Bergen County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Bergen County?
Inmate records in Bergen County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Bergen County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's detention system. These records differ substantially from court records, as court systems maintain case files pertaining to legal proceedings, while correctional facilities maintain custody records documenting an individual's incarceration status and history.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. § 30:1B-6, the New Jersey Department of Corrections and county correctional facilities are authorized to create and maintain records for individuals in custody. These records are initiated during the booking and intake process when an individual first enters custody. The record creation process includes:
- Documentation of personal identifying information
- Photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprinting
- Medical screening information
- Security classification assessments
- Housing assignments
Inmate records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant information. Upon release, these records are closed but maintained according to the New Jersey Public Records Act retention schedules.
The Bergen County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of inmate records for individuals housed in the Bergen County Jail, as established under the authority granted by N.J.S.A. § 30:8-16.
Are Inmate Records Public In Bergen County?
Inmate records in Bergen County are partially public under New Jersey's Open Public Records Act (OPRA), N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-1. This statute establishes that government records shall be readily accessible for inspection, copying, or examination by citizens of New Jersey, with certain exceptions for confidentiality, privacy, and security concerns.
The New Jersey Department of Corrections operates under specific regulations regarding inmate record disclosure as outlined in N.J.A.C. 10A:22, which governs public access to correctional facility records. Under current law, the following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking information and intake date
- Charges filed
- Mugshots (with certain restrictions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, certain components of inmate records remain confidential and exempt from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Disciplinary records
- Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
- Security threat group affiliations
- Victim information
- Juvenile records
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic custody status through the Bergen County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system or by submitting a formal OPRA request for more detailed information that may be subject to disclosure.
What's Included Inmate Records in Bergen County
Inmate records maintained by Bergen County correctional facilities contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's custody status. 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 identifying marks
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number (SID) and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Security classification
- Housing assignment
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Disciplinary incidents and sanctions (restricted access)
- Program participation and work assignments
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Warrant information
- Charging jurisdiction
- Criminal history (restricted access)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Attorney information
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer, etc.)
- Release conditions
- Supervision requirements, if applicable
- Notification requirements under N.J.S.A. § 52:4B-44
The comprehensiveness of these records ensures proper management of the inmate population and compliance with legal requirements for detention and incarceration.
Bergen County Prison System
The Bergen County correctional system operates under the authority of the Bergen County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody, care, and transportation of individuals remanded to county custody. The system primarily consists of the Bergen County Jail, which serves as the central detention facility for the county.
The Bergen County Jail houses individuals who are:
- Awaiting trial and unable to post bail
- Serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions
- Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Being held on immigration detainers through agreements with federal authorities
- Temporarily housed while in transit to court appearances or other jurisdictions
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in New Jersey's correctional system. County jails, including the Bergen County Jail, typically house individuals serving shorter sentences (generally less than one year) for less serious offenses, as well as those awaiting trial. State prisons, operated by the New Jersey Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences.
For information regarding the Bergen County correctional system, members of the public may contact:
Bergen County Sheriff's Office
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 336-3500
Bergen County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Bergen County
Bergen County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security levels. These facilities operate under the jurisdiction of the Bergen County Sheriff's Office and include:
Bergen County Jail
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 527-3000
Bergen County Jail
The Bergen County Jail serves as the primary detention facility in the county, housing approximately 1,150 inmates at full capacity. This medium to maximum security facility accommodates various custody classifications including pre-trial detainees, sentenced inmates, and federal immigration detainees through an Intergovernmental Service Agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center
200 North Street
Teterboro, NJ 07608
(201) 336-6000
Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders awaiting adjudication or placement. Records pertaining to juvenile detainees are subject to stricter confidentiality protections under N.J.S.A. § 2A:4A-60 and are generally not accessible to the public.
Bergen County Work Release Program
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 527-3000
Bergen County Sheriff's Office
This program allows qualifying low-risk offenders to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Participants typically return to the jail facility during non-working hours.
Bergen County Electronic Monitoring Program
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 527-3000
Bergen County Sheriff's Office
This alternative to incarceration allows certain qualifying offenders to serve their sentences while remaining in the community under electronic supervision, as authorized by N.J.S.A. § 30:8-13.2a.
Each facility maintains separate records systems for their respective populations, though all operate under the umbrella of the Bergen County Sheriff's Office records management protocols.
Who's in Prison In Bergen County
The Bergen County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals with varying legal statuses. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who have been denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
- Individuals who have been granted bail but are unable to post the required amount
- Persons awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of disorderly persons offenses or petty disorderly persons offenses (New Jersey's equivalent of misdemeanors)
- Those serving sentences of 364 days or less, as prescribed by N.J.S.A. § 2C:43-10
- Individuals serving intermittent sentences (weekends only)
- Persons participating in work release programs while serving their sentences
State Inmates Awaiting Transfer:
- Individuals recently convicted of indictable offenses (felonies) awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- State inmates temporarily housed for court appearances in Bergen County
Federal Detainees:
- Immigration detainees held under contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Federal pre-trial detainees held under contract with the U.S. Marshals Service
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment unit residents
- Veterans in specialized housing units
- Individuals in protective custody
According to data from the New Jersey Department of Corrections, the average daily population of the Bergen County Jail fluctuates between 600-800 inmates, though the facility has capacity for approximately 1,150 individuals. The population demographics generally reflect the broader demographics of those involved in the criminal justice system throughout New Jersey.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Bergen County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Bergen County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Bergen County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate records and provides multiple channels for public access:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Bergen County Sheriff's Office official website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" or "Corrections" section
- Select the "Inmate Lookup" option
- Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is typically required)
- Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number for more precise results
- Review the search results, which typically display basic custody information including charges, booking date, and bond information
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Bergen County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours
- Complete an OPRA request form, available at the public counter
- Provide specific information about the inmate record being requested
- Present valid identification
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Written OPRA Requests:
- Download the OPRA request form from the Bergen County Sheriff's Office website
- Complete all required fields, specifying the inmate records being requested
- Submit the completed form via mail, fax, or email to:
Bergen County Sheriff's Office Records Division
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Fax: (201) 336-3509
Email: records@bcsd.us
Telephone Inquiries:
- Contact the Bergen County Jail at (201) 527-3000
- Request the Inmate Records Division
- Provide the name of the individual whose records are being sought
- Note that only basic custody status information is typically provided via telephone
Under the provisions of N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-5, government agencies must respond to OPRA requests within seven business days. Requestors should be aware that certain information may be redacted from inmate records to protect privacy, security, and confidentiality interests.
How To Find an Inmate in Bergen County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Bergen County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Bergen County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Bergen County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the inmate's name (last name is required, first name is recommended)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Housing facility
- Next court date (if available)
New Jersey Department of Corrections Offender Search:
- Visit the New Jersey Department of Corrections Offender Information website
- Enter the inmate's name or ID number
- This database primarily contains information on state prisoners but may include individuals who have been transferred from Bergen County to state facilities
New Jersey Courts Public Access:
- Access the New Jersey Courts website
- Search for the individual's court case information
- Court records may indicate custody status and location
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Bergen County Jail at (201) 527-3000
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Request confirmation of custody status
- Basic information is typically provided without charge
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Bergen County Jail public information desk during regular business hours:
Bergen County Jail
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Provide the name of the individual being sought
- Staff will confirm whether the person is in custody
These free resources typically provide limited information focused on confirming custody status, current charges, and bond information. For more comprehensive records, a formal OPRA request may be necessary, which could involve reproduction fees as permitted under N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-5(b).
How To Visit an Inmate In Bergen County
Visitation with inmates at Bergen County correctional facilities is governed by strict protocols to ensure security and orderly operations. The following information outlines the current visitation procedures:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
- Changes to visitor lists may be requested in writing by the inmate
- 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 are subject to search procedures, including metal detection and personal item inspection
- Visitors with active warrants, criminal histories, or those who pose security risks may be denied entry
Visit Schedule:
- Visitation hours are scheduled according to housing unit assignments
- General population visits occur Wednesday through Sunday
- Special housing units have designated visitation days
- Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
- Current schedules are available by calling (201) 527-3000 or visiting the Bergen County Sheriff's Office website
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- Visitor registration confirmation (if pre-registration is required)
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
- Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, medical devices)
- Up to $50 in cash for the inmate commissary account (to be deposited at kiosks)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Tobacco products or electronic cigarettes
- Cell phones, cameras, or electronic devices
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Outerwear (coats, jackets, hats)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing, provocative, or gang-related clothing
- No uniforms or clothing resembling staff attire
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or halter tops
- No shorts, skirts, or dresses shorter than knee-length
- No see-through, tight-fitting, or spandex clothing
- No open-toed shoes, sandals, or high heels
Visit Types:
- Contact visits (general population)
- Non-contact visits (high-security inmates)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Special visits (with prior approval from facility administration)
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Visitors who provide false information may be permanently banned
- Violation of facility rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
These regulations are established pursuant to N.J.A.C. 10A:18, which governs visitation procedures in New Jersey correctional facilities. For the most current information, visitors should contact the Bergen County Jail directly at (201) 527-3000 prior to planning their visit.
How To Send Money to a Bergen County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Bergen County correctional facilities have several approved methods for sending funds. These funds are deposited into the inmate's commissary account for purchasing approved items and services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
In-Person Deposits:
- Visit the kiosks located in the Bergen County Jail lobby
- Available during regular business hours: 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM, seven days a week
- Cash deposits only (no checks or money orders)
- Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
- Proper identification required
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "New Jersey" and "Bergen County Jail"
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number)
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
-
Telephone Deposits:
- Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Provide the inmate's full name and ID number
- Complete the transaction using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply
- Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
-
Mobile App Deposits:
- Download the Access Corrections mobile app
- Create an account or log in
- Select the appropriate facility
- Enter inmate information
- Complete transaction using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposits: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposits: $1,500.00
Transaction Fees:
- In-person cash deposits: $2.95 flat fee
- Online/phone/mobile deposits: Sliding scale based on amount
- $0.01-$20.00: $3.95
- $20.01-$100.00: $6.95
- $100.01-$300.00: $9.95
Prohibited Funding Methods:
- Personal checks
- Cashier's checks
- Money orders
- Cash sent through mail
- Third-party checks
- Wire transfers
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Tablet rentals and services
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Legal copies
- Restitution payments (if court-ordered)
Prohibited Uses:
- Transfers to other inmates
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Contraband purchases
- Staff gratuities
- Outside purchases beyond approved vendors
Funds deposited into an inmate's account become available within 24-48 hours of processing. Upon release, remaining funds are returned to the inmate via debit card or check. These procedures are established in accordance with N.J.A.C. 10A:1-11, which governs inmate accounts in New Jersey correctional facilities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Bergen County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Bergen County correctional facilities must adhere to specific guidelines established to maintain security and facility operations. The following procedures apply to all mail sent to inmates:
General Mailing Instructions:
- All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
- Address envelopes clearly with the inmate's full name, ID number, and facility address:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Bergen County Jail
160 South River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
- Include a complete return address on all correspondence
- Mail lacking proper addressing may be returned to sender
- All incoming mail is opened, inspected, and screened for contraband
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
Approved Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (sent to inmate accounts department only)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved periodicals (must come directly from publisher)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Laminated items
- Cards larger than 8"x10"
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related materials
- Items containing biohazards
- Perfumed or scented items
- Items containing glitter, glue, or adhesives
- Books (must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)
Electronic Messaging: Bergen County Jail offers secure electronic messaging through the GTL ConnectNetwork system. To utilize this service:
- Create an account on the GTL ConnectNetwork website
- Add the inmate to your contacts list
- Purchase messaging credits
- Compose and send messages (subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail)
- Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours after review
Mail Monitoring and Restrictions: All non-privileged mail is subject to inspection and may be photocopied, with the copies provided to the inmate rather than the originals. Mail may be rejected if it:
- Contains threats or plans for criminal activity
- Discusses escape plans or security breaches
- Contains coded messages
- Violates facility rules or regulations
- Presents a threat to safety, security, or order of the facility
These mail procedures are established pursuant to N.J.A.C. 10A:18-2, which governs correspondence in New Jersey correctional facilities. For the most current information regarding mail policies, contact the Bergen County Jail at (201) 527-3000.