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Alamance County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Alamance County?

Inmate records in Alamance County are official government documents maintained by the Alamance County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county detention facilities. These records document the entire custody cycle of an inmate from initial booking through release and are distinct from court records maintained by the judicial system.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process when an individual is first taken into custody. During this process, detention officers collect personal information, take photographs and fingerprints, document charges, and record other relevant details. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, additional charges, court appearances, disciplinary actions, and other significant events. Upon release, the records are finalized with release information but remain in the system as historical documentation.

According to North Carolina General Statute § 153A-220, local confinement facilities are required to maintain specific records for each inmate, including identification information, commitment orders, release orders, and other documentation related to the individual's confinement. These records serve multiple purposes, including ensuring proper identification of inmates, tracking custody status, facilitating court proceedings, and maintaining facility security.

The Alamance County Sheriff's Office Detention Division is the primary agency responsible for maintaining these records for individuals incarcerated in the county detention center.

Are Inmate Records Public In Alamance County?

Inmate records in Alamance County are generally considered public information under North Carolina's Public Records Law, N.C.G.S. § 132-1, which defines public records as "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, access to certain components of inmate records may be restricted based on privacy concerns, ongoing investigations, or security considerations. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety and local sheriff's offices maintain discretion over which specific elements of inmate records are made publicly accessible.

Information that is typically available to the public includes:

  • Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
  • Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
  • Mugshot photographs
  • Charges filed
  • Bond/bail amounts
  • Scheduled court dates
  • Expected release dates
  • Current housing facility

Information that may be restricted includes:

  • Medical and mental health records
  • Disciplinary records
  • Detailed personal information (Social Security numbers, home addresses)
  • Information related to ongoing investigations
  • Juvenile records (subject to N.C.G.S. § 7B-3000)

The Alamance County Sheriff's Office provides public access to basic inmate information through their online inmate lookup system, which is regularly updated to reflect current custody status.

What's Included Inmate Records in Alamance County

Inmate records in Alamance County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the detention system. 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 physical description
  • Distinguishing features (tattoos, scars, etc.)
  • Booking photograph (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints
  • Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

  • Date and time of booking/intake
  • Arresting agency
  • Booking officer information
  • Custody classification
  • Housing assignment within the facility
  • Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
  • Previous incarceration history (if applicable)

Charge Information:

  • Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Charge codes and descriptions
  • Arresting agency case numbers
  • Warrant numbers
  • Charge disposition (pending, dismissed, convicted)
  • Additional charges acquired during incarceration (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash, etc.)
  • Bond amount
  • Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
  • Bondsman information (if applicable)
  • Bond conditions

Court Information:

  • Court case numbers
  • Scheduled court dates and times
  • Court location
  • Judge assigned to the case
  • Court appearance history
  • Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Conviction date
  • Sentence length
  • Sentence start date
  • Projected release date
  • Good time/work time credits earned
  • Probation/parole eligibility dates
  • Special conditions of sentence

Release Information:

  • Release date and time
  • Type of release (bond, time served, transfer, etc.)
  • Authority authorizing release
  • Release conditions (if applicable)
  • Post-release supervision requirements

These records are maintained in compliance with North Carolina state regulations governing local detention facilities and are subject to retention schedules established by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Alamance County Prison System

The Alamance County prison system operates under the jurisdiction of the Alamance County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of the county's detention facilities. It is important to distinguish between the county detention system and the state prison system in North Carolina.

The Alamance County Detention Center primarily houses:

  • Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
  • Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically sentences of less than one year)
  • Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
  • Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions or agencies

By contrast, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction operates state prison facilities that house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.

The Alamance County detention system operates under the authority of the elected Sheriff and is funded primarily through county tax revenues. The facility must comply with state regulations for local confinement facilities as outlined in N.C.G.S. § 153A-221, which establishes minimum standards for the operation and maintenance of local confinement facilities.

Alamance County Sheriff's Office
109 South Maple Street
Graham, NC 27253
(336) 570-6300
Alamance County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Alamance County

Alamance County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various inmate populations and security needs:

Alamance County Detention Center
109 South Maple Street
Graham, NC 27253
(336) 570-6325
Alamance County Detention Center

The main detention facility serves as the primary housing location for most inmates in county custody. This facility includes:

  • Maximum security housing units
  • Medium security housing units
  • Minimum security housing units
  • Special housing for inmates requiring protective custody
  • Medical housing units
  • Booking and intake processing areas
  • Visitation areas
  • Administrative offices

Alamance County Jail Annex
1 Court Square
Graham, NC 27253
(336) 570-6325

This secondary facility provides additional housing capacity and specialized services:

  • Work release program housing
  • Weekend sentence program housing
  • Trustee inmate housing
  • Overflow housing when the main detention center reaches capacity

Alamance County Juvenile Detention Center
201 W. Elm Street
Graham, NC 27253
(336) 570-6400

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) who are awaiting court proceedings or placement in other juvenile facilities. This facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities and provides:

  • Age-appropriate housing
  • Educational services
  • Counseling services
  • Recreational activities
  • Family visitation areas

Each facility operates with different security levels, staffing requirements, and programming based on the specific population housed. All facilities are subject to regular inspections by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to ensure compliance with state standards for local confinement facilities.

Who's in Prison In Alamance County

The Alamance County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. 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 could not post bail or were denied bail
  • Individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
  • These detainees make up approximately 60-70% of the county jail population

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

  • Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of less than one year
  • Common offenses include DWI, simple assault, shoplifting, trespassing, and minor drug possession
  • These inmates typically comprise 15-20% of the jail population

Felony Offenders Awaiting Transfer:

  • Individuals convicted of felonies who are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
  • These inmates may remain in county custody for several weeks while processing transfer paperwork
  • This group typically represents 5-10% of the jail population

Probation/Parole Violators:

  • Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole
  • These individuals may be held pending revocation hearings
  • This category accounts for approximately 10-15% of inmates

Federal Detainees:

  • Individuals being held under contract with federal agencies such as U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement
  • These detainees may be awaiting federal court proceedings or transfer to federal facilities
  • The percentage varies based on current federal contracts

Specialty Populations:

  • Individuals participating in work release programs
  • Weekend sentence inmates who serve their time on weekends while maintaining employment
  • Individuals with special medical or mental health needs requiring specialized housing

The demographic composition of the Alamance County inmate population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Alamance County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Alamance County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county provides multiple search options to accommodate different needs and preferences:

Online Inmate Lookup System:

  1. Visit the Alamance County Sheriff's Office website
  2. Navigate to the "Detention Center" section
  3. Select the "Inmate Search" option
  4. Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
  5. Additional search filters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number
  6. Review the search results, which typically include:
    • Inmate name
    • Booking date
    • Charges
    • Bond information
    • Next court date
    • Expected release date (if applicable)
    • Current housing facility

In-Person Record Requests:

  1. Visit the Alamance County Sheriff's Office Records Division Alamance County Sheriff's Office Records Division
    109 South Maple Street
    Graham, NC 27253
    (336) 570-6300
  2. Complete a public records request form
  3. Provide identification and specify the records being requested
  4. Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
  5. Records staff will process the request according to current turnaround times

Written Record Requests:

  1. Submit a written request to: Alamance County Sheriff's Office
    Attn: Records Division
    109 South Maple Street
    Graham, NC 27253
  2. Include the following information:
    • Full name of the inmate
    • Date of birth (if known)
    • Approximate dates of incarceration (if known)
    • Specific records being requested
    • Your contact information
  3. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting return by mail
  4. Include payment for any applicable fees (call ahead to confirm current fee schedule)

Phone Inquiries:

  1. Call the Alamance County Detention Center at (336) 570-6325
  2. Provide the name of the inmate you are inquiring about
  3. Note that basic information may be provided by phone, but detailed records typically require written requests

For more comprehensive criminal history information beyond current incarceration status, interested parties may need to contact the North Carolina Department of Public Safety or utilize the state's criminal offender search system.

How To Find an Inmate in Alamance County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Alamance County can be accomplished through several free methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information to the public without charge:

Alamance County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:

  1. Access the Alamance County Sheriff's Office website
  2. Navigate to the "Detention Center" section
  3. Select the "Current Inmates" or "Inmate Search" option
  4. Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
  5. For more precise results, include additional information such as first name or date of birth
  6. Review the search results, which typically display:
    • Full name
    • Booking date
    • Current charges
    • Bond amount
    • Next court date
    • Housing location (general information only)

North Carolina Offender Public Information Search:

  1. Visit the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction offender search page
  2. Select the appropriate search option (current inmates, probation/parole, or combined search)
  3. Enter the required search criteria (last name, first name, and/or ID number)
  4. Review the results, which include custody status and location information
  5. Note that this system includes both county and state facilities throughout North Carolina

Telephone Inquiry:

  1. Call the Alamance County Detention Center directly at (336) 570-6325
  2. Provide the full name of the person you are trying to locate
  3. Detention staff can confirm if an individual is currently in custody
  4. Basic information such as charges and next court date may be provided
  5. Available during normal business hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday)

North Carolina Court System:

  1. Access the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
  2. Navigate to the "Court Dates" section
  3. Search by the individual's name
  4. Review court dates and case information, which may indicate custody status
  5. Note that this method provides court information rather than direct custody status

Victim Information & Notification Everyday (VINE):

  1. Visit the NC VINE website
  2. Enter the inmate's name
  3. Select North Carolina as the state
  4. Review custody information
  5. Register for notifications about changes in custody status if desired

These free resources provide basic information about an inmate's custody status. For more detailed records or historical information, a formal records request may be necessary, which could involve fees for document reproduction.

How To Visit an Inmate In Alamance County

Visitation with inmates at Alamance County detention facilities is governed by specific policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. Visitors must adhere to the following guidelines:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

  • All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
  • Inmates may submit up to 8 names for their approved visitor list
  • Changes to visitation lists are processed on the 1st and 15th of each month
  • 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 pass a background check (those with outstanding warrants or certain criminal histories may be denied)
  • Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time for processing
  • Visitation sessions are limited to 30 minutes per visit

Visit Schedule:

  • General Population:
    • Tuesday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
  • Maximum Security:
    • Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
  • Work Release:
    • Saturday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • No visitation on Sundays, Mondays, or county holidays
  • Schedule is subject to change based on facility needs and security concerns

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
  • Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
  • Medication needed during visit time (must be declared and approved)
  • If bringing a minor, birth certificate or legal documentation proving guardianship

What NOT to Bring:

  • Cell phones or electronic devices
  • Weapons of any kind
  • Tobacco products or smoking materials
  • Food or beverages
  • Purses, bags, or backpacks
  • Excessive jewelry or accessories
  • Cash exceeding $50
  • Cameras or recording devices
  • Medications not declared and approved

Dress Code:

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

Visit Types:

  • Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
  • Special visits (approved by facility administration for exceptional circumstances)
  • Video visitation is currently being implemented at select facilities

Visit Restrictions:

  • Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
  • Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
  • Visitors attempting to pass contraband will be subject to criminal prosecution
  • Visitation privileges may be suspended or revoked for rule violations
  • The facility may cancel or modify visitation schedules due to security concerns or emergencies

All visitation policies are established in accordance with N.C.G.S. § 153A-224, which outlines minimum standards for local confinement facilities, including provisions for maintaining inmate contact with family and community.

How To Send Money to a Alamance County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Alamance County detention facilities have several methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other approved services.

Available Deposit Methods:

  1. Online Deposits

    • Visit the Alamance County Sheriff's Office website
    • Select the "Inmate Accounts" or "Commissary" section
    • Follow the link to the third-party payment processor
    • Create an account or proceed as a guest
    • Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
    • Enter payment information and deposit amount
    • Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
    • Funds are typically available within 24 hours
  2. Kiosk Deposits

    • Visit the kiosk located in the Alamance County Detention Center lobby
    • Alamance County Detention Center
      109 South Maple Street
      Graham, NC 27253
    • Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
    • Touch screen interface guides users through the process
    • Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
    • Minimum deposit: $5.00
    • Maximum deposit: $300.00 per transaction
    • Service fees apply for credit/debit card transactions
    • Cash deposits are processed immediately
  3. Money Order by Mail

    • Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
    • Make payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
    • Mail to:
      Alamance County Detention Center
      Attn: Inmate Accounts
      109 South Maple Street
      Graham, NC 27253
    • Include sender's full name and return address
    • No personal checks or cash accepted through mail
    • No service fees apply
    • Processing time: 3-5 business days

Amount Limits:

  • Minimum deposit: $5.00 (all methods)
  • Maximum single deposit: $300.00
  • Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
  • Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
  • Special approval required for deposits exceeding limits

Service Fees:

  • Online deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
  • Kiosk credit/debit card: $2.95 flat fee plus 3% of deposit amount
  • Kiosk cash deposits: No fee
  • Money orders: No fee

What Money Can Be Used For:

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

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

  • Bond/bail payments
  • Court fees or fines
  • Restitution payments
  • Transfers to other inmates
  • Outside purchases
  • Contraband items

Account Management:

  • Inmates receive account statements weekly
  • Account balances are available through the inmate phone system
  • Remaining funds are returned to the inmate upon release via debit card
  • Unclaimed funds after 90 days may be subject to processing fees

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with facility security protocols. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and could result in disciplinary action or criminal charges if found to be associated with illegal activities.

How To Send Jail Mail In Alamance County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Alamance County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.

General Mailing Address Format:

Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Alamance County Detention Center
109 South Maple Street
Graham, NC 27253

Acceptable Mail Items:

  • Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
  • Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, pop-up, or oversized cards)
  • Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
  • Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
  • Legal documents
  • Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
  • Approved periodicals (must be sent directly from publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

  • Packages or padded envelopes
  • Hardcover books
  • Personal checks or cash
  • Stamps or envelopes
  • Stickers, labels, or tape
  • Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
  • Polaroid photographs
  • Laminated items
  • Cards larger than 5x7 inches
  • Items with glitter, glue, or other adhesives
  • Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
  • Materials depicting violence, weapons, or gang symbols
  • Correspondence containing threats, extortion, or criminal conspiracy
  • Items containing unknown substances or stains

Mail Inspection Procedures:

  • All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
  • Mail may be read if there is reasonable suspicion of security concerns
  • Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
  • Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in criminal charges
  • Mail containing unauthorized items will be returned to sender or destroyed

Electronic Messaging (if available):

  • Some facilities offer secure electronic messaging through approved vendors
  • Family and friends must create an account on the approved platform
  • Fees apply for electronic messages
  • Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
  • Electronic messages are typically delivered more quickly than postal mail

Publications and Books:

  • Books must be paperback and sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
  • Magazines and newspapers must come directly from the publisher
  • Publications are subject to review for appropriate content
  • Religious materials are generally permitted but subject to security review
  • Educational materials may be approved with prior authorization

Mail Restrictions:

  • Inmates may be restricted from corresponding with certain individuals:
    • Victims of their crimes
    • Co-defendants in pending cases
    • Former inmates (unless approved)
    • Individuals with active protective orders
    • Minors without parental/guardian consent

All mail policies are established in accordance with N.C.G.S. § 153A-224 and are designed to maintain facility security while preserving inmates' rights to communication. The facility administrator reserves the right to modify mail procedures as necessary to address security concerns.

Lookup Inmate Records in Alamance County

Alamance County Sheriff's Office

Offender Search

Alamance County | North Carolina Judicial Branch

Detention Center – Alamance County Sheriff's Office

Court Dates | North Carolina Judicial Branch