Louisiana Inmate Search

We are glad you came here for help. We will do our best to aid your search for information. This page is here to guide your Louisiana Inmate Search. We want to make this process clear for you. Thanks for visiting us today.

If you need to start looking right now, you can use this tool. Visit https://louisianaofficialrecords.com/inmate-search/ to begin your Louisiana Inmate Search right away. This site lets you check records fast. It helps find people held in state or local care. Go there now if you want quick access to search options.

State-Level Inmate Search: Louisiana Department of Corrections (DOC)

The main place to look for state inmates is the DOC. The Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections holds adults convicted of felony crimes. They run state prisons. Finding someone here means using their tools. Most inmates serving long terms are in DOC care. This is the first place most should check for a Louisiana Inmate Search.

Using the Official DOC Locator (LAVNS/VINELink)

Louisiana uses a system called LAVNS. This stands for Louisiana Automated Victim Notification System. It is part of the national VINELink network. While made for victims, it is also the public Louisiana Inmate Search tool for the DOC. You can use it online. It is free to use. The system tracks inmates in DOC custody. It shows where they are held. It also gives some case status data. This is the most direct way to find DOC inmates. The data is updated often. But short delays can occur. Always check the official site for the best info.

To use LAVNS, you usually need some facts. The inmate's full name helps a lot. Make sure you spell it right. A date of birth can help narrow the list. If you have the inmate's DOC number, that is best. The DOC number is unique to each person in state care. Enter the info you have into the search fields. The system will show matching names. Click a name to see more detail. You might find the jail name. You could see their DOC number. You might also see the class of crime. Note that exact release dates are often not shown to the public for safety reasons. LAVNS is found on the web. Go to the official VINELink website. Select Louisiana. Then search for the offender.

Louisiana Automated Victim Notification System (LAVNS)

LAVNS is key for victims of crime. It gives them timely alerts. Victims can sign up for free. They get updates on an inmate's status. This includes moves between jails. It notes release dates or escape events. It also alerts on parole hearings. This helps victims feel safe. It keeps them in the know. You can sign up online via the VINELink site. You can also call the LAVNS phone line. You need the inmate name or DOC number to sign up. You choose how you get alerts. It can be by phone, email, or text. This service links to the main Louisiana Inmate Search data.

Contacting the DOC Directly

Sometimes the online tool is not enough. You might need more help. You can try to call the DOC. They have phone lines for inmate data. Call (225) 342-6740 or (225) 342-6741 for help. Ask for inmate records or location help. Be ready to give the inmate's full name and date of birth. Or give their DOC number if you have it. Mail can also be sent. Send letters to P.O. Box 94304, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9304. Make your request clear. The main DOC office is at 504 Mayflower Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Office hours are likely 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central Time on week days. But call first to be sure. Keep in mind response times may vary. Online search is often faster.

Parish-Level Inmate Search: Sheriff's Offices and Local Jails

Not all inmates are in state prisons. Many are held in parish jails. These jails are run by the local Parish Sheriff. A Louisiana Inmate Search must often check these jails too. These jails hold people in two main groups. First are people waiting for trial. They have not been found guilty yet. Second are people found guilty of less serious crimes. They serve short terms, often less than one year. If you cannot find someone in the DOC system, check the parish jail where they were arrested or live.

How to Find Parish Inmate Information

Finding inmates in parish jails needs extra steps. There is no single statewide list for parish jails. Each Parish Sheriff runs their own jail. And each keeps their own records. Many Sheriff's Offices now have websites. Some of these sites have online inmate rosters or search tools. You must find the website for the right parish. Then look for links like "Inmate Roster," "Jail List," or "Inmate Search."

Here are links to some major parish search pages or Sheriff sites:

• Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office: Often has an online search tool. Check their official website.

• East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office: Typically provides an online inmate lookup. Visit their site.

• Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office: Usually offers a web search for inmates. Look on their main page.

• Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office: Check their site for jail roster information.

• St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office: Look for inmate search options on their website.

For these searches, you usually need the person's name. Spell it right. A date of birth might help too. The info you get varies by parish. You might see a booking photo, charges, bond amount, and housing unit. If a parish does not have online search, you must call them.

Contacting Parish Jails Directly

If you cannot find info online, call the Sheriff's Office jail division. Find the phone number for the correct parish jail. You can use a search engine or check the Louisiana Sheriff's Association website. This site lists all parish sheriffs. Ask for the jail records or inmate information desk. Be ready with the inmate's full name. They may ask for date of birth too. Be polite and clear. It can be hard to get data this way sometimes. Staff may be busy. Some info may not be public. This way is less sure than the DOC search.

Information Typically Available Through an Inmate Search

When you do a Louisiana Inmate Search, what can you find? The detail level varies. It depends on the system (DOC vs. Parish). It also depends on the facility rules. But some common data points often appear. You will likely see the inmate's full legal name. Sometimes known aliases are listed too. A unique ID number is key. For state inmates, this is the DOC number. For parish jails, it is often a booking number.

The most sought data is the location. The search should show the name of the prison or jail. Basic facts like race, sex, and birth date help confirm identity. The custody status tells you if they are actively held. Sometimes you can see a projected release date. But this is not always shared for safety reasons. It can also change based on behavior or new court orders. You might see general offense data. This could be the type of crime (like felony class A). Or it might list the specific conviction. Parish jails often list current charges and bond amounts. Remember that data accuracy depends on timely updates by the agency. Use official sources for the best info. Louisiana's Public Records Law (La. R.S. 44:1 et seq.) guides what info is public. But specific rules apply to inmate records under Title 15 of Louisiana Revised Statutes.

Communicating with a Louisiana Inmate

Once you find someone via a Louisiana Inmate Search, you may want to contact them. There are set ways to do this. Rules aim to keep jails safe and secure. You cannot just call or visit when you want. Plan ahead. Follow all rules closely.

Mail

Sending mail is a common way to stay in touch. Address the envelope correctly. You need the inmate's full name. You need their DOC number or booking number. Include the full facility name and address. Check the facility's website for the exact format. Mail is opened and checked for safety. Do not send banned items. Banned items include drugs, weapons, cash, or explicit photos. Letters must not contain threats or illegal plans. Some jails limit the number of photos per envelope. Usually, photos must not be Polaroids or contain nudity. Read the mail rules for the specific jail or prison. You can find these rules on the DOC site or Parish Sheriff site.

Phone Calls

Inmates cannot receive phone calls. But they can make calls out. Calls are usually collect. Or they use a pre-paid account set up by family or friends. The DOC and many parish jails use specific phone service vendors. Securus Technologies is a common one. You may need to set up an account with this vendor. Add funds to the account for the inmate to use. Calls are recorded and monitored, except for legal calls. There are limits on call length. Call times may be set by the facility. Check the facility rules or the phone vendor site for details. Costs can add up, so manage funds well.

Visitation

Seeing an inmate in person requires steps. First, you must get on the inmate's approved visitor list. This often needs an application form. The facility checks your background. Wait times for approval vary. Once approved, you must schedule visits. Rules differ greatly by facility. Check the prison or jail website for rules. Or call them. Know the visiting days and hours. There are strict rules on what you can wear (dress code). There are also rules on what you can bring. Do not bring phones, bags, or outside food. Be ready for searches. Some sites now offer video visits. This lets you talk via video link. It may cost money. It needs scheduling too. Check the facility site for video visit options.

Sending Money and Packages

Inmates need money for things like snacks, hygiene items, or phone calls. You cannot just mail cash. Use approved methods.

Sending Funds

Most Louisiana facilities use specific vendors for money transfers. JPay and Access Corrections are common examples. You can often send funds online via their websites. You can use their mobile apps. Or use walk-in locations or money orders. To send funds, you need the inmate's name and DOC or booking number. Know the facility name too. There are limits on how much money you can send at once. Or how much an inmate can have. Vendors charge fees for sending money. Check the fees before you send. Money orders might be sent directly to some facilities. Check the jail or prison mail rules first. They have strict rules for money orders.

Sending Packages

Sending packages directly is usually not allowed. This prevents banned items from entering. Most items must be bought by the inmate through the jail store (commissary). Some facilities allow packages from approved third-party vendors. These vendors sell items like clothes, food, or hygiene kits. The facility must approve the vendor first. Check the facility website. Look for info on approved package programs. There are strict limits on what items can be sent this way.

Important Resources and Contacts

Here are key links and contacts for your Louisiana Inmate Search and related needs. Use these official sources for reliable data.

• Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections (DOC): Main website for state corrections info. https://doc.louisiana.gov/

• LAVNS / VINELink Portal: Direct access to the DOC inmate locator and victim notification service. https://www.vinelink.com/ (Select Louisiana)

• Louisiana Revised Statutes: Access state laws online.

  • Public Records Law: https://www.google.com/search?q=https://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx%3Fd%3D100385 (La. R.S. Title 44)

  • Code of Criminal Procedure & Corrections: https://www.google.com/search?q=https://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx%3Fp%3Dy%26d%3D78414 (La. R.S. Title 15)

• DOC Central Office Contact:

  • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 94304, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9304

  • Physical Address: 504 Mayflower Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

  • Main Phone: (225) 342-6740 or (225) 342-6741

  • Typical Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM CT, Monday - Friday (Confirm on official site)

• Louisiana Sheriffs' Association: Helps find contact information for individual Parish Sheriff's Offices. https://www.lsa.org/ (Look for a directory or parish links)

Always check these official sites for the most current rules and data. Policies can change. Use these links as your starting point. Good luck with your search. We want to thank you for finding our page. We know finding someone in jail can be hard. Our aim is to give you the best help. We will guide you through your Louisiana Inmate Search. We want this task to be less hard for you.

If you want to start your Louisiana Inmate Search now, go here: https://louisianaofficialrecords.com/inmate-search/. This site offers tools to help find people held in state or local lock up. It can speed up your search. Find the facts you need fast. Check this site if you do not want to wait. It pulls data from many spots. This helps you see a full view.

Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections (DPS&C) Inmate Search

The main way to find state inmates is the DPS&C. They run the state prisons. You have a few ways to look for people here. This includes those under state care. It does not show folks in parish jails for short terms. Or those not yet found guilty. The state system holds those with long time left to serve. Use these tools for state held persons.

Imprisoned Person Locator Phone Line

You can call a special phone line. The number is 225-383-4580. This line works all day, each day. It is known as the Imprisoned Person Locator. You need some facts to use it well. Know the person's full name and birth date. Or, you can use their DPS&C number. If you have this data, the call works best. The system gets new data each day. So the info should be fresh. It tells you where the person is held. It gives the jail's address too. You might get a phone number for the jail. It may also share a release date if known. This is a key tool for a Louisiana Inmate Search. Call this line for fast help. It is run by the state. It gives real time data. You do not need a web link. Just make the phone call. Make sure you have the right name spelling. Date of birth must be exact too. The DPS&C number is the best way if you have it. This stops mix ups with names.

Louisiana Automated Victim Notification System (LAVNS) / VINELink

LAVNS is a tool for victims and the public. It helps track inmates in state care. You can find it online at www.vinelink.com. Pick Louisiana from the state list. This site lets you search by name or ID number. It shows where an inmate is now. It also gives case status details. LAVNS works with VINELink. This is a large U.S. system. You can sign up for alerts. Get texts, emails, or calls. These alerts tell you if an inmate moves. Or if their release date nears. Or if they escape. This service is free. It aims to keep people safe. You can also call toll free. The numbers are 1-866-528-6748 or 1-866-277-7477. Help is there 24/7. Many tongues can be used on the phone line. VINELink covers most jails in the U.S. It is a trusted source. Use LAVNS for your Louisiana Inmate Search if you need state data. It is good for victims who need updates. But anyone can use the search tool. Go to the site or call the number. Find the data you seek. Registration gives you ongoing watch.

Parish Jail Inmate Search

Many people are held in parish jails. These are run by the local Sheriff. They hold people waiting for trial. Or those serving short jail terms. Each parish runs its own jail system. So, you must check the right parish. Most Parish Sheriff's Offices have web sites. They often list who is in their jail. This is called an inmate roster or search tool. You need to know the parish where the person might be. Then go to that Sheriff's web site.

Finding Parish Jail Rosters Online

Look for links like "Inmate Roster," "Jail Population," or "Detainee Search." The names might change by parish. Some parishes give lots of detail. You might see names, booking dates, and charges. Some show mug shots too. Examples of parish sites with rosters are:

• Allen Parish Sheriff's Office: They have an inmate roster. Find it at www.allenparishso.org/roster.php. Their phone is 337-639-4353.

• Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office: Use their "Detainee Search". Find it at www.opso.gov/246/Detainee-Search. Their main office is at 2800 Perdido Street, New Orleans, LA 70119. Phone is 504-822-8000.

• East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office: View their list at www.ebrso.org/resources/prison-inmate-list/. Note their special mail addresses.

• Beauregard Parish Sheriff's Office: See their roster at www.beauregardparishsheriff.org/roster.php. This list shows recent bookings. It includes charges as well.

If a parish site lacks a tool, call them. Find the Sheriff's Office phone number. Ask them how to do a Louisiana Inmate Search for their jail. Some small parishes may not have online lists. A phone call is the next best step. Keep in mind this search is for local jails only. It will not find state prison inmates.

Types of Facilities in Louisiana

Where someone is held depends on many things. It could be their charge type. Or the length of their stay. Or their legal status. Louisiana has state prisons. It has parish jails. It also has federal sites and ICE spots. Know the type helps your search.

State Correctional Facilities (DPS&C)

The DPS&C runs state prisons. These hold people found guilty of serious crimes. Often these are felony crimes. Sentences are usually long. Louisiana State Penitentiary, known as Angola, is one. It is a large, high security site.

• Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola)

  • Location: Highway 61, St. Francisville, LA

  • Phone: 225-655-4411

  • Website Info: Check the DPS&C site for visitor rules. Find it at doc.louisiana.gov.

To find someone in state prison, use the DPS&C tools. The phone line or LAVNS are best.

Parish Jails

Sheriffs run these local jails. They hold people before trial. They also hold those with short terms. This is often less than one year. Most parishes have a jail. Conditions and rules vary a lot. You must contact the specific Parish Sheriff for data. Use their website roster if they have one. Or call the Sheriff's office main line. For example, Orleans Parish Sheriff is at 504-822-8000. Their jail complex is large. East Baton Rouge has a Parish Prison. Their inmate list is online. Remember mail rules differ too. EBRSO has one address for mail. And one for legal mail or money orders. Check the rules for each parish jail. This is key for your Louisiana Inmate Search at the local level. Each parish is its own unit.

Federal Prisons (BOP)

The Federal Bureau of Prisons runs federal sites. These hold people guilty of federal crimes. Louisiana has federal prisons too. To find someone here, use the BOP Inmate Locator. Go to www.bop.gov. Click "Find an Inmate." You can search by name or number. This search is not part of the state or parish system. It is a separate U.S. government tool. Do not use state tools for federal inmates.

ICE Detention Centers

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) holds some people. These are often related to immigration cases. ICE has detention centers in Louisiana. One is the Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center. To find someone in ICE care, use their tool. Go to the ICE Online Detainee Locator System. Find it at locator.ice.gov. You need an A-Number. Or use the person's name and birth country. ICE search is separate from state or local searches.

• Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center

  • Info Phone: (318) 992-1600 (8 am - 5 pm)

  • Urgent Messages: (318) 992-7800

  • Attorney Calls/Visits: (318) 992-7899

Information Found in a Louisiana Inmate Search

A search can give you key facts. What you find depends on the tool used. It also depends on the facility type. State searches might show less than parish ones. Parish rosters often show current charges. State locators focus on location and release info. Here is what you might find:

• Full Name and Any Known Aliases

• Date of Birth

• Inmate ID Number (DPS&C Number or Booking Number)

• Current Facility Name and Location

• Facility Address and Phone Number

• Booking Date (Common in Parish Rosters)

• List of Charges (Common in Parish Rosters)

• Bond Amount (Sometimes shown in Parish Rosters)

• Projected Release Date (Mainly from DPS&C/LAVNS)

• Custody Status (Active, Released, Transferred)

LAVNS also provides case status data. It tracks court events too. Remember that data is updated often. State records update daily. Parish data updates vary. Some update many times a day. Always check the source of the data. Official sites are best. Use the DPS&C, Sheriff sites, BOP, or ICE locators. These give the most current facts for your Louisiana Inmate Search. Public records law in Louisiana allows access. La. R.S. 44:1 et seq. guides this. But some details may be held back for safety.

Communicating with Louisiana Inmates

Staying in touch needs you to follow rules. Each place has its own way to do things. This covers mail, calls, and visits. Not following rules can stop contact. Or cause issues for the inmate. Always check the rules first. Find them on the facility's web site. Or call the facility directly.

Mail

Mail is a common way to keep touch. Rules are strict for safety.

• Addressing: Use the inmate's full name. Add their ID number (DOC or Booking). Use the correct facility address. Some jails have special PO Boxes. East Baton Rouge Parish Prison uses PO Box 247, Phoenix, MD 21131 for general mail. But legal mail goes to 2867 General Isaac Smith, Scotlandville, LA 70807. Check the right address for each site.

• Content: Do not send items not allowed. This list is long. It includes things like cash, stamps, or explicit photos. Mail is opened and checked. Except for legal mail, usually. Legal mail is opened with the inmate there.

• Prohibited Items: Check the rules for each place. Things like glitter, stickers, or perfume are often banned. Mail must be plain. Use basic white paper and envelopes. Some jails now use mail scanning services. All mail goes to a central spot. It is scanned, then shown to the inmate on a screen. This stops drug smuggling via mail.

Phone Calls

Inmates cannot get calls coming in. If there is a true crisis, call the jail admin. Or the chaplain's office. They might pass on a message. Inmates can make calls out. These calls cost money. The inmate or the person called pays. Calls are often limited in time. They are recorded and watched. Except for calls with lawyers. Some jails use phone service firms. You may need to set up an account. Add funds for the inmate to call you. Check the facility site for their phone rules. Some places like the Central Louisiana ICE Center use tablets. Messages can be sent via www.gettingout.com. These are not private.

Visitation

Seeing an inmate face to face requires steps. Rules aim to keep the jail safe.

• Approved List: You must be on the inmate's approved visitor list. The inmate adds names to this list. It must be approved by the jail staff.

• Scheduling: Visits might need to be set up in advance. Check the jail's rules. Attorney visits often have their own rules. And maybe different hours.

• Identification: Bring a valid photo ID. Accepted IDs include state driver's license or ID card. A valid military ID or passport works too. (Per DPS&C rules).

• Dress Code: Jails have strict dress codes. Avoid clothes that are too tight or show too much skin. No clothes that look like inmate wear. Or staff uniforms. Check the code before you go.

• Searches: All visitors get searched. This includes kids. Your car might be searched too. Metal detectors are common. Ion scanners might be used. Drug dogs (K-9s) may check visitors and visit areas. Do not bring illegal items. Leave phones and bags in your car. Or in lockers if they have them. Follow all staff orders during the visit. Break rules and your visit ends. You might be banned from future visits.

Sending Money and Items

Inmates need money for small things. Like snacks, hygiene items, or phone time. This money goes into a commissary account. Jails do not allow cash sent by mail. Use approved ways to send funds. This might be via money order. Or through specific online payment firms. JPay or Access Corrections are common. Check the jail's site for their method. East Baton Rouge Parish Prison accepts checks or money orders for commissary. Mail them to their specific address: ATTN: Inmate Accounts, 2867 General Isaac Smith, Scotlandville, LA 70807. Include the inmate's name and date of birth. Sending items like books or care packs is complex. Often, items must come direct from approved sellers. Like Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Do not send packages yourself unless you know it is okay. Check the rules first. Rules protect safety and stop illegal items from entry. Following them helps the inmate.

Victim Services in Louisiana

Louisiana offers help for crime victims. The state wants to keep victims informed. And safe. Key services link to inmate status.

• LAVNS/VINELink: As noted before, this tool is key. It gives notice of inmate moves or release. Sign up at www.vinelink.com or call 1-866-528-6748. Get alerts by phone, text, or email. This helps victims plan for safety.

• Crime Victims Services Bureau (CVSB): Part of DPS&C. They help victims register for notice. They give info on parole hearings. They help stop inmates from contacting victims. They can give inmate photos. They assist with victim impact statements. Contact them for help.

  • Director: Gail Guerin

  • Phone: 225-342-1056

  • Toll-Free: 1-888-342-6110

  • Website: Check the Victim Services page on doc.louisiana.gov.

• Victim-Offender Dialogue: A program where victims can choose to meet the person who harmed them. It is run in a safe, guided way. It is fully up to the victim if they want to do this. Contact CVSB for info.

• Other Resources: The state site links to more aid. Such as Crime Victims Reparations. And the Louisiana District Attorneys Association victim help. Check the DPS&C Victim Services page for links.

These tools aim to support victims. They give victims a voice. And access to key data during an offender's time in jail. Using these services can bring some peace of mind.

Public Records and Legal Information

Inmate records are mostly public in Louisiana. The Louisiana Public Records Law (La. R.S. 44:1, et seq.) allows access. This means you can ask for records. But some data might be kept private. Like health info or security details.

• Requesting Records: To get paper copies of DPS&C records, send a request. Mail it to: La. Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Attn: Deputy Secretary's Office, P. O. Box 94304, Baton Rouge, LA 70804. Or email docpublicrecords@la.gov. There may be fees for copies. For parish records, contact the Parish Sheriff's Office. Ask about their public records request process.

• Social Media Ban: Louisiana law (RS 14:405) bans inmates from using social media. Those in DPS&C care cannot have accounts. This includes those in parish jails but under state care.

• Finding Old Records: You can try the DPS&C phone locator. Or LAVNS. Sometimes parish sheriff archives help. Or send a formal public records request.

Knowing the law helps you access data. Use official ways to ask for records. This makes sure you get correct info. And follow legal rules.

Key Contacts and Resources

Here are main contacts for your Louisiana Inmate Search:

• Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections (DPS&C)

  • Main Info: See doc.la.gov

  • Imprisoned Person Locator: 225-383-4580

  • Secretary James M. Le Blanc: 225-342-6740 (Office)

  • Public Records Email: docpublicrecords@la.gov

  • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 94304, Baton Rouge, LA 70804

• Louisiana Automated Victim Notification System (LAVNS) / VINELink

  • Website: www.vinelink.com

  • Toll-Free Phone: 1-866-528-6748 or 1-866-277-7477

• Crime Victims Services Bureau (CVSB)

  • Phone: 225-342-1056

  • Toll-Free: 1-888-342-6110

• Parish Sheriff's Offices

  • Contact info varies. Find the specific parish sheriff's website online. Or call their main administration number.

• Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP)

  • Website / Inmate Locator: www.bop.gov

• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

  • Detainee Locator: locator.ice.gov

  • Central LA ICE Processing Center Info: (318) 992-1600

Use these official sources for the best results. They have the most direct access to inmate data. Be ready with the person's name and birth date. Or their inmate ID number. This will make your search faster.

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