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
State DOC websites do make inmate records publicly searchable, but they are designed as lookup tools for people who already know who they are searching for, not as browsable directories. Publishing a full list of every inmate with their ID numbers attached would raise serious privacy and security concerns, which is why that kind of open roster does not exist. If you already have a specific person in mind and just need their DOC number, InmateAid can help with
Read moreYou need to know the state they are in to begin. Most immigrant arrestees are held in ICE facilities. Click this [Immigration Detainee Locator](https://locator.ice.gov/odls/homePage.do) to locate them
Read morePlease send us your inmate's information (name and DOB) and we will set it up for you. Once it is completed we will notify you that it is ready for use.
Read moreWhat is your inmate's name and DOB? What state are they inmate incarcerated in? This will help us locate them and create a profile for you to keep in contact with.
Read morehttps://apps.tn.gov/foil-app/search.jsp
Read moreThe InmateAid inmate pages are created and maintained by the member/users of the site. All of the inmate data is entered by the member/user of the site, not InmateAid. We do not monitor, verify or update the information unless requested by the member/user. When we are asked via email we definitely will help. You can create the profile yourself and attach it to your account. Once the inmate information is set up, it will sync up to all
Read moreThe inmate pages are created and maintained by the member/users of the site. All of the inmate data is entered by the member/user of the site, not InmateAid. We do not monitor, verify or update the information unless requested by the member/user. Send us the new information on your inmate and we will change for you on their profile
Read morecheck bop.gov
Read moreYou can write her a [letter](https://www.inmateaid.com/letters). Make sure you include her inmate ID on the envelope. You can use our service it is reliable, convenient and fast.
Read moreWhat is your inmate's DOB? What state are they inmate incarcerated in? This will help us locate them and create a profile for you to keep in contact with.
Read more