Ocean County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Ocean County?
Inmate records in Ocean County are official government documents maintained by the Ocean County Department of Corrections that chronicle an individual's incarceration history within the county correctional system. These comprehensive records document the entire custody lifecycle from initial booking through release or transfer. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 30:8-16, correctional facilities are required to maintain detailed records of all persons committed to their custody.
Unlike court records, which document legal proceedings and are maintained by the judiciary, inmate records specifically track custody status and are maintained by correctional authorities. The Ocean County Department of Corrections is the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed within county facilities.
Inmate record creation begins at intake when an individual is processed into the Ocean County correctional system. During this process, correctional staff collect and document:
- Biographical information
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprints
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening information
- Security classification assessments
Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, final disposition information is added, completing the custody record. The New Jersey Administrative Code N.J.A.C. 10A:31-6.5 establishes specific requirements for inmate record maintenance and retention.
Are Inmate Records Public In Ocean County?
Inmate records in Ocean County are partially accessible to the public under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA), N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq. This statute establishes the public's right to access government records while balancing privacy concerns and security considerations. The New Jersey Government Records Council provides oversight for public records access throughout the state.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 47:1A-3, certain information regarding adult inmates is considered public record and must be disclosed upon request. The following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Full name of the inmate
- Current incarceration status
- Current facility location
- Booking date
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Primary charges
- Bail/bond amount
- Court of jurisdiction
However, significant portions of inmate records remain confidential under state law. The New Jersey Department of Corrections and county facilities are prohibited from releasing:
- Medical and mental health information
- Disciplinary records
- Program participation details
- Social security numbers
- Victim information
- Juvenile records
- Information that would compromise facility security
Access to public inmate information is provided through the Ocean County Department of Corrections' online inmate lookup system and through formal OPRA requests for records not available online.
What's Included Inmate Records in Ocean County
Inmate records maintained by the Ocean County Department of Corrections contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody. These records include multiple categories of information as required by N.J.A.C. 10A:31-6.5:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State and county identification numbers
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Admitting authority
- Reason for custody (pre-trial detention, serving sentence, etc.)
- Current housing assignment
- Classification level
- Projected release date (if applicable)
- Previous incarceration history within the county
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Date of alleged offense
- Charge severity (indictable offense, disorderly persons offense)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount and type
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bail conditions
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Next scheduled court appearance
- Court case numbers
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work credits earned
- Probation terms (if applicable)
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Release type (completion of sentence, transfer, bail, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release address (limited distribution)
The Ocean County Department of Corrections maintains these records in both electronic and physical formats in accordance with state record retention requirements.
Ocean County Prison System
The Ocean County correctional system operates under the authority of the Ocean County Department of Corrections, which is responsible for the safe and secure custody of individuals remanded by the courts. The department functions as a component of county government, operating independently from the state prison system administered by the New Jersey Department of Corrections.
The Ocean County correctional system primarily serves two distinct functions:
- Pre-trial detention of individuals awaiting adjudication of criminal charges
- Incarceration of sentenced offenders serving terms of up to 364 days
Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding 364 days are typically transferred to state custody within the New Jersey Department of Corrections system. The county maintains facilities designed for short to medium-term custody, while the state system accommodates longer sentences and higher security classifications.
The Ocean County correctional system operates under the oversight of:
Ocean County Department of Corrections
120 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753
732-929-2044
Ocean County Department of Corrections
The department works in close coordination with the Ocean County Sheriff's Office, which provides transportation services for inmates to court appearances and medical appointments outside the facility. The Sheriff's Office also maintains security within the Ocean County courthouse complex and provides judicial services as outlined in their Judicial Services division.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Ocean County
Ocean County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security classifications. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Ocean County Jail (Main Facility)
120 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753
732-929-2044
Ocean County Department of Corrections
The main detention facility houses the majority of the county's inmate population. This medium-security facility accommodates both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to 364 days. The facility includes:
- Male general population housing units
- Female general population housing units
- Administrative segregation units
- Medical housing unit
- Intake and processing center
- Visitation areas
- Program spaces for educational and rehabilitative services
Ocean County Minimum Security Unit
114 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753
732-929-2044
Ocean County Department of Corrections
This lower-security facility houses minimum-security inmates who have demonstrated good behavior and pose minimal escape risk. Inmates housed in this unit may participate in:
- Work release programs
- Community service details
- Vocational training programs
- Substance abuse treatment programs
Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center
1015 Whitesville Road
Toms River, NJ 08755
732-288-7700
Ocean County Juvenile Services
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are awaiting adjudication or have been adjudicated delinquent. The facility provides:
- Age-appropriate housing
- Educational services
- Counseling and mental health services
- Recreational activities
- Family visitation
All Ocean County correctional facilities operate under the standards established by the New Jersey Administrative Code and are subject to regular inspections by the New Jersey Department of Corrections.
Who's in Prison In Ocean County
The Ocean County correctional system houses a diverse population of individuals who fall under county jurisdiction. The inmate population primarily consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with criminal offenses but have not yet been convicted
- Persons who could not post bail or were denied bail due to public safety concerns
- Defendants awaiting trial, plea hearings, or sentencing
- Individuals held on detainers or warrants from other jurisdictions
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons convicted of disorderly persons offenses serving terms up to 6 months
- Individuals convicted of indictable offenses serving county sentences up to 364 days
- Offenders serving intermittent sentences (weekends only)
- Probation violators serving custodial sanctions
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals in protective custody due to safety concerns
- Persons with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
- Inmates participating in substance abuse treatment programs
- Work release participants who return to custody during non-working hours
According to data from the Ocean County Department of Corrections, the average daily population fluctuates between 400-500 inmates. Approximately 70% of these individuals are pre-trial detainees awaiting case disposition, while the remaining 30% are serving sentences.
The demographic composition of the Ocean County inmate population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in New Jersey, with disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals and those with substance use disorders. The county provides various rehabilitative programs aimed at reducing recidivism and addressing underlying factors contributing to criminal behavior.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Ocean County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Ocean County may utilize several methods to access publicly available information. The county provides multiple search options to accommodate different information needs:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Navigate to the Inmate Lookup Tool provided by the Ocean County Department of Corrections
- Select the desired search criteria (name, booking number, or county ID)
- Enter the required information in the appropriate fields
- Indicate whether to include released inmates in search results
- Submit the search request
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking number
- Current housing location
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date (if applicable)
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Ocean County Department of Corrections administrative office during public counter hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
OPRA Formal Records Request:
-
Submit a New Jersey Open Public Records Act request form to:
Ocean County Clerk's Office
118 Washington Street, Room 107
Toms River, NJ 08754
732-929-2018
Ocean County Clerk -
Clearly identify the specific records being requested
-
Provide contact information for response
-
Allow up to seven business days for processing as required by N.J.S.A. 47:1A-5
-
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
For information not available through these methods, individuals may contact the Ocean County Department of Corrections directly at 732-929-2044 during regular business hours.
How To Find an Inmate in Ocean County for Free?
Ocean County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county correctional system. These free resources are accessible to the general public:
Online Inmate Locator: The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the county's online Inmate Lookup Tool. This free service allows searches by:
- Inmate name (last name, first name)
- Booking number
- County identification number
The system provides real-time information on current inmates and can include released inmates if that option is selected. Search results display:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Primary charges
- Bond information
Telephone Information Line: The Ocean County Department of Corrections maintains an inmate information line at 732-929-2044. Callers may request basic custody information during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM). Required information for telephone inquiries includes:
- Full name of the inmate
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate booking date (if known)
Judicial Electronic Filing System: The New Jersey Courts Public Access system provides case information that can help determine if an individual is in custody. While this system does not directly provide custody status, it shows upcoming court dates which can indicate incarceration status.
In-Person Inquiry: Individuals may visit the Ocean County Department of Corrections administrative office during public counter hours to inquire about an inmate's custody status:
Ocean County Department of Corrections
120 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
Visitors should bring valid government-issued photo identification and be prepared to provide the full name of the person they are attempting to locate.
How To Visit an Inmate In Ocean County
The Ocean County Department of Corrections facilitates visitation for inmates housed in county facilities in accordance with N.J.A.C. 10A:31-20.5, which establishes minimum visitation standards for county correctional facilities. Visitors must adhere to specific procedures to ensure security and orderly operations:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must pre-register at least 24 hours before the intended visit
- Registration can be completed online through the Ocean County Department of Corrections website or by calling 732-929-2044
- Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- A maximum of two adults and two children may visit an inmate at one time
- All visitors age 18 and older must present valid government-issued photo identification
- All visitors must successfully pass security screening before entry
Visit Schedule:
- General Population (Male):
- Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- General Population (Female):
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Special Housing Units:
- Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy):
- Daily: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (by appointment)
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication required during visit (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Tobacco products or vaping devices
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $50
- Letters, photos, or items for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above knee, no low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate or staff uniforms
- No hooded garments
- No open-toed shoes
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits (general population)
- Non-contact visits (high-security inmates)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy)
- Video visitation (available for certain housing units)
Visit Restrictions:
- Visits limited to 30 minutes
- Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
- Persons with felony convictions require special approval
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Visitors who provide false information may be permanently banned
Special accommodations for visitors with disabilities are available upon request in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
How To Send Money to a Ocean County Inmate
The Ocean County Department of Corrections provides several approved methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the facility commissary and pay for services such as telephone calls. All financial transactions are subject to the regulations established in N.J.A.C. 10A:31-21.2:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Ocean County Jail" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select payment amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically $2.95 - $9.95 depending on deposit amount)
Mobile App Deposits:
- Download the Access Corrections mobile app from App Store or Google Play
- Create an account or log in
- Follow the prompts to complete a deposit
- Service fees apply (same as online deposits)
Telephone Deposits:
- Call 1-866-345-1884
- Follow automated prompts to complete deposit
- Have inmate name, ID number, and credit/debit card ready
- Higher service fees apply for telephone transactions
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Ocean County Jail lobby during public hours:
- Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Use the self-service kiosk located in the lobby
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Lower service fees than online or telephone deposits
Mail Money Orders:
-
Purchase a money order payable to "Ocean County Jail"
-
Write inmate's full name and ID number on money order
-
Include sender's full name and address
-
Mail to:
Ocean County Department of Corrections
Inmate Accounts
120 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753 -
No service fees for money orders
-
Processing time: 7-10 business days
Deposit Limits and Restrictions:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposits: $500
- Minimum deposit amount: $5
- Funds from unverified sources may be held for investigation
- Deposits from other inmates or their families are prohibited
- Deposits from individuals with criminal records require approval
Permitted Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging (where available)
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for unauthorized services
- Gambling activities
- Purchase of contraband items
Upon release, remaining funds are returned to the inmate via debit card or check. Unclaimed funds are handled according to New Jersey abandoned property laws.
How To Send Jail Mail In Ocean County
The Ocean County Department of Corrections permits inmates to receive mail from approved correspondents subject to security screening and content restrictions. All mail procedures comply with N.J.A.C. 10A:31-19, which establishes standards for inmate correspondence in county correctional facilities:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
-
Address all mail exactly as follows:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Ocean County Department of Corrections
120 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753 -
Include complete return address with full name
-
Use white paper only (no colored paper, construction paper, or cardstock)
-
Write in blue or black ink only (no markers, crayons, colored pencils, etc.)
-
Do not use perfume, lipstick, stickers, glitter, or other decorations
-
Do not include any staples, paper clips, or binding materials
-
Letters must not exceed 10 pages per envelope
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters
- Official correspondence
- Legal documents
- Money orders (following financial deposit procedures)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Educational materials (subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Blank paper or writing materials
- Books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Photographs depicting illegal activity, nudity, or gang symbols
- Sexually explicit materials
- Items containing biohazards (lipstick, bodily fluids, food)
- Laminated items or plastic-coated cards
- Puzzles, games, or hobby materials
- Clothing or fabric items
- Any items creating a security concern
Mail Processing:
- All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband
- Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 48 hours of receipt
- Prohibited items are returned to sender or destroyed
- Mail suspected of containing contraband may be held for investigation
Legal/Privileged Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Privileged Correspondence"
- Must include attorney bar number or official letterhead
- Opened in the presence of the inmate
- Not read by staff but inspected for contraband
Electronic Messaging (Where Available):
- Available through Access Corrections
- Create an account and select Ocean County Jail
- Compose message (character limits apply)
- Attach up to 2 photos per message (additional fees apply)
- Pay applicable fees ($0.25-$0.50 per message)
- Messages typically delivered within 24 hours
All correspondence is subject to monitoring except properly identified legal/privileged mail. Any mail containing threats, criminal activity, escape plans, or other security concerns may be forwarded to appropriate authorities for investigation.