Somerset County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Somerset County?
Inmate records in Somerset County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. These records are distinct from court records, as they specifically pertain to an individual's custodial status rather than their legal proceedings. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. § 30:1B-6, the New Jersey Department of Corrections and county correctional facilities are authorized to maintain comprehensive records on all persons committed to their custody.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During this initial phase, personal identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge information are collected and documented. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant information. Upon release, these records are finalized with discharge information but remain maintained according to the state's record retention requirements.
Somerset County inmate records typically include:
- Demographic and identifying information
- Booking date and intake processing details
- Criminal charges and case numbers
- Custody classification information
- Housing assignments within the facility
- Scheduled court appearances
- Projected release dates (when applicable)
The Somerset County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-1, which establishes the state's public records requirements.
Are Inmate Records Public In Somerset County?
Inmate records in Somerset County are partially accessible to the public under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-1 et seq.). This statute establishes that government records shall be readily accessible for inspection, copying, or examination by citizens of New Jersey, with certain exceptions for confidentiality, privacy, and security concerns.
The following inmate record information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (listing of individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, date of birth, gender)
- Charges filed and associated case numbers
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates (for sentenced inmates)
- Facility housing location (general information only)
However, certain components of inmate records remain confidential under state law, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Program participation details
- Victim information
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
- Information that would compromise facility security
The Somerset County Sheriff's Office, which operates the county jail, provides limited inmate information through its online inmate lookup system in accordance with these regulations. More comprehensive records may require formal public records requests submitted in compliance with the Open Public Records Act procedures.
What's Included Inmate Records in Somerset County
Somerset County inmate records contain a comprehensive collection of information documenting an individual's incarceration. These records are maintained in accordance with N.J.A.C. § 10A:31-6.5, which establishes minimum record-keeping requirements for county correctional facilities.
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender and physical description
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number (SID) and/or booking number
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Booking officer information
- Custody classification level
- Housing unit assignment
- Cell/bed assignment
- Special housing requirements (if applicable)
- Disciplinary incidents and sanctions
- Visitation records and approved visitor list
Charge Information:
- Arresting agency
- Criminal charges (statute numbers and descriptions)
- Charge severity (indictable offense, disorderly persons offense)
- Warrant or complaint numbers
- Case status (pending, adjudicated)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount and type
- Bail conditions
- Bond posting information
- Pretrial release eligibility status
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Attorney of record
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Parole eligibility date
- Projected release date
- Special conditions of sentence
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Agency assuming custody (if transferred)
These records are maintained electronically in the Somerset County Correctional Facility's jail management system and are updated regularly throughout an individual's period of incarceration.
Somerset County Prison System
The Somerset County correctional system operates under the authority of the Somerset County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody and care of individuals detained prior to trial or serving sentences of less than one year. This local detention system is distinct from the New Jersey Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons housing individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences, typically exceeding one year.
The primary facility in Somerset County's correctional system is the Somerset County Jail, which functions as a medium-security detention center. This facility houses both pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings and individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. The jail operates under the guidelines established by the New Jersey Administrative Code Title 10A, which sets forth minimum standards for county correctional facilities.
Somerset County's correctional system interfaces with multiple criminal justice agencies, including the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office, Superior Court of New Jersey - Somerset Vicinage, and various municipal courts throughout the county. This integrated approach ensures coordination between detention operations and judicial proceedings.
Somerset County Sheriff's Office
20 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
(908) 231-7140
Somerset County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Somerset County
Somerset County maintains a structured correctional system with facilities designed to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility operates under specific security protocols and serves distinct functions within the county's criminal justice framework.
Somerset County Jail
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
(908) 231-7150
Somerset County Jail
The Somerset County Jail serves as the primary detention facility for the county, housing both male and female inmates. This medium-security facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders serving terms of up to 364 days. The facility maintains separate housing units based on classification factors including gender, security risk, and special needs. The jail has a capacity of approximately 400 inmates and provides various rehabilitative programs, medical services, and educational opportunities.
Somerset County Juvenile Detention Center
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
(908) 231-7175
Somerset County Juvenile Detention Center
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders awaiting adjudication or disposition of their cases in the Family Division of Superior Court. The center operates separately from adult facilities in compliance with federal and state regulations requiring sight and sound separation between juvenile and adult populations. The facility provides educational services, counseling, and age-appropriate programming for detained youth.
Somerset County Work Release Program
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
(908) 231-7150
Somerset County Sheriff's Office
This alternative custody program allows eligible low-risk offenders to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Participants report to the facility when not working and must adhere to strict guidelines regarding conduct and program compliance. This program operates as a component of the main jail facility but with modified security protocols appropriate for minimum-security inmates.
Each of these facilities operates in accordance with standards established by the New Jersey Department of Corrections and undergoes regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Who's in Prison In Somerset County
The Somerset County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals who fall under several distinct legal classifications. Understanding the composition of this population provides insight into the county's detention practices and criminal justice processes.
Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the Somerset County Jail population. These individuals have been charged with criminal offenses but have not yet been convicted. They remain in custody either because they have been denied bail, cannot afford to post bail, or have chosen not to post bail while awaiting trial. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. § 2A:162-15, pre-trial detention is determined through a risk assessment process that evaluates factors such as flight risk and danger to the community.
Sentenced offenders serving county time represent another major segment of the jail population. These individuals have been convicted of disorderly persons offenses or indictable offenses (felonies) that resulted in sentences of 364 days or less. Common offenses in this category include:
- Simple assault
- Shoplifting
- Possession of controlled dangerous substances
- Driving while intoxicated (repeat offenders)
- Violation of restraining orders
- Certain property crimes
The facility also houses individuals detained for the following reasons:
- Probation violators awaiting hearings or serving sanctions
- Parole violators awaiting revocation proceedings
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Weekender inmates serving intermittent sentences
- Individuals held in contempt of court
Demographic data indicates that the Somerset County Jail population generally reflects patterns seen throughout the New Jersey correctional system, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups. The facility houses both male and female inmates, though males typically constitute approximately 85-90% of the population. The jail maintains separate housing units for female inmates in accordance with state regulations.
Special populations within the facility include individuals with mental health needs, substance use disorders, and medical conditions requiring ongoing care. The jail provides specialized services for these populations through its medical and mental health departments.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Somerset County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Somerset County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains multiple channels through which inmate status and basic custody information can be obtained.
The most efficient method for locating an inmate is through the Somerset County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system. This web-based portal allows users to search for currently incarcerated individuals using the following steps:
- Navigate to the Somerset County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Lookup" or "Corrections Division" section
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name) in the search fields
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate's full name
- Booking number
- Date of birth
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Next court date (if scheduled)
- Housing facility
For individuals without internet access, the Sheriff's Office provides telephone-based inmate information at (908) 231-7150. When calling, requesters should be prepared to provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth to facilitate the search process.
In-person requests for inmate information can be submitted at:
Somerset County Sheriff's Office
20 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(908) 231-7140
For more comprehensive inmate records beyond basic custody information, formal requests must be submitted under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA). These requests can be filed:
- Online through the Somerset County OPRA Request Portal
- By mail using the county's designated OPRA request form
- In person at the Somerset County Administration Building
When submitting OPRA requests, requesters should:
- Clearly identify the specific records being sought
- Provide sufficient information to locate the records
- Include contact information for response
- Specify preferred delivery method (electronic, mail, in-person inspection)
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-5, the county must respond to OPRA requests within seven business days. Fees may apply for document reproduction in accordance with the fee schedule established by state law.
How To Find an Inmate in Somerset County for Free?
Somerset County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently held in county correctional facilities. These free resources enable family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties to verify an individual's custody status and obtain basic incarceration information.
The primary resource for free inmate searches is the Somerset County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system. This publicly accessible database is updated regularly and can be accessed through the following process:
- Visit the Somerset County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Corrections Division" section
- Select the "Inmate Lookup" option
- Enter the inmate's name (last name required, first name recommended)
- Review the search results, which typically display:
- Inmate's full name
- Booking photograph
- Inmate identification number
- Current charges
- Custody status
- Next court date (if applicable)
- Projected release date (for sentenced inmates)
For individuals who may be held in state prison facilities rather than the county jail, the New Jersey Department of Corrections Offender Search provides a similar free lookup service for state-level inmates.
Additional free methods for locating Somerset County inmates include:
Telephone Inquiry:
Somerset County Jail Information Line
(908) 231-7150
Available 24 hours daily
When calling, be prepared to provide the inmate's full legal name and date of birth if known. Staff can confirm whether an individual is in custody and provide basic information about their status.
In-Person Inquiry:
Somerset County Sheriff's Office
20 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Visitors to the Sheriff's Office can request basic inmate information at no charge. Photo identification may be required when making in-person inquiries.
Court Records Search:
The New Jersey Courts Public Access System provides information about criminal cases, which may include custody status information for defendants. This system can be accessed online at no cost.
These free resources provide sufficient information for most basic inquiries regarding an individual's incarceration status in Somerset County facilities.
How To Visit an Inmate In Somerset County
Visitation with inmates housed in Somerset County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with the regulations set forth in N.J.A.C. § 10A:31-20, which establishes minimum standards for county correctional facility visitation programs.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
Visitors to Somerset County correctional facilities must adhere to the following procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Visitors must register at least 30 minutes prior to scheduled visit time
- Valid government-issued photo identification is required for all visitors age 18 and older
- All visitors must successfully pass security screening
- Visitors under age 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- A maximum of two adults and two children may visit an inmate during a single session
Visit Schedule:
The Somerset County Jail maintains the following visitation schedule:
- General Population (Male):
- Tuesday, Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- General Population (Female):
- Monday, Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Special Housing Units:
- Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
What to Bring:
Visitors are permitted to bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication required during visit duration (e.g., asthma inhaler)
- Baby supplies if accompanied by infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
The following items are prohibited:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tools
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products or vaping devices
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Outerwear (coats, jackets, hats)
- Cash exceeding $50
Dress Code:
Visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:
- No revealing or provocative clothing
- No gang-related attire or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate uniforms
- No sleeveless shirts or dresses
- No shorts above mid-thigh
- No see-through fabrics
- No open-toed shoes
- No hooded garments
Visit Types:
Somerset County offers several visitation formats:
- Contact visits (for eligible inmates)
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Video visitation (available for certain housing units)
Visit Restrictions:
Visitation privileges may be restricted under the following circumstances:
- Facility lockdown
- Inmate disciplinary status
- Court-ordered restrictions
- Visitor's previous violations of facility rules
- Reasonable suspicion of contraband introduction
For additional information or to schedule special visits, contact:
Somerset County Jail Visitation Office
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
(908) 231-7150, extension 9
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
How To Send Money to a Somerset County Inmate
Somerset County provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds enable incarcerated individuals to purchase commissary items, make telephone calls, and access other approved services within the facility. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with N.J.A.C. § 10A:31-21, which governs inmate accounts in county correctional facilities.
Online Deposits:
The most efficient method for sending money is through the county's contracted online payment service:
- Visit the Somerset County Inmate Trust Fund Portal
- Create an account or log in
- Search for the inmate using their full name and ID number
- Select the deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Save the confirmation receipt
Online deposits are typically posted to inmate accounts within 24 hours of processing.
Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
Self-service kiosks are available in the jail lobby for in-person deposits:
Somerset County Jail Lobby
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
Kiosk Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, seven days weekly
The kiosks accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Funds deposited via kiosk are generally available in the inmate's account within 1-2 hours.
Mail-In Money Orders:
Money orders may be sent via postal mail using the following procedure:
- Obtain a money order payable to "Somerset County Jail Inmate Account"
- Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
- Include sender's full name and address
- Mail to:
Somerset County Jail
Inmate Accounts Department
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
Money orders typically require 3-5 business days for processing after receipt.
Deposit Limits and Fees:
The following limits and fees currently apply:
- Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
- Maximum online deposit: $300.00 per transaction
- Maximum money order amount: $500.00
- Online transaction fee: $2.50 per deposit
- Kiosk transaction fee: $3.00 per deposit
- No fee for money order deposits
Permitted Uses of Funds:
Inmates may use account funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging (where available)
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Legal copies
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
Inmate funds cannot be used for:
- Transferring money to other inmates
- Purchasing items for other inmates
- Paying fines or restitution (separate process required)
- Bail payments (separate process required)
- Purchasing items from outside vendors
The facility automatically deducts court-ordered financial obligations from incoming deposits in accordance with state regulations. Questions regarding inmate accounts may be directed to the Inmate Accounts Department at (908) 231-7150, extension 4.
How To Send Jail Mail In Somerset County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Somerset County correctional facilities must comply with established mail regulations designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail procedures adhere to guidelines set forth in N.J.A.C. § 10A:31-19, which governs mail handling in county correctional facilities.
Regular Mail:
All non-legal correspondence must be sent via the United States Postal Service to:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Somerset County Jail
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
Letters must comply with the following requirements:
- Standard white envelope (maximum size 9" x 12")
- Clearly written or typed address information
- Return address with sender's full name
- Plain white paper only (no colored paper, construction paper, or cardstock)
- Blue or black ink only (no markers, crayons, colored pencils, or glitter)
- Maximum of 5 pages per envelope
- No perfume, lipstick, stickers, labels, tape, or white-out
Photographs:
Photographs may be sent according to these guidelines:
- Maximum of 5 photos per envelope
- Size not to exceed 4" x 6"
- No Polaroid or self-developing photos
- No nude or sexually explicit images
- No gang symbols or criminal activity depictions
- Photos must be printed on photo paper (no photocopies)
Legal Mail:
Correspondence from attorneys, courts, and government agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and include the sender's bar number or official letterhead. Legal mail must be sent to:
Legal Mail: Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Somerset County Jail
40 Grove Street
Somerville, NJ 08876
Publications:
Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor using the following guidelines:
- Soft-cover books only (no hardcover)
- Maximum of 3 books per package
- Magazines must be new and unaltered
- No sexually explicit materials
- No publications advocating violence or criminal activity
- No publications containing instructions for manufacturing weapons, drugs, or explosives
Prohibited Items:
The following items are prohibited in all mail:
- Cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Greeting cards larger than 5" x 7"
- Cards with electronic components or 3D elements
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Jewelry or watches
- Plastic items or laminated materials
- Calendars with staples or metal components
- Any items with adhesive backing (stickers, labels, tape)
Mail Processing:
All non-legal mail is opened, inspected, and may be read by facility staff prior to delivery to the inmate. Items that violate mail regulations will be rejected and either returned to sender, placed in the inmate's property, or destroyed depending on the nature of the violation. Senders will receive notification when mail is rejected.
Mail is typically distributed to inmates within 48 hours of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays. Questions regarding mail procedures may be directed to the Mail Room Supervisor at (908) 231-7150, extension 6.