Penobscot County Jail Inmate Lookup

Penobscot County Jail, located at 85 Hammond Street in Bangor, Maine, operates under the oversight of the Penobscot County Sheriff's Office. This facility is a crucial part of the local criminal justice system, providing detention services for individuals charged with state and local offenses within Penobscot County. The jail holds an average daily population of around 600 inmates, including both pre-trial detainees and those serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses.

The facility is classified as a medium-security jail and houses a diverse inmate population. It plays a significant role in maintaining public safety in the region by securely detaining individuals who are awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. Moreover, the jail is actively involved in various rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism and aiding the successful reintegration of inmates into the community. These programs are essential for helping inmates acquire new skills and improve their prospects post-release.

Penobscot County Jail has been facing challenges with overcrowding, prompting plans for expansion and renovation to better accommodate its inmate population and enhance its operational capacities. These improvements are part of a broader effort to address the facility's needs and ensure it can continue to serve its critical role in public safety and inmate rehabilitation effectively.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

The Penobscot County Jail provides a systematic and user-friendly approach to inmate lookup, ensuring transparency and accessibility for the public. This service is crucial for families, friends, and legal representatives seeking information about inmates housed at the facility. The ability to access inmate information online supports community safety, aids in legal proceedings, and helps maintain connections between inmates and the community, which are essential for the reintegration process.

Steps for Inmate Search

To effectively search for an inmate at the Penobscot County Jail, follow these detailed steps:

1. Accessing the Inmate Roster: Begin by visiting the Penobscot County Jail Inmate Roster page. This page is maintained with the latest data, ensuring you receive the most current information available.

2. Entering Search Details: Use the search box provided to input the inmate's Booking Number, Last Name, or First Name. These details must be entered accurately to ensure the search results are relevant.

3. Conducting the Search: After entering the necessary information, click the 'Search' button to view the results. This system is designed to provide a comprehensive list of inmates matching your search criteria.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The jail roster at Penobscot County Jail is a comprehensive resource that provides detailed information about each inmate, which is essential for those conducting inmate searches:

Booking Number: Each inmate is assigned a unique booking number upon their entry into the facility. This number is crucial for tracking and managing inmate records within the jail system. It acts as an identifier that avoids confusion between inmates, especially those with similar names.

Names and Date of Birth: The roster includes full names and dates of birth, aiding in accurate identification of inmates. This detail is particularly important for legal proceedings and for families or friends trying to locate an inmate. By offering precise birthdate information, the jail ensures that searches can distinguish between individuals effectively.

Release Date: For each inmate, the roster provides an estimated release date. This information is vital for families planning for the return of a loved one and for attorneys coordinating with clients on post-release plans. Knowing the release date also helps community services prepare necessary support for reintegration.

Criminal Charges: The roster lists all charges against each inmate, providing a clear view of the reasons for incarceration. This transparency is key for public record-keeping and helps maintain the legal integrity of the justice process. It allows the public to understand the nature of the crimes involved and supports the right to information.

Using Third-Party Sites for Inmate Information

In addition to the official Penobscot County Jail's roster, several third-party websites provide resources that can be used for further inmate search and information retrieval. These platforms often aggregate data from multiple correctional facilities, offering a broader scope of information:

• VINELink: A service that allows users to search for inmates by name or inmate ID across many states. VINELink also offers notifications on changes to an inmate’s custody status, which can be crucial for family members and legal representatives.

• BOP’s Inmate Locator: Useful for tracking federal inmates, this site is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and includes data about inmates held in federal facilities.

• JailBase: Provides arrest information and mugshots, where available. It is a useful tool for initial searches before verifying information through official channels.

• Pigeonly: Designed to streamline communication between inmates and the outside world, Pigeonly offers services for sending mail, photos, and managing phone calls with inmates.

These third-party services complement the information found on the jail’s official site, offering additional tools and convenience for users.

Legal Considerations and Limitations

When using both the Penobscot County Jail’s official roster and third-party sites, it’s important to be aware of the legal considerations and limitations involved:

Privacy and Accuracy: Not all information may be publicly accessible due to privacy laws, especially concerning juveniles or sensitive cases. Additionally, third-party databases might not always be up-to-date, so it's essential to cross-reference information with official sources.

Legal Use of Information: Information obtained through inmate searches should be used responsibly. Misuse of this information, such as for harassment or discrimination, can lead to legal repercussions.

Limitations on Inmate Contact: Some inmates may have restrictions on their communications due to the nature of their charges or institutional rules. Always check with Penobscot County Jail regarding what is permitted in terms of inmate contact.

Understanding these aspects ensures that the search and communication with inmates are conducted within legal bounds, respecting privacy and facility regulations.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Visiting an inmate at Penobscot County Jail is an important component of supporting inmates during their time in custody, providing them with crucial emotional support. Regular visits can help maintain mental health and stability for inmates, which are critical for effective rehabilitation and reintegration into society after their release. Understanding and following the established visitation guidelines ensures that these visits occur smoothly and securely, reinforcing the safety and order of the facility.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

To ensure a well-organized visitation process, it is essential to follow these steps:

1. Visitation Registration: Potential visitors must first check the Penobscot County Jail's official visitation page for registration requirements. Registering involves submitting personal information and undergoing a background check to ensure the safety and security of the facility and its inmates.

2. Scheduling a Visit: Once registered, visitors can schedule a visit according to the available time slots. It's important to book in advance as slots can fill up quickly, and scheduling is typically handled on a first-come, first-served basis.

3. Required Identification: On the day of the visit, you must bring a valid form of identification such as a Driver’s License, State ID, or Passport. This ID is necessary to verify your identity and to check against the approved visitors list, ensuring that only authorized individuals gain access to the visitation area.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

Adhering to the rules and regulations of Penobscot County Jail is mandatory for all visitors:

Arrival Time: Visitors should arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled visitation time to allow for check-in and any necessary security procedures. This helps prevent delays and ensures that visits can start as scheduled.

Search Procedures: All visitors are subject to a search prior to entering the visitation area. This is a standard security measure to prevent contraband from entering the facility and to maintain a safe environment for visitors, inmates, and staff.

Conduct During Visits: Inappropriate behavior by visitors, such as loud talking, disrespectful comments, or any form of physical contact that violates jail rules, may lead to immediate termination of the visit. These guidelines are in place to maintain a respectful and secure atmosphere.

Dress Code: Visitors are required to dress appropriately for visits. Clothing that is revealing or suggestive is not permitted as it may disrupt the order of the facility. The dress code policy is enforced to maintain decorum and respect within the visitation area.

Electronic Devices: All electronic devices, including cell phones, are prohibited within the visitation area. This rule helps ensure privacy and security during visits and prevents any unauthorized recording or communication.

Visitation Hours

The visitation hours at Penobscot County Jail are subject to change and it is advisable to verify the latest schedule on the jail’s official website. Visitation times are usually structured according to the inmate’s housing unit or last name, which helps manage the flow of visitors and maintain security protocols.

Inmate Communications

Communicating with inmates at Penobscot County Jail is governed by specific rules to ensure security and orderly operations within the facility. The jail offers various methods for staying in contact, primarily through phone calls, ensuring that inmates maintain crucial connections with their families and friends, which is vital for their rehabilitation and mental well-being.

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Penobscot County Jail provides a structured inmate call system that allows inmates to make outgoing calls during designated hours. Here’s a breakdown of how this system works:

Call Types and Payments: Inmates can make calls either as prepaid or collect calls. Prepaid calls usually require the inmate or their family members to fund their phone account in advance, whereas collect calls are charged to the recipient's phone bill directly.

Monitoring and Recording: To maintain security, all calls are subject to monitoring and recording, except for those that involve legal counsel. This is a standard practice in corrections to prevent any unauthorized activities.

Emergency Calls: Inmates are generally not allowed to receive incoming calls. However, in an emergency, arrangements can be made through the jail staff after proper verification and approval.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The general contact number for the Penobscot County Jail is 207-947-4585. This number is intended for jail-related inquiries and not for direct communication with inmates. To communicate with an inmate, you must wait for them to call you through the inmate call system.

By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your communications with inmates are conducted smoothly and within the rules set by the facility. For more detailed information on setting up and managing communications with inmates, including service providers and associated fees, you can visit the official jail website or contact the jail directly.

Inmate Mail

Maintaining communication with inmates through mail at Penobscot County Jail is a vital link that supports the emotional well-being of inmates. Regular mail correspondence can help lessen the feelings of isolation that inmates may experience and is essential for keeping up with family ties and managing legal affairs. Understanding and adhering to the mail policies of the jail are crucial to ensure that your communications reach the inmates without any issues.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

To send mail to an inmate at Penobscot County Jail, you should follow these guidelines:

1. Obtaining Inmate Details: The first step in mailing an inmate is to ensure you have their full name and booking number. This information is critical to make sure the mail is delivered to the correct person without any delay.

2. Preparing the Mail: All letters should be written using a pen, pencil, or typewriter. The content should be thoughtful and abide by the jail regulations to avoid rejection during the screening process.

3. Addressing the Mail: Properly address your mail using the format below, and always include your full return address on the top left corner of the envelope. Send your correspondence via the United States Postal Service (USPS) as this is the only accepted method for delivery at the facility. [Inmate’s Full Name] [Inmate’s Booking Number] Penobscot County Jail 85 Hammond Street Bangor, ME 04401

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

Here are the essential guidelines to follow when sending mail to inmates at Penobscot County Jail:

Prohibited Items: Avoid sending anything that the jail classifies as contraband. This includes but is not limited to stamps, envelopes, or anything that can be used to compromise the security of the facility. Always check the latest guidelines as the list of prohibited items can be extensive.

Acceptable Mail Items: You can send letters, cards, and some facilities allow photos, but ensure they adhere to the size regulations (typically 4x6 inches) and do not contain inappropriate content. The jail might allow books, magazines, or newspapers, but these must be sent directly from the publisher.

Inspection and Delivery: All mail is opened and inspected by jail staff to ensure there is no contraband. Be mindful that any violation of the mail policies may lead to rejection of the mail or, in severe cases, suspension of mailing privileges.

Additional Information

If you have specific questions or need clarification on the mail policies at Penobscot County Jail, it is advisable to contact the facility directly. This ensures that you are up-to-date with any changes in the regulations and can address any concerns you might have about mailing or communicating with an inmate.

Sending Money to Inmates

Supporting inmates at Penobscot County Jail by sending money is an important way to help them access commissary items, maintain communication with loved ones, and manage personal needs. Sending funds is regulated to ensure that transactions are secure and that the facility maintains control over the internal economy.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

There are several secure methods you can use to send money to inmates at Penobscot County Jail:

1. Money Order: Sending a money order is one of the safest methods. Ensure that the money order includes the inmate's full name and booking number for proper crediting. Mail it to Penobscot County Jail's address.

2. Cashier’s Check: Similar to money orders, cashier’s checks are accepted and should include the inmate’s identification details. They provide a traceable and secure way to send funds.

3. Online Services: Penobscot County Jail partners with specific service providers for electronic transfers. You can use services like Access Corrections to deposit money directly into an inmate's account. This method is favored for its convenience and speed.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

When sending money to inmates, there are important rules and limitations to consider:

Limits on Amounts: There may be restrictions on how much money an inmate can receive or hold in their account at any one time. It's important to check with the facility for current limits to ensure compliance with their policies.

Security Measures: All funds sent to the jail may be subject to scrutiny. This includes potential freezing or seizing of funds for legal and administrative reasons, such as the payment of fines or restitution.

Prohibited Methods: Personal checks and cash are not accepted for inmate deposits due to security concerns. These methods are more susceptible to fraud and are difficult to track.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure that your financial support reaches the inmate securely and is used for its intended purpose. If you have any questions about the process or need assistance, it's advisable to contact Penobscot County Jail directly at 207-947-4585 for the most accurate and timely information.

Inmate Commissary

The commissary in a jail or prison refers to a store within the correctional facility where inmates can purchase products such as snacks, stationery, hygiene products, and more.

A commissary is a store within the Penobscot County Jail that provides inmates with access to items not regularly issued by the correction facility. This service allows inmates to purchase goods using funds from their personal account, which can be funded by the inmate's prison job wages or money sent by friends or family.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates order commissary items through a process defined by the detention facility. Typically, inmates fill out a form indicating the items they wish to purchase. The total cost is then deducted from their account. The ordered items are then delivered to the inmates on a specified day of the week.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

The use of the commissary service is a privilege and comes with several restrictions:

• Inmates may be restricted in the number of items they can order at a given time.

• Certain items may not be available to inmates based on their behavior or custody level.

• The detention center may restrict the total amount of money an inmate can spend on commissary items within a specific period.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Public access to incarceration records and mugshots varies based on local laws and regulations.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records can usually be accessed via a formal request to the relevant government office. Often, these records can be accessed online through the county’s or state's official website. For Penobscot County Jail, you would visit their website and locate their records or public information section.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photographic portrait of an individual taken shortly after their arrest. It typically includes two angles – front and profile.

Mugshots are taken to provide a record of the individual's appearance at the time of the arrest. The availability of mugshots to the public can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the local laws.

Please visit the Penobscot County Jail's official website or contact them directly for information on how to access these records and mugshots. Note that this is a hypothetical link, and you should visit the official county jail's webpage for accurate information.

Inmate Population

The inmate population at the Penobscot County Jail can vary based on various factors such as law enforcement activities, court decisions, and more.

Current Population Statistics

The current population at Penobscot County Jail averages around 600 inmates, though the exact number can fluctuate daily. You can refer to the Penobscot County Jail's official website for the most current statistics.

Average Inmate Stay Duration

The average length of stay for an inmate at the Penobscot County Jail depends significantly on the nature of their charges and the progress of their legal proceedings. However, it typically ranges from a few days for minor offenses to several months or years for more serious charges.

Racial, Age, and Gender Demographics

The racial, age, and gender demographics of the inmate population can vary widely. However, all demographics are represented, and the jail is equipped to accommodate male and female inmates of all ages and racial backgrounds.

Security Level

The Penobscot County Jail takes the security of its inmates, staff, and the general public very seriously and has implemented various measures to ensure a safe and secure environment.

Security measures at the Penobscot County Jail include controlled access points, surveillance cameras, regular patrols, inmate count checks, and controlled movement of inmates within the facility. All visitors are screened and their belongings are checked before entering the facility.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The Penobscot County Jail houses inmates ranging from low-level misdemeanor offenders to those charged with serious felonies. The inmate's charges, behavior, and risk level determine their housing unit within the jail.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of the facility. Their duties include supervising inmates, enforcing rules, conducting security checks, managing inmate movements, and responding to emergencies. They also play a key role in providing rehabilitation programs to inmates.

For more accurate and up-to-date information about the inmate population and security level, please visit the Penobscot County Jail's official website. Note that this is a hypothetical link, and you should visit the official county jail's webpage for accurate information.

Location and Contact Details

The Penobscot County Jail can be contacted in several ways. Below are the official contact details:

Official Mailing Address

Please use the following address for any official correspondence:

Penobscot County Jail
85 Hammond St,
Bangor, ME 04401
USA

Please note that this address is for the purpose of official correspondence only and should not be used for sending mail to inmates. Please refer to the 'Inmate Mail at Penobscot County Jail' section for more information on how to mail an inmate.

Official Phone Number

The official phone number for the Penobscot County Jail is (207) 947-4585. This number should be used for general queries and not for contacting an inmate directly.

Official Website

The official website of the Penobscot County Jail can be found at this address: Penobscot County Jail Official Website

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How can I find an inmate in jail or prison?

To find an inmate in jail or prison, you can use various online search systems offered by state, federal, and local correctional facilities. In the United States, a popular resource is the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator which allows you to search for federal inmates. Most state corrections departments also have similar online services. For local county or city jails, check the website of your local sheriff's department or corrections division.

2. Can I search for an inmate nationwide?

Yes, you can conduct a nationwide search for an inmate. One way is through the BOP Federal Inmate Locator which allows you to find inmates incarcerated in federal facilities across the country. There are also other online platforms like VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), which offers nationwide search capabilities for certain states.

3. How often is the inmate database updated?

The frequency of inmate database updates depends on the specific facility or system being used. Generally, most inmate locator systems update their databases daily. However, for the most accurate information, it's always best to contact the specific facility or agency.

4. Is there a fee to search for an inmate?

Most inmate search services offered by government agencies are free. There are some private websites that might charge a fee for more comprehensive search capabilities.

Arrests Lookup

5. How can I look up recent arrests?

Recent arrest records can usually be found on the website of local law enforcement agencies. Many police departments maintain an online database or log of recent arrests that is publicly accessible. Some third-party websites also provide this information, but their accuracy and completeness may vary.

6. Is it possible to see the charges against someone who's been arrested?

Yes, you can typically see the charges against someone who has been arrested. This information is part of the public record and can often be found on the same resources where you look up arrest records.

7. Are arrest records public?

Yes, arrest records are generally considered public records. However, accessibility to these records may vary by jurisdiction and there may be some exceptions for certain cases.

Jail Bookings

8. What is jail booking?

Jail booking is the process of recording an arrest in the official records of a jail or detention center. This typically includes taking the suspect's personal information, photograph, fingerprints, and details of the alleged crime. Personal belongings are also inventoried and stored.

9. Can I get information about past and current jail bookings?

Yes, information about past and current jail bookings can often be obtained through the jail or sheriff's department. Many jails have online databases for this information. The availability and level of detail may vary based on local laws and privacy policies.

Inmate Calls

10. How can I receive a call from an inmate?

To receive a call from an inmate, you generally need to be on an approved call list, which is set up by the inmate. The specific procedures vary by facility, but usually, the inmate needs to submit a list of phone numbers to the jail's administration for approval. Once approved, the inmate can call those numbers.

11. Can I initiate a call to an inmate?

No, you typically cannot initiate a call to an inmate. Inmates can make outgoing calls, but for security reasons, they are not allowed to receive incoming calls. However, you can set up a time for the inmate to call you.

12. What are the costs associated with inmate calls?

Inmate calls are often subject to fees set by the facility or a third-party provider. These can include connection fees, per-minute charges, or flat fees for a certain time limit. The specific costs can vary widely depending on the facility and the provider. Some correctional facilities use services like Securus Technologies or Global Tel Link for their phone systems.

Inmate Mail

13. Can I send mail to an inmate?

Yes, you can generally send mail to an inmate, but there are often specific rules and restrictions you need to follow. It's best to check with the specific facility for their guidelines. Most facilities require you to include the inmate's name, identification number, and the facility's address on the envelope.

14. Are there restrictions on what can be sent to an inmate through the mail?

Yes, there are typically restrictions on what can be sent to an inmate through the mail. These can include restrictions on certain types of content, sizes and types of packages, and prohibited items such as drugs, alcohol, or anything that can be used as a weapon. Some facilities also restrict or prohibit items like polaroid photos, hardcover books, or anything with glue or staples.

15. How is inmate mail processed and delivered?

Inmate mail is generally processed by the facility's mail room. It is inspected for contraband and for compliance with the facility's mail policies. Once approved, it is usually delivered to the inmate within a few days. Some facilities may also use an outside service for scanning and delivering mail to help prevent the introduction of contraband.

Visitation

16. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?

To schedule a visit with an inmate, you'll need to follow the specific procedures of the facility where the inmate is housed. This often involves filling out a visitor application, being placed on the inmate's visitor list, and scheduling the visit in advance. Some facilities offer online scheduling tools for convenience.

17. What are the rules and restrictions for visiting an inmate?

Rules and restrictions for visiting an inmate vary by facility but typically include limits on visiting hours, the number of visitors allowed, and the length of visits. Visitors are usually required to present a valid ID and may be subject to search. Prohibited items typically include weapons, drugs, and electronics. Some facilities also have dress code policies for visitors.

18. Can children visit an inmate?

Yes, children can typically visit an inmate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some facilities may require proof of guardianship or consent from the non-incarcerated parent. The specific rules and procedures can vary by facility, so it's important to check in advance.

Sending Money

19. How can I send money to an inmate?

Money can typically be sent to an inmate through various methods such as money orders, cashier's checks, or through online services like JPay, Western Union, or MoneyGram. The specific options and procedures depend on the facility.

20. What are the fees associated with sending money to an inmate?

Fees for sending money to an inmate can vary based on the method used. Sending money orders or cashier's checks may involve nominal fees, while online services typically charge a transaction fee. The specific fees can depend on the amount being sent, the service being used, and the facility's policies.