Tennessee Inmate Records

Thank you for visiting our page. We will strive to offer you the best help with your Tennessee Inmate Search. We want this to be a good place for you to find what you need. Our aim is to give you clear facts for your search.

If you want to start your Tennessee Inmate Search right now, please visit https://tennesseeinmaterecords.com/. This site can help you look for an inmate. It has tools that may speed up your search. You can look for folks in state spots or some local ones too. Go there if you need to find data fast.

Locating Inmates in Tennessee State Prisons (TDOC)

Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) Overview

The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) houses adults convicted of a felony. These individuals serve time in state prisons. TDOC manages these prisons. They work to keep people safe, both inside and outside of prison. They also have programs to help those incarcerated change for the better. This means they offer educational courses and job skills training. The main goal is to help them return to life outside of prison with less risk to everyone. TDOC has a significant responsibility. It is key to the state’s law and its approach to corrections.

The TDOC has main office locations. You can reach them for some needs.

• Address: Rachel Jackson Building, 320 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37243

• General Phone: (615) 741-1000 (This is a general number for state offices; for specific inmate search or records, other numbers below are better.)

• Website: https://www.tn.gov/correction

This main site has much information. You can learn all about the TDOC. It lists prisons, rules, and news. It is a good place to look for facts. Check it out to see what TDOC does. You may find forms or contact numbers. This can make your search for information much easier. The site is free to use for all who need it. They try to keep it current.

Using the Felony Offender Information Lookup (FOIL) System

The Felony Offender Information Lookup (FOIL) tool is for your Tennessee Inmate Search at the state level. This online tool helps you find individuals in TDOC care. It is free to use. The data in FOIL comes from all parts of the state. It lists felons currently incarcerated or who have been incarcerated. This is the primary way to check on a state inmate. It holds information like their location and their crimes. You can trust this tool. It is run by the state.

You can access FOIL in two ways:

• Online Portal: Go to https://apps.tn.gov/foil/. This site is open all the time.

• MyTN Mobile App: This app is free. You can get it for your phone. It lets you use FOIL and other state tools.

To use FOIL, you need some information. You can search by:

• Full Name

• TDOC Number (this is a key ID for each inmate)

• State ID Number

Once you search, FOIL shows these details:

• The inmate's full name and known aliases.

• A current photo, if available.

• Their current location, such as the name of the prison.

• Their TDOC ID number (TOMIS ID).

• Their race, sex, and birth date.

• The crimes for which they were convicted.

• Their parole eligibility date.

• The length of their sentence.

This tool is a great first step. It can give you peace of mind. Or it can help you find who you need to locate. Make sure to type names correctly. This will help you get the best search results.

Finding Older Inmate Records (Pre-1982 or Released)

If you seek information on inmates from a long time ago, or those released from prison, FOIL might not have it. For these older records, you need to contact the TDOC Records Management Unit. This group keeps files that are not in the online tool. They can help find information on individuals incarcerated before 1982. They also have files on those who have completed their sentences. This can be key for family history or old legal needs. It takes more effort to obtain these files.

You can reach the TDOC Records Management Unit at:

• Phone: (615) 253-8079

• Address: 2nd Floor, Rachel Jackson Building, 320 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37243-0465 (This is the same main building for TDOC).

When you request these old files, you must provide some information. This helps them find the correct file. Be sure to give:

• Your name and contact information (phone, mail, or email).

• The reason you need the files.

• The inmate's full name.

• The inmate's birth date if you know it.

• The inmate's TDOC number or Social Security number, if you have it.

• A clear description of what information you need from the file.

There might be a small fee for copies. It may take some time to get the files. Be sure to ask how long it will take. They will do their best to assist you. This is a good way to find information not on the web. These old files hold a lot of state history.

Tennessee Inmate Search in County Jails

Understanding County Jail Systems

When you conduct a Tennessee Inmate Search, it is key to know that county jails differ from state prisons. There is no single list or tool for all county jails in the state. Each county operates its own jail. These jails typically hold individuals who have committed misdemeanors. They also hold individuals awaiting their court date for felony charges. So, if you cannot find a name in the TDOC FOIL tool, they might be in a county jail. This means your search must go to the local level. It can take more calls or web search effort.

Most county jails are run by the Sheriff in that county. The Sheriff's office will have the information on who is in their jail. Some large counties might have their own webpage for jail rosters. But small counties may not. You might need to call them. Keep in mind that individuals can move from a county jail to a state prison if convicted of a felony and sentenced to state time. So, if someone was in a county jail, they might now be in TDOC.

How to Find an Inmate in a County Jail

To find someone in a county jail in Tennessee, you will need to take a few steps. First, determine which county the person might be in. This is often where the crime occurred or where they were arrested. Once you know the county, you can search for the Sheriff's Office for that county. Most Sheriff's Offices have a website with phone numbers.

Here are some ways to check:

1. Contacting the Local County Sheriff's Office: Call the main phone line for the Sheriff's Office. Ask if they have a jail roster or if they can tell you if someone is in their jail. They may ask for the person's full name and birth date.

2. Checking Sheriff's Office Websites: Look on the Sheriff's Office website. Some sites have an "inmate lookup" or "jail roster" link. This is more common for larger counties.

3. Information Usually Needed for County Search: Have the person's full name. Their birth date is also very helpful. If you know when they were arrested, that can help too.

Not all county jails provide information the same way. Some may have rules on who can ask or what they disclose. Be polite when you call. Explain why you need the information. This may help them assist you. If they do not have a web tool, the phone is your best option.

Examples of County Jail Inmate Search Procedures

Since each Tennessee county is independent, how you search can vary. Here are a few large counties and how they operate. This can give you an idea of what to look for. Many small counties will require a phone call.

1. Davidson County Sheriff's Office (Nashville area):
   
   

   • Records Office Address: One Jerry Newson Way, Nashville, TN 37201

   • Phone: 615-862-8123 (This line is for Inmate Info and Public Records)

   • Hours: The records center is open to the public from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

   • Online Request: They have an online form for records. You can find it on the Davidson County Sheriff's website. Look for "Inmate and Other Public Records Requests." The direct link is https://sheriff.nashville.gov/inmate-and-other-public-records-requests/. This site also lists another address: 610 W Due West Ave, Madison, TN 37115, so check which one meets your need. The site has forms for items like property receipts or dates of incarceration.

2. Shelby County Sheriff's Office / Division of Corrections (Memphis area):
   
   

   • Main Corrections Address: 1045 Mullins Station Rd, Memphis, TN 38134

   • Phone: (901) 222-8592 (This number is for SCDC Inmate Records).

   • Online Information: You can find some information on the Shelby County website. Go to https://www.shelbycountytn.gov/3541/SCDC-Inmate-Records. This page tells you about who is in their care. It lists rules for those who must report there. It also links to the state FOIL tool for felons with more than 12 years of prison time. This means that for long state sentences, they refer to TDOC.

3. Williamson County Sheriff's Office (Franklin area):
   
   

   • Address: 408 Century Court, Franklin, TN 37064

   • Phone: 615-790-5570 (Call this number for inmate information).

   • Their website has an FAQ page. It states you should call this number. They will provide bond information and how to secure someone's release. They say it takes time to book individuals. So, information may not be available immediately upon their arrival at the jail. The website is http://www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/FAQ.aspx?QID=112.

These are just three counties. There are 95 in Tennessee. For other counties, search the web for "[County Name] Sheriff's Office Tennessee". This should lead you to their site or a phone number.

Tips for Locating County Inmates if Facility is Unknown

If you do not know which county jail holds the person, your search is broader. First, think of where they live. Or where they might have had a legal issue. This can point you to a few counties to check. You can then call the Sheriff's Office in each of those counties. Start with the most likely one. Have the person's full name and birth date ready. Ask if they are in the jail.

Sometimes, a person may be moved if a jail is overcrowded. Or if they have needs that one jail cannot meet. This is not common but can make it hard to find them. If you have tried key counties with no luck, think of who else might know. A lawyer who worked with them would know. Or a bail bond person if one was used. Family or close friends might also have information. It is like a puzzle. Each piece of information helps.

Information You Can Find Through a Tennessee Inmate Search

Commonly Available Public Information

When you perform a Tennessee Inmate Search, you can find many details. Most of this is public by law. The TDOC FOIL tool provides much for state inmates. County jails may offer less, but still some key facts.

Here is what you can often find:

1. Inmate Identifiers:

   • Full name and any known aliases.

   • Date of Birth (DOB).

   • TDOC Number or TOMIS ID (for state inmates). County jails may have their own ID.

2. Booking Photo (Mugshot):

   • A photograph taken when they arrived at jail. TDOC FOIL often has this. County sites may or may not show these online.

3. Current Custody Status and Location:

   • If they are currently incarcerated.

   • The name of the jail where they are.

   • Sometimes their housing unit within the jail.

4. Offense Details:

   • The crimes they were charged with or convicted of.

   • This may be a list of codes for the laws.

5. Sentence Information (more for TDOC):

   • The length of their sentence.

   • When their sentence started.

   • When their sentence is set to end (release date or maximum out date).

6. Parole and Release Dates:

   • When they can first apply for parole.

   • Their next parole hearing date.

   • Their planned release date.

This data is available to keep the public safe and informed. It helps victims track offenders. It helps families find loved ones. All information is based on court and jail records. It should be accurate, but always check with the source if you have a critical need for it.

Limitations on Information

While a lot of information is public, some details are kept private. This is to keep both the inmate and the jail staff safe. You likely will not find these items in a Tennessee Inmate Search:

• Health records or medical conditions.

• Exact movements within the jail.

• Names of cellmates.

• Property lists.

• Money on their account.

• Visitor lists (though you need to be on one to visit).

• Sometimes, juvenile records are not public or are hard to access.

• Information on an ongoing case if it could jeopardize the case.

The goal is to share information that serves the public good. But not so much that it puts individuals at risk or violates privacy laws. If you need information not found in the online search, you may need to file a formal public records request. The Tennessee Public Records Act guides what can be shared. You can find more on this Act on the state's website or by searching for Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) § 10-7-503 et seq.

Communicating with and Supporting Tennessee Inmates

Visitation at TDOC Facilities

The TDOC believes that visits help inmates. It helps them maintain ties with family and friends. This can help them do better when they are released. So, TDOC has rules for visits. You must read these rules. You can find the full TDOC visitation policy at https://www.tn.gov/correction/state-prisons/visitation.html.

Key things to know for visits:

1. Application Process: Each person who wants to visit must complete an application form. This includes children. The form must be sent to the prison where the inmate is housed. They will review it. Approval should be processed within 30 days. The inmate will be notified if your application is approved or denied. It is the inmate's responsibility to inform you.

   • You can get the form here: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/correction/documents/doc-visitation-application.pdf. There are also guides on how to complete it for adults and minors on the TDOC site.

2. Scheduling a Visit: You cannot just show up. All visits are by appointment only. You must call the prison where the inmate is housed to schedule it. Prisons have visits on Saturdays, Sundays, and one evening during the week. This helps individuals who work on weekends.

3. Rules and Regulations:

   • ID: You need a valid photo ID.

   • What you can bring: Usually, just your ID and car keys. If you have a baby, you can bring items like diapers and food in a clear bag. No phones, smartwatches, or wallets are allowed inside.

   • Dress Code: There are strict rules for clothing. No tank tops or shirts that expose your chest or midriff. No camouflage clothing. No clothes with holes. No flip-flops or steel-toed shoes. Each prison Warden can add more rules.

   • Contraband: Do not try to bring in prohibited items. This includes drugs, phones, weapons, and even tobacco. If you do, you can be arrested and charged with a crime. You could also permanently lose your visitation privileges.

4. Contacting Specific Prisons: To schedule a visit, you must call that prison. For example, the Lois M. DeBerry Special Needs Facility phone is (615) 350-3843. Their rules state an inmate must be there 14 days before they can have a visit. Each prison may have its own handbook with more rules. Look for these on the TDOC visitation page.

Visitation is a privilege, not a right. Prisons can stop or terminate a visit at any time if rules are not followed. Know the rules before you go. This ensures your visit is positive for you and the inmate.

Sending Mail to Inmates

Mail is a key way to keep in touch. TDOC has rules for sending mail to inmates. These rules help keep the prisons safe. You should check the TDOC website for the most current mail rules. Look for a page on "Offender Mail" or "Contacting an Inmate."

Here are some main points:

1. General TDOC Guidelines: All mail you send will be opened and inspected. This is done to prevent drugs or other contraband from entering. Some prisons now use a mail scanning system. This means your letter is scanned. The inmate receives a copy, not your original letter. Check the rules for the specific prison.

2. Addressing Mail Correctly: You must write the full address of the prison. You also need the inmate's full name and their TDOC number. Without these, the mail may not reach them. An example address format: Inmate Full Name, TDOC# Facility Name Facility Street Address City, TN, Zip Code

3. Prohibited Items: Do not send items that are not allowed. This list is extensive. It includes:

   • Cash, checks, or money orders (send these through approved methods, see below).

   • Stamps, blank paper, or envelopes (inmates purchase these from the commissary).

   • Photographs that are too large or show prohibited content (like gang signs or sexual acts).

   • Hardcover books (softcover books must come directly from a publisher or bookstore like Amazon).

   • Stickers, glitter, or items glued to the paper.

   • Perfume or lipstick on the letter.

   • Any kind of drug or substance that resembles a drug.

If you send prohibited items, the mail may be returned to you or discarded. The inmate could also face disciplinary action. Always check the rules first. This will save you time and trouble.

Sending Money to Inmates

Inmates need money. They use it to buy items from the prison store (commissary). This can be food, soap, stamps, or writing paper. Each inmate has a trust fund account. You can send money to this account. TDOC has established ways to do this. Do not send cash in the mail.

1. TDOC Inmate Trust Fund Accounts:

   • Official Methods: TDOC uses a third-party company for money transfers. This is often a service like GTL/ConnectNetwork or JPay. You will need to go to their website or use their app. You will need the inmate's name and TDOC number. You can use a credit or debit card. There is a fee for this service. You can find links and information on the TDOC website. Look for "Offender Trust Fund Account" or "Sending Money."

2. County Jail Procedures (Varies by County): County jails each have their own methods for getting money to inmates.

   • Example: Shelby County: They accept money in a few ways.

     • Mail: Cashier's checks or money orders. Make them payable to the inmate. Include their R & I # on it. Send to the jail.

     • Lobby Kiosk: At the jail (K-Building or IRC Lobby). Use cash, credit, or debit card. Kiosks are open 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. You need the R & I # and Facility Locator Number 105.

     • Internet: Use https://web.connectnetwork.com/.

     • Phone: Call 1-888-988-4768.

   • Example: Williamson County:

     • Mail: Money orders can be sent.

     • Lobby Kiosk: In the Sheriff's Office lobby. Accepts cash, debit, or credit cards.

     • Internet: Use https://www.vendengine.com/.

     • Phone: Call 1-855-836-3364.

Always check the specific jail's website or call them. This will tell you the correct way to send money. Using the wrong method means the inmate might not receive it. There are always fees for these services.

Inmate Phone Calls

Inmates can make phone calls. But they cannot receive incoming calls. TDOC and county jails have phone systems for this.

1. TDOC Phone System: TDOC uses a third-party phone service, like GTL/ViaPath. Inmates can make collect calls. Or they can use money from their trust account or a prepaid phone account. Family and friends can set up prepaid accounts. You can do this on the phone service's website. All calls are recorded and monitored, except calls with attorneys. There are rules on call times and call duration. Check the TDOC website for "Offender Phone Account" for details.

2. Setting up Accounts: To set up a prepaid account, you will need the inmate's name and TDOC number. You add money to the account with a credit or debit card. This allows the inmate to call you without it being a collect call.

3. County Jail Phone Systems: County jails also use these types of phone services. The company names may vary. For example, Williamson County directs users to https://inmatesales.com/ to set up or add funds to phone accounts. You will need to check with each county jail. They will tell you which phone service they use and how to set up an account. This helps the inmate stay in touch. Calls cost money. Be sure you understand the rates.

Victim Services and Information

Tennessee Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (TN SAVIN / VINElink)

TN SAVIN (Tennessee Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification) is a free service. It is also known as VINElink. It helps victims of crime stay safe and informed. It notifies you if an offender's custody status changes. This means it will tell you if they are released from jail, moved, or escape. This service is for anyone who wants to know, not just the victim. It is kept private.

1. Purpose: To provide timely information on an offender's location and status.

2. How to Register:

   • Phone: Call 1-888-868-4631 (this is 1-888-TNVINE1). You can call this number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

   • Online: Go to the VINElink website at https://www.vinelink.com/#/home/site/43000. Choose Tennessee. Then search for the offender by name or ID number. You can then sign up for alerts by phone or email.

3. Information Provided: TN SAVIN will notify you:

   • When an inmate is released from jail.

   • When an inmate is transferred to another jail.

   • If an inmate escapes from jail.

   • If an inmate dies while in jail.

   • Sometimes it provides court case information too.

When you sign up, you create a PIN. If you request phone calls, the system will keep calling for 24 hours or until you enter your PIN. This ensures you receive the notification. This tool can give peace of mind to victims and their families.

TDOC Victim Services

The Tennessee Department of Correction has a Victim Services office. This office works to help victims of crimes when the offender is in a state prison. They want to ensure victims' rights are met. They provide support and information to victims. They can help you understand what is happening with the offender's incarceration.

1. Support and Information for Victims: They can help you register for notifications. They can explain how the TDOC system works. They can help you submit a victim impact statement. This is where you describe how the crime affected you.

2. Contact:

   • Phone: (615) 253-8145

   • Website: https://www.tn.gov/correction/victim-services/victim-services.html (This page has more information, forms, and links.)

It is advisable to reach out to them if you are a victim of a crime committed by someone in TDOC. They can guide you and offer help. They understand it is difficult to be a victim. They want to help you through the process.

Tennessee Board of Parole Victim Services

When an offender is eligible for parole, the Tennessee Board of Parole makes the decision. They also have a Victim Services division. This group helps victims participate in the parole process if they choose to. Victims have rights here too.

1. Role in Parole Process Notification: They inform victims when an offender has a parole hearing. You must register to receive these alerts.

2. Services Offered:

   • Notify you of parole hearing dates.

   • Help you prepare a Victim Impact Statement for the Board to review. This tells the Board how the crime changed your life.

   • Sometimes a Victim Services representative can accompany you to a parole hearing for support.

   • They keep your information private.

3. Contact Information:

   • Address: 500 James Robertson Parkway, 4th Floor, Nashville, TN 37243-0850

   • Phone: (615) 741-1150

   • Toll-Free: 866-795-7467

   • Email: victim.witness@tn.gov

   • Forms: You can find forms to request alerts or make a statement on their website: https://www.tn.gov/bop/about-us/divisions/bop-victim-services.html. They have forms in English and Spanish. You can even request to make a video statement.

This office plays a significant role in making sure victims' voices are heard. If an offender who harmed you is up for parole, these individuals can help you participate in that decision-making process.

Other Important Registries and Legal Resources

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) Registries

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) maintains some key public registries. These lists help keep the public safe. You can search these lists online for free. They are part of a comprehensive Tennessee Inmate Search if the crime type is relevant.

1. Sex Offender Registry: This list contains information on individuals convicted of certain sex crimes. You can search by name or by address to see who is near you.

   • Website: https://sor.tbi.tn.gov/SOMainpg.aspx

   • This tool can show you a map of where sex offenders live and work. It provides their name, photo, address, and crimes.

2. Drug Offender Registry: Tennessee also has a list of drug offenders. This is for individuals convicted of certain drug crimes, primarily those related to methamphetamine.

   • Website: https://www.tn.gov/tbi/tennessee-dangerous-drug-task-force-and-drug-investigation/drug-offender-registry.html. This page provides information about the registry. The TBI site may have a search tool for this list, or information may be part of a full criminal background check. Sometimes, these details are also in the FOIL system if the person is in TDOC custody for those crimes. The TBI site is the best place to check for this complete list of all such offenders, whether in or out of jail.

These registries are for public safety. It is a crime to use this information to harass or threaten anyone on the list. Use it to stay safe and aware.

Accessing Tennessee Laws and Statutes

To understand more about why individuals are incarcerated or how the system works, you can look at Tennessee laws. The laws of the state are called the Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.). This Code contains all the laws passed by the state legislature. It is free to view online.

1. Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.):

   • Website: http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/tncode/

   • This is the official free public site for the T.C.A. LexisNexis keeps it current. You can search for laws by keyword or by the code number if you know it.

2. Relevance to Corrections and Public Records:

   • Laws on crimes and sentencing are in Title 39 (Criminal Offenses) and Title 40 (Criminal Procedure) of the T.C.A.

   • Laws on how prisons and TDOC operate are in Title 41 (Corrections).

   • The Tennessee Public Records Act, which dictates what information is public, is in T.C.A. Title 10, Chapter 7 (T.C.A. § 10-7-101 et seq.).

Reading the law can be complex. But this site allows you to see the actual wording of the law. It can help you understand your rights or why things are done a certain way in Tennessee. This makes you a more well-informed searcher for information.

Helpful Resources

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