Madison County Inmate Search
How To Search for Inmate Records in Madison County in 2026
MadisonILRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to inmate records in Madison County, Illinois. Members of the public may find data pertaining to current custody status, booking records, charges, bond information, and court dates. Record categories available through official channels include jail rosters, arrest records, court case filings, and state corrections data. Information presented reflects what government agencies make available and may not represent a complete custody history.
Records may be searched through official county resources, the Illinois Department of Corrections, federal databases, public access terminals at government offices, and online tools maintained by the Madison County Sheriff's Office and Circuit Clerk.
1. County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
The Madison County Sheriff's Office maintains a jail division that provides inmate information to the public through direct inquiry. Members of the public seeking current custody information may contact the Jail Division directly by telephone at 618-692-1064. The following steps outline the process for locating an inmate through the Sheriff's Office:
- Contact the Jail Division by phone or visit in person
- Provide the inmate's full legal name and, if known, date of birth or booking number
- Request current custody status, facility location, and charge information
- Ask for bond amount and scheduled court dates if applicable
Information available through the Sheriff's Office includes:
- Full legal name and aliases
- Booking photograph
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Bond type and amount
- Facility location within the jail
- Booking date
- Expected release date (when available)
The Jail Division updates inmate information on a continuous basis. Members of the public are advised that recent bookings may take several hours to appear in available records.
2. State Department of Corrections Inmate Search (for state prison)
Individuals who have been convicted of felony offenses and sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred from county jail to the custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC). The Individual in Custody Search tool maintained by IDOC allows members of the public to locate individuals currently held in state correctional facilities. To search, enter the individual's last name followed by a comma and first name (e.g., Smith, John), or enter the last name alone. The database returns current facility assignment, offense information, projected release date, and parole status where applicable.
The distinction between county jail and state prison is significant: county jail houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving short sentences, while state prison houses post-conviction individuals serving longer terms. Transfer from county to state custody typically occurs within 30 to 60 days following sentencing, though timelines vary based on IDOC intake processing.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator (for federal inmates)
Individuals charged with federal offenses are held in federal custody and do not appear in county or state databases. The Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator provides a free search tool for locating individuals in federal custody. This resource is appropriate when the underlying offense involves federal law, such as drug trafficking across state lines, federal firearms violations, or immigration offenses.
Phone Search:
- Phone number for inmate information: 618-692-1064
- Automated information is not confirmed as available; direct staff inquiry is the primary method
- Callers should have the inmate's full legal name and date of birth available
- The Jail Division operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week for emergency inquiries; administrative hours apply for detailed records requests
In-Person Inquiry:
Madison County Sheriff's Office – Jail Division
405 Randle Street
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Phone: (618) 692-1064
Madison County Sheriff's Office
Members of the public visiting in person should bring a valid government-issued photo identification. Staff at the front desk can provide current custody status, charge information, and bond details during administrative business hours.
By Mail:
Written requests for inmate information may be directed to the Madison County Sheriff's Office at 405 Randle Street, Edwardsville, IL 62025. Requests should include the inmate's full legal name, date of birth, and the specific information sought. Processing time for written requests varies; members of the public are advised to allow a minimum of ten business days for a response.
Search Tips:
- Use the inmate's full legal name as it appears on government-issued identification
- Attempt name variations including nicknames, maiden names, and alternate spellings
- Include date of birth to narrow results when a common name is involved
- Search by booking number if that information is available
- Check both current inmate rosters and recently released records
- Recent bookings may take several hours to appear in online or telephone systems
- Inmates who have been transferred to state or federal custody will not appear in county jail records
What If You Cannot Find an Inmate:
- The individual may have been transferred to state prison; search the IDOC Individual in Custody database
- The individual may be in federal custody; search the Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
- The individual may have been released
- The individual may be held in a neighboring jurisdiction
- A recent booking may not yet be reflected in available records
- Name spelling variations may affect search results
- Contact the Jail Division directly at 618-692-1064 for assistance
Are Inmate Records Public in Madison County?
Inmate records maintained by the Madison County Sheriff's Office are subject to public disclosure under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), codified at 5 ILCS 140. Under 5 ILCS 140/2, public records are defined broadly to include all records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, microfilms, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, electronic communications, recorded information, and all other documentary materials pertaining to the transaction of public business. Booking records, custody status, and charge information fall within this definition and are accessible to members of the public upon request.
Information That Is Public:
- Current inmate roster and jail population
- Booking information including date and arresting agency
- Criminal charges and charge descriptions
- Bond and bail amounts
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Expected release date (when available)
- Scheduled court dates
Information With Restricted Access:
- Medical records and health conditions
- Mental health evaluations and treatment information
- Prescription medication records
- Detailed disciplinary records (may be withheld on security grounds)
- Visitor contact lists
- Confidential informant status
- Juvenile detention records
- Witness protection participant information
- Specific cell assignments for active security reasons
Why Inmate Records Are Public:
Inmate records serve the public interest by promoting government transparency, enabling family members to locate detained individuals, supporting the bail bond industry, facilitating legal proceedings, and informing the public of individuals who may pose a safety concern. As stated by the Illinois Attorney General's Public Access Counselor, "The FOIA reflects the public policy of the State of Illinois that all persons are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government."
Privacy Considerations:
Illinois law recognizes that transparency must be balanced against individual privacy interests. Certain categories of information, including medical and mental health records, are exempt from disclosure under 5 ILCS 140/7. The release of booking photographs and personal identifiers may affect an individual's employment prospects and family relationships, and members of the public are encouraged to use this information responsibly.
What Is Inmate Records in Madison County?
Inmate records are official government documents created and maintained by correctional authorities to document the custody, charges, legal status, and administrative classification of individuals held in detention. These records serve as the authoritative source of information regarding an individual's presence within the correctional system and are created at the point of booking by the arresting or receiving agency.
In Madison County, inmate records are created and maintained by the Madison County Sheriff's Office for individuals held at the county jail. The Illinois Department of Corrections maintains records for individuals transferred to state custody following conviction and sentencing. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains records for individuals in federal custody.
The principal categories of inmate records include:
- Booking records: Created at the time of arrest and intake, documenting the individual's identity, charges, and initial custody information
- Custody records: Ongoing documentation of an individual's housing assignment, classification, and status within the facility
- Incarceration history: A cumulative record of all prior bookings, charges, and custody periods within the jurisdiction
- Release records: Documentation of the date, manner, and conditions of an individual's release from custody
The distinction between county jail records and state or federal prison records is significant for search purposes. County jail records reflect pre-trial detention and short-term sentences, state prison records reflect post-conviction incarceration for felony offenses, and federal prison records reflect custody for violations of federal law.
What's Included in Inmate Records in Madison County
Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Inmate or booking number assigned at intake
- Date of birth and age
- Sex and gender
- Race and ethnicity
- Height, weight, and physical description
- Booking photograph taken at intake
- Identifying marks including scars and tattoos
Custody Information:
- Current facility location and housing unit (subject to security limitations)
- Date and time of booking
- Expected release date when available
- Actual release date following discharge
- Current custody status: in custody, released, or transferred
Charges and Legal Information:
- Current criminal charges
- Statutory descriptions of each charge
- Case numbers assigned by the Circuit Clerk
- Court jurisdiction and division
- Date of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Warrant information if applicable
Bond and Bail Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Bond type: cash, surety, or no bond
- Bond status: posted or pending
- Bail bondsman information where applicable
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates and hearing types
- Court location and division
- Attorney of record when available
Sentence Information (for sentenced inmates):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length imposed
- Sentence commencement date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date where applicable
- Good time credit calculations
Previous Custody History:
- Prior bookings within Madison County
- Historical charges and custody dates
Administrative Information:
- Security classification level: minimum, medium, or maximum
- Special housing designations
- Work assignment information when available
- Program participation records
What Is Not Typically Included in Public Records:
- Medical history or active health conditions
- Mental health evaluations or treatment records
- Prescription medication information
- Detailed disciplinary incident reports
- Visitor contact information
- Inmate account balances
- Telephone call logs
- Specific cell assignments maintained for security purposes
Madison County Prison System
The Madison County correctional system is operated by the Madison County Sheriff's Office under the authority of the elected Sheriff. The primary detention facility serves the county's pre-trial and sentenced inmate population and operates under the oversight of the Illinois Department of Corrections for compliance with state standards.
Administration:
Madison County Sheriff's Office
405 Randle Street
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Phone: (618) 692-6950
Madison County Sheriff's Office
Facility Operations:
The Madison County Jail houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, felony offenders awaiting transfer to state custody, and individuals held on federal detainers. Classification of inmates is conducted at intake and determines housing assignment and program eligibility.
Inmate Services:
- Medical care provided on-site
- Mental health services and referrals
- Substance abuse programming
- Educational programming including GED preparation
- Religious services and chaplaincy
- Library access
- Recreation and physical activity
Legal Services:
- Law library access for self-represented individuals
- Coordination with the public defender's office
- Attorney visitation during designated hours
Reentry Programs:
The Jail Division coordinates pre-release planning to assist individuals transitioning back to the community, including referrals to substance abuse treatment, housing assistance, and employment resources.
Oversight and Accountability:
The Madison County Jail operates under the oversight of the Illinois Department of Corrections, which conducts periodic inspections of county facilities. Grievance procedures are available to inmates through the facility's administrative process.
Types of Correctional Facilities in Madison County
Madison County Jail
Madison County Jail
405 Randle Street
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Phone: (618) 692-1064
Jail Division Information
The Madison County Jail is the primary detention facility serving the county. It houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving short-term sentences for misdemeanor offenses, felony offenders awaiting transfer to state custody, and individuals held on federal immigration or criminal detainers. The facility operates separate housing units for male and female inmates.
Alternative Custody Programs
Home Detention and Electronic Monitoring
The Madison County Sheriff's Office administers home detention and electronic monitoring programs for eligible individuals. Eligibility is determined by the court based on offense type, criminal history, and assessed risk level. Members of the public seeking information regarding these programs may contact the Sheriff's Office at (618) 692-6950.
Work Release
Work release programming allows eligible sentenced individuals to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentence. Eligibility is subject to court approval and facility classification review.
State Prison Facilities
Individuals convicted of felony offenses in Madison County and sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to facilities operated by the Illinois Department of Corrections. State correctional facilities are distinct from county jail operations and are administered by the state rather than the county. The IDOC operates multiple facilities throughout Illinois to which Madison County inmates may be assigned based on classification and available capacity.
Federal Detention Facilities
Individuals charged with federal offenses may be held at federal facilities outside Madison County. The nearest federal detention facilities serving the Southern District of Illinois are operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Members of the public may locate federally held individuals through the BOP Inmate Locator.
Facility Contact Information Summary:
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Madison County Jail | 405 Randle Street, Edwardsville, IL 62025 | (618) 692-1064 |
| Madison County Sheriff's Office | 405 Randle Street, Edwardsville, IL 62025 | (618) 692-6950 |
How To Find an Inmate in Madison County for Free?
Members of the public may locate an inmate in Madison County at no cost through several official government resources. No registration, subscription, or payment is required to access basic inmate information through official channels.
Free Online Resources:
1. Official County Inmate Roster
The Madison County Jail Division provides inmate information at no charge. Members of the public may call 618-692-1064 to obtain current custody status, booking information, charges, bond amounts, and facility location. No account creation or fee is required.
2. State Department of Corrections Free Search
The Illinois Department of Corrections Individual in Custody Search is a free, publicly accessible tool for locating individuals held in state correctional facilities. Historical incarceration information is available for individuals who have been released from state custody. No registration is required.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
The Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator provides free access to information on individuals currently or previously held in federal custody. The tool is available without registration or payment.
4. Court Records Search
The Madison County Circuit Clerk Records Search allows members of the public to verify custody status through court case filings and may display upcoming court dates, case numbers, and charge information associated with an individual's case.
Free Phone Information:
Members of the public may call the Jail Division at 618-692-1064 to obtain basic inmate information at no charge. Callers should have the individual's full legal name and date of birth available to facilitate the inquiry.
Free In-Person Search:
Madison County Sheriff's Office – Jail Division
405 Randle Street
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Phone: (618) 692-1064
Jail Division
Members of the public may visit the Sheriff's Office in person to request inmate information. Staff assistance is available during administrative business hours. No fee is charged for basic information inquiries.
What Is Free vs. What Costs Money:
The following services are provided at no charge:
- Online and telephone inmate search
- Current custody status inquiry
- Basic booking and charge information
- In-person information requests at the Sheriff's Office
The following services involve fees:
- Depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account
- Video visitation through contracted service providers
- Telephone calls placed by inmates through the facility's contracted telephone system
- Commissary orders placed on behalf of an inmate
- Certified copies of booking records or official documents
- Comprehensive background check reports
Scam Warning:
Members of the public are advised that numerous third-party websites charge fees for inmate information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Official government websites use .gov domain extensions. Members of the public should verify they are accessing an official government website before providing personal or payment information. The Madison County Sheriff's Office and the Illinois Department of Corrections do not charge fees for basic inmate location inquiries.
As the Illinois Attorney General's office has noted, "Public records are the property of the people of Illinois," and access to basic government information should not require payment to private intermediaries.