Arlington County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Arlington County?
Inmate records in Arlington County are official government documents maintained by the Arlington County Sheriff's Office that track and document individuals who are in custody within the county's detention facilities. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration history from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Virginia Code § 53.1-131.3, correctional facilities must maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, hearings, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and daily management of detainees
- Court records are maintained by the Arlington County Circuit Court
- Inmate records are maintained by the Arlington County Sheriff's Office
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial record creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes behavioral incidents, program participation, and visitation
- Records are administratively closed upon release, though maintained in archives
The Arlington County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in compliance with the Virginia Public Records Act, which establishes retention schedules for various categories of inmate documentation.
Are Inmate Records Public In Arlington County?
Inmate records in Arlington County are partially public under Virginia law. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) establishes that certain basic information about currently incarcerated individuals must be made available to the public, while other components remain confidential due to privacy and security concerns.
According to Virginia Code § 2.2-3706, law enforcement agencies must disclose:
- Identity of adult individuals arrested and charges
- Status of individuals in custody
The following inmate record components are typically accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
- Charges filed
- Mugshots (with some restrictions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, several categories of information are exempt from public disclosure:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records
- Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
- Victim information
- Information that would compromise facility security
The Arlington County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides public access to basic custody information in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Arlington County
Inmate records in Arlington County contain comprehensive documentation across multiple categories. The following information is typically included in a complete inmate record:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any aliases/known names
- Date of birth and age
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks
- Fingerprints and photographs (mugshots)
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency
- Booking number/inmate ID
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level
- Expected release date (if applicable)
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor/felony designation)
- Warrant numbers
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Charge disposition (pending, sentenced, etc.)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Bond conditions
- Court date for bond hearings
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case numbers
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time calculations
- Parole eligibility date (if applicable)
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Release type (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Post-release supervision requirements
The Arlington County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Virginia Code § 53.1-5, which establishes requirements for correctional record-keeping.
Arlington County Prison System
The Arlington County correctional system operates under the authority of the Arlington County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county's detention facilities. The system primarily consists of the Arlington County Detention Facility, which serves as the central correctional institution for the county.
Arlington County's correctional system is designed to house:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to 12 months)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Federal detainees under intergovernmental agreements
It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons:
- County jails house pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences (typically under one year)
- State prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences
- County facilities are operated by the local sheriff's office
- State facilities are operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections
The Arlington County Sheriff's Office maintains jurisdiction over the county's detention facilities and is responsible for inmate custody, care, and records management.
Arlington County Sheriff's Office
1425 N. Courthouse Road, Suite 9100
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 228-4460
Arlington County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Arlington County
Arlington County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around its primary detention facility. The county's correctional infrastructure includes:
Arlington County Detention Facility
1435 N. Courthouse Road
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 228-7286
Arlington County Detention Facility
This facility serves as the county's main jail and houses:
- Adult male and female inmates
- Pre-trial detainees
- Sentenced misdemeanants
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Federal detainees under intergovernmental agreements
The facility is classified as a direct supervision detention center with a capacity of approximately 500 inmates. It operates under the authority of the Arlington County Sheriff's Office and is accredited by the American Correctional Association.
Arlington County does not operate separate specialized correctional facilities such as:
- Minimum security facilities
- Work release centers
- Juvenile detention centers (juvenile detention is managed by the Arlington County Department of Human Services)
For individuals requiring specialized housing due to medical or mental health needs that cannot be accommodated at the Arlington County Detention Facility, arrangements may be made for transfer to appropriate facilities through intergovernmental agreements.
Who's in Prison In Arlington County
The Arlington County Detention Facility houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:
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, trial, or other court proceedings
- Approximately 60-70% of the facility's population consists of pre-trial detainees
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences up to 12 months
- Persons serving weekend or intermittent sentences
- Those participating in work release programs while serving their sentences
Post-Conviction Felons Awaiting Transfer:
- Individuals convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Those temporarily returned from state facilities for court appearances
Special Populations:
- Federal detainees housed under intergovernmental agreements
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Persons serving sentences for contempt of court
- Those temporarily detained for probation or parole violations
According to data from the Virginia Compensation Board, the Arlington County Detention Facility typically operates at 85-95% of its rated capacity, with an average daily population of approximately 400-450 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects:
- Predominantly male population (approximately 85-90%)
- Diverse age range from 18 to 65+, with the majority between 20-40 years old
- Varied racial and ethnic backgrounds reflecting the broader community demographics
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case status:
- Pre-trial detainees: 30-90 days (highly variable)
- Misdemeanor sentences: 30-180 days
- Felons awaiting transfer: 30-60 days post-conviction
How To Search for Inmate Records In Arlington County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Arlington County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Arlington County Sheriff's Office provides multiple channels for inmate record searches:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Arlington County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" or "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically name and/or date of birth)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and basic demographics
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Arlington County Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for copies of records
Arlington County Sheriff's Office Records Division
1425 N. Courthouse Road, Suite 9100
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 228-4460
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Written Requests:
- Submit a formal written request to the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Include:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Specific information requested
- Your contact information
- Purpose of request
- Mail the request to the Sheriff's Office address
FOIA Requests: For more comprehensive records, submit a formal Virginia Freedom of Information Act request:
- Submit a written FOIA request specifying the records sought
- Address the request to the Arlington County FOIA Officer
- Be prepared to pay reasonable fees for search time and copying
- Allow up to five business days for an initial response
Certain information may be restricted based on privacy laws and security concerns. Requestors should be prepared to demonstrate legitimate interest or legal authorization for accessing protected information.
How To Find an Inmate in Arlington County for Free?
Arlington County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated in county facilities. These free resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties verify custody status and obtain basic information:
Arlington County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Visit the Arlington County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- No registration or fees are required to access this basic information
- Results typically display:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
Telephone Verification:
- Call the Arlington County Detention Facility at (703) 228-7286
- Provide the name and date of birth of the person you are inquiring about
- Basic custody information can be verified by phone at no cost
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Arlington County Detention Facility lobby
- Speak with staff at the information desk
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
- Receive basic custody information at no charge
Virginia Vinelink System:
- Access the Virginia Vinelink website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Enter the individual's information
- This statewide system provides custody status for all Virginia correctional facilities
When using these free resources, be prepared to provide:
- Correct spelling of the individual's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Any aliases the person may use
These free search methods provide confirmation of custody status and basic case information but do not provide access to comprehensive inmate records or confidential information.
How To Visit an Inmate In Arlington County
Visitation at the Arlington County Detention Facility follows established procedures to ensure security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks. All visits must comply with facility regulations:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must successfully pass security screening
- Maximum of two adults per visit (children under 12 not counted in this limit)
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates may receive up to two visits per week
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) available daily from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- Necessary medical items (medications, mobility devices)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Small clear plastic bag for authorized items
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches)
- Cameras or recording devices
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products or vaping devices
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive cash (over $50)
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Visit Types:
- Non-contact visits through glass partitions (standard)
- Video visitation available for remote connections
- Contact visits for certain classifications (with prior approval)
- Professional visits in designated attorney rooms
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons with active warrants may be detained
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
- Persons on probation/parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Three rule violations may result in visitation privileges being suspended
For additional information or to schedule special visits, contact:
Arlington County Detention Facility Visitation Office
1435 N. Courthouse Road
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 228-7286
Visitation Information
How To Send Money to a Arlington County Inmate
Arlington County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases and other approved expenses within the facility:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Arlington County Detention Facility"
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number)
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount)
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Arlington County Detention Facility lobby
- Locate the TouchPay kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Minimal processing fees apply
- Funds available same day
- Available 24/7
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Arlington County Sheriff's Office"
- Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
- Include sender's full name and address
- Mail to:
Arlington County Detention Facility
Inmate Accounts
1435 N. Courthouse Road
Arlington, VA 22201 - No service fees
- Processing takes 3-5 business days
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Deposit Fees:
- Online/phone deposits: $2.50-$10.00 (fee varies by amount)
- Lobby kiosk: $1.50-$5.00 (fee varies by amount)
- Money orders: No fee
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bond/bail payments
- Court fees or fines
- Restitution payments
- Telephone accounts (separate system)
- Payments to other inmates
Approved Inmate Expenditures:
- Commissary items (hygiene products, snacks, clothing)
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Approved educational materials
- Release funds
Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:
Arlington County Detention Facility Inmate Accounts
Phone: (703) 228-7286
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
How To Send Jail Mail In Arlington County
Correspondence with inmates at the Arlington County Detention Facility must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes clearly with:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Arlington County Detention Facility
- 1435 N. Courthouse Road
- Arlington, VA 22201
- Include your complete return address on the envelope
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 24-48 hours after receipt and processing
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (following proper procedures)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Any items that pose a security threat
Publications and Books:
- Books must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors
- Magazines must be sent directly from the publisher
- Hardcover books are not permitted
- Content is subject to review and may be rejected if deemed inappropriate
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney's name, title, and return address
- Will be opened in the inmate's presence
- Not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
E-Messages: Arlington County also offers a digital messaging system:
- Visit the GTL ConnectNetwork
- Create an account
- Add the inmate to your contacts
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages
- Fees apply per message
- Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
All correspondence is subject to monitoring except privileged legal mail. Violations of mail policies may result in disciplinary action for the inmate and possible criminal charges for the sender if contraband is involved.