Passaic County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Passaic County?
Inmate records in Passaic County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Passaic County Sheriff's Office that document individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to an individual's incarceration history, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 30:1B-6, which authorizes the maintenance of such records.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the New Jersey Judiciary, document the legal proceedings, charges, and dispositions of cases, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within correctional facilities. The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Records are initiated during the booking and intake process when an individual enters custody
- Information is continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Records document housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Upon release, records are closed but maintained according to state retention schedules
The Passaic County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with the New Jersey Open Public Records Act, which establishes guidelines for record creation, maintenance, and public access.
Are Inmate Records Public In Passaic County?
Inmate records in Passaic County are partially accessible to the public under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA), codified in N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq. 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 following inmate record information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information and intake date
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshot photographs (with certain restrictions)
- Bond/bail amounts as set by the court
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility location
However, certain information within inmate records remains confidential and exempt from public disclosure under N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that would jeopardize facility security
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records must submit requests through the appropriate channels established by the Passaic County Sheriff's Office or the specific correctional facility housing the inmate.
What's Included Inmate Records in Passaic County
Inmate records in Passaic County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories that document an individual's interaction with the correctional system. The following elements are typically included:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission to facility
- Booking agency and arresting officer
- Custody classification and security level
- Current housing assignment within facility
- Disciplinary records while in custody
- Program participation and work assignments
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed (statute numbers and descriptions)
- Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor, disorderly persons offense)
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Arresting agency and jurisdiction
- Warrant information if applicable
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount set by court
- Bond type (cash, bond, ROR)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bail conditions imposed by court
- Bail hearing dates and outcomes
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction (municipal, superior)
- Judge assigned to case
- Scheduled court appearance dates
- Court case numbers
- Attorney of record information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges and dates
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Parole eligibility date
- Maximum release date
- Special conditions imposed by court
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Type of release (completed sentence, bail, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
These records are maintained in electronic databases and physical files by the Passaic County Sheriff's Office in accordance with state recordkeeping requirements.
Passaic County Prison System
The Passaic County correctional system operates under the authority of the Passaic County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration, security, and operation of detention facilities within the county. The system primarily consists of the Passaic County Jail, which serves as the central detention facility for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of up to 364 days, as prescribed by New Jersey state law.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in New Jersey's correctional hierarchy. The Passaic County Jail houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not been convicted
- Persons convicted of disorderly persons offenses and petty disorderly persons offenses
- Individuals sentenced to terms of incarceration not exceeding 364 days
- Detainees held on behalf of federal agencies or other jurisdictions
By contrast, the New Jersey Department of Corrections operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of indictable offenses (felonies) with sentences exceeding one year.
The Passaic County correctional system operates under the oversight of:
Passaic County Sheriff's Office
435 Minnisink Road
Totowa, NJ 07512
(973) 389-5900
Passaic County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains responsibility for inmate records, facility security, inmate transportation, and coordination with the courts and other law enforcement agencies throughout Passaic County.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Passaic County
Passaic County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Passaic County Jail
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501
(973) 881-4620
Passaic County Jail
The Passaic County Jail serves as the primary detention facility in the county, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility provides various security levels and specialized housing units, including:
- Maximum security units for high-risk inmates
- Medium security general population housing
- Minimum security dormitory-style housing
- Special housing units for inmates requiring protective custody
- Medical units for inmates with health concerns
- Mental health units for inmates requiring psychiatric services
Passaic County Juvenile Detention Center
18 Clark Street
Paterson, NJ 07505
(973) 247-8401
Passaic County Juvenile Detention Center
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders who are awaiting adjudication or have been adjudicated delinquent. The center provides:
- Age-appropriate housing and supervision
- Educational services in compliance with state requirements
- Counseling and rehabilitation programs
- Medical and mental health services
Passaic County Work Release Program
55 Dale Avenue
Paterson, NJ 07505
(973) 881-4566
Passaic County Sheriff's Office Programs
This alternative custody program allows eligible low-risk offenders to:
- Maintain employment while serving their sentences
- Return to the facility during non-working hours
- Participate in community service projects
- Engage in educational and vocational training
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and administrative procedures established by the Passaic County Sheriff's Office in accordance with New Jersey Administrative Code Title 10A, which governs corrections in the state.
Who's in Prison In Passaic County
The Passaic County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system at various stages. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Persons who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Defendants awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons convicted of disorderly persons offenses serving up to 6 months
- Individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving county sentences up to 364 days
- Offenders serving sentences for multiple offenses with aggregate terms
- Weekend sentence participants who serve time on weekends while maintaining employment
Special Population Categories:
- Immigration detainees held under contract with federal authorities
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Out-of-county inmates housed through inter-county agreements
- Persons held on detainers from other jurisdictions
Demographic Composition: The inmate population reflects the demographic diversity of Passaic County, with varying:
- Age groups (adults 18 and older)
- Socioeconomic backgrounds
- Educational levels
- Criminal history profiles
According to data from the New Jersey Department of Corrections, the average daily population in Passaic County correctional facilities fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and sentencing patterns. The facilities operate under capacity management protocols to address overcrowding concerns while maintaining appropriate classification and housing assignments for safety and security.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Passaic County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Passaic County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Passaic County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate data and provides multiple channels for record searches:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Passaic County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" or "Corrections Division" section
- Access the online inmate search portal
- Enter search criteria (at least one is required):
- Inmate's full name (last name, first name)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Date of birth
- Review the search results showing basic custody information
- Note that the system displays only currently incarcerated individuals
In-Person Record Requests:
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Visit the Records Division at the Passaic County Sheriff's Office:
Passaic County Sheriff's Office Records Division
435 Minnisink Road
Totowa, NJ 07512
(973) 389-5920 -
Complete an OPRA request form (available at the office)
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Provide specific information about the inmate and records sought
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Present valid identification
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Pay applicable fees for copies (currently $0.05 per letter-size page)
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Allow processing time as permitted under OPRA (typically within 7 business days)
Written OPRA Requests:
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Download the OPRA request form from the New Jersey Government Records Council website
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Complete all required fields, specifying the inmate records sought
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Submit the form via mail, fax, or email to:
Passaic County Sheriff's Office Records Custodian
435 Minnisink Road
Totowa, NJ 07512
Fax: (973) 389-5951 -
Include contact information for response
-
Expect processing within the statutory timeframe (7 business days)
Telephone Inquiries:
- Call the Passaic County Jail at (973) 881-4620
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
- Note that basic custody status information may be provided verbally
- Understand that detailed records require formal OPRA requests
When requesting inmate records, be aware that certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with exemptions under N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1.1 to protect privacy, security, and confidentiality interests.
How To Find an Inmate in Passaic County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Passaic County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Passaic County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Passaic County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the Corrections Division section
- Utilize the online inmate search function
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review results showing custody status, charges, and expected release date
- This service is available 24/7 at no cost to users
New Jersey Department of Corrections Offender Search:
- Visit the NJDOC Offender Search portal
- Enter the inmate's name or SBI number if known
- This database includes inmates who have been transferred from county facilities to state prisons
- The service provides basic custody information at no charge
Telephone Verification:
- Call the Passaic County Jail directly at (973) 881-4620
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth to the operator
- Inquire about current custody status
- Basic information is typically provided without charge
- Available during regular business hours
Vine Service (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):
- Access the VINE service online or call 1-877-846-3465
- Select New Jersey as the state
- Enter the inmate's name
- Receive information about custody status and facility location
- This service is free and available 24/7
- VINE also offers free notification services regarding changes in inmate status
In-Person Inquiry:
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Visit the public information desk at:
Passaic County Jail
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501 -
Provide the inmate's name and date of birth
-
Request basic custody information
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No fee is charged for basic verification of incarceration status
These free resources provide fundamental information about an inmate's custody status. For more detailed records or documentation, formal OPRA requests may be necessary, which could involve nominal fees for copying documents.
How To Visit an Inmate In Passaic County
Visitation with inmates at Passaic County correctional facilities follows structured protocols to maintain security while facilitating important family and social connections. Prospective 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 visitor applications during their intake process
- Each inmate is permitted a maximum of 5 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate and be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Maximum Security: Monday and Friday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Each inmate is allowed two 30-minute visits per week
- Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time
- Schedule is subject to modification during holidays or facility lockdowns
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- Visitor pass issued at check-in
- Locker key (provided at facility for securing personal items)
- Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, medical devices)
- Up to $50 in cash for inmate account deposits (to be processed at kiosk)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Tobacco products or electronic cigarettes
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Food or beverages
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Letters, books, or other items for inmates (must be sent through approved mail procedures)
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate or staff uniforms
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
- No open-toed shoes or flip-flops
- No excessively baggy clothing
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for minimum and medium security inmates
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition): Required for maximum security inmates
- Professional visits: Available for attorneys, clergy, and social services
- Special visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with prior approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
- Persons on probation or parole must obtain written permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors exhibiting signs of intoxication will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
These regulations are established pursuant to N.J.A.C. 10A:18-6, which governs visitation procedures in New Jersey correctional facilities. For the most current information, visitors should contact:
Passaic County Jail Visitation Office
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501
(973) 881-4651
How To Send Money to a Passaic County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Passaic County correctional facilities have several secure methods available for transferring funds. These transactions are subject to specific regulations and processing procedures:
Methods for Sending Money:
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Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
- Available at the Passaic County Jail lobby
- Accessible during regular visiting hours
- Accepts cash and credit/debit cards
- Provides immediate deposit to inmate accounts
- Receipt provided for transaction verification
-
Online Deposits via TouchPay:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Services website
- Create an account or proceed as guest
- Enter inmate information (name and ID number)
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Transaction confirmation sent via email
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Telephone Deposits:
- Call TouchPay service at 1-866-232-1899
- Follow automated prompts
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Service available 24/7
- Confirmation number provided for reference
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Money Order by Mail:
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Purchase money order from U.S. Postal Service or financial institution
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Make payable to "Passaic County Jail" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
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Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
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Mail to:
Passaic County Jail Inmate Accounts
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501
-
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit via kiosk: $300.00
- Maximum single deposit via online/phone: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum account balance permitted: $1,000.00
Transaction Fees:
- Lobby kiosk: $2.50 per transaction
- Online deposits: $2.95 for amounts up to $100; $5.95 for amounts $100.01-$300
- Telephone deposits: $4.95 for amounts up to $100; $7.95 for amounts $100.01-$300
- Money orders: No fee charged by facility (postal fees may apply)
Prohibited Funding Sources:
- Funds from other inmates or their families
- Money from victims of the inmate's offense
- Proceeds from illegal activities
- Funds from individuals with active restraining orders against the inmate
- Money from unidentified or unverifiable sources
Authorized Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone account funding
- Medical co-pays for non-emergency services
- Restitution payments as ordered by court
- Release funds upon discharge
Unauthorized Uses:
- Payment for contraband or unauthorized services
- Transfers to other inmates' accounts
- Payment for legal services without prior approval
- Gambling or betting activities
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with N.J.A.C. 10A:2-2.2, which governs inmate accounts and financial transactions. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:
Passaic County Jail Inmate Accounts Office
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501
(973) 881-4632
How To Send Jail Mail In Passaic County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Passaic County correctional facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following procedures apply to all mail sent to inmates:
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include:
-
Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
-
Inmate ID number (if known)
-
Facility name and address:
Passaic County Jail
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501
-
- Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
- Mail without proper return address will be rejected
- All mail is inspected for contraband and prohibited content
- Personal mail is limited to standard white envelopes and postcards
- Correspondence must be in English or Spanish only (other languages require translation services)
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
- Photographs (maximum 10 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (following financial transaction guidelines)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
- Religious materials (subject to review by chaplaincy services)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind without prior approval
- Padded or oversized envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps inside the envelope
- Polaroid photographs or photos depicting gang symbols
- Sexually explicit materials or nude photographs
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes for the inmate's use
- Food items or cosmetics
- Clothing or fabric items
Legal Mail Procedures:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come from an identifiable legal office or court
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is subject to inspection for contraband but not read for content
- Is logged in the legal mail registry
Electronic Messaging:
- Available through the GTL ConnectNetwork system
- Requires account creation and inmate information
- Messages are subject to monitoring and screening
- Fees apply per message (currently $0.25 per message)
- Photos may be attached for additional fees
- 24-hour delivery timeframe
Publications and Subscriptions:
- Must come directly from publisher or authorized retailer
- Paperback books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Magazines must be soft cover with subscriber name matching inmate
- Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
- Religious texts are subject to review by facility chaplain
All mail procedures are established in accordance with N.J.A.C. 10A:18-2, which governs correspondence in correctional facilities. For questions regarding mail policies, contact:
Passaic County Jail Mail Room
11 Sheriff's Plaza
Paterson, NJ 07501
(973) 881-4640