Norfolk County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Norfolk County?
Inmate records in Norfolk County are official government documents maintained by the Norfolk Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records serve as the official documentation of an individual's custody status, criminal charges, and institutional history while under the jurisdiction of Norfolk County authorities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records document the judicial proceedings related to a case, inmate records specifically track the custodial aspects of incarceration. Court records are maintained by the Norfolk Circuit Court and focus on case filings, hearings, and dispositions, whereas inmate records are maintained by correctional authorities and document the physical custody of the individual.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Records are initiated during the booking and intake process when an individual is first taken into custody
- Information is systematically updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Records are completed upon the individual's release from custody
- Documentation is retained according to Virginia's records retention schedules
Pursuant to Virginia Code § 53.1-31, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody. These records must include information about the individual's identity, criminal charges, court appearances, and release dates.
Are Inmate Records Public In Norfolk County?
Inmate records in Norfolk County are generally considered public records under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA). According to Virginia Code § 2.2-3700, the purpose of this act is to ensure "ready access to public records in the custody of a public body or its officers and employees." This statute establishes the presumption that all government records are open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
For inmate records specifically, certain information is routinely made available to the public, including:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshots (in most circumstances)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Facility housing location
However, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly accessible. The Virginia Department of Corrections and local sheriff's offices must protect certain sensitive information. Under Virginia Code § 2.2-3706, exemptions may apply to:
- Medical and mental health records
- Information that would jeopardize institutional security
- Personal identifying information beyond what is necessary for identification
- Records related to juvenile offenders
- Information that would endanger an individual's safety
The Norfolk Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides public access to basic information about individuals currently in custody, in compliance with state public records laws.
What's Included Inmate Records in Norfolk County
Inmate records in Norfolk County contain a comprehensive set of information documenting an individual's time in custody. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records while in custody
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant or case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Date of alleged offense
- Charge description and Virginia Code section
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction (Norfolk General District Court or Norfolk Circuit Court)
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Name of assigned judge
- Attorney of record
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date (if applicable)
- Good time or earned sentence credits
- Probation terms
Release Information:
- Scheduled or actual release date
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
The Norfolk Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Virginia Code § 53.1-115, which establishes requirements for record-keeping in local correctional facilities.
Norfolk County Prison System
The Norfolk County prison system operates under the authority of the Norfolk Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for maintaining secure custody of individuals who are awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. The system primarily consists of the Norfolk City Jail, which houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms typically up to 12 months.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Virginia's correctional system. The Norfolk City Jail, operated by the Norfolk Sheriff's Office, primarily houses:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not been granted or cannot afford bail
- Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to 12 months
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Some state inmates temporarily housed under agreements with the Virginia Department of Corrections
By contrast, state prisons operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year. Once sentenced to state time, inmates are typically transferred from the Norfolk City Jail to a state reception center for classification and assignment to an appropriate state facility.
The Norfolk Sheriff's Office, which administers the local correctional system, can be contacted at:
Norfolk Sheriff's Office
811 E. City Hall Avenue
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 664-4700
Norfolk Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Norfolk County
Norfolk County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system:
Norfolk City Jail (Main Facility)
811 E. City Hall Avenue
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 664-4700
Norfolk City Jail
This maximum-security facility serves as the primary detention center for Norfolk County. It houses pre-trial detainees and inmates serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. The facility includes specialized housing units for various classification levels and inmate needs.
Norfolk Community Corrections Program
865 Monticello Avenue
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 664-4823
Community Corrections
This facility administers alternative sentencing programs including:
- Work release programs allowing qualifying inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences
- Weekend confinement options for eligible offenders
- Electronic monitoring and home detention programs
- Community service supervision
Norfolk Correctional Center (Satellite Facility)
125 St. Paul's Boulevard
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 664-4760
This medium-security facility houses:
- Minimum and medium-security inmates
- Inmates participating in work programs
- Inmates enrolled in educational and vocational training programs
- Inmates receiving specialized treatment services
Norfolk Pretrial Detention Center
811 E. City Hall Avenue
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: (757) 664-4700
This facility specifically houses individuals awaiting trial who:
- Have been denied bail
- Cannot afford to post bail
- Are awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
- Are considered high-risk detainees
Each facility operates under the authority of the Norfolk Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the Virginia Department of Corrections and the Virginia Board of Local and Regional Jails.
Who's in Prison In Norfolk County
The Norfolk County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population primarily consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Persons who have been denied bail due to the nature of their charges or flight risk
- Those who cannot afford to post bail or bond
- Individuals awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial dates
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences up to 12 months
- Individuals serving multiple consecutive misdemeanor sentences
- Offenders serving weekend or intermittent sentences for minor offenses
- Persons convicted of probation violations on misdemeanor charges
State Inmates (Temporary Housing):
- Convicted felons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- State inmates temporarily housed under agreements with the Virginia Department of Corrections
- Individuals returning from state facilities for local court appearances
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals participating in drug court or other specialty court programs
- Persons enrolled in work release or educational programs
- Inmates receiving mental health services or substance abuse treatment
- Veterans participating in veterans' treatment court programs
According to data from the Virginia Compensation Board, which oversees funding for constitutional officers including sheriffs, the Norfolk City Jail typically operates at or near its rated capacity. The average daily population fluctuates based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity.
The demographic composition of the Norfolk County inmate population generally reflects broader trends in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals and racial minorities. The Norfolk Sheriff's Office works with community partners to address these disparities through various reentry and diversion programs.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Norfolk County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Norfolk County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Norfolk Sheriff's Office currently provides multiple options for conducting inmate searches:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Norfolk Sheriff's Office official website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" or "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
- Review the search results, which typically include basic custody information
- Note that the online system provides only limited public information
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Written Records Request:
- Submit a written request to the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Include the inmate's full name and, if known, date of birth or booking number
- Specify the information being requested
- Provide return contact information
- Allow 5-7 business days for processing
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line at (757) 664-4800
- Provide the name of the individual being sought
- Note that only basic information (confirmation of custody status, next court date, and visiting hours) is available by phone
- Be prepared to verify your identity
All requests for inmate records must comply with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with Virginia Code § 2.2-3706, which governs the disclosure of law enforcement and criminal records.
How To Find an Inmate in Norfolk County for Free?
Norfolk County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody. These free resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties verify an individual's incarceration status and obtain basic custody information:
Norfolk Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Norfolk Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- No registration or fees are required to use this service
- Results typically include custody status, charges, and next court date
Virginia Vinelink System:
- Visit the Virginia Vinelink website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Choose Virginia from the state dropdown menu
- Enter the inmate's name or ID number
- This statewide system provides custody information for all local and state facilities in Virginia
Telephone Information Line:
- Call the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line at (757) 664-4800
- Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
- Receive basic information about custody status and facility location
- Available during regular business hours, Monday through Friday
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Norfolk City Jail's public information desk
- Provide the name of the individual you are seeking
- Staff can confirm if the person is in custody and provide visiting information
- The information desk is located at 811 E. City Hall Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23510
Court Records Search:
- Access the Virginia Judiciary Case Information System
- Search by the individual's name
- Review case information, which often indicates if the person is in custody
- Note that court records may not reflect very recent arrests or releases
These free resources provide basic information about an inmate's custody status. For more detailed records or certified documents, individuals may need to submit a formal records request, which may involve fees for document reproduction in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act fee schedule.
How To Visit an Inmate In Norfolk County
Visitation with inmates housed in Norfolk County correctional facilities follows strict protocols established by the Norfolk Sheriff's Office. These procedures ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections for incarcerated individuals.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted up to 5 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors must pass through security screening, including metal detectors
- Random searches may be conducted in accordance with Virginia Code § 53.1-30
Visit Schedule:
- General population: Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Special housing units: Thursday and Friday, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medications needed during the visit (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with an infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Large bags or purses
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate attire
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- Appropriate footwear required (no flip-flops)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for minimum-security inmates and special circumstances
- Non-contact visits: Standard visitation through glass partitions with telephone communication
- Video visitation: Available through the facility's video visitation system
- Professional visits: Separate accommodations for attorneys, clergy, and official visitors
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied visitation privileges
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
- The facility superintendent reserves the right to deny or terminate any visit for security reasons
For current visitation information, visitors should contact the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Visitation Coordinator at (757) 664-4761 prior to planning a visit, as schedules and procedures may be subject to change.
How To Send Money to a Norfolk County Inmate
Norfolk County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses during incarceration.
Available Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Norfolk City Jail" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
- Processing fees: $2.95 for deposits up to $20; $3.95 for deposits of $20.01-$100; $4.95 for deposits of $100.01-$300
-
Lobby Kiosk
- Visit the Norfolk City Jail lobby at 811 E. City Hall Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23510
- Use the self-service kiosk available 24/7
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Processing fee: $2.00 per transaction
-
Mobile Application
- Download the "Access Corrections" app from the App Store or Google Play
- Create an account or log in
- Select Norfolk City Jail
- Enter inmate information
- Complete the transaction
- Same fee structure as online deposits
-
Money Order by Mail
- Purchase a money order payable to "Norfolk Inmate Trust Fund"
- Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
- Do not send cash or personal checks
- Mail to: Norfolk Sheriff's Office, Inmate Accounts, 811 E. City Hall Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23510
- No processing fee for money orders
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit per inmate: $1,500.00
Deposit Restrictions:
- Funds from unidentified sources will be returned
- Deposits from other inmates or their families are prohibited
- Deposits from individuals with active protective orders against the inmate are not accepted
- The sheriff's office reserves the right to refuse deposits that may compromise facility security
Permitted Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging services
- Educational materials
- Medical co-pays
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Gambling or betting activities
- Purchase of contraband items
- Transfer to other inmates' accounts
- Payment of fines or restitution (separate processes apply)
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Virginia Code § 53.1-127.1, which governs inmate trust accounts in local correctional facilities.
How To Send Jail Mail In Norfolk County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Norfolk County facilities follows specific guidelines established by the Norfolk Sheriff's Office. All mail is subject to inspection to maintain facility security while allowing inmates to maintain important connections with family and community.
General Mailing Instructions:
- Address all mail as follows:
- Inmate's Full Name and ID Number
- Norfolk City Jail
- 811 E. City Hall Avenue
- Norfolk, VA 23510
- Include a complete return address on all correspondence
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Write clearly using blue or black ink only
- All mail must arrive through the U.S. Postal Service
- Private courier services (FedEx, UPS) are not accepted
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters (limited to 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4"x6", no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following the procedures outlined in the money deposit section)
- Legal correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies
- Religious materials (subject to review by facility chaplain)
- Subscription magazines sent directly from the publisher
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash, personal checks, or currency
- Stamps or pre-stamped envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cards with glitter, pop-ups, or electronic components
- Polaroid photographs
- Nude or sexually explicit photographs
- Gang-related materials or symbols
- Items larger than 8.5"x11"
- Hardcover books (softcover books must be sent directly from publisher)
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include the sending attorney's name, title, and bar number
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
- Must comply with Virginia Code § 53.1-26, which governs inmate correspondence
Electronic Messaging:
- Available through the facility's approved vendor
- Family members can create accounts at GTL ConnectNetwork
- Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
- Fees apply for electronic messages
- Messages may include up to two attachments (photos or e-cards)
Mail Processing Times:
- Incoming mail is typically processed within 24-48 hours of receipt
- Legal mail is processed within 24 hours
- Outgoing mail is collected daily except weekends and holidays
- Rejected mail is returned to sender with explanation
The Norfolk Sheriff's Office reserves the right to reject any correspondence that violates facility rules or presents security concerns. Questions regarding mail policies can be directed to the Mail Room Supervisor at (757) 664-4783.