Monongalia County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Monongalia County?
Inmate records in Monongalia County are official government documents maintained by the Monongalia County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks an individual from initial booking through release.
Pursuant to West Virginia Code §15A-3-4, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate and complete records of all persons committed to their custody. These records differ from court records in several important aspects:
- Inmate records focus on custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
- Court records document legal proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Sheriff's offices maintain booking and custody records
- The court system maintains separate case files related to criminal proceedings
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial record creation occurs during booking/intake processing
- Information is updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes institutional behavior, program participation, and disciplinary actions
- Records are administratively closed upon release but maintained according to retention schedules
The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation oversees the standardization of inmate record-keeping practices across county facilities to ensure consistency and compliance with state regulations.
Are Inmate Records Public In Monongalia County?
Inmate records in Monongalia County are generally considered public information under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, which provides for public access to government records with certain exceptions. According to West Virginia Code §29B-1-3, every person has the right to inspect or copy any public record of a public body in West Virginia, subject to specific exemptions.
For correctional facilities in Monongalia County, the following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking information and intake date
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshot photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, certain information may be restricted from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Records that would endanger the safety of correctional staff or inmates
- Information protected by federal privacy laws
Members of the public seeking inmate information should note that while basic custody information is public, access methods and specific available details may vary based on current administrative policies and security considerations.
What's Included Inmate Records in Monongalia County
Inmate records in Monongalia County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include several categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Scheduled court appearances
- Disciplinary incidents and actions taken
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Warrant information if applicable
- Criminal history information
- Charge disposition (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
- Bail hearing information
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Court appearance history
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Sentence length and terms
- Conviction date
- Sentencing judge
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Participation in rehabilitation programs
- Projected release date
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
- Agency assuming supervision after release
These records are maintained in compliance with West Virginia Code §15A-4-5 regarding correctional facility record-keeping requirements.
Monongalia County Prison System
The Monongalia County correctional system operates within the broader framework of West Virginia's criminal justice infrastructure. The county maintains local detention facilities primarily designed for pre-trial detention and incarceration of individuals serving sentences of one year or less for misdemeanor offenses.
Monongalia County's correctional facilities operate under the administrative authority of the Monongalia County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody, care, and transportation of inmates. The system functions distinctly from the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, which manages state prisons housing felony offenders serving longer sentences.
Key distinctions between county and state facilities include:
- County facilities primarily house pre-trial detainees and misdemeanor offenders
- State prisons house convicted felons serving sentences exceeding one year
- County facilities focus on short-term detention and basic services
- State facilities provide more extensive rehabilitation and vocational programming
The primary agency responsible for jail operations in Monongalia County is:
Monongalia County Sheriff's Office
243 High Street
Morgantown, WV 26505
(304) 291-7260
Monongalia County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office coordinates with the county court system, probation services, and state correctional authorities to manage the inmate population effectively while ensuring public safety and compliance with state standards for detention facilities.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Monongalia County
Monongalia County's correctional infrastructure consists of several facility types, each serving specific functions within the local criminal justice system:
North Central Regional Jail
1 Lois Lane
Greenwood, WV 26415
(304) 873-1384
North Central Regional Jail
The North Central Regional Jail serves multiple counties including Monongalia County. This facility houses:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses (up to one year)
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Federal detainees under contract with U.S. Marshals Service
Monongalia County Day Report Center
243 High Street, Suite 400
Morgantown, WV 26505
(304) 291-7287
Monongalia County Day Report Center
The Day Report Center provides:
- Alternative sentencing options for non-violent offenders
- Substance abuse treatment and monitoring
- Community service coordination
- Electronic monitoring supervision
- Drug testing services
Monongalia County Home Confinement
243 High Street
Morgantown, WV 26505
(304) 291-7292
Monongalia County Home Confinement
The Home Confinement program offers:
- Electronic monitoring for eligible offenders
- Supervision in lieu of physical incarceration
- Work release opportunities
- Compliance monitoring for court-ordered restrictions
Monongalia County Juvenile Detention Center
(Juveniles from Monongalia County are typically housed at regional juvenile facilities)
West Virginia Division of Juvenile Services
These facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the West Virginia Jail and Correctional Facility Authority and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations for inmate care, facility maintenance, and operational procedures.
Who's in Prison In Monongalia County
The inmate population in Monongalia County detention facilities represents a diverse cross-section of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The county's correctional facilities primarily house:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
- Individuals deemed flight risks or public safety concerns by the courts
Misdemeanor Offenders:
- Persons serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor convictions
- Common offenses include DUI, simple assault, petty theft, and drug possession
- Individuals who violated probation terms for misdemeanor offenses
- Those serving weekend or intermittent sentences
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals recently convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Persons temporarily returned from state custody for local court appearances
- Felony offenders participating in local court programs prior to state transfer
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment participants
- Work release program participants
- Those serving alternative sentences with periodic confinement requirements
According to data from the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the average daily population in Monongalia County detention facilities fluctuates between 80-120 inmates, with demographic patterns generally reflecting:
- Approximately 80% male and 20% female inmates
- Average age range of 20-45 years
- Significant percentage (40-60%) with substance abuse issues
- Varying education levels with many lacking high school diplomas
- Diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds
The inmate population experiences regular turnover due to the transient nature of county-level incarceration, with many individuals being released on bail, completing short sentences, or transferring to other facilities within relatively brief timeframes.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Monongalia County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Monongalia County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate data while protecting sensitive information.
Online Inmate Lookup:
- Visit the West Virginia Regional Jail Authority Inmate Search portal
- Enter the inmate's first and last name in the designated search fields
- Narrow results by selecting "North Central Regional Jail" from the facility dropdown menu
- Review the search results showing basic custody information
- Note that information is updated regularly but may not reflect real-time changes
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Records Division at the Monongalia County Sheriff's Office during public counter hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Complete an inmate information request form with the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable copying fees for printed records ($0.25 per page under current fee schedule)
- Allow processing time as specified by records personnel
Telephone Inquiries:
- Contact the North Central Regional Jail at (304) 873-1384
- Provide the inmate's full legal name and date of birth if available
- Be prepared to identify yourself and your relationship to the inmate
- Note that basic custody status information may be provided by phone, but detailed records typically require written requests
Written Requests:
-
Submit a formal written request to:
Monongalia County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
243 High Street
Morgantown, WV 26505 -
Include the inmate's full name, date of birth, and approximate dates of incarceration
-
Provide your contact information and relationship to the inmate
-
Specify the information being requested
-
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
-
Allow 5-10 business days for processing under normal circumstances
All record requests are processed in accordance with the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act and applicable federal privacy laws.
How To Find an Inmate in Monongalia County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Monongalia County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Official Online Inmate Locator:
The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation maintains a free online inmate search tool accessible to the public:
- Navigate to the WV DCR Offender Search website
- Enter the inmate's name in the search fields (last name is required)
- Refine search by selecting "North Central Regional Jail" if known
- Review results showing custody status, facility location, and basic case information
- Note that photographs and detailed information may be limited
Monongalia County Court Records:
Court records can indirectly confirm incarceration status:
- Visit the West Virginia Judiciary Search Portal
- Search by the individual's name to locate case information
- Review case documents for custody status indicators
- Check for upcoming court dates which may indicate current incarceration
- Note that court records show case status but not comprehensive custody details
Telephone Verification:
Basic custody information can be confirmed by phone:
- Call the North Central Regional Jail at (304) 873-1384 during business hours
- Provide the full name and date of birth of the person you're inquiring about
- Request confirmation of whether the individual is currently in custody
- Ask for basic information such as booking date and next court appearance
- Be aware that detailed information may require formal written requests
Victim Notification System:
Crime victims can register for free notifications:
- Access the West Virginia Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) system
- Register for an account or use the service anonymously
- Search for the offender by name
- Receive custody status updates and notification of changes
- Utilize the service via website or mobile application
These free resources provide basic location and status information while protecting both inmate privacy and facility security. For more comprehensive records, formal requests may be necessary through the procedures outlined in previous sections.
How To Visit an Inmate In Monongalia County
Visitation with inmates housed in Monongalia County facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. Visitors must adhere to specific guidelines:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult
- Maximum of two adults and two children permitted per visit
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors are subject to security screening, including metal detection
- Random searches may be conducted in accordance with West Virginia Code §15A-4-6
Visit Schedule:
North Central Regional Jail maintains the following visitation hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (rotating schedule by pod)
- Holidays: Special schedule posted 30 days in advance
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): By appointment during extended hours
Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time for processing.
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- Vehicle information including license plate number
- Small clear plastic bag or container for authorized items
- Quarters for vending machines (maximum $10.00 in change)
- Required medical items with prior approval (medications, mobility devices)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tools or items that could be used as weapons
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
Dress Code:
- Conservative, modest clothing required
- No revealing, tight, or suggestive attire
- No clothing resembling inmate uniforms
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or halter tops
- No shorts above mid-thigh or skirts above the knee
- No see-through fabrics or revealing necklines
- Appropriate undergarments required
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for minimum security inmates with good behavior
- Non-contact visits: Standard visitation through glass partition
- Video visitation: Available through the facility's contracted service provider
- Special visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with administrative approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
- Persons on probation or parole must obtain written permission
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied based on security assessment
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Three missed visits without cancellation may result in visitation privileges suspension
For current visitation information, contact:
North Central Regional Jail
1 Lois Lane
Greenwood, WV 26415
(304) 873-1384
North Central Regional Jail
How To Send Money to a Monongalia County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Monongalia County facilities have several approved methods for transferring funds. These systems are designed to maintain security while ensuring proper accounting of all transactions.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Select "West Virginia" and "North Central Regional Jail"
- Enter inmate's full name and ID number
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically $2.95-$9.95 based on amount)
-
Telephone Deposits
- Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Provide inmate information and facility details
- Complete transaction with credit/debit card
- Receive confirmation number for your records
- Higher service fees apply for phone transactions
-
Lobby Kiosk
- Visit the North Central Regional Jail lobby during business hours
- Use the self-service kiosk located in the public area
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete deposit
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Receipt provided for transaction verification
-
Money Order by Mail
-
Purchase money order from U.S. Postal Service or authorized vendor
-
Make payable to "Inmate Trust Fund" with inmate's full name and ID number
-
Mail to:
North Central Regional Jail
Inmate Accounts Department
1 Lois Lane
Greenwood, WV 26415 -
Include sender's full name and return address
-
No personal checks or cash accepted
-
Amount Limitations:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00 per transaction
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00 per inmate
- Special approval required for larger amounts
Transaction Fees:
- Online deposits: Sliding scale based on amount ($2.95-$9.95)
- Phone deposits: Additional $5.00 convenience fee
- Kiosk deposits: $2.00 flat fee
- Money orders: No fee from facility (purchase fee may apply)
Prohibited Transactions:
- No funds from other inmates or their families
- No funds from crime victims without court approval
- No funds from unidentified sources
- No funds with conditions or restrictions attached
- No funds from individuals with active protective orders
Authorized Fund Uses:
Inmates may use deposited funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone account funding
- Medical co-payments
- Haircut services
- Educational materials
- Restitution and court-ordered payments
Restricted Fund Uses:
Funds cannot be used for:
- Contraband purchases
- Payments to other inmates
- Gambling activities
- Staff gratuities
- Outside purchases without authorization
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with West Virginia Code §15A-4-7 regarding inmate funds and property.
How To Send Jail Mail In Monongalia County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Monongalia County facilities follows strict protocols to maintain security while supporting important connections with family and community. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with established guidelines.
General Mail Guidelines:
-
All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name and ID number
- Sender's full name and complete return address
- Proper postage
-
Mail should be addressed to:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
North Central Regional Jail
1 Lois Lane
Greenwood, WV 26415 -
Standard white envelopes only (maximum 9" x 12")
-
Blue or black ink only on white paper
-
Typed correspondence is acceptable
-
Maximum 10 pages per envelope
-
All mail is opened and inspected before delivery
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters
- Official correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies
- Photographs (maximum 4" x 6", limit 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (following financial transaction guidelines)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Religious materials (subject to review by chaplain)
- Legal documents related to the inmate's case
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages without prior authorization
- Padded or colored envelopes
- Plastic, metal, or wooden items
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, highlighter, glitter, or colored pencil
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit or obscene materials
- Gang-related content or symbols
- Items containing unknown substances
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Food or clothing items
- Homemade crafts or artwork
Publications and Books:
- Books must be shipped directly from publisher or authorized retailer
- Soft-cover books only (hardcover books not accepted)
- Maximum of 3 books per shipment
- Subject to content review and approval
- Religious texts permitted with chaplain approval
- Educational materials related to approved programs accepted
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come from licensed attorney or legal organization
- Will be opened in inmate's presence
- Contents checked for contraband but not read by staff
- Requires proper identification of sending attorney (bar number)
Electronic Messaging:
The facility offers a secure electronic messaging system through Access Corrections:
- Create an account on the platform
- Purchase message credits
- Compose messages (maximum 2,000 characters)
- Attach approved digital photos (additional fee applies)
- All electronic communications subject to monitoring
- Responses from inmates require separate payment
All mail procedures comply with West Virginia Code §15A-4-8 regarding inmate correspondence and the facility's internal policies. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and possible restrictions on future communications.