Hampden County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Hampden County?

Inmate records in Hampden County are official government documents maintained by the Hampden County Sheriff's Department that track and document individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional system. These comprehensive records contain detailed information about persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Hampden County correctional facilities. Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 127, § 2, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate and complete records of all persons committed to their custody.

Inmate records differ significantly from court records in their purpose and content. While court records document judicial proceedings, case filings, and legal decisions, inmate records specifically track an individual's custody status and institutional history. The Hampden County Sheriff's Department creates and maintains these records, whereas court records are under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Trial Court system.

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During intake, correctional staff collect and document:

• Biographical information
• Photographs (mugshots)
• Fingerprints
• Personal property inventory
• Medical screening information
• Security classification assessments

These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to document housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document according to state retention schedules.

Are Inmate Records Public In Hampden County?

Inmate records in Hampden County are partially public under Massachusetts public records law. According to the Massachusetts Public Records Law, G.L. c. 4, § 7(26), government records are presumed to be public unless they fall under specific exemptions. While certain basic information about inmates is publicly accessible, other portions of inmate records may be exempt from disclosure due to privacy concerns, security considerations, or other statutory exemptions.

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
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Facility location

However, certain information contained within inmate records is protected from public disclosure, including:

• Medical and mental health information
• Disciplinary reports
• Program participation details
• Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Information that might compromise institutional security

The Hampden County Sheriff's Department maintains an online inmate locator system that provides limited public information about current inmates. For more comprehensive records, members of the public must submit formal records requests in accordance with state law.

What's Included Inmate Records in Hampden County

Inmate records in Hampden County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records typically include:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• State identification number and/or booking number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of admission
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Classification status
• Housing assignment history
• Disciplinary incidents and hearings
• Visitation logs
• Phone call records
• Commissary account activity

Charge Information:

• Current charges
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Incident reports

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond/bail amount
• Bond type
• Bond status
• Conditions of release

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court orders
• Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction details
• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Good time/earned time credits
• Parole eligibility date

Release Information:

• Release date
• Type of release (e.g., bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Probation/parole requirements

These records serve multiple purposes including ensuring proper custody management, facilitating appropriate programming, maintaining security, and providing documentation for legal proceedings.

Hampden County Prison System

The Hampden County correctional system operates under the authority of the Hampden County Sheriff's Department, which is responsible for the care, custody, and control of individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of up to 2.5 years. The system is distinct from the Massachusetts Department of Correction, which manages state prisons housing individuals serving longer sentences for more serious offenses.

The Hampden County correctional system emphasizes rehabilitation alongside public safety, implementing various educational, vocational, and treatment programs designed to reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for successful reentry into society. The Sheriff's Department operates multiple facilities to accommodate different security levels and specialized populations.

Hampden County's correctional facilities primarily house:

• Individuals awaiting trial who have not been granted or cannot afford bail
• Persons serving sentences of up to 2.5 years for misdemeanors or certain felonies
• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Persons held on civil commitments

For information regarding the Hampden County correctional system, contact:

Hampden County Sheriff's Department
627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Phone: (413) 547-8000
Hampden County Sheriff's Department

Types of Correctional Facilities In Hampden County

Hampden County maintains several correctional facilities, each serving different populations and security needs:

Hampden County Correctional Center (Main Institution)
627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Phone: (413) 547-8000
Hampden County Sheriff's Department

This medium-security facility serves as the primary correctional institution in Hampden County, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility includes specialized units for various populations and offers numerous rehabilitative programs.

Western Massachusetts Regional Women's Correctional Center
701 Center Street
Chicopee, MA 01013
Phone: (413) 730-8800
Women's Correctional Center

This facility houses female inmates from Hampden, Hampshire, Berkshire, Franklin, and Worcester counties. It provides gender-responsive programming and services specifically designed to address the needs of incarcerated women.

Western Massachusetts Recovery and Wellness Center
155 Mill Street
Springfield, MA 01108
Phone: (413) 733-1431
Recovery and Wellness Center

This specialized treatment facility focuses on substance abuse treatment and recovery services for inmates with addiction issues.

Pre-Release Center
95 Liberty Street
Springfield, MA 01103
Phone: (413) 781-2050
Pre-Release Center

This minimum-security facility houses inmates nearing the end of their sentences who demonstrate good behavior and are preparing for reentry into the community. The center emphasizes work release, education, and community reintegration.

Each facility operates with different security protocols, programming options, and visiting regulations based on its specific mission and the population it serves.

Who's in Prison In Hampden County

The Hampden County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals who fall under county-level jurisdiction. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These persons are either awaiting trial, have been denied bail, or cannot afford to post bail. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 276, § 42, these individuals are legally presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Sentenced inmates: Persons who have been convicted of crimes and are serving sentences of up to 2.5 years. These typically include:

• Individuals convicted of misdemeanors
• Persons convicted of certain lower-level felonies
• Those serving sentences for probation or parole violations

Civil commitments: In some cases, individuals may be held on civil (non-criminal) commitments, such as:

• Persons committed for substance abuse treatment under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 123, § 35
• Individuals held on contempt of court orders
• Those awaiting competency evaluations

Short-term holds: The facilities may temporarily house individuals who are:

• Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Being held for other jurisdictions
• In transit to court appearances

The demographic composition of Hampden County's incarcerated population generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds and communities of color. Many inmates have histories of substance abuse, mental health challenges, educational deficits, and employment difficulties.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Hampden County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Hampden County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Hampden County Sheriff's Department maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of basic inmate information.

Online Inmate Locator:

1. Visit the Hampden County Sheriff's Department website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Inmate Locator" section
3. Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or inmate ID number)
4. Review the results, which generally include basic custody information
5. Note that online systems typically provide limited information such as current custody status, expected release date, and facility location

In-Person Records Request:

1. Visit the Records Division at the Hampden County Sheriff's Department headquarters
2. Complete a public records request form, specifying the information sought
3. Provide identification and any relevant case information
4. Pay applicable fees for document reproduction if required
5. Allow processing time as specified by department policy

Written Records Request:

1. Prepare a written request clearly identifying the specific records sought
2. Include the inmate's full name, date of birth, and any known identification numbers
3. Provide your contact information for response
4. Mail the request to:

Hampden County Sheriff's Department
Records Division
627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA 01056

5. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting mailed response
6. Allow 10 business days for processing as required by Massachusetts Public Records Law

Phone Inquiry:

1. Contact the Hampden County Sheriff's Department Records Division at (413) 547-8000
2. Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
3. Note that phone inquiries typically yield only basic information about current custody status
4. Be prepared to follow up with a formal written request for detailed records

When requesting records, be aware that certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with exemptions under Massachusetts Public Records Law. Requests should be as specific as possible to facilitate efficient processing.

How To Find an Inmate in Hampden County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Hampden County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The Hampden County Sheriff's Department provides free access to basic inmate information through the following methods:

Online Inmate Locator System:

1. Access the Hampden County Sheriff's Department website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
3. Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
4. For more precise results, include additional identifiers if known (date of birth, middle initial)
5. Review the search results, which typically display:
   • Full name
   • Inmate ID number
   • Current facility
   • Booking date
   • Expected release date (if applicable)

Telephone Information Line:

1. Call the Hampden County Sheriff's Department main information line at (413) 547-8000
2. Request inmate location information from the operator
3. Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person you are trying to locate
4. Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate, as certain information may only be provided to authorized individuals

Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE):

1. Access the VINE service at VINELink
2. Select Massachusetts as the state
3. Enter the inmate's name or identification number
4. Review custody information
5. Register for notifications if desired (optional)

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the public reception area at any Hampden County correctional facility during business hours
2. Provide the name of the individual you are attempting to locate
3. Present identification if requested
4. Receive basic information about the inmate's custody status and location

When using these free resources, be aware that the information provided is typically limited to confirming an individual's custody status, current location, and basic case information. More detailed records may require formal records requests and associated fees.

How To Visit an Inmate In Hampden County

Visiting an inmate in Hampden County requires adherence to established protocols designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. All visits are subject to the regulations established by the Hampden County Sheriff's Department pursuant to 103 CMR 483: Inmate Visits.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
• Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial intake period
• Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• All visitors are subject to search procedures upon entry
• Children under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
• Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval

Visit Schedule:

• Each facility maintains specific visiting hours
• Visits are typically scheduled by inmate housing unit or last name
• Most facilities offer weekday and weekend visiting hours
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may occur during designated hours outside regular visiting periods
• Contact the specific facility 24 hours in advance to confirm current schedule

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, state ID)
• Vehicle keys (limited to one key or key fob)
• Medication required during visit (e.g., asthma inhaler, nitroglycerin)
• Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
• Up to $50 in cash or money order for inmate account deposits

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons or items that could be used as weapons
• Illegal substances or alcohol
• Tobacco products or electronic cigarettes
• Cell phones, cameras, or electronic devices
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Letters, photos, or documents (unless pre-approved)

Dress Code:

• Conservative, appropriate attire required
• No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts, see-through materials)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No uniforms resembling staff attire
• Shoes must be worn at all times
• Outerwear must be removed for search procedures

Visit Types:

• Contact visits: Available at some facilities for eligible inmates
• Non-contact visits: Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
• Video visitation: Available at select facilities
• Special visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with administrative approval

Visit Restrictions:

• Visitors showing signs of intoxication will be denied entry
• Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
• Visitors with active warrants may be subject to arrest
• Former inmates may have waiting periods before visiting approval
• Violation of visiting rules may result in suspension of visiting privileges

For current visiting information, contact the facility where the inmate is housed:

Hampden County Correctional Center
627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Visiting Information: (413) 547-8000 ext. 2172

Western Massachusetts Regional Women's Correctional Center
701 Center Street
Chicopee, MA 01013
Visiting Information: (413) 730-8800

How To Send Money to a Hampden County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates in Hampden County correctional facilities have several approved methods for sending funds. All financial transactions are subject to processing procedures and security protocols established by the Hampden County Sheriff's Department.

Online Deposit Services:

1. Visit the TouchPay or Access Corrections website
2. Create an account or proceed as a guest
3. Select "Hampden County Sheriff's Department" as the facility
4. Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
5. Specify the deposit amount
6. Provide payment information (credit/debit card or electronic check)
7. Complete the transaction and retain the confirmation number
8. Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount)

Lobby Kiosk:

1. Visit any Hampden County correctional facility during business hours
2. Locate the TouchPay kiosk in the public lobby area
3. Follow on-screen instructions to deposit funds
4. Enter the inmate's information and deposit amount
5. Insert cash or credit/debit card as directed
6. Collect and retain the printed receipt
7. Lower service fees than online deposits (typically $1.50-$5.00)

Money Order by Mail:

1. Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (U.S. Postal Service, Western Union, etc.)
2. Make the money order payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
3. Do not send cash, personal checks, or third-party checks
4. Include the sender's full name and return address on the envelope
5. Mail to the appropriate facility address:

Hampden County Correctional Center
Inmate Accounts Department
627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA 01056

Amount Limits:

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
• Maximum monthly deposit total: $1,500
• Special approval required for larger amounts

Fund Usage Regulations: Inmates may use funds for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
• Telephone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Educational materials
• Restitution payments
• Release savings accounts

Funds may not be used for:

• Purchasing contraband
• Paying other inmates
• Gambling activities
• Bribing staff
• Unauthorized services

All deposits are subject to a 24-48 hour processing period before funds become available in the inmate's account. A percentage of deposits may be automatically deducted for outstanding financial obligations such as restitution, court fees, or child support pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 127, § 3.

How To Send Jail Mail In Hampden County

Correspondence with inmates in Hampden County correctional facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with institutional regulations.

General Mail Guidelines:

1. Address envelopes clearly with:
   • Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
   • Inmate ID number (if known)
   • Facility name and address

Example:

John Doe, ID# 12345
Hampden County Correctional Center
627 Randall Road
Ludlow, MA 01056

2. Include your complete return address on the envelope
3. Use standard white or manila envelopes
4. Write in blue or black ink only
5. Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 24-48 hours after receipt and processing

Permitted Items:

• Letters (limit 5 pages per envelope)
• Photographs (limit 5 per envelope, maximum 4"x6", no Polaroids)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Money orders (following financial guidelines)
• Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
• Religious materials (subject to review)

Prohibited Items:

• Cash or personal checks
• Stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or labels
• Crayon or marker writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Glitter or glued items
• Polaroid photos
• Laminated items
• Cardboard or hardcover materials
• Pornographic or sexually explicit content
• Gang-related materials
• Items depicting violence or weapons
• Coded messages

Legal Mail: Legal correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies receives special handling:

1. Mark envelope clearly as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
2. Include attorney bar number if applicable
3. Legal mail may be opened in the inmate's presence but not read by staff

Publications and Books: Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors:

1. Must be new and shipped directly from publisher/retailer
2. Paperback only (no hardcover books)
3. Subject to content review
4. Limited to 3 publications per mailing

E-Messages (where available): Some facilities offer electronic messaging services through approved providers:

1. Create an account on the approved service (typically GTL or Access Corrections)
2. Purchase message credits
3. Compose and send messages through the secure platform
4. Attachments not permitted
5. All electronic communications subject to monitoring

All correspondence is subject to inspection for contraband and security concerns in accordance with 103 CMR 481: Inmate Mail. Mail containing unauthorized items or prohibited content will be rejected and may result in disciplinary action for the inmate or sender.

Lookup Inmate Records in Hampden County