Northampton County Public Records /Northampton County Inmate Search

Northampton County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Northampton County?

Inmate records in Northampton County are official government documents maintained by the Northampton County Department of Corrections that chronicle an individual's history within the county's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation of a person's incarceration from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law § 67.101, these records serve both administrative and public information purposes.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While the Northampton County Criminal Court Division maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and court appearances, the Department of Corrections maintains custody records that document the physical detention and daily management of incarcerated individuals. This separation reflects the distinct functions of the judicial and correctional systems within county government.

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process that begins at booking. When an individual is taken into custody, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, and record the reason for detention. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical treatments, program participation, and visitation history. Upon release, final disposition information is added, and the record is archived according to Pennsylvania's record retention requirements under 37 Pa. Code § 95.246.

Are Inmate Records Public In Northampton County?

Inmate records in Northampton County are partially accessible to the public under Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. §§ 67.101-67.3104). This statute establishes the presumption that government records are public unless specifically exempted by law, privileged, or protected by security concerns.

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and county facilities operate under specific guidelines regarding what inmate information may be disclosed. According to 61 Pa.C.S. § 5102, certain basic information about current inmates must be made available to the public.

Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:

Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
Basic demographic information (name, age, gender)
Booking date and time
Charges filed (but not detailed arrest reports)
Mugshots (subject to certain restrictions)
Bond/bail amounts
Scheduled court dates
Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
Current housing facility

However, significant portions of inmate records remain confidential under various exemptions, including:

Medical and mental health information (protected under HIPAA)
Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
Detailed disciplinary records
Security-related information about the facility
Information that could compromise ongoing investigations
Juvenile records (subject to stricter confidentiality requirements)

Requests for inmate records must be submitted through proper channels, typically through the county's Right-to-Know officer, and may be subject to redaction of protected information.

What's Included Inmate Records in Northampton County

Inmate records maintained by the Northampton County Department of Corrections contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth and age
Gender and physical description
Photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Assigned inmate identification number
Last known address
Emergency contact information

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency and officer
Reason for arrest/detention
Classification status (security level)
Housing assignment within the facility
Disciplinary incidents and actions
Program participation and work assignments
Visitation records and approved visitor list

Charge Information:

Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Case numbers associated with charges
Arresting agency and jurisdiction
Status of charges (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Warrant information, if applicable

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond/bail amount set by court
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted, not posted, revoked)
Bond conditions imposed by court
Bail hearing dates and outcomes

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Judge assigned to case
Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders affecting custody status

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction date and charges
Sentence length and terms
Credit for time served
Probation/parole eligibility dates
Special conditions imposed by court
Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions

Release Information:

Scheduled or projected release date
Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
Post-release supervision requirements
Conditions of release
Release planning documentation

These records are maintained in compliance with 37 Pa. Code § 95.243, which establishes minimum standards for inmate record-keeping in Pennsylvania correctional facilities.

Northampton County Prison System

The Northampton County prison system operates under the authority of the Northampton County Department of Corrections, which is responsible for the secure custody and rehabilitation of individuals who are awaiting trial or serving sentences of up to two years. This local correctional system functions as a critical component of the county's criminal justice infrastructure, working in coordination with the courts, law enforcement agencies, and community service providers.

Unlike state prisons, which house individuals convicted of more serious offenses with longer sentences, the Northampton County prison system primarily focuses on short-term incarceration, pre-trial detention, and community reintegration. The county facility houses individuals who are:

Awaiting trial and unable to post bail
Serving sentences of up to two years for misdemeanors and certain felonies
Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Temporarily housed due to court proceedings
Serving weekend or intermittent sentences

The administration of the county prison system falls under the direction of the Northampton County Executive and is overseen by a professional corrections staff led by a Director of Corrections. The facility operates in accordance with Pennsylvania Department of Corrections standards and undergoes regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Northampton County Department of Corrections
666 Walnut Street
Easton, PA 18042
Phone: 610-829-6180
Northampton County Department of Corrections

Types of Correctional Facilities In Northampton County

Northampton County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around its main facility, with specialized units and programs to address various inmate populations and needs:

Northampton County Prison (Main Facility)
666 Walnut Street
Easton, PA 18042
Phone: 610-829-6180
Northampton County Department of Corrections

This maximum-security facility serves as the primary detention center for the county, housing both male and female inmates across various security classifications. The facility includes:

Pre-trial detention units for individuals awaiting court proceedings
General population housing for sentenced inmates
Administrative segregation for inmates requiring separation from the general population
Medical unit for inmates with health concerns requiring monitoring
Mental health services area for specialized treatment and observation

Work Release Center
666 Walnut Street
Easton, PA 18042
Phone: 610-829-6180
Northampton County Department of Corrections

Located within the main prison complex, this minimum-security unit houses eligible inmates who are permitted to leave the facility for employment during the day while returning to custody during non-working hours. This program facilitates:

Maintenance of employment during incarceration
Development of work skills and employment history
Financial responsibility (including restitution and family support)
Gradual reintegration into the community

Treatment Programs

While not separate physical facilities, Northampton County operates specialized treatment programs within the main prison:

Substance abuse treatment programs
Mental health treatment units
Educational and vocational training programs
Life skills and reentry preparation services

The county does not operate juvenile detention facilities; youth offenders are typically housed at separate regional juvenile detention centers in accordance with Pennsylvania's juvenile justice laws.

Who's in Prison In Northampton County

The Northampton County correctional facility houses a diverse population 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 with crimes but have not yet been convicted
Those who could not afford to post bail or were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial dates
Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings

Sentenced Offenders:

Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of up to two years
Individuals convicted of certain felonies with shorter sentences
Those serving partial confinement sentences (such as work release or weekend sentences)
Offenders awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities after sentencing

Special Populations:

Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized supervision or treatment
Persons with substance use disorders participating in treatment programs
Veterans enrolled in veteran-specific programming
Individuals participating in educational or vocational training programs

According to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, the demographic composition of the Northampton County inmate population generally reflects broader trends in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals and racial minorities.

The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and sentencing patterns. The facility typically operates near its designed capacity, with population management being a continuous challenge for administrators. Length of stay varies significantly, from a few days for those quickly posting bail to up to two years for those serving maximum county sentences.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Northampton County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Northampton County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of basic inmate data. Individuals may conduct searches through the following channels:

Online Inmate Locator:

Visit the Northampton County Department of Corrections website
Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Inmate Locator" section
Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or inmate ID number)
Review the results, which generally include current custody status, charges, and next court date
Note that online records typically display only basic information about current inmates

Pennsylvania Statewide Inmate Locator:

Access the Pennsylvania Inmate/Department Supervised Individual Locator
Enter search criteria (name, inmate number, or date of birth)
Select Northampton County as the committing county if known
Review results, noting that this system primarily tracks state inmates but may include some county-level information

In-Person Records Request:

Visit the Northampton County Department of Corrections during regular business hours
Complete a records request form at the public information counter
Provide identification and specify the records being requested
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Allow processing time as required by Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law

Written Records Request:

Prepare a formal written request citing Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law
Include specific information about the inmate (full name, date of birth, approximate dates of incarceration)
Submit the request to:

Northampton County Department of Corrections
Records Officer
666 Walnut Street
Easton, PA 18042

Include contact information for response
Allow up to 5 business days for initial response, with possible extension as permitted by law

For more comprehensive records beyond basic custody information, requesters may need to submit a formal Right-to-Know request and may be subject to redactions of confidential information pursuant to 65 P.S. § 67.708.

How To Find an Inmate in Northampton County for Free?

Members of the public seeking to locate an individual currently in custody in Northampton County have access to several no-cost resources. These free search options provide basic information about an inmate's custody status and location:

Northampton County Inmate Search Portal:

Navigate to the Northampton County Department of Corrections website
Locate and select the "Inmate Lookup" or similar function
Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
Review search results showing current inmates matching the search criteria
Access basic information including booking date, charges, and custody status

Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator:

Visit the Pennsylvania Inmate/Department Supervised Individual Locator
Enter search parameters (name, inmate number, or date of birth)
Filter results by selecting Northampton County if known
View basic custody information for matching records
Note that this system primarily tracks state inmates but includes some county-level data

Telephone Inquiry:

Contact the Northampton County Department of Corrections at 610-829-6180
Provide the name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
Request verification of custody status and basic information
Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate
Note that certain information may not be provided over the telephone due to privacy and security protocols

Criminal Court Division Records:

Contact the Northampton County Criminal Court Division at 610-829-6500
Provide the individual's name for case lookup
Request information about custody status related to specific cases
Obtain information about scheduled court appearances
Access public terminal computers at the courthouse to search court records

When conducting these searches, it is important to have accurate identifying information, as common names may return multiple results. Additionally, recently arrested individuals may not appear in electronic systems immediately, as there is typically a processing delay between arrest and database entry.

How To Visit an Inmate In Northampton County

Visitation with inmates at the Northampton County Department of Corrections is governed by established policies designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. Prospective visitors should familiarize themselves with the following guidelines before planning a visit:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
Each inmate is typically allowed a limited number of visitors per week
Visits must be scheduled in advance through the facility's visitation system
Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time for processing
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification

Visit Schedule:

General population: Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Special housing units: Limited hours as posted at the facility
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Visit duration is typically limited to 30-60 minutes per session
Holiday schedules may vary and are posted in advance

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
Medication required during visit (must be declared and approved)
Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
Funds for vending machines (in clear plastic bag, limited amount)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
Food or beverages
Purses, backpacks, or large bags
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Controlled substances or alcohol
Cash exceeding approved amount for vending

Dress Code:

Conservative, appropriate attire required
No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts, see-through materials)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing resembling inmate attire (solid khaki or orange)
No sleeveless shirts or dresses
Appropriate undergarments required
No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
No open-toed shoes or flip-flops

Visit Types:

Contact visits: Available to eligible inmates in general population
Non-contact visits: Conducted through glass partition with telephone communication
Video visitation: Available for certain housing units or when in-person visits are restricted
Special visits: May be approved for exceptional circumstances (out-of-state visitors, family emergencies)

Visit Restrictions:

Visitors with criminal histories may be denied entry
Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
Visitors attempting to introduce contraband may face criminal charges under 18 Pa.C.S. § 5123

For the most current visitation information, contact the facility directly or visit the Northampton County Department of Corrections website.

How To Send Money to a Northampton County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed at the Northampton County Department of Corrections have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services within the facility.

Approved Money Transfer Methods:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the official inmate banking service provider's website (accessible through the Northampton County Department of Corrections website)
- Create an account or log in to an existing account
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select deposit amount and payment method
- Complete transaction with credit/debit card or electronic check
- Print or save confirmation receipt
Kiosk Deposits:
- Use the automated kiosk located in the prison lobby during regular visiting hours
- Follow on-screen instructions to identify the inmate
- Insert cash or credit/debit card for deposit
- Obtain printed receipt confirming transaction
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from an approved provider (U.S. Postal Service, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make payable to "Northampton County Department of Corrections"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Mail to:
Northampton County Department of Corrections
Inmate Accounts
666 Walnut Street
Easton, PA 18042
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with money orders
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing

Amount Limits and Fees:

Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
Online transaction fee: $2.50-$7.95 (varies by amount and method)
Kiosk transaction fee: $2.00-$6.95 (varies by amount)
Money order processing: No fee from the facility (sender may pay fee to purchase money order)
Special processing fees may apply for expedited deposits

What You Cannot Send:

Cash through the mail
Personal or business checks
Cashier's checks from non-approved institutions
Foreign currency or money orders
Cryptocurrency or digital payment services
Third-party checks

Permitted Uses of Inmate Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls and video visitations
Electronic messaging where available
Educational materials and program fees
Medical co-pays for certain services
Restitution and court-ordered payments
Release savings accounts

Restricted Uses:

Direct payments to other inmates
Purchases from outside vendors without approval
Payment for unauthorized services
Exceeding spending limits established by facility policy

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with 61 Pa.C.S. § 1101 governing correctional institutions. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially reported to law enforcement authorities.

How To Send Jail Mail In Northampton County

Correspondence with inmates at the Northampton County Department of Corrections is permitted but subject to specific regulations designed to maintain facility security and safety. All incoming and outgoing mail, except privileged legal correspondence, is subject to inspection and must comply with established guidelines.

General Mail Guidelines:

Addressing Requirements:
- All mail must include the inmate's full name and ID number
- Sender's full name and return address must appear on the envelope
- Address mail to:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Northampton County Department of Corrections
666 Walnut Street
Easton, PA 18042
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters on plain paper (white or light-colored)
- Greeting cards (simple cards without electronic components or excessive layering)
- Photographs (maximum 4"x6", limit of 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (following financial deposit procedures)
- Legal documents (marked as legal mail)
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Newspaper clippings (limited to 3 per envelope)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages without prior authorization
- Padded or oversized envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape on correspondence
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cards with musical chips or electronic components
- Polaroid photographs
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes for the inmate's use
- Any items containing bodily fluids or unknown substances
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Content depicting violence, weapons, or gang symbols
- Materials promoting criminal activity

Legal Mail Procedures:

Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
Must come from an identifiable legal source (attorney, court, legal agency)
Will be opened in the inmate's presence to inspect for contraband
Contents will not be read by staff if properly identified as legal correspondence
Legal mail is not subject to the same content restrictions as general mail

Publication Delivery:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
Hardcover books are generally prohibited
Publications must not violate content restrictions
Religious texts may be subject to special consideration
Educational materials related to approved programs may be permitted with prior authorization

Mail Inspection Process:

All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband
Mail may be read to ensure compliance with facility rules
Prohibited items will be rejected and either returned to sender or destroyed
Inmates will receive notification of rejected mail
Mail suspected of containing contraband may be held for further investigation

Electronic Messaging (where available):

Access the approved electronic messaging system through the facility website
Create an account and add the inmate to your contacts
Purchase messaging credits through the system
Compose and send messages following system guidelines
Attachments and images may be limited or prohibited
All electronic communications are subject to monitoring

Mail privileges may be restricted for inmates who violate institutional rules or when security concerns arise. The facility operates in accordance with 37 Pa. Code § 95.233 regarding inmate mail and communication rights.