Berks County PA Inmate Search

Thank you for vis­it­ing this page. We will do our best to help you with your Berks County In­mate Search. We aim to give you clear facts. This guide will help you find the data you need. We hope this page helps you in your search.

If you want to start your Berks County In­mate Search right now, you can vis­it https://pennsylvaniainmaterecords.com/berks-county-inmate-search/. This site may help you find who you look for. It can be a good place to start a search. Use it if you need quick access. It is one way to look for folk in jail.

Performing a Berks County Inmate Search

To find someone in jail in Berks County, you need the right steps. The best way is to go to the source. This means the jail itself. Sometimes a state site can help too. Know the full name of the person. A birth date also helps a lot. These details make the search go well. Staff at the jail can look up names. They can tell you if a person is there. This is the most direct way to learn.

Official Methods for a Berks County Inmate Search

The main way to do a "Berks County Inmate Search" is to call the jail. They have staff who can help with your query. You will need to give them facts about the person. This helps them find the right individual. Calling is often the fastest way to get information.

• Contacting the Berks County Jail System Directly: The jail is the best source for news on who is there. You can call them during business hours. Ask for the booking desk or records department. They will tell you if that person is in their care. Be sure to have the person's full name. This is very important for their search.

• Information to Provide for Your Search: When you call, have the person's full name ready. Their date of birth is also a key piece of information. If you happen to know their inmate ID, that is best. Any facts you have can make the search go faster. The more you know, the less time it usually takes. Staff will use this information to check their current list of inmates.

The Berks County Jail System is the primary place for this search. They keep up-to-date records of all who are housed there. Call them during their normal work hours for the best help. This is the most sure way to find out an inmate's status. Sometimes, there are forms or information on their official county website. However, a phone call is often the most direct and best method. Remember to be kind and patient with the staff. They assist many folk each day with various requests. Ask clear questions. Give all the specific facts you have to aid their process.

Statewide Pennsylvania Inmate Locator (For State-Level Inmates)

Pennsylvania has a tool for state prison inmates. This is not for all county jail inmates. But sometimes a person is in a county jail for the state. So, this tool can be useful in certain cases. It is a good resource to be aware of.

• Accessing the PA DOC Inmate and Parolee Locator: The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) has a website. It is found at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/cor/inmate-parolee-locator.html. You can search by name or by an inmate ID number. This tool lists individuals who are in state prisons. It also lists some parolees under state supervision.

• When to Use This Tool for a Berks County Search: Use this state tool if you think the person is a state inmate. Or, use it if they might be on parole from a state sentence. If your "Berks County Inmate Search" at the local jail does not find them, try this. It is a good next step in your search process. It can show if they are in a state facility, not the county one.

Remember, the DOC site lists state prisoners. Most folk in a county jail are there for shorter terms. Or they are waiting for their court dates. If they are found guilty of a more serious crime, they might then go to a state prison. So, if some time has passed since their conviction, the DOC site is more likely to have information. Always start your search with the Berks County Jail first. They will know if the person is there. They may also know if the person was moved to a state facility. This locator is a public service.

Berks County Jail System: Key Information and Contacts

The Berks County Jail System is a large facility. It has many different parts and departments. Knowing who to call or where to find information can save you time. The main jail has a specific address and a general phone number. You should use these for initial contact or for general inquiries.

Berks County Jail Address and General Contact

It is good to have the main facts for the jail. This helps when you need to write or call.

• Full Physical Address: Berks County Jail System, 1287 County Welfare Road, Leesport, PA 19533. Use this address for all mail unless told otherwise for a specific department.

• Main Jail Phone Number and Hours of Operation: The main phone is (610) 208-4800. Listen for the voice prompts to reach the right department. Most administrative offices are open Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Booking division, however, operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The jail is a key part of Berks County's justice system. It holds individuals who are awaiting trial. It also houses inmates serving short jail terms. The staff work hard to keep the facility safe and secure for everyone. When you call the main number, please speak clearly. State the reason for your call. This helps the operator direct you to the correct person or department. The main number can guide you for most needs related to the jail.

Important Jail Departments: Numbers and Hours

Here are key parts of the jail you might need to contact. Each has its own tasks and hours.

• Booking Division: Phone extension 4837 or 4838. The fax number is 610-374-4357. This division is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is where individuals first go when taken to jail. They can tell you if someone was recently brought in.

• Inmate Accounts Department: Phone extension 4015 or 4017. The fax is 610-208-4880. Hours are Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This office is closed on holidays. They help with managing money for inmates, including deposits.

• Mailroom Operations: Phone extension 4104. Fax is 610-374-4357. Hours are Monday to Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Also closed on holidays. They deal with all incoming and outgoing mail for inmates.

• Medical Services: Phone extension 4500. Fax: 610-208-4848. This department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It handles the health care needs of all inmates at the facility.

• Work Release Program Contact: Phone extension 4205. Fax: 610-208-4878. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on holidays. Contact them for information regarding the jail's work release program.

These departments help the large jail run each day. Each has a specific role. Knowing the right one to call can save you much time and effort. For a "Berks County Inmate Search," the Booking division is often the first call you might make. If you need to send money, you should call Inmate Accounts. Always check the hours of operation before you go to the jail. Also check if you need a very fast reply by phone. Staff are there to do their jobs and assist the public. Be clear and to the point with your questions.

Understanding the Mission of the Berks County Correctional Facility

The Berks County Correctional Facility states its goals clearly. They aim to provide "secure, safe and compassionate confinement." This is for those individuals who are in jail for a temporary period. They work to do this with good and efficient use of county funds. They focus on rehabilitation programs. They want to cut down on new crimes by former inmates. They also help with social restoration for inmates. The jail stresses the value of education and self-help programs. By using plans that are proven to work, they hope inmates can go back to their homes as law-abiding and productive citizens. This mission can be found on their official website at https://bccf.countyofberks.com/. 

Visitation: Seeing an Inmate at Berks County Jail

Visits are very key for inmates. They are also key for their family and friends. Berks County Jail has specific rules for all visits. You must know and follow these rules to visit someone. This ensures visits are safe and orderly for all. Not following rules can lead to loss of visit rights.

Scheduling Inmate Visits: Procedures and Timelines

You cannot just show up at the jail for a visit. You need to set a specific time in advance.

• How to Schedule (Phone Number, Days/Times for Scheduling): To set up a visit, you must call (610) 208-4800. When you hear the options, pick option 3 for "visitation." You can only schedule visits by phone from Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. You must speak to a person to confirm.

• Required Advance Notice for Visits: Visits MUST be scheduled no later than 3:00 p.m. on the day BEFORE you wish to visit. Same-day appointments are NOT permitted under any circumstances. You may schedule a visit up to three weeks in advance.

• Visitor Approval Process: The inmate you wish to visit must have you on their "approved visitation list." If your name is not on this list, you will not be allowed to visit. There are no exceptions to this important rule. Make sure the inmate adds you.

Plan your visit with care and well in advance. Call during the proper hours to schedule. Make absolutely sure the inmate has officially put you on their visitor list. If you have more than one person coming for the visit, one person must list all names when they call to schedule. Do not leave a voicemail message to ask for a visit time. You need to talk to a staff person directly. They will give you verbal confirmation if the time is set. If you do not get this verbal confirmation, your visit is not scheduled and will not be honored.

Types of Visitation Available

Berks County Jail offers different ways to see or talk to inmates. These options help maintain contact.

• In-Person Visitation Details (Duration, Frequency): Each inmate is permitted to have four (4) thirty (30) minute in-person visits per calendar month. Each inmate can have up to three (3) visitors at each scheduled in-person visit.

• Video Visitation Options (Duration, Frequency, Cost if any): In addition to in-person visits, each inmate also gets two (2) free 15-minute video calls each week. More video visits may be available for purchase through the inmate phone and tablet service provider. Check with the jail for details.

These rules help ensure that all inmates have a fair chance to receive visits. The free video calls are a very good way to stay in touch often. For any in-person visits, remember the limits on how many and how often. Plan with others who wish to visit the same inmate. This coordination makes sure the inmate can see those they most want to see. Always check the Berks County Jail's official website for the most up-to-date visitation rules. Things can sometimes change. It is your responsibility to know and follow all current rules.

Critical Visitation Rules and Regulations

Rules are in place to keep all visits safe. They also ensure visits are orderly. All visitors must follow these rules at all times.

• Visitor Conduct and Expectations: Do not use any foul words. Do not be rude or abusive to jail staff or others. If this kind of behavior occurs, you may be asked to leave the premises at once. Your right to visit in the future can be taken away.

• Arrival Times and Check-In Process: You must come to the jail no more than 15 minutes before your set visit time. Go directly to the lobby door. Press the intercom button to speak with the lobby officer. This officer will help you check in. They will assign you a locker for your personal items.

• Prohibited Items During Visitation: No cell phones are allowed. No keys are allowed in the visit room. No weapons of any kind are ever allowed. No drugs or alcohol are permitted. No outside food or drink is allowed. Vending machines are available in the visitation corridor for some items.

• Behavior Expectations: Visits are a privilege. This privilege can be taken back by jail staff at any time if there is good cause. Behave in a good manner. Do not create any trouble. Do not try to pass any items to inmates that are not allowed. This can lead to serious issues.

You must arrive for your visit in a vehicle. That vehicle must remain on jail property for the whole duration of the visit. There are no “drop-off” visits allowed by the jail. You cannot wait in the parking lot before your visit. You also cannot wait there after your visit. You must stay in your vehicle until directed. Or, report to the lobby as told by staff. You must return to your vehicle right after your visit ends. These rules are very strict to keep everyone safe. If you break any of these rules, you may not be allowed to visit again. The Warden or their chosen designee will review all cases of lost visitation rights. There is no appeal process for these decisions.

Mandatory Visitor Identification

You must prove who you are to visit. This is a strict rule for security.

• Acceptable Forms of Photo ID: You need a valid Driver's License. A valid State Identification Card is also good. An active Military ID is accepted. A valid US or Foreign passport that includes an address is also fine. Visitors who are over 18 years old must have a valid picture ID card. This ID must show a current address. Expired IDs are not accepted.

Bring your proper ID with you each and every time you come to visit. It must be the real, original ID card, not a copy of it. It must not be past its expiration date. If your ID is not valid or acceptable, you will not be allowed to visit. This rule is true for all adult visitors. Make sure your current address is correctly shown on your ID. This helps the check-in process.

Dress Code Policy for All Visitors

How you dress for a visit matters a great deal. The jail has a specific dress code. All visitors must follow it.

• Specific Clothing Items Not Allowed: The jail's official website, https://www.berkspa.gov/departments/jail-system/friends-and-family-visitation, should list current rules. Though not all rules are on this specific page, general rules from the PA Department of Corrections (Source 3.2) give a good idea. These often mean: no see-through clothing. No shorts or mini-skirts that are too short. No tops that expose too much skin, such as tank tops or halter tops. No clothing with offensive words or pictures. No hoods on clothing.

• General Attire Guidelines: You should dress in a modest and appropriate way. Clothes should not be too tight or revealing. Shoes must be worn at all times. Think of it as if you were going to a school or a public office. If your clothing is deemed not right by staff, you may not be let in to visit. It is always best to dress with care. This helps to make sure your visit can happen without any problems with your attire.

The Berks County Jail website page for visitation should have the full and current dress code. Always check it before you go to the jail. Rules regarding dress can change without much notice. The jail staff wants the visitation area to be safe. They also want it to be appropriate for all visitors, including children. What you wear helps to set a proper tone for the visit. If you are not sure if an item of clothing is okay to wear, it is best to pick something else. This way, you can be safe and avoid issues.

Guidelines for Visitors Under 18 Years of Age

Children, who are visitors under 18 years of age, can visit inmates too. However, they must follow specific rules. Visitors under the age of 18 must come with a parent or a legal guardian. The young person visiting must be the child, stepchild, sibling, or grandchild of the inmate they are coming to see. The adult who comes with them must watch over them closely at all times during the visit. Children need to follow all the visitation rules, just like the adult visitors. They should not run around or be loud in the visitation area. This helps keep the visit calm for everyone.

Special Accommodations for Visitors

If you need special help because of a disability, please ask when you schedule. The jail has one room that is on the ground level. This room is set up to accommodate visitors with disabilities. If you require a designated handicapped parking space, you must report that to the receptionist. Do this when you call to schedule your visit. She can then ensure that such a space is available for you at your scheduled time. It is always good to let them know of any special needs when you call. This advance notice helps them plan and assist you better.

Managing Inmate Finances in Berks County

Inmates often need money. They use it for things like phone calls, commissary snacks, or other approved items. There are set ways for you to send money to them. You cannot give cash directly to an inmate. All funds must go through their official account at the jail.

How to Send Money to a Berks County Inmate

You can deposit money into an inmate's account in a few ways. Each method has steps to follow.

• Online Deposit Services (e.g., ConnectNetwork - URL, Site ID): You can use the website https://web.connectnetwork.com. The Site ID number for Berks County Jail is 61. This service lets you send money from your home computer or phone. It is often quick.

• Making Deposits by Phone: You can also call 1-888-988-4768 to make a deposit. You will need to use the Site ID # 61 for Berks County. This is another way to add funds using a credit or debit card over the phone.

• Mailing Funds (Acceptable Forms: Money Orders, Checks; Mailing Address for Funds): You can mail funds to: Inmate Accounts Department, Berks County Jail System, 1287 County Welfare Road, Leesport, PA 19533. The jail accepts government checks and payroll checks (the stub must be included). They also accept money orders. Make money orders payable to the inmate. You must include the inmate's full name, their inmate ID number, and the purchaser's name and address on it. Do not send cash in the mail. Also, do not send personal letters or photos with money sent to Inmate Accounts.

• Kiosk Information: Important Note: As of March 18, 2020, the kiosks that were in the jail lobby are no longer available for public use to deposit money. Please use the online or phone methods instead.

• Transaction Fees and Deposit Limits: Be aware that fees are often charged for online and phone deposits. For example, a credit card deposit between $0.00 and $50.00 has a $4.00 fee. A deposit from $50.01 to $100.00 has a $5.50 fee. These fees go to the service provider, not directly to the jail. The maximum amount you are allowed to deposit in one single transaction is $300.00.

When you send money to an inmate, make sure you have their correct full name. Their current booking number is also needed. This booking number may not be the same as their permanent inmate number. Funds you deposit most often post to their account on the next business day. This excludes weekends and holidays. Money can be put onto their "Commissary Account." They use this for buying items from the jail store and paying fees. Or, funds can be put onto their "Inmate Telephone Account." This account is only for making phone calls. The telephone account must already be set up with the company that provides inmate phone services before you can deposit into it.

Inmate Commissary System

Inmates have the chance to buy some personal items while in jail. This is done through the commissary system. It offers things not normally issued by the jail.

• How Inmates Access Commissary: An inmate can place a commissary order once each week. They do this by filling out an order form. The total cost of the order is then taken from the funds in their inmate account.

• Weekly Spending Limits and Available Items: Weekly commissary orders may not exceed a total value of $100.00. Inmates can typically buy items such as food, snacks, drinks, some basic clothing items, and writing supplies like paper and pens. The list of available items can change.

The commissary provides inmates with a way to get certain items that can make their time in jail a bit more comfortable. Having money available in their account allows them to use this service. Friends and family members help inmates greatly when they send funds for this purpose. The $100 weekly spending limit is strictly enforced by the jail. This system is a privilege for inmates.

Mail and Phone Communication with Inmates

Staying in touch with people outside is very important for inmates. Mail and phone calls are the main ways they can do this. There are rules for both. These rules ensure safety and security.

Sending Mail to Berks County Inmates

Mail is a good and low-cost way to stay in touch. There are specific rules you must follow.

• Correct Mailing Address for Inmate Mail: Inmate's Full Name, Inmate ID Number Berks County Jail System 1287 County Welfare Road Leesport, PA 19533

• Content Restrictions and Prohibited Items: Do not send items that are not allowed. This includes things like staples, paper clips, or any type of contraband. No hardcover books are allowed. Softcover books must come directly from a publisher or an online bookstore like Amazon. Do not send food items. Do not send clothing. Do not send cash through the mail.

• Mail Inspection Policies: All mail that comes into the jail is opened and checked. Staff look for items that are not allowed (contraband). This is done to keep the jail safe and secure for everyone. Mail that is marked as legal mail (from an attorney) is generally opened while the inmate is present.

Writing letters and sending cards can mean a lot to an inmate. Make sure you use the full and correct mailing address. Always include your complete return address on the envelope. If you want to send books or magazines, they must be mailed directly from the store or the publisher. You cannot send them yourself from your home. Mail that violates rules will be rejected.

Inmate Telephone Access

Inmates can make phone calls from the jail. However, they cannot receive incoming calls from outside.

• Making Phone Calls from the Jail (Collect Calls, Prepaid Accounts): Inmates can make collect calls. This means the person who receives the call pays for it. Or, a prepaid account can be set up. This allows the inmate to make calls using funds already on that account.

• Setting Up and Funding Phone Accounts (Service Provider Info if available): The jail uses a specific phone service provider, often a company like ConnectNetwork. You can usually set up an account on their website or by calling their customer service number. This lets you add money so the inmate can make prepaid calls. The Inmate Telephones department at the jail can be reached at extension 4775. Their hours are typically Monday to Friday, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are closed on major holidays.

Phone calls help inmates keep important ties with family and friends in the outside world. Know the rules for phone use. Calls are generally monitored and recorded for security reasons. The only calls not usually recorded are those to their legal counsel. There are often time limits placed on how long each call can be. You can help your loved one by setting up a prepaid phone account if you are able. This often makes it easier and cheaper for them to call you and others.

Victim Services and Notification in Pennsylvania

If you are a victim of a crime, there are services to help you. These services can give you important information. This helps you stay safe. It also helps you know what is going on with an offender's custody status.

PA SAVIN: Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification

Pennsylvania offers a free service for victims of crime. It is called PA SAVIN. This name stands for Pennsylvania Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification.

• Purpose of PA SAVIN: SAVIN allows victims of crime and other concerned citizens to know about an offender's jail or prison status. It will tell you if an offender is released from custody. It also notifies you if they are transferred to another facility or if they escape.

• How to Register for Notifications (Website, Phone): You can sign up for PA SAVIN notifications by phone. The toll-free number is 1-866-9PA-SAVIN (1-866-972-7284). Or, you can sign up online at the VINElink website: https://www.vinelink.com/. When you register, you will likely need the offender's name or their inmate ID number.

• Information Provided Through SAVIN: SAVIN will automatically call you. Or, it can send an email or a text message if the offender's custody status changes. This service is free of charge to users. It operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

This PA SAVIN service can give victims some peace of mind. It helps victims to make plans for their safety if needed. If you are a victim of a crime, you should consider using this important tool. It helps keep you informed about the offender. The service is available in both English and Spanish. You can choose how you want to receive the notifications (phone, email, text). This service is a valuable resource for safety and awareness.

Accessing Public Records and Legal Information

Laws in Pennsylvania give you certain rights. These rights include being able to see some government records. This helps keep government actions open and clear to the public. Knowing about these laws can be helpful.

Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law and Public Access

The Right-to-Know Law allows citizens to ask for and get copies of public records from government agencies.

• Overview of the Right-to-Know Law (Link to Statute): Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law states that most government records are presumed to be public. There are some exceptions for safety or privacy. You can find the full text of the law on the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records website: https://www.openrecords.pa.gov. This law is important. It helps make sure that state and local government groups operate in an open way.

• Requesting Public Records from Berks County Agencies: To ask for public records from a Berks County agency, you should submit a written request. This request should be clear and specific. Send it to the agency's designated Open Records Officer. Most county agencies have a standard request form available, often on their website. Be as specific as you can be about the records you are seeking. This helps them find the records.

This law is a key part of public trust in government. It means that you can often see how public money is spent. It also lets you see how decisions are made by public officials. If you need records for your "Berks County Inmate Search" that are not easily found online, this law may help you formally ask for them. Be aware that agencies can charge fees for making copies of records.

Finding Pennsylvania Court Case Information

Court cases are often the reason why someone is in jail. You can look up information about many court cases online.

• The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania (UJS) Web Portal (Link): The UJS web portal is a valuable resource. It can be accessed at https://ujsportal.pacourts.us/CaseSearch. This official state site lets you search for court docket sheets and other case information.

• Searching for Docket Sheets and Case Details: On the UJS portal, you can search for cases by a person's name. You can also search by a docket number or other criteria if you have them. Docket sheets provide a list of things that have happened in a specific court case. They show dates, what papers were filed, and what actions the court took. This is a public service provided by the Pennsylvania courts.

The UJS portal is a great tool for research. It can give you facts and details on the court case that may be tied to an inmate. It will not tell you if they are in jail right now. For that, you need to contact the jail. But the portal gives the court's side of the story for many cases. This is very useful for getting a full view of a legal situation. These are public court records. Access to them supports a transparent justice system.