Oswego County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Oswego County?

Inmate records in Oswego County are official government documents maintained by the Oswego County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division that chronicle an individual's incarceration history within the county correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody, from initial booking through release. Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c, county sheriffs are responsible for maintaining accurate records of all persons committed to their custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records document the judicial proceedings related to a case, inmate records specifically track custody status and institutional management. The Oswego County Sheriff's Office creates and maintains these records as part of their statutory duty to document all aspects of an individual's incarceration.

The record creation process begins at booking, when an individual first enters the custody of the Oswego County Correctional Facility. During this intake process, corrections staff collect and document:

• Biographical information
• Photographs (mugshots)
• Fingerprints
• Personal property inventory
• Medical screening information
• Initial security classification

Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:

• Housing assignments
• Disciplinary incidents
• Visitation logs
• Medical treatments
• Program participation
• Court appearances

Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains on file with the Sheriff's Office in accordance with New York State Archives retention schedules.

Are Inmate Records Public In Oswego County?

Inmate records in Oswego County are partially accessible to the public under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified in Public Officers Law Article 6, § 84-90. This law establishes the public's right to access government records, with certain exceptions to protect privacy and security interests.

The Oswego County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible inmate roster that provides basic information about currently incarcerated individuals. According to New York State regulations, specifically 9 NYCRR § 7013.1, correctional facilities must maintain records of all inmates, and certain elements of these records are considered public information.

Information that is typically available to the public includes:

• Inmate's full name
• Date of birth
• Booking date
• Current charges
• Bond/bail amount
• Next court date
• Expected release date (if sentenced)
• Facility housing location (general)

However, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly accessible. The following information is generally restricted due to privacy and security concerns:

• Social Security numbers
• Detailed medical information
• Mental health records
• Disciplinary records
• Precise housing location within the facility
• Information about protective custody status
• Victim information

Members of the public seeking access to inmate records beyond what is available through the online inmate lookup system may submit a FOIL request to the Oswego County Sheriff's Office. The agency is required to respond to such requests within five business days, either providing the requested records, denying access with a written explanation, or acknowledging receipt with an approximate date when the request will be granted or denied.

What's Included Inmate Records in Oswego County

Inmate records maintained by the Oswego County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. These records include several categories of information as outlined below:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• State identification number (NYSID)
• Booking identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of admission
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Classification status
• Housing assignment history
• Scheduled release date (if sentenced)
• Previous incarceration history within the county

Charge Information:

• Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
• Charge severity (A, B, C, D, E felony or A, B misdemeanor)
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Probation/parole violation status

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond/bail amount
• Bond/bail type (cash, bond, partially secured, unsecured)
• Bond/bail status (posted or not)
• Bail source (if posted)

Court Information:

• Jurisdiction of case
• Court docket/case numbers
• Next scheduled court appearance
• Court of record (County, Supreme, Town/Village)
• Judge assigned to case

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction charges
• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Good time/merit time calculations
• Post-release supervision requirements

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, time served, transfer, etc.)
• Agency assuming custody (if transferred)
• Release conditions
• Probation/parole contact information (if applicable)

These records are maintained in accordance with New York State Commission of Correction standards and are subject to regular audits to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Oswego County Prison System

The Oswego County correctional system operates under the authority of the Oswego County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the incarceration of individuals within the county. The system is structured to accommodate both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders serving terms of up to one year, as prescribed by New York Correction Law § 500-a.

The Oswego County correctional system is distinct from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), which manages state prisons housing individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year. County facilities primarily house:

• Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
• Persons serving sentences of less than one year
• State inmates temporarily housed for court appearances
• Federal detainees (through intergovernmental agreements)

The Oswego County Correctional Facility operates under a direct supervision model, which places corrections officers directly within housing units to maintain order and provide immediate supervision of inmates. This facility is administered by the Corrections Division of the Oswego County Sheriff's Office.

Oswego County Sheriff's Office
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3302
Oswego County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff, as the chief law enforcement officer of the county, oversees all aspects of jail operations, including security, inmate programs, medical services, and food service. The facility operates in compliance with standards established by the New York State Commission of Correction, which conducts regular inspections to ensure adherence to state regulations.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Oswego County

Oswego County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around a single primary facility that serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice system. This approach allows for efficient resource allocation while meeting the diverse needs of the county's incarcerated population.

Oswego County Correctional Facility
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3305
Oswego County Corrections Division

The Oswego County Correctional Facility serves as the county's main detention center and functions as:

• Pre-trial Detention Facility: Houses individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or arraignment and have not posted bail or bond
• Sentenced Offender Facility: Accommodates individuals serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor and certain felony convictions
• Temporary Holding Facility: Provides short-term housing for individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions or facilities
• Weekend Incarceration Facility: Allows for alternative sentencing where qualifying offenders serve time on weekends while maintaining employment

The facility is designed with multiple housing classifications to separate inmates based on:

• Gender
• Security risk level
• Special needs (medical, mental health)
• Protective custody requirements
• Disciplinary status

In addition to the main correctional facility, Oswego County maintains:

Oswego County Justice Center Holding Facility
25 East Oneida Street
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3411

This facility provides temporary holding cells adjacent to the county courthouse for individuals appearing for court proceedings. It is not designed for overnight detention but facilitates secure transport between the main correctional facility and court appearances.

All Oswego County correctional facilities operate under the authority of the Sheriff and in accordance with regulations established by the New York State Commission of Correction.

Who's in Prison In Oswego County

The Oswego County Correctional Facility houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The facility's population typically consists of several distinct categories of detainees and inmates as outlined below.

Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the facility's population. These individuals:

• Have been arrested and charged with criminal offenses
• Have not yet been convicted of the charges against them
• Are awaiting trial or other court proceedings
• Have either been denied bail or have been unable to post the bail amount set by the court
• Maintain the presumption of innocence under law

Sentenced offenders comprise another major segment of the population. These individuals:

• Have been convicted of criminal offenses through guilty pleas or trial verdicts
• Are serving sentences of up to one year as prescribed by New York Penal Law § 70.15
• May be serving time for misdemeanors or certain non-violent felonies
• May be participating in jail-based rehabilitation programs

The facility also houses specialized populations, including:

• Parole Violators: Individuals who have allegedly violated the terms of their parole and are being held pending parole revocation hearings
• Probation Violators: Persons who have allegedly violated probation conditions and are awaiting court proceedings
• Weekend Inmates: Offenders permitted by the court to serve their sentences on weekends to maintain employment
• Temporary Transfers: State inmates temporarily housed for local court appearances
• Federal Detainees: Individuals held under contract with federal agencies such as U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement

According to data from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, the average daily population of the Oswego County Correctional Facility fluctuates but typically ranges between 100-150 inmates. Demographic analysis indicates the population generally reflects patterns seen throughout the New York State criminal justice system, with overrepresentation of certain demographic groups consistent with statewide trends.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Oswego County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Oswego County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Oswego County Sheriff's Office provides multiple channels through which interested parties can obtain inmate status and basic custody information.

The most efficient method for locating current inmates is through the online inmate lookup system:

1. Navigate to the Oswego County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division website
2. Locate and select the "Inmate Lookup" link
3. Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
4. Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number for more precise results
5. Review the search results, which typically display:
   • Inmate's full name
   • Date of birth
   • Booking date
   • Current charges
   • Bond information
   • Next court date
   • Expected release date (if sentenced)

For individuals without internet access, telephone inquiries may be directed to:

Oswego County Correctional Facility Records Unit
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3305
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

When making telephone inquiries, callers should be prepared to provide:

• Inmate's full name (including any known aliases)
• Date of birth (if known)
• Approximate booking date (if known)

For more comprehensive inmate records beyond basic custody information, interested parties must submit a formal Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request:

1. Prepare a written request specifying the records sought
2. Include the full name of the inmate and any identifying information
3. Submit the request to:

Oswego County Sheriff's Office FOIL Officer
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Email: sheriff@oswegocounty.com

Pursuant to Public Officers Law § 89, the agency must acknowledge receipt of the request within five business days and provide an approximate date when the request will be granted or denied. Certain information may be redacted to protect privacy and security interests in accordance with applicable exemptions under FOIL.

For historical inmate records or information about individuals no longer in custody, requests should be directed to:

Oswego County Sheriff's Office Records Division
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3302
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

How To Find an Inmate in Oswego County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Oswego County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information to family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties.

The primary free resource for locating inmates in Oswego County is the online inmate lookup system:

1. Access the Oswego County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division website
2. Select the "Inmate Lookup" option from the navigation menu
3. Enter the inmate's last name (required) and any additional information such as first name or date of birth to narrow results
4. Submit the search query
5. Review the results, which typically include:
   • Current custody status
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond/bail information
   • Next court date

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) maintains a free Incarcerated Individual Lookup service. This database includes:

1. All individuals currently incarcerated in New York State correctional facilities
2. Individuals released within the past year
3. Individuals under community supervision (parole)

To use this service:

1. Visit the DOCCS website
2. Enter the individual's name or Department Identification Number (DIN)
3. Review the results for current location and earliest release date information

Additional free resources include:

Oswego County Jail Information Line
Phone: (315) 349-3305
Hours: 24 hours daily
Services: Basic inmate status verification, visitation information

Oswego County Court Clerk's Office
25 East Oneida Street
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-8585
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
Services: Court case information related to inmate status

When using these free services, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including:

• Full legal name (including any known aliases)
• Date of birth
• Approximate date of arrest or incarceration

For individuals who may have been arrested but not yet processed into the jail system, limited information may be available through the New York State Unified Court System WebCrims database, which provides public access to pending criminal cases in participating counties.

How To Visit an Inmate In Oswego County

Visitation at the Oswego County Correctional Facility is governed by established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks. All visits must comply with New York State Commission of Correction Minimum Standards § 7008, which establishes baseline requirements for visitation in county correctional facilities.

Visit Rules and Procedures

Visitors to the Oswego County Correctional Facility must adhere to the following procedures:

1. All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
2. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
3. Visitors must successfully clear security screening before each visit
4. A maximum of two visitors are permitted per inmate during each visiting session
5. All visitors must register at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled visiting time
6. Visitors with active warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry

Visit Schedule

The Oswego County Correctional Facility maintains the following visitation schedule:

• General Population

  • Tuesday, Thursday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

• Special Housing Units

  • Wednesday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

No visits are scheduled on Mondays or county-observed holidays. Visitors should confirm the schedule by calling (315) 349-3305 before planning their visit, as times may be subject to change.

What to Bring

Visitors may bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification
• Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
• Medication required during the visit (e.g., asthma inhaler, nitroglycerin)
• Up to $50 in cash for the inmate account deposit (to be processed at the lobby kiosk)

What NOT to Bring

The following items are prohibited:

• Weapons of any kind
• Tools
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Controlled substances
• Any items to be passed to inmates

Dress Code

Visitors must adhere to the following dress code:

• No revealing clothing (shorts must extend to mid-thigh)
• No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
• No see-through clothing
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No gang-related attire or colors
• Shoes must be worn at all times
• No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)

Visit Types

The facility offers:

• Contact Visits: Available to general population inmates in good standing
• Non-Contact Visits: Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
• Professional Visits: Available to attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
• Special Visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with advance approval

Visit Restrictions

Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended under the following circumstances:

• Inmate disciplinary sanctions
• Facility lockdown or emergency situations
• Visitor misconduct during previous visits
• Reasonable suspicion of contraband introduction
• Court-ordered restrictions

For additional information or to verify an inmate's visitation eligibility, contact:

Oswego County Correctional Facility Visitation Office
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3305
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

How To Send Money to a Oswego County Inmate

The Oswego County Sheriff's Office provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds enable inmates to purchase approved items from the facility commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, writing materials, and other permitted items.

In-Person Deposits

Individuals may make in-person deposits at:

Oswego County Correctional Facility Lobby Kiosk
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Hours: 24 hours daily, 7 days per week

The lobby kiosk accepts:

• Cash (bills only, no coins)
• Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover)
• Debit cards

A receipt is provided for all transactions. A service fee of $2.50 applies to each deposit.

Online Deposits

Funds may be deposited online through the facility's authorized service provider:

1. Visit Access Corrections
2. Create an account or log in
3. Select "New York" and "Oswego County Correctional Facility"
4. Enter the inmate's information (full name and inmate ID number)
5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction

Online deposits may be made using:

• Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express)
• Debit cards
• Electronic check

Service fees for online deposits range from $3.95 to $7.95 depending on the deposit amount.

Telephone Deposits

Deposits may be made by telephone at:

Access Corrections Phone System
Phone: 1-866-345-1884
Hours: 24 hours daily, 7 days per week

Callers should have the following information ready:

• Inmate's full name
• Inmate ID number
• Credit or debit card information

A service fee of $4.95 applies to telephone deposits.

Mail Deposits

Money orders may be sent via postal mail to:

Oswego County Correctional Facility
Inmate Accounts
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126

Requirements for mail deposits:

• Money orders must be made payable to the inmate's full name
• Sender's full name and return address must appear on the envelope
• Personal checks and cash are not accepted
• No service fee applies to money order deposits

Amount Limits

The following limits apply to inmate accounts:

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
• Maximum account balance: $1,000

Deposits exceeding these limits may be rejected or held pending review.

Funds Usage Restrictions

Inmates may use commissary funds for:

• Commissary purchases (weekly limit of $100)
• Telephone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Approved educational materials

Funds may not be used for:

• Bail or bond payments
• Court fees or fines (unless specifically authorized)
• Transfers to other inmates
• Outside purchases

Any funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. Pursuant to New York Correction Law § 500-c(7), the facility may deduct certain fees and outstanding debts from inmate accounts prior to release.

How To Send Jail Mail In Oswego County

The Oswego County Correctional Facility maintains specific procedures for sending mail to inmates in accordance with New York State Commission of Correction standards. All incoming mail is subject to inspection for contraband and must comply with facility regulations.

General Mail Guidelines

All correspondence sent to inmates must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Oswego County Correctional Facility
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126

Essential requirements for all mail:

• Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
• Envelopes must be standard-sized (maximum 9" x 12")
• All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
• Packages cannot be accepted unless pre-approved by facility administration

Permitted Mail Items

The following items are permitted in inmate mail:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (standard size, no musical or electronic components)
• Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4" x 6", no Polaroids)
• Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
• Legal documents
• Approved religious materials (soft-cover only)
• Newspaper clippings (maximum 5 per envelope)

Prohibited Mail Items

The following items are prohibited and will be rejected:

• Hardcover books or magazines (these must be sent directly from publishers)
• Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or scented papers
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related materials
• Items containing threats or coded messages
• Polaroid photographs
• Laminated items
• Cardboard or plastic items
• Food items or contraband

Publications and Books

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors. These items must be soft-cover only and are subject to content review by facility staff. A limit of three publications may be in an inmate's possession at any time.

Approved vendors include:

• Amazon
• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Approved publishers and bookstores

Legal Mail

Mail clearly marked as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" from licensed attorneys, courts, or legal agencies receives special handling:

• It is opened only in the presence of the inmate
• It is inspected for contraband but not read for content
• It is processed with priority

Legal mail should be clearly marked as such on the envelope and include the attorney's name, title, and bar number.

Mail Rejection

Mail may be rejected if it:

• Contains prohibited items
• Presents a threat to security
• Facilitates criminal activity
• Violates facility rules

When mail is rejected:

• The inmate is notified in writing
• The sender may receive notification
• Rejected items may be returned to sender, placed in the inmate's property, or destroyed if contraband

For questions regarding mail policies or to verify mail regulations, contact:

Oswego County Correctional Facility Mail Room
39 Churchill Road
Oswego, NY 13126
Phone: (315) 349-3305
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

Lookup Inmate Records in Oswego County

Oswego County Corrections Division

New York State Incarcerated Lookup

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services