
• Make payable to the inmate (full name and inmate ID number)
• Include sender's full name and return address
• No personal checks or cash accepted through mail
• No processing fee
• Funds are typically available within 3-5 business days

Amount Limits

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposits per inmate: $500.00
• Maximum monthly deposits per inmate: $1,500.00

Fees

• Lobby kiosk: $2.50 flat fee
• Online: 3.5% of deposit amount ($1.50 minimum)
• Phone: $3.00 flat fee
• Mail-in money orders: No fee

What You Cannot Send

• Cash through mail
• Personal checks
• Cashier's checks
• Traveler's checks
• Foreign currency
• Cryptocurrency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Video visitation sessions
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Release funds

Prohibited Uses for Inmate Funds

• Payment for services from other inmates
• Gambling activities
• Purchase of contraband items
• Transfer to other inmates' accounts
• Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review by detention staff. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially declined. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the Onslow County Detention Center at (910) 455-7722.

How To Send Jail Mail In Onslow County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Onslow County detention facilities is permitted but subject to specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following rules and procedures apply to all mail sent to inmates:

Mailing Address Format

• All mail must be addressed as follows: Inmate's Full Name and Inmate ID Number (if known) Onslow County Detention Center 701 Mill Avenue Jacksonville, NC 28540

Acceptable Mail Items

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)

Prohibited Mail Items

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps inside the envelope
• Polaroid photographs
• Laminated items
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or scented papers
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps
• Blank stationery, envelopes, or stamps for inmate use
• Any items containing glitter, glue, tape, or other adhesives
• Pornographic or obscene materials
• Gang-related materials
• Items that pose a security threat

Mail Inspection Procedures

• All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
• Mail may be read by staff to ensure it does not violate facility rules
• Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate
• Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in disciplinary action
• Mail containing threats, criminal activity plans, or escape plans will be forwarded to investigators

Publications and Books

• Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
• Soft-cover books only (no hardcover books)
• Maximum of 3 books or magazines per week
• All publications are subject to review for appropriate content
• Publications containing nudity, weapons instructions, or security threat information will be rejected

E-Messages

• The Onslow County Detention Center offers electronic messaging through a third-party vendor
• Family and friends can create an account through the vendor's website
• Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
• Fees apply for electronic messages
• Messages may include limited attachments (photos) for additional fees

All mail procedures are established in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-224, which authorizes detention facilities to establish reasonable regulations for inmate correspondence. For current information on mail policies, contact the Onslow County Detention Division.

Lookup Inmate Records in Onslow County

Detention Division information and inmate search

Onslow County Sheriff's Office resources and services

North Carolina Department of Adult Correction offender search database

North Carolina Court Records search portal

Request public records from North Carolina Judicial Branch