Inmate Search — Ask the Inmate
Finding out where someone is incarcerated is often the first and most urgent challenge families face after an arrest or transfer. The Bureau of Prisons maintains a free locator for federal inmates. Every state maintains its own inmate search tool. But knowing which system to search, how to use the locator correctly, and what to do when the search comes up empty requires guidance that most families do not have access to when they need it most. This section covers how to use the BOP inmate locator for federal inmates, how to find state inmates using DOC search tools, what to do when an inmate does not appear in any search system, why someone in transit may be temporarily unfindable, and how InmateAid's free inmate search can help locate a loved one across multiple systems simultaneously. The answers here are written for families searching in real time, often in crisis, who need accurate information fast. See also our sections on Inmate Transfer and General Prison Questions.
Related InmateAid Services
They might have an inmate number and an A-number (for alien) that is issued by Immigration
Read moreSome of the jurisdiction websites have the information posted and others do not. The websites that charge for the information are getting their data at a cost to them. If it were indeed "free", then the pay sites would not be in business at all.
Read moreThe inmate data is placed on the website by the member/users of InmateAid. We only verify information upon request. If you have something specific regarding an inmate's whereabouts we would be happy to help you. Send us an email to aid@inmateaid.com with the inmate's name and where you think they might be - what state, and a last know location (institution) or anything else you have that might help us, help you.
Read moreSend us your inmate's name and the facility and state they are incarcerated in, we will help you locate your inmate's ID number
Read moreYou will have to contact the facility to get information on juvenile inmates. They are prohibited from posting information on juvenile detainees
Read moreWhat is your inmate's name, their DOB and the state they are in? We will see what we can find.
Read moreWe found two Anthony Perez but neither had an "E" as a middle initial. Because this is a military base and the prisoners are soldiers, the standard inmate locators do not have the entire inmate roster available. You might try calling the facility itself (253-967-0058) and speak with the unit secretary for that information.
Read moreWe are unable to locate him with the information provided. If he is not on Vinelink or the TDCJ Inmate Locator, our best advice is to try the [ICE Inmate Locator](https://locator.ice.gov/odls/homePage.do). This locator will require you to enter more fields of information which should narrow it down.
Read more[Arkansas DOC Inmate Locator](http://adc.arkansas.gov/inmate_info/index.php)
Read morePlease send us your inmate's information (name, state, dob, facility name) and we will find their inmate ID number and set it up for you. Once it is completed we will notify you that it is ready for use.
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