Indianapolis City Jail Inmate Lookup

The Indianapolis Police Department (IPD), based in Indiana, is a dedicated law enforcement agency serving the community with utmost diligence and professionalism. Adjacent to the police department is the Indianapolis City Jail (also referred to as the detention facility or police jail). This correction facility functions as a short-term holding establishment, catering mainly to individuals recently arrested or awaiting trial.

CLICK HERE to Search for Incarcerated Friends or Family Members

Inmate Roster and Who's in Jail

The Indianapolis jail roster provides a systematic listing of all inmates currently housed within the detention center. This roster is designed to offer transparency and facilitate easy tracking for both officials and the public.

Steps for Searching an Inmate:

1. Navigate to the official website of the Indianapolis Police Department.
2. Click on the 'Inmate Roster' or 'Who's in Jail' section.
3. A search bar or an interface will appear. Here, you can input specific details to narrow down your search, such as Booking Number or Last Name.
4. After entering the relevant details, click on the 'Search' button. The system will then display a list of inmates matching the provided criteria.
5. Click on the inmate's name to access more detailed information.

Information Available on the Jail Roster:

Upon conducting an offender search, the following details will typically be available:

• Booking Number: A unique identification number assigned to every individual upon their booking.
• Last Name: The surname of the inmate.
• First Name: The given name of the inmate.
• Date of Birth: The inmate's birth date, which can help in distinguishing individuals with similar names.
• Release Date: This indicates when the inmate is scheduled for release or if they have been released already.
• Criminal Charges: A brief summary or description of the charges filed against the inmate.

Tips for Offender Lookup:

• Always ensure that the spelling of names is accurate. Even a minor mistake can result in no results.
• If uncertain about specific details, input partial information. For instance, entering just the first few letters of a last name might yield broader results.
• Make use of the Booking Number, if available, as it's the most specific identifier.
• Regularly check the roster if searching for recent arrests since there could be a slight delay in updating new inmate details.
• In the absence of online resources, contacting the detention facility directly can be an alternative means of obtaining inmate information.

Additional Features of the Jail Roster:

The Indianapolis jail roster often incorporates several other useful features to enhance user experience and improve search efficiency:

• Photo/Mugshots: A photograph taken upon the inmate's booking, helping to visually identify the individual.

• Housing Location: Specifies the exact location or cell block where the inmate is currently housed within the detention center.

• Bail/Bond Information: Details about the set bail amount, bond type, and bond agency, if applicable, allowing interested parties to expedite release processes.

• Scheduled Court Date: This provides the date and time the inmate is due for a court appearance, which can be crucial for legal representatives or family members to note.

• Visitor Information: Specifies the designated visiting hours and any requirements or restrictions for individuals wishing to visit inmates.

• Inmate Behavior and Conduct Code: Some rosters may provide information on the behavioral expectations for inmates and any disciplinary actions taken in case of infractions.

Advanced Search and Filters:

Many modern jail rosters offer advanced search capabilities:

• Date Range: Allows users to search for inmates booked or released within a specific date range.

• Gender Filter: Facilitates a narrowed search based on male, female, or other gender classifications.

• Offense Type: Users can search specifically for inmates booked for particular offenses, such as misdemeanors, felonies, or violations.

• Age Range: Helps to focus the search on inmates within a specific age bracket.

Accessibility and Mobile Compatibility:

• The Indianapolis jail roster, like many contemporary digital services, is designed to be mobile-friendly, ensuring easy accessibility from smartphones or tablets.

• Voice search might also be integrated to aid users with disabilities or those seeking a quicker search option without typing.

Regular Updates:

• The police jail's system often receives real-time or near-real-time updates, ensuring that the roster remains current and reflective of the inmate population.

• Some systems might offer notifications or alerts for users interested in tracking specific inmates or receiving updates on recent bookings.

Confidentiality:

• Sensitive information like health records, private conversations, or privileged communications between inmates and their legal counsel are never displayed on the public roster.

• Users are reminded to utilize roster information responsibly and refrain from misuse or unauthorized dissemination.

Multilingual Support:

• Given the diversity of many urban areas, the roster platform might offer multilingual support, allowing users to navigate the site in various languages.

Assistance and Helpline:

• For users encountering difficulties or requiring clarifications, many jail roster platforms offer a helpline or chatbot assistance to guide them through the process.

Recent Arrests

Recent arrests refer to individuals who have been taken into custody by the Indianapolis Police Department in the immediate past, typically within the last 24 to 48 hours. These records give an insight into the daily law enforcement activities in Indianapolis.

Checking Recent Arrests:

1. Online Database: The easiest method to check if someone has been recently arrested by the Indianapolis Police Department is to visit their official website. They may have a 'Recent Arrests' or 'Daily Arrest Log' section detailing all the individuals taken into custody on a given day.

2. Automated Phone Service: Some police departments offer an automated phone line that provides information on recent arrests. Callers can enter the name of the individual they're inquiring about and receive relevant arrest information.

3. Police Station Inquiry: Visiting the local police station or detention center in person is another approach. Here, one can ask the desk officer for recent arrest records or specific individual information.

4. Local News Outlets: Local newspapers, radio, and TV stations often report on significant arrests or crime incidents. Monitoring these platforms might offer relevant details.

5. Alerts & Notifications: Some platforms allow users to sign up for notifications that inform them of recent arrests based on predefined criteria or names.

Note on Privacy:

Not all details related to an arrest might be publicly disclosed. Information might be withheld to protect ongoing investigations or the rights of the arrested individual.

Mugshots and Police Reports

Mugshots are photographic records of individuals taken into custody. These front and side-view photos serve as a visual record and are typically taken during the booking process.

Obtaining Mugshots and Police Reports:

1. Online Access: Many police departments, including the Indianapolis Police Department, might offer an online portal where individuals can search for and view mugshots and related arrest details.

2. Request In Person: One can visit the police department's records division to request a physical copy of a police report or mugshot. There might be a nominal fee associated with obtaining these records.

3. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests: If certain records aren't readily available, individuals can file a FOIA request to access them.

4. Third-party Websites: There are several third-party websites that collate and display mugshots and police reports. However, always verify the authenticity and legality of these platforms.

Note on Usage:

Using mugshots for commercial purposes or defamatory intent might be illegal or subjected to regulations. Always ensure that you respect privacy rights and legal guidelines when accessing or sharing this information.

Indianapolis Warrant Lookup

Warrants are legal documents issued by judges, allowing law enforcement to take specific actions, such as conducting searches or arresting individuals.

Finding a Warrant in Indianapolis, IN:

1. Online Warrant Search: The Indianapolis Police Department or the local court's official website might have a dedicated search tool to look up active warrants.

2. Visit the Police Department: By visiting the Indianapolis Police Department, you can inquire about specific individuals or check if there's an active warrant against you.

3. Check with the County Clerk: The county clerk's office maintains records of all issued warrants. One can visit or call them for warrant information.

4. Legal Counsel: If you suspect there might be a warrant out for your arrest, consulting with an attorney is advisable. They can conduct a discreet search and guide you on the best course of action.

Note on Personal Safety:

If you discover there's an active warrant for your arrest, it's essential to act responsibly. Turning yourself in, especially with legal representation, can lead to a smoother legal process. Avoiding or running from a warrant can lead to more severe legal consequences.

Bookings 

When an individual is arrested by the Indianapolis Police Department, they are taken to the Indianapolis City Jail or another designated detention facility. The booking process involves several steps:

1. Personal Information: The basic details of the arrestee, such as name, date of birth, and physical descriptors, are recorded.

2. Mugshot: A photograph, usually front and side view, is taken for identification purposes.

3. Property Inventory: Personal belongings that aren't allowed in the jail are itemized and stored. These items are typically returned upon release.

4. Fingerprints: Digital prints are taken and often checked against databases for outstanding warrants or previous records.

5. Medical Evaluation: Some facilities conduct a basic health screening to ensure the well-being of the detainee and other inmates.

6. Assigning a Cell or Holding Area: The arrestee is then placed in a designated area, either awaiting bail, further legal actions, or transfer.

Releases 

Releases can occur due to several reasons:

1. Posting Bail/Bond: If bail is set and paid, the detainee can be released.

2. Court Order: After a court hearing, a judge may order the release.

3. Completion of Sentence: After serving the required time, the inmate is released.

4. On Personal Recognizance: In some cases, individuals may be released based on a pledge to return for court dates.

Background Checks

A background check is a process wherein an individual's criminal, financial, or commercial records are verified. In Indianapolis:

1. Local Police Check: One can request a local background check by visiting the Indianapolis Police Department. This provides details of any criminal activities within Indianapolis.

2. Statewide Check: For a more comprehensive check, the Indiana State Police provides a statewide criminal history.

3. Fee: There's often a fee associated with obtaining a background check, which can vary depending on the depth of the check and the agency providing it.

Indianapolis Most Wanted List

The Indianapolis Police Department, in collaboration with other state and federal agencies, maintains a list of individuals with outstanding warrants or those involved in serious crimes:

1. Public Access: This list is typically accessible to the public, often displayed on the police department's official website or at the station.

2. Crime Stoppers: Local media and Crime Stoppers programs may also feature these individuals, offering rewards for information leading to their capture.

Sex Offender Registry

1. State Registry: Indiana maintains a Sex and Violent Offender Registry. This public database lists individuals convicted of sex or violent crimes.

2. Access: The public can access the registry to view details like names, addresses, offenses, and more. This is crucial for community safety and awareness.

3. Regular Updates: Offenders must regularly update their information, and any failure to do so can result in legal consequences.

Bail Bonds

When an individual is arrested, a judge might set a bail amount. If the arrestee cannot afford this, they can seek the services of a bail bondsman:

1. Bail Bond Agencies: There are numerous bail bond agencies in Indianapolis that can post bail in exchange for a fee, usually a percentage of the bail amount.

2. Collateral: In addition to fees, the bondsman might require collateral, such as property or assets, to ensure the defendant appears in court.

3. Responsibility: Once a bail bond agency posts bail, they assume responsibility for the defendant's court appearance. If the defendant skips court, the bondsman can employ recovery agents to ensure their return.

4. Fee Non-refundable: Regardless of the case outcome, the fee paid to the bondsman is non-refundable.

Inmate Mail

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate:

1. Addressing the Mail: Ensure that you address the mail correctly. Typically, it should be in the following format:

   [Inmate's Full Name]
   [Booking Number or Inmate ID]
   Indianapolis City Jail
   [Jail's Address, including city, state, and zip code]
   

2. Return Address: Always include your full name and address as the return address. Mail without a return address may be discarded.

3. Content Restrictions: Avoid sending any explicit, inflammatory, or controversial content. All mail is subject to inspection, and inappropriate content might be confiscated or could result in punitive measures against the inmate.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates:

1. Acceptable Items: Only send letters, postcards, and photographs. Avoid Polaroids as they can be altered easily.

2. Prohibited Items: Do not include any items such as staples, paper clips, hardcover books (unless shipped directly from the publisher or retailer), illicit substances, or any form of contraband.

3. Publication Rules: Magazines, newspapers, and books should be sent directly from the publisher or a recognized retailer.

4. Writing Instruments: Do not send pens or pencils. If you wish for the inmate to write back, include a pre-stamped envelope.

5. No Stickers or Decorations: Refrain from decorating the envelope or contents with stickers, markers, or anything that might be considered an alteration.

Sending Money to Inmates

Methods for Sending Money to Inmates:

1. Online Transfer: Many jails, including Indianapolis City Jail, might partner with services like JPay, MoneyGram, or similar platforms to facilitate online money transfers to inmates.

2. Mail: You can typically send a money order with the inmate's name and booking number. Personal checks are often not accepted.

3. Kiosk Deposits: Some detention facilities have onsite kiosks where you can deposit money directly into an inmate's account.

4. Phone: Some services allow for money transfers to be done over the phone, following automated prompts.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money:

1. Limitations on Amount: There might be a cap on the amount of money you can send at once or within a certain period.

2. Transaction Fees: Online and phone transfers might involve service charges.

3. Refund Policy: Money sent to inmates typically cannot be refunded, even if the inmate is transferred or released.

4. Use of Funds: Money sent to inmates goes into their commissary account, which they can use to purchase items like snacks, hygiene products, stationery, and more.

5. Record Keeping: All transactions are recorded for security and accountability purposes. Ensure that you keep your receipts or transaction confirmations.

Always refer to the official guidelines provided by the Indianapolis City Jail before sending mail or money to ensure compliance with their specific rules and procedures.

Visitation

Visitation allows family members, friends, and legal representatives an opportunity to meet with inmates. It's essential to understand the proper procedure, rules, and regulations associated with visiting the Indianapolis City Jail.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit:

1. Registration: First-time visitors may need to register in advance, either online or at the jail's administration office.

2. Schedule a Visit: Visits may need to be scheduled in advance. This can usually be done via a dedicated phone line, online portal, or in person.

3. Visitor Verification: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver's license or passport, for verification during your visit.

Rules and Regulations for Visits:

1. Dress Code: Most jails have a strict dress code. It's advised to dress modestly and avoid clothing with explicit imagery, see-through materials, or excessive jewelry.

2. Behavior: Any disruptive behavior might lead to termination of the visit or a ban on future visits.

3. Search: Visitors are subject to a search before entering the visitation area. This is to ensure the safety of both visitors and inmates.

4. Prohibited Items: Do not bring cell phones, recording devices, bags, or any other personal items into the visitation area. There are usually lockers available for storage.

5. Children: If bringing minors, ensure they are always supervised. Some jails may have age restrictions or require proof of guardianship.

6. Duration: The length of each visit may be limited to ensure that all inmates get an opportunity to meet their visitors.

Visitation Hours:

While specific hours can vary, a typical schedule might look like:

• Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Weekends: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Holidays: Limited hours or no visitation.

Always check with the jail beforehand, as hours can change based on staffing, security concerns, or facility events.

Inmate Communications

Inmates at the Indianapolis City Jail typically have access to phones to make calls to family, friends, or legal representatives.

1. Collect Calls: Most inmate call systems operate on a collect call basis. The receiver of the call is responsible for the associated charges.

2. Prepaid Accounts: Some jails allow family and friends to set up prepaid accounts for inmates, which they can use to make calls.

3. Call Duration: Calls are often limited in duration to ensure that all inmates have access to phones.

4. Monitoring: For security reasons, all calls (except those to legal representatives) are subject to monitoring and recording.

Guidelines for Use:

1. Call Times: Inmates can typically make calls during specific hours, often correlating with their housing unit's schedule.

2. Prohibited Activities: Any attempt to engage in illicit activities over the phone, relay coded messages, or threaten someone can result in punitive measures.

3. Blocked Calls: If you wish to block inmate calls from the jail to your number, contact the jail's administration or the associated phone service provider.

4. Issues & Concerns: If there are any problems with call quality, dropped calls, or billing, direct your concerns to the jail's phone service provider rather than the facility.

To ensure smooth communication, always refer to the guidelines provided by the Indianapolis City Jail and stay updated on any changes to their communication systems or policies.

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

525 West Hampton Drive, Indianapolis, IN, 46208

Official Phone Number

317-940-9396

Official Website

www.butler.edu/bupd

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How can I search for an inmate?
   You can typically search for an inmate by visiting the official website of the jail or prison facility where the individual might be incarcerated. Most facilities provide an "Inmate Lookup" or "Inmate Search" tool that allows you to input the inmate's name or identification number.

2. Are all inmates searchable online?
   While many modern correctional facilities have online databases for inmate lookup, not all inmates might be listed, especially if they've been recently processed. Some smaller jails or older institutions may not have online databases at all, requiring a phone call or in-person visit to obtain information.

3. How up-to-date is the inmate database?
   The frequency of updates varies by facility. While some larger institutions might update their online databases in real-time or daily, others might do so weekly. Always refer to the specific facility's policies or contact them directly for the most current information.

4. Can I search for inmates from multiple facilities at once?
   Yes, there are third-party websites and services that aggregate inmate data from various facilities. However, accuracy and comprehensiveness may vary. For the most accurate information, it's recommended to search directly through the facility's website.

Arrests Lookup

5. How can I look up recent arrests?
   Recent arrests can often be found on local law enforcement websites, under sections like "Recent Arrests" or "Police Blotter." Additionally, local news outlets might also cover significant or newsworthy arrests.

6. What information will be provided in an arrest lookup?
   An arrest lookup typically provides the arrested individual's name, date of arrest, the reason for arrest (charges), and a booking photo (mugshot). The exact details may vary based on jurisdiction and privacy laws.

7. Are arrests records public?
   In most jurisdictions, arrest records are considered public information. However, there might be exceptions or restrictions, especially for juveniles or cases that are sealed for legal reasons.

Jail Bookings

8. How can I find out if someone has been recently booked into jail?
   Most jails and correctional facilities have online systems or phone lines where you can check recent bookings. Another option is to contact the jail directly or check local news sources.

9. What details are provided in jail booking records?
   Jail booking records typically include the individual's name, date of booking, charges, bail amount (if applicable), and a booking photo. Some facilities might provide additional information such as scheduled court dates or inmate location within the facility.

10. How often is the jail booking database updated?
    This varies by facility. Larger jails or those with modernized systems might update their databases multiple times a day, while others might do so less frequently.

Inmate Calls

11. How can I receive calls from an inmate?
    Inmates can typically make outbound calls to approved numbers. To receive calls, ensure the inmate has your number on their approved list. Note that some facilities use third-party services for inmate calls, which might require you to set up an account or pre-pay for call credits.

12. Are there restrictions on when inmates can make calls?
    Yes, most jails and prisons have specific hours during which inmates can make calls. There might also be limits on call duration.

13. What are the charges associated with inmate calls?
    Charges can vary widely based on the facility and the service provider. Some might have flat fees per call, while others might charge per minute. Always check with the specific facility or its phone service provider for accurate rates.

Inmate Mail

14. How do I send mail to an inmate?
    To send mail to an inmate, address the letter to the inmate using their full name and inmate ID (if known), followed by the facility's address. Some facilities might have specific guidelines for sending mail, so it's a good idea to check beforehand.

15. Are there specific guidelines on what can be sent to inmates?
    Yes, most correctional facilities have strict guidelines on what can and cannot be sent to inmates. Common restrictions include no contraband, no explicit materials, and no items that might be used as weapons. It's essential to check the facility's specific rules before sending anything.

16. How does the jail ensure mail safety and security?
    Jails typically have protocols in place to inspect all incoming and outgoing mail for contraband or other prohibited items. This might include visual inspections, scanning, or other security measures.

Visitation

17. How can I visit an inmate?
    To visit an inmate, you usually need to be on their approved visitor list. Some facilities require visitors to schedule appointments, while others have specific visitation hours. Always check with the specific jail or prison for their policies and procedures.

18. What are the rules and guidelines for inmate visitation?
    Rules can vary but often include guidelines on appropriate attire, acceptable behavior, identification requirements, and items you can bring. Some facilities might also have rules regarding physical contact or the number of visitors allowed at one time.

19. Are virtual visitations available?
    Many modern correctional facilities offer virtual or video visitation, especially given the rise of technology and recent global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Check with the specific facility to see if they offer this service and how to schedule a virtual visit.

Sending Money

20. How can I send money to an inmate?
    Most jails and prisons allow money to be sent to inmates via postal money orders, cashier's checks, or through third-party services like JPay or Western Union. Always verify the preferred method and any associated guidelines with the facility.

21. Are there limits to how much money I can send?
    Yes, many facilities set limits on the amount of money an inmate can receive or have in their account at any given time. These limits can vary widely, so it's important to check with the specific institution.

22. Are there fees associated with sending money to inmates?
    If using third-party services, there might be transaction fees. These fees can vary based on the service provider and the amount of money being sent.

Posting Bond

23. How can I post bond for an inmate?
    Bond can typically be posted at the jail or courthouse, either in person or sometimes online. Accepted methods might include cash, cashier's checks, property bonds, or bail bond services.

24. What are the accepted methods of payment for posting bond?
    Methods can vary by jurisdiction but commonly include cash, cashier's checks, and bail bond services. Some areas might also accept property bonds where real estate is used as collateral.

25. What happens to the bond money if the inmate attends all court dates?
    If the inmate attends all required court dates, the bond amount is usually returned to the person who posted it, minus any fees or court costs. If a bail bondsman was used, their fee is typically non-refundable.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

26. How can inmates access legal representation?
    Inmates have the right to legal representation. They can hire a private attorney or, if they cannot afford one, they might be eligible for a public defender or other legal aid services.

27. Are there free legal services available for inmates?
    Yes, inmates who cannot afford a private attorney might be eligible for a public defender or other legal aid services based on their financial situation.

28. How can I ensure confidential legal communications with an inmate?
    Legal communications between inmates and their attorneys are privileged and confidential. Jails and prisons are generally prohibited from monitoring or intercepting these communications, whether they're in written form or during in-person or phone conversations.

Release

29. How will I be notified of an inmate's release?
    Notification protocols can vary. Some jurisdictions have victim notification services that inform registered individuals of an inmate's release. In other cases, the inmate themselves will need to notify you upon their release.

30. What is the process for inmate release?
    Release processes can vary, but generally, upon an inmate's release date, they'll be processed out, have their personal belongings returned, and then be released from the facility's designated release area.

Criminal Records Lookup

31. How can I look up someone's criminal record?
    Criminal records can be accessed through official state or county databases, usually managed by the Department of Public Safety or a similar agency. Some third-party websites also offer criminal record lookups.

32. Are all criminal records publicly accessible?
    While many criminal records are public, some might be sealed or expunged due to various reasons, such as being a juvenile offender or having met certain legal criteria.

33. How accurate is the criminal records database?
    While official state and county databases are generally accurate, no system is infallible. Always ensure you're accessing a reputable source, and if accuracy is paramount, consider obtaining records directly from a court or law enforcement agency.

Background Check

34. How can I request a background check on someone?
    Background checks can be requested through official state agencies, local law enforcement, or third-party services. The type and depth of the background check might vary based on the source and the purpose of the check.

35. What information is included in a background check?
    This can vary, but typical background checks might include criminal records, employment history, educational verification, credit history, and references. The scope of information depends on the type of check and its purpose.

36. Is consent required to run a background check on someone?
    For many types of background checks, especially those for employment or housing, the subject's consent is typically required. Running a background check without consent may be illegal in certain contexts, so always ensure you have the necessary permissions.