Butler County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Butler County?
Inmate records in Butler County are official government documents maintained by the Butler County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals incarcerated within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive profile of an individual's interaction with the correctional system from initial booking through release.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and daily management of detainees
- Court records are maintained by the Butler County Clerk of Courts
- Inmate records are maintained by the Butler County Sheriff's Office
The creation and maintenance of inmate records follows a standardized process pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 341.41, which mandates proper documentation of all persons committed to county jails. The record-keeping process includes:
- Initial creation during booking/intake procedures
- Regular updates throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation of all movements, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Closure and archiving upon the individual's release
The Butler County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and public records laws. The primary purpose of inmate records is to ensure proper identification, classification, and management of individuals in custody while facilitating the administration of justice.
Are Inmate Records Public In Butler County?
Inmate records in Butler County are generally considered public records under the Ohio Public Records Act, which establishes the public's right to access government records with certain exceptions. The law specifically addresses correctional records in Ohio Revised Code § 5120.21, which governs the maintenance and accessibility of inmate records.
The following inmate record components are typically accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information and intake data
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshot photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records pertaining to victims of certain offenses
The Butler County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides public access to basic inmate information in compliance with state transparency laws. This system allows members of the public to verify custody status and obtain essential information about individuals currently detained in county facilities.
What's Included Inmate Records in Butler County
Inmate records in Butler County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's detention. These records typically include:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Custody classification level
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Disciplinary records and incident reports
- Program participation and work assignments
- Visitation logs and approved visitor lists
Charge Information:
- Current charges and case numbers
- Warrant information if applicable
- Criminal history information
- Pending court dates
- Charge disposition updates
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type and amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release if applicable
- Bail hearing information
Court Information:
- Assigned court (Municipal, Common Pleas)
- Judge assigned to the case
- Court dates and appearances
- Court orders affecting custody status
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Length of sentence
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned credit calculations
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Post-release control requirements
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date and time
- Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions if applicable
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in both electronic and physical formats in accordance with Ohio's record retention schedules for law enforcement and correctional agencies.
Butler County Prison System
The Butler County correctional system operates under the authority of the Butler County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody and care of individuals detained pre-trial and those serving sentences of less than one year. The system is structured to accommodate various custody levels and inmate classifications within the county's jurisdiction.
Butler County's correctional facilities are distinct from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) state prison system. The key differences include:
- County facilities primarily house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving misdemeanor sentences
- State prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year
- County facilities are operated by the Sheriff's Office under county funding
- State prisons are operated by ODRC under state funding
The Butler County jail system serves multiple functions within the criminal justice system, including:
- Secure detention of individuals awaiting trial
- Incarceration of sentenced offenders serving terms less than one year
- Temporary holding of individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Housing of state inmates under specific intergovernmental agreements
Butler County Sheriff's Office
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1000
Butler County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Butler County
Butler County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations:
Butler County Jail
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1270
Butler County Jail
The main Butler County Jail is a medium to maximum security facility that houses both male and female inmates. This facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals serving terms for misdemeanors and low-level felonies. The facility includes specialized housing units for various classification levels and maintains medical services for inmates requiring healthcare attention.
Butler County Resolutions Jail
1241 Route 4
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1173
Butler County Resolutions
The Resolutions facility serves as a minimum-security facility focused on rehabilitation and reentry programming. This facility houses lower-risk inmates and provides specialized treatment programs including substance abuse counseling, educational opportunities, and vocational training. The facility emphasizes preparing inmates for successful community reintegration.
Butler County Juvenile Detention Center
280 North Fair Avenue
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 887-3318
Butler County Juvenile Detention Center
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the jurisdiction of the Butler County Juvenile Court. The center provides secure detention for youth awaiting adjudication or serving dispositions ordered by the juvenile court. The facility offers age-appropriate educational services and rehabilitation programs specifically designed for adolescent offenders.
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and programming models appropriate to its designated population and security classification in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code 5120:1-8, which establishes minimum standards for jails in Ohio.
Who's in Prison In Butler County
The Butler County correctional facilities house 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 are awaiting trial
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
- Individuals convicted of low-level felonies awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Offenders serving intermittent sentences (weekends only)
- Individuals participating in work release programs
Special Populations:
- Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
- Those participating in substance abuse treatment programs
- Veterans enrolled in veteran-specific programming
- Individuals awaiting competency evaluations or restoration
Other Categories:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Out-of-county inmates housed through intergovernmental agreements
- State inmates temporarily returned for court proceedings
- Federal detainees housed through contracts with federal agencies
According to data from the Butler County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population fluctuates between 800-1,000 inmates across all facilities. Demographic analysis indicates approximately 80% male and 20% female inmates, with an average age of 34 years. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 23 days, while sentenced misdemeanants typically serve an average of 45-90 days.
The Butler County jail system, like many county detention facilities, experiences population pressures due to factors including pre-trial detention policies, sentencing practices, and limited alternatives to incarceration for certain offenses.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Butler County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Butler County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Butler County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate data. Individuals may conduct searches through the following methods:
Online Inmate Search Portal:
- Visit the Butler County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search website
- Enter the requested search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
- Review the results, which typically include current custody status, charges, bond information, and next court date
- Note that the system only displays currently incarcerated individuals
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Butler County Sheriff's Office Records Division during public counter hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Complete a public records request form, available at the counter
- Provide specific information about the inmate record being requested
- Present valid identification
- Pay applicable copying fees if requesting physical copies
Written Records Request:
- Submit a written request via mail to:
Butler County Sheriff's Office Records Division
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011 - Include specific details about the records being requested
- Provide contact information for response
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Butler County Sheriff's Office Jail Division at (513) 785-1270
- Provide the name and date of birth of the individual
- Basic custody information may be provided verbally
- Note that detailed record requests cannot be fulfilled by telephone
All record requests are processed in accordance with the Ohio Public Records Act, which generally requires responses within a reasonable timeframe. Certain information may be redacted pursuant to statutory exemptions.
How To Find an Inmate in Butler County for Free?
Butler County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated within the county jail system. These free resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties verify custody status and obtain basic information.
Butler County Sheriff's Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Butler County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review results showing current inmates matching the search criteria
- Access basic information including booking date, charges, and bond amount
Automated Telephone Information System:
- Call the Butler County Jail's automated information line at (513) 785-1191
- Follow the voice prompts to search by inmate name
- Receive automated information about custody status and basic case details
- Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
VINELink Notification System:
- Visit VINELink or call 1-800-770-0192
- Select Ohio as the state and Butler County as the jurisdiction
- Enter the inmate's name or identification number
- Receive current custody information and register for custody status notifications
- This service provides automated updates when an inmate's custody status changes
Contact the Jail Information Desk:
- Call the Butler County Jail Information Desk at (513) 785-1270
- Provide the full name and approximate age of the person you're seeking
- Staff can confirm if an individual is currently in custody
- Available during business hours (8:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily)
These free resources provide basic custody verification and limited information. For more comprehensive inmate records, individuals may need to submit formal public records requests as outlined in the previous section.
How To Visit an Inmate In Butler County
Visitation with inmates at Butler County correctional facilities follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits are subject to the regulations established under Ohio Administrative Code 5120:1-8-06, which governs inmate visitation in county facilities.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted up to 8 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors with active warrants or on probation/parole require special approval
Visit Schedule:
- Main Jail: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Resolutions Facility: Saturday-Sunday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) available daily from 8:00 AM - 9:00 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 (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
- Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
- Legal documents (for attorney visits only)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $50
- Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Dress Code:
- Conservative 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
- No uniforms resembling staff attire
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
Visit Types:
- In-person non-contact visits (through glass partition)
- Video visitation available at both facilities
- Remote video visitation available for a fee
- Special contact visits for certain programs (with prior approval)
- Professional visits for attorneys and clergy
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Providing false information may result in permanent visitation restriction
- Visitors with felony convictions require special approval
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:
Butler County Jail Visitation Office
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1260
Butler County Jail Visitation
How To Send Money to a Butler County Inmate
Butler County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, make phone calls, and access certain services within the facility.
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Butler County Jail" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit/debit card
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the Butler County Jail lobby during operating hours (24/7)
- Use the automated kiosk located in the public lobby
- Follow the touchscreen instructions
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain and retain receipt
- Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
- Lower service fees than online deposits
Mail-In Money Orders:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Butler County Jail" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
- Complete a money order deposit form (available on the Sheriff's website)
- Mail to:
Butler County Jail Inmate Accounts
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011 - Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with money orders
- Processing typically takes 3-5 business days
- No service fees for money orders
Amount Limits:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500
- Maximum account balance: $1,000
- Exceptions may be granted for bond payments
Deposit Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
- Kiosk deposits (cash): $2.00 flat fee
- Kiosk deposits (credit/debit): 3% of deposit amount
- Money orders: No fee
Prohibited Items:
- Cash sent through mail will be returned to sender
- Personal checks are not accepted
- Third-party checks are not accepted
- Cashier's checks require prior approval
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls and video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays for non-emergency services
- Haircuts and other personal services
- Educational materials and program fees
Restricted Uses:
- Funds cannot be transferred between inmates
- Commissary items cannot be shared between inmates
- Certain items may be restricted based on inmate classification
- Funds cannot be used for bail/bond payments without special approval
For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:
Butler County Jail Inmate Accounts Office
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1265
Butler County Inmate Accounts
How To Send Jail Mail In Butler County
Correspondence with inmates at Butler County correctional facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code 5120:1-8-06, which governs inmate mail in county detention facilities.
General Mail Guidelines:
- Address all mail using the following format: Inmate's Full Name and Inmate ID Number Butler County Jail 705 Hanover Street Hamilton, OH 45011
- Include a complete return address on the envelope
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Write in blue or black ink only
- All mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 5 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following procedures outlined in the previous section)
- Legal documents from attorneys (marked "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Colored paper or envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Books or magazines (must come directly from publisher)
- Clothing or personal items
- Food items or contraband
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Must come from a verifiable attorney or legal organization
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
- Must follow all other mail guidelines
Publications and Books:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or authorized retailer
- Publications must be paperback only (no hardcover books)
- Content is subject to review and may be rejected if deemed inappropriate
- Religious texts are permitted but subject to the same mailing restrictions
- Educational materials may be approved with prior authorization
E-Messages:
- Butler County offers a secure electronic messaging system through Access Corrections
- Create an account on the platform
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages to inmates
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Fees apply per message (typically $0.25-$0.50)
- Responses from inmates incur additional fees
Mail Restrictions:
- Mail may be rejected if it contains threats, criminal activity, escape plans, or contraband
- Senders of rejected mail will receive notification when possible
- Inmates may be restricted from receiving mail from specific senders based on security concerns
- Volume limitations may apply (typically 10 letters per week)
For questions regarding inmate mail, contact:
Butler County Jail Mail Room
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1275
Butler County Jail Mail Procedures