Essex County Detention Center, Massachusetts

Essex County Detention Center Massachusetts

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The Essex County Detention Center, MA is a pivotal institution in Massachusetts, responsible for housing individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or serving short-term sentences. This county jail boasts modern infrastructure and ensures adherence to established regulations for the welfare of inmates. It serves as a significant link in the Massachusetts correctional system.

CLICK HERE to Search for Incarcerated Friends or Family Members

Detention Center Inmate Lookup

For those seeking to find an inmate at the detention facility, the following steps should be taken:

Visit the Official Website: The county has a dedicated website for its correction facility which offers a search portal for inmate lookups. Click here to access.
Provide Essential Details: In most cases, you'd need at least the inmate's first and last name to initiate the search. Some portals might also ask for the Date of Birth or the Booking Number to narrow down the search results.
Search Results: Once the details are entered, a list of potential matches will be displayed. It's crucial to review the information cautiously to identify the correct inmate.
Contacting the Jail: If you face challenges using the online search or need more details, you can directly call the county jail at their official contact number.
In-Person Visit: If the digital methods prove unfruitful, one can directly visit the correction facility and request inmate information at the front desk, ensuring you have a valid ID and reason for the lookup.

Jail Roster

The jail roster at the correction facility is a consolidated list of inmates currently housed in the institution. It provides the following details:

Booking Number: A unique number assigned to each inmate upon their admission into the detention facility, essential for tracking and administrative purposes.
Last Name & First Name: The full name of the inmate.
Date of Birth: It helps differentiate inmates with similar names and serves as an added identifier.
Release Date: This indicates the date on which the inmate is expected to be released from the facility, either upon completing their sentence or being granted bail.
Criminal Charges: This section provides a brief description of the crimes the inmate has been charged with or convicted of.

To access the jail roster, one can click here or directly visit the official website. It's always recommended to cross-check information or contact the jail directly for any discrepancies.

When searching for inmates at the Essex County Detention Center, here are some details to consider:

Alternative Spellings: Sometimes, names might be recorded under a different or misspelled version. Always try variations or closely similar spellings if you're not getting the desired results.
Middle Names or Initials: Some systems may include middle names or initials. If you're aware of them, use them to further refine your search.
Previous Records: Individuals who've been previously incarcerated might have different records. You can request historical data or older bookings if the need arises.
Duration of Stay: Remember, the county jail primarily houses inmates with shorter sentences or those awaiting trial. For longer-term sentences, they might be transferred to state prisons.

The prison roster isn't just a list. It's a dynamic tool that is updated regularly to reflect the ever-changing inmate population of the correction facility. Here's what you should know:

Roster Update Frequency: Most rosters are updated daily. However, there can be occasional delays. Always check the last updated timestamp on the roster page.
Status Indicators: Some rosters will also include status indicators like "in solitary", "on medical watch", or "in-transit". These provide added context about the current situation of the inmate.
Housing Location: Larger facilities might include details about which block or cell the inmate is located in.
Known Affiliations: While this might not be common, some rosters can provide details on known gang affiliations or other group associations within the correctional facility.

Tips for an Effective Offender Lookup

Use All Known Details: The more information you have about an inmate, the more precise your search results will be. This includes full names, date of birth, and any known aliases.
Patience is Key: If your initial search doesn't yield results, don't get disheartened. Databases can be vast, and sometimes a more thorough or varied approach is needed.
Check Other Institutions: If you can't locate an inmate in the county jail, it's possible they've been transferred to another institution, such as a state prison or another county's facility.
Contact a Case Manager: Some facilities have case managers assigned to inmates. They can provide more detailed information if contacted directly, though they might require a valid reason for the inquiry.
Stay Updated: Regularly check the roster or inmate search portal if you're tracking the status of a specific inmate. This helps in staying informed about any changes, transfers, or releases.

Remember, while digital tools and databases have made inmate lookups much easier, the human touch can often fill gaps. Don't hesitate to call or visit the correction facility if you need more clarity or details.

Mugshots

Mugshots, often referred to as booking photographs, are photos taken of individuals when they are arrested and processed at a detention facility. These photos serve several purposes:

Identification: Mugshots are primarily used to identify offenders. It consists of a frontal view and sometimes a side profile.
Crime Investigation: Mugshots can be used by victims or witnesses to identify suspects in line-ups.
Documentation: These photos provide a visual record of an individual's appearance at the time of arrest, which can be useful for various legal and administrative reasons.

Availability in Essex County:

In Essex County, mugshots of inmates are typically taken during the booking process at the detention facility. Regarding their public availability:

Online Access: Some counties provide online access to mugshots through inmate search tools or dedicated databases. It's advisable to check the official Essex County Detention Center website or the county's official portal.
In-Person Requests: If not available online, mugshots can sometimes be requested in person at the correction facility or the county's records department.
Privacy Considerations: Due to potential misuse of mugshots and concerns about privacy, some jurisdictions have restricted the public dissemination of mugshots. Always ensure you're abiding by the current policies when seeking access.

Incarceration Records

Incarceration records provide details about an individual's confinement history, including the nature of their crime, sentence duration, parole details, and other related information.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records in Essex County:

Submit a Formal Request: Begin by submitting a formal request to the Essex County Clerk of Court or the Records Department at the correction facility. This request should detail the individual's name, date of birth, and any other known identifiers.
Fees: There might be a nominal fee associated with obtaining these records, especially if you require certified copies.
Online Portals: Some counties, including Essex, may offer online tools or portals where incarceration records can be accessed digitally. This often requires creating an account and might have associated fees.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests: In certain cases where information isn't readily provided, you can submit a FOIA request. This is a legal method of requesting public records, but not all incarceration records may be accessible under FOIA, especially if there are security or privacy concerns.
Wait Time: Once a request is submitted, there might be a waiting period as the relevant department processes your request. The duration varies depending on the method used and the volume of requests the department receives.
Limitations: Note that while most incarceration records are public, some might be sealed or expunged due to legal reasons. In such cases, they won't be accessible without a valid legal directive.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's always recommended to consult the official website of the Essex County Detention Center or contact relevant county departments directly.

Inmate Calls

Inmates housed at the Essex County Detention Center have the privilege of making outbound phone calls to stay connected with their family and friends. Here's an overview of the inmate call system and the associated regulations:

Call System & Regulations:

Collect Calls: Typically, inmates make collect calls, where the recipient bears the cost of the call. The recipient must have an active account with funds to receive such calls.
Pre-Paid Account: Some detention facilities collaborate with third-party phone service providers to allow family and friends to set up pre-paid accounts for inmates, which deducts call charges directly from the balance.
Call Duration & Frequency: Calls might have a set duration (often 15-20 minutes) and could be limited to a specific number per day or week.
Monitoring & Recording: For security purposes, all calls (with the exception of legal counsel calls) are usually monitored and recorded. Both inmates and call recipients are usually given a notification of this at the start of the call.
Restricted Numbers: Calls to certain numbers, like potential victims or witnesses, might be blocked or restricted.

Guidelines for Use:

Maintain Decorum: Always ensure conversations adhere to jail guidelines. Abusive language or discussing illegal activities could result in call privileges being revoked.
Follow Timing Rules: Inmates are allowed to make calls only during specific hours. Ensure you're available during these timings to receive the call.
Call Charges: Be aware of the call rates, which might be higher than standard rates due to the specialized service providers used by correctional facilities.

Inmate Mail

Maintaining communication through mail is another way for inmates to stay connected. Here's how to send mail to an inmate and the associated guidelines:

Sending Mail:

Addressing the Mail: When sending mail, it's crucial to correctly address the envelope. Typically, you'd use the following format:
```
[Inmate's Full Name]
[Inmate's Booking Number]
Essex County Detention Center
[Jail's Address]
```
Return Address: Always include your full return address. Mail without a return address may be rejected.

Guidelines for Sending Mail & Packages:

Content Restrictions: Avoid sending content that can be considered threatening, obscene, or incendiary. This also applies to drawings or symbols.
Prohibited Items: Do not send contraband, drugs, weapons, or any other forbidden items. The mail will be inspected, and illegal items will be confiscated and could lead to legal actions.
Photographs: If allowed, ensure they are appropriate. Typically, polaroids or photos with explicit content or gang-related symbols are not permitted.
Books & Magazines: Some facilities allow inmates to receive books or magazines. However, they usually need to come directly from publishers or sellers like Amazon. Always check the jail's policy before sending.
Letters & Greetings: There might be restrictions on the size, type, and number of greeting cards, especially during holidays. Avoid cards with electronic components or embellishments.
Package Approval: In some instances, any packages sent to inmates may need prior approval from jail administration. Check with the facility before sending any large packages.

For detailed and updated guidelines, it's always advisable to check with the Essex County Detention Center's official communication or directly call the facility. This ensures that the mail reaches the inmate without any hitches.

Sending Money to Inmates

For inmates at the Essex County Detention Center, financial support from loved ones can be crucial. Here's how you can send money and the associated guidelines:

Approved Methods:

Online Transfer: There are usually third-party service providers, such as JPay or MoneyGram, which facilitate online money transfers to inmates. Visit their website, create an account, and follow the instructions to send money using the inmate's name and booking number.
Mail: Some facilities accept money orders sent via mail. Ensure the money order is made out to the inmate's full name, and include the inmate's booking number.
Kiosk: The detention facility may have a kiosk in the lobby where you can deposit funds using cash or a card.
Over the Phone: Third-party service providers might also allow you to send money over the phone by providing the necessary details.

Regulations and Limitations:

Maximum Limits: There might be a cap on the amount of money you can send at one time, or the total amount an inmate can have in their account.
Service Charges: Online transfers and kiosk deposits usually come with service fees.
Refunds: Once the money is deposited, it is non-refundable.
Use of Funds: The money is credited to the inmate's account, which they can use to buy commissary items, make phone calls, or pay for other available services.
Release Funds: Upon an inmate's release, the balance in their account is usually returned, either via check or a debit card.

Commissary

Definition and Purpose:

A commissary is essentially a store within the correction facility where inmates can purchase products such as toiletries, snacks, writing materials, and other personal items. It serves multiple purposes:

Self-Sufficiency: Allows inmates to buy personal care items, ensuring their well-being during incarceration.
Privilege & Reward: Having access to the commissary can act as a privilege, which can be revoked as a disciplinary action.
Economic Activities: The funds used in the commissary often go back to the facility to fund rehabilitation programs or other services.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary:

Account Balance: Inmates use the funds in their account to make purchases. This account is funded through the money sent by their loved ones or earned through in-jail work programs.
Ordering & Delivery: Inmates fill out an order form indicating the items they wish to purchase. After processing, the items are delivered to the inmate, usually once a week.

Restrictions on Commissary Use:

Spending Cap: There's usually a limit on how much an inmate can spend in the commissary within a specific period.
Item Restrictions: Not all items in the commissary might be available to all inmates. Certain privileges might be restricted based on behavior, security level, or other factors.
Purchase Records: Every purchase is recorded to monitor and manage the inventory and to ensure no misuse of the system.
Revocation: As a disciplinary action, inmates might be barred from using the commissary either temporarily or permanently based on the infraction.

When considering sending money or engaging with the commissary system at the Essex County Detention Center, it's always a good practice to consult the facility's official guidelines or get in touch directly to ensure compliance and smooth transactions.

Visitation

Visitation is an essential way for inmates to maintain contact with their family and friends, which can be crucial for their morale and rehabilitation. If you're planning to visit an inmate at the Essex County Detention Center, here are the procedures and rules you should be aware of:

Procedure for Arranging a Visit:

Scheduling a Visit: Often, visitors need to schedule their visitation in advance. This can be done online, over the phone, or sometimes in person. It's best to consult the detention facility's official communication channels for exact details.
Inmate's Visitation List: Inmates might be required to provide a list of potential visitors. If your name is not on this list, you may not be permitted to visit. Ensure the inmate adds your name and details in advance.
Verification: A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license or passport) is typically required for verification on the day of the visit.

Rules and Regulations for Visits:

Dress Code: Most jails have a strict dress code for visitors. Avoid wearing clothes that are too revealing, have inappropriate graphics, or resemble inmate uniforms (like orange or khaki).
Conduct: Maintain a respectful demeanor throughout the visit. Inappropriate behavior could result in the termination of the visit or even a ban on future visits.
Physical Contact: Physical contact might be limited to a brief hug or handshake at the beginning and end of the visit. Always follow the guidelines provided by the staff.
Search & Screening: Visitors are typically searched before entering the visitation area. This could be a metal detector screening or a pat-down. Refusal might result in denial of the visit.
Items Allowed: Generally, visitors are not allowed to bring personal items into the visitation area. This includes bags, cell phones, food, or gifts. Check with the facility for specifics.
Minors: If you're bringing a minor, ensure you have the necessary permissions or documentation. Minors should be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

20 Manning Ave, Middleton, MA 01949

Official Phone Number

978-750-1900

Official Website

www.essexsheriffma.org

Security Level

The security level of a detention facility speaks to the measures in place to ensure the safety of both the inmates and the staff, as well as the general public.

Perimeter Security: This typically includes high walls or fences, often topped with barbed wire or razor wire. Some might also be electrified or have motion sensors.
Surveillance: CCTV cameras are strategically positioned throughout the facility to monitor inmates' activities and ensure their and staff's safety.
Control Points: There are numerous control points throughout the facility, ensuring that inmates can't move freely between different areas without appropriate permissions.
Search & Seizure: Regular searches of inmates' cells and personal belongings are conducted to find and confiscate contraband.

Categories of Offenders Housed:

Minimum Security: Inmates who pose the least risk and are often nearing the end of their sentences.
Medium Security: Inmates with a moderate risk. They have more restrictions than minimum security inmates but less than maximum security ones.
Maximum Security: Inmates considered high risk, often due to the nature of their crimes, behavioral issues, or escape risks.

Role of Correctional Officers:

Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and order of the facility.

Surveillance: They monitor inmate activities, ensuring no illegal or harmful actions take place.
Transport: Officers escort inmates within the facility, ensuring they move safely from one point to another.
Conflict Resolution: They intervene in inmate disputes or fights, ensuring the safety of all involved.
Enforcement: Officers enforce the rules and regulations of the facility, ensuring all inmates adhere to them.
Emergency Response: In case of emergencies, like fires or medical issues, officers are the first responders, ensuring safety and coordinating the necessary assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search, Arrests Lookup & Jail Bookings:

1. How can I search for an inmate within the system?

To search for an inmate within a correctional system, one typically visits the website of the state's Department of Corrections or the county's sheriff/jail website. These websites often provide an "Inmate Lookup" or "Inmate Locator" tool, where users can input information such as the inmate's name, date of birth, or inmate ID number.

2. What information do I need to lookup an arrest record?

To lookup an arrest record, the following information is usually needed:

Full Name of the individual.
Date of birth.
Social Security Number (optional but can refine the search).
Last known address or city of residence.

3. Can I see the details of jail bookings online?

Many counties and states offer online databases where the public can view details of recent jail bookings. However, the amount of detail provided can vary by jurisdiction.

4. How up-to-date is the inmate and arrest lookup system?

The frequency of updates for inmate and arrest lookup systems varies by jurisdiction. Some systems are updated in real-time, while others may be updated daily, weekly, or at other intervals.

5. Why can't I find an inmate, even with the correct details?

Possible reasons include:

The inmate is housed in a different facility or jurisdiction than the one you're searching in.
There might be a lag in the updating of the system.
The inmate could be under a protective status or pseudonym for their safety.
Minor discrepancies in the entered details.

Inmate Calls:

6. How can an inmate make a call from jail or prison?

Inmates can make calls using telephones provided by the correctional facility, typically through a contracted phone service provider. They usually make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts set up by their families or friends.

7. Are there any restrictions on who an inmate can call?

Yes, inmates are generally restricted from calling:

Potential witnesses.
Victims of their crimes.
Anyone who has requested not to be contacted. Additionally, all calls (except those to legal counsel) might be monitored or recorded.

8. How much does it cost for an inmate to make a call?

Costs vary based on the facility's phone service provider, the duration of the call, and whether the call is local, long-distance, or international.

9. Can inmates receive incoming calls?

Typically, inmates cannot receive incoming calls, but there are exceptions in certain emergency situations.

Inmate Mail:

10. How can I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate:

Obtain the correct mailing address for the facility.
Address the envelope with the inmate's full name, inmate ID number, and facility address.
Ensure the contents comply with the facility's mail policies.

11. Are there specific guidelines for what can be included in inmate mail?

Yes, common guidelines include:

No contraband.
No explicit or inappropriate materials.
Restrictions on physical items like money, stamps, or certain types of photos.
Letters may need to be written on white, lined paper with blue or black ink.

12. How frequently is mail delivered to inmates?

Mail is typically delivered to inmates daily, except for weekends and holidays. However, delivery times can vary based on the facility.

13. What happens if prohibited items are sent to an inmate?

Prohibited items are usually confiscated, and the inmate might be notified. Sending prohibited items could result in disciplinary actions for the inmate and potential legal consequences for the sender.

Visitation:

14. How do I schedule a visitation with an inmate?

Visitation is typically scheduled by contacting the correctional facility directly or using an online scheduling system, if available.

15. Are there specific rules and regulations for visitors?

Yes, common rules include:

Presenting a valid ID.
Dress code adherence.
Restrictions on items brought into the facility.
Undergoing security screenings.

16. Can children visit inmates?

Children can typically visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some facilities may have additional requirements or restrictions for children.

17. What items can I bring during a visitation?

Items vary by facility, but commonly allowed items include:

Identification.
A small amount of cash for vending machines.
Essential medications. Many items, like personal electronics or bags, are often prohibited.

Sending Money:

18. How can I send money to an inmate?

Methods include:

Online payment systems.
Money orders.
Cashier's checks.
Facility kiosks.

19. Are there any limits to the amount of money an inmate can receive?

Yes, many facilities set limits on the amount of money an inmate can receive over a certain period.

20. What can inmates use the money for?

Inmates use funds for:

Commissary items (e.g., snacks, hygiene products).
Phone calls.
Paying restitution or fees.

Posting Bond:

21. How can I post bond for an inmate?

Bond can be posted at the court or jail, either in person, through a bail bondsman, or sometimes online.

22. What forms of payment are accepted for bond?

Accepted forms include cash, cashier's checks, property, or surety bonds through a bail bondsman.

23. What happens if the inmate doesn't appear in court after bond is posted?

The bond may be forfeited, and the inmate can face additional charges. If a bail bondsman was used, they may seek repayment or locate the individual to return them to custody.

Legal Assistance for Inmates:

24. How can an inmate access legal assistance while incarcerated?

Inmates can request a public defender, hire a private attorney, or seek assistance from legal aid organizations that assist incarcerated individuals.

25. Are there free legal services available for inmates?

Yes, public defenders and certain non-profit legal aid organizations provide free services to eligible inmates.

26. Can inmates consult with their own lawyers?

Yes, inmates have the right to consult with their legal counsel privately and without interference.

Release:

27. How is the release date for an inmate determined?

Release dates are typically determined based on the inmate's sentence, credit for time served, good behavior credits, and any other relevant factors.

28. Can an inmate be released earlier than the scheduled date?

Yes, inmates can be released early for reasons like good behavior, parole, or sentence reductions.

29. What happens when an inmate is released? Are there any post-release procedures?

Upon release, inmates often undergo a release process that includes returning facility property, receiving personal property, and understanding post-release conditions (e.g., parole conditions). Some may be directed to parole officers or re-entry programs.

Criminal Records Lookup:

30. How can I access someone's criminal record?

Criminal records can be accessed through state or county court websites, local police departments, or third-party online platforms.

31. Is there a fee for accessing criminal records?

Fees vary. While some jurisdictions may provide records for free, others charge a fee. Third-party services also typically charge a fee.

32. How accurate are online criminal record lookups?

Online records are generally accurate but can depend on how regularly databases are updated and the quality of the source.

Background Check:

33. How can I request a background check on someone?

Background checks can be requested through online platforms, local police departments, or private investigative agencies.

34. What information is included in a background check?

Included information varies but may encompass:

Criminal records.
Employment history.
Education verification.
Credit history.

35. Are there any legal restrictions on performing background checks?

Yes, regulations like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) set guidelines for how and when background checks can be used, especially for employment.

36. Can an individual request their own background check?

Yes, individuals can request their own background checks to verify the accuracy of the information.