Nash County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Nash County?
Inmate records in Nash County are official government documents maintained by the Nash County Sheriff's Office and Detention Center that document the custody, care, and control of individuals incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody.
Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute § 153A-220, which establishes standards for local confinement facilities, inmate records must be maintained with specific information about each person detained. These records are distinct from court records, which are maintained by the judicial system and focus on case proceedings rather than custody status.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where detention officers collect and document:
- Biographical information
- Photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprints
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening information
- Charge information
- Court dates
Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Medical treatments
- Court appearances
- Bond modifications
The Nash County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state regulations and county policies, ensuring proper documentation of all individuals in custody at the Nash County Detention Center.
Are Inmate Records Public In Nash County?
Inmate records in Nash County are generally considered public information under the North Carolina Public Records Law § 132-1, which states that "public records and public information are the property of the people." However, access to specific components of these records may be restricted based on privacy concerns, ongoing investigations, or security considerations.
The following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Full name of the inmate
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Facility housing location (general)
- Mugshot/booking photograph
Certain information within inmate records remains confidential and exempt from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social Security numbers
- Detailed personal identifying information
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Information that could compromise facility security
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic custody details through the Nash County Detention Center's online inmate lookup system or by contacting the facility directly. For more comprehensive records, individuals may submit a formal public records request to the Nash County Sheriff's Office in accordance with state law.
The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction also maintains searchable databases for offenders in state custody, which may include individuals who have transferred from Nash County facilities to state prisons.
What's Included Inmate Records in Nash County
Inmate records maintained by the Nash County Detention Center contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer
- Custody classification level
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Incident reports involving the inmate
- Visitation logs and approved visitor list
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant numbers
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Criminal history (prior bookings)
- Probation/parole status (if applicable)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, pending, denied)
- Bondsman information (if applicable)
- Pre-trial release conditions
Court Information:
- Court dates and appearances
- Court of jurisdiction (District or Superior)
- Case disposition updates
- Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Projected release date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Participation in jail programs or work assignments
- Probation terms (if applicable)
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Agency assuming custody (if transferred)
These records are maintained in compliance with North Carolina Administrative Code Title 10A, Chapter 14, which establishes minimum standards for local confinement facilities, including requirements for record-keeping and documentation.
Nash County Prison System
The Nash County correctional system operates under the authority of the Nash County Sheriff's Office, which maintains the Nash County Detention Center for the confinement of pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year. This facility functions as part of the local criminal justice system, distinct from the state prison system operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.
The Nash County Detention Center primarily houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically less than one year)
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions or agencies
It is important to distinguish between the county detention system and the state prison system:
- County detention facilities: Operated by the Sheriff's Office, these facilities house pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences for less serious offenses
- State prisons: Operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, these facilities house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences
The Nash County Sheriff's Office is responsible for the administration, security, and operations of the county detention facility.
Nash County Sheriff's Office
222 W. Washington Street
Nashville, NC 27856
(252) 459-4121
Nash County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office works in coordination with the Nash County courts, District Attorney's Office, and other criminal justice agencies to manage the inmate population and ensure public safety.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Nash County
Nash County maintains a single primary correctional facility to serve the detention needs of the county's criminal justice system. This facility operates under the direct supervision of the Nash County Sheriff's Office.
Nash County Detention Center
222 W. Washington Street
Nashville, NC 27856
(252) 459-4121
Nash County Detention Center
The Nash County Detention Center is a medium-security facility located behind the Nash County Courthouse in downtown Nashville. The facility has the capacity to house up to 259 male inmates and features:
- General population housing units
- Administrative segregation units
- Medical observation cells
- Intake/booking area
- Visitation areas
- Administrative offices
The detention center utilizes a direct supervision model where detention officers are stationed within housing units to maintain constant supervision of inmates. This facility is classified as a Type II detention facility under North Carolina Administrative Code, meaning it houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders.
Nash County does not operate separate facilities for different security classifications or specialized populations. Instead, the detention center utilizes internal classification systems to appropriately house inmates based on:
- Security risk level
- Medical needs
- Behavioral considerations
- Protective custody requirements
Individuals requiring specialized housing beyond what the Nash County Detention Center can provide may be transferred to other facilities through intergovernmental agreements or to state facilities operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.
Who's in Prison In Nash County
The Nash County Detention Center houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The facility's population typically consists of the following categories:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Persons who have not posted bail or bond
- Those denied bail due to the nature of their charges or flight risk
- Individuals awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial dates
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of less than one year
- Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
- Those serving sentences for probation violations
- Offenders participating in work release programs
Temporary Felony Holds:
- Individuals convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Persons serving short portions of felony sentences in the county facility
- Felony offenders participating in local court proceedings
Special Populations:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Persons awaiting extradition to other jurisdictions
- Those held on behalf of federal agencies through intergovernmental agreements
- Individuals serving contempt of court sentences
According to data from the Nash County Detention Center, the facility population fluctuates but typically maintains an average daily population of approximately 200 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects the broader community with variations based on socioeconomic factors and law enforcement patterns.
The length of stay varies significantly based on case status:
- Pre-trial detainees: Days to months, depending on case complexity and court schedules
- Misdemeanor sentences: Typically 1-90 days, with some up to 12 months
- Felony holds: Usually less than 30 days before transfer to state facilities
- Special circumstances: Varies based on specific legal situations
All individuals housed in the Nash County Detention Center are subject to the facility's classification system, which determines housing assignments based on security needs, behavioral history, and special requirements.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Nash County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Nash County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Nash County Sheriff's Office provides multiple options for locating current inmates and obtaining basic custody information.
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Nash County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Detention Center" section
- Select the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" option
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name) or booking number if known
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond amount
- Next court date
- Facility location
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Nash County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
- Complete a public records request form at the front desk
- Provide identifying information about the inmate (full name, date of birth)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Nash County Detention Center at (252) 459-4121
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
- Be prepared to verify your identity
- Note that basic information may be provided by phone, but detailed records typically require written requests
Written Request:
- Submit a formal written request to: Nash County Sheriff's Office Records Division 222 W. Washington Street Nashville, NC 27856
- Include the following information:
- Your full name and contact information
- The inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Purpose of the request
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
For state-level offender information, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction maintains a searchable database of individuals in state custody or under state supervision.
Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute § 132-6, public agencies must provide access to public records "at reasonable times and under reasonable supervision." Fees may be charged for copying or extensive research services.
How To Find an Inmate in Nash County for Free?
Nash County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody at the Nash County Detention Center. These free resources are available to the general public and do not require payment of fees or subscription services.
Nash County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Nash County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the Detention Center section
- Select the Inmate Search function
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
North Carolina Offender Public Information Search:
- Visit the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction offender search portal
- Enter the individual's name or identification number
- This database includes individuals who may have been transferred from Nash County to state facilities
Telephone Inquiry to Detention Center:
- Call the Nash County Detention Center at (252) 459-4121
- Request information about a specific inmate by providing their full name
- Basic custody information is typically provided without charge
- Available during regular business hours
Nash County Courthouse Records:
- Visit the Nash County Courthouse at 234 W. Washington Street, Nashville, NC 27856
- Access public terminals in the Clerk of Court's office
- Search for criminal cases, which may indicate custody status
- The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides information about court locations and services
Jail Roster at Detention Facility:
- Visit the Nash County Detention Center lobby during regular business hours
- Review the publicly posted inmate roster (typically updated daily)
- This roster contains names of current inmates and basic charge information
When searching for an inmate, having the following information will improve search accuracy:
- Full legal name (including middle name if known)
- Date of birth
- Approximate booking date
- Case number (if available)
These free resources provide basic custody information. For more detailed records, a formal public records request may be necessary, which could involve copying fees as permitted under North Carolina public records laws.
How To Visit an Inmate In Nash County
The Nash County Detention Center maintains specific policies and procedures governing inmate visitation to ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with these regulations to be permitted entry.
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday through Sunday
- Morning sessions: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Evening sessions (Wednesday and Thursday only): 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Maximum of two 30-minute visits per inmate per week
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
Visit Types:
- On-site video visitation (primary method)
- Remote video visitation (available for approved visitors)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Contact visits (special circumstances only, requires approval)
Registration and Scheduling:
- All visitors must register in the facility's visitation system
- First-time visitors must complete registration at least 48 hours before intended visit
- Schedule visits by calling (252) 459-4121 or through the online visitation portal
- Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time for processing
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Required Identification:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Birth certificate for minors without photo ID
- Professional visitors must present credentials (bar card, agency ID)
Visitor Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above knee, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats, sunglasses, or excessive jewelry
Prohibited Items:
- Cell phones and electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products and lighters
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Recording devices
- Medications (unless medically necessary and approved)
Visit Rules and Restrictions:
- Maximum of two visitors per visit (including children)
- All visitors subject to search
- No physical contact during video visitation
- Conversations monitored and recorded (except attorney visits)
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Individuals with active warrants or on probation/parole may require special permission
Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute § 153A-224, which establishes minimum standards for local confinement facilities, inmates must be allowed visitation privileges consistent with maintaining facility security and operational requirements.
For current visitation information and to schedule visits, refer to the Nash County Inmate Visitation page.
How To Send Money to a Nash County Inmate
Nash County Detention Center provides multiple methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses during incarceration.
Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
- Available in the Nash County Detention Center lobby
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Cash, credit cards, and debit cards accepted
- Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
- Service fee: $2.50 per transaction
- Receipt provided for all transactions
Online Deposits:
- Visit the approved third-party payment processor website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Nash County Detention Center" as the facility
- Enter inmate's full name and ID number
- Enter deposit amount and payment information
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds generally available within 24 hours
Money Order by Mail:
- Obtain a money order payable to "Nash County Detention Center"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Mail to: Nash County Detention Center Inmate Accounts 222 W. Washington Street Nashville, NC 27856
- No personal checks or cash accepted by mail
- No service fee for money orders
- Processing time: 3-5 business days
Amount Limits and Restrictions:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Permitted Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Purchase of contraband items
- Payment of fines or court costs (separate process required)
- Bond payments (separate process required)
Additional Information:
- Funds remaining at release will be returned via debit card
- Deposits from individuals with active warrants may be rejected
- All deposits subject to verification before posting to inmate accounts
- Suspicious transactions may be investigated and funds held pending review
The Nash County Detention Center reserves the right to place holds on inmate accounts or deduct funds for institutional debts, including restitution for facility damage, in accordance with North Carolina General Statute § 148-18.1, which governs inmate welfare funds and canteen operations.
How To Send Jail Mail In Nash County
The Nash County Detention Center permits inmates to receive mail from family, friends, and approved correspondents, subject to specific guidelines and security protocols. All incoming mail is inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules.
Mailing Address Format:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Nash County Detention Center
222 W. Washington Street
Nashville, NC 27856
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
- Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
- Legal correspondence (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Polaroid photographs
- Laminated items or plastic-coated cards
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps inside the envelope
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented papers
- Cash or personal checks
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Items containing threats or planning criminal activity
- Correspondence containing bodily fluids or unknown substances
Mail Inspection Procedures:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected by detention staff
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Contraband items are confiscated and documented
- Mail containing unauthorized content is returned to sender or destroyed
- Suspicious mail may be held for further investigation
Books and Publications:
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Soft-cover books only (no hardcover)
- Maximum of 3 books per mailing
- Subject to content review by facility staff
- Religious texts permitted subject to security review
E-Messages (if available):
- Register on the approved third-party messaging service
- Purchase message credits
- Compose message (subject to character limits)
- Messages screened before delivery to inmate
- Service fees apply
Mail Restrictions:
- Correspondence with other incarcerated individuals requires prior approval
- Mail from individuals with active criminal cases involving the inmate may be restricted
- Volume limitations may be imposed (typically 10 incoming letters per week)
- Mail privileges may be temporarily suspended for disciplinary reasons
All mail procedures comply with North Carolina Administrative Code 10A NCAC 14J .1210, which establishes standards for inmate mail in local confinement facilities. The detention center reserves the right to modify mail procedures to address security concerns or operational needs.