New Castle County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In New Castle County?
Inmate records in New Castle County are official government documents that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within correctional facilities under county or state jurisdiction. These records are systematically maintained by the Delaware Department of Correction and related law enforcement agencies pursuant to Delaware Code Title 11, Chapter 86, which governs the collection and maintenance of criminal justice records.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and supervision of individuals
- Court records are maintained by the Delaware Judiciary, while inmate records are maintained by correctional authorities
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During this initial phase, correctional staff collect identifying information, document charges, record property, and conduct health screenings. Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Program participation
- Visitation records
- Medical information
- Release planning
Upon an individual's release from custody, their inmate record is closed but maintained according to the Delaware Public Records Law (29 Del. C. § 10001) and the Department of Correction's record retention schedules.
Are Inmate Records Public In New Castle County?
Inmate records in New Castle County are partially accessible to the public under Delaware's Freedom of Information Act (29 Del. C. § 10002), which defines public records and establishes the public's right to access government information. However, access is limited by specific exemptions designed to protect individual privacy, institutional security, and ongoing investigations.
The Delaware Department of Correction maintains and provides access to certain inmate information through its Inmate Locator system, which allows members of the public to verify an individual's custody status and location. This system operates under the authority of 11 Del. C. § 4322, which authorizes the Department to establish procedures for releasing inmate information.
Information that is typically available to the public includes:
- Inmate's full name and identification number
- Current facility of incarceration
- Custody status (pre-trial or sentenced)
- Current charges or convictions
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Bail or bond amount (for pre-trial detainees)
Certain categories of inmate information are explicitly exempt from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary reports and investigations
- Internal security procedures
- Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
- Victim information
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders (with limited exceptions)
Requests for information beyond what is available through the online inmate locator system must be submitted as formal FOIA requests to the Department of Correction's designated FOIA coordinator.
What's Included Inmate Records in New Castle County
Inmate records maintained by correctional facilities in New Castle County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. These records are structured to include several distinct categories of information:
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
- State identification number (SID) and Department of Correction number
- Fingerprints and photographs (mugshots)
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Classification status
- Housing assignment history
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Custody level (minimum, medium, maximum)
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Arresting jurisdiction
- Warrant information
- Criminal history (prior convictions and incarcerations)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned to case
- Attorney of record
- Upcoming court dates
- Court orders
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Offense(s) of conviction
- Sentence length and structure
- Credit for time served
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time calculations
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Projected release date
- Actual release date and time
- Release type (completion of sentence, parole, bail, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
These records are maintained in compliance with the Delaware Department of Correction Policy Manual and are subject to regular audits to ensure accuracy and completeness.
New Castle County Prison System
The correctional system in New Castle County operates as part of Delaware's unified prison system under the authority of the Delaware Department of Correction. Unlike many states where county jails and state prisons function as separate entities, Delaware maintains a consolidated correctional system where all adult detention facilities fall under state jurisdiction.
The Delaware Department of Correction is responsible for the custody and supervision of both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders throughout the state, including those in New Castle County. This unified approach is established under 11 Del. C. § 6501, which outlines the organization and functions of the Department.
While the New Castle County Sheriff's Office maintains a presence at the county courthouse, it does not operate detention facilities. According to the Sheriff's Office:
New Castle County Sheriff's Office
87 Reads Way
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 395-8450
New Castle County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office does not detain, transport, or house prisoners. Individuals detained at the New Castle County Courthouse are in the custody of Capitol Police or the Department of Correction.
Adult inmates in New Castle County are housed in state-operated facilities based on their classification, security level, and specific needs. The primary facilities serving New Castle County include Howard R. Young Correctional Institution (formerly Gander Hill Prison) for adult males and Baylor Women's Correctional Institution for adult females.
Juvenile detainees are housed separately from adults in facilities operated by the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services within the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families, including the New Castle County Detention Center.
Types of Correctional Facilities In New Castle County
New Castle County houses several types of correctional facilities, each serving distinct populations and purposes within Delaware's unified correctional system:
Howard R. Young Correctional Institution
1301 East 12th Street
Wilmington, DE 19802
(302) 429-7700
Delaware Department of Correction
Howard R. Young Correctional Institution (HRYCI) is a multi-security level facility that primarily houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders from New Castle County. The facility accommodates approximately 1,500 male inmates across minimum, medium, and maximum security classifications. HRYCI provides various rehabilitative programs, including educational services, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training.
Baylor Women's Correctional Institution
660 Baylor Boulevard
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 577-3004
Delaware Department of Correction
Baylor Women's Correctional Institution is the state's only all-female prison facility, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders. The facility provides gender-responsive programming, including parenting classes, trauma-informed care, and vocational training specific to women's needs.
Plummer Community Corrections Center
38 Todds Lane
Wilmington, DE 19802
(302) 577-3443
Delaware Department of Correction
Plummer Community Corrections Center is a minimum-security facility that houses inmates nearing the end of their sentences or those participating in work release programs. The center focuses on reentry preparation, community integration, and employment skills.
New Castle County Detention Center
963 Centre Road
Wilmington, DE 19805
(302) 633-2520
Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services
The New Castle County Detention Center is a secure facility for juvenile offenders awaiting adjudication or placement. This facility is operated by the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services rather than the Department of Correction and provides age-appropriate educational and therapeutic services.
Ferris School for Boys
959 Centre Road
Wilmington, DE 19805
(302) 993-3800
Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services
Ferris School is a secure treatment facility for adjudicated male youth committed by the Family Court. The facility provides comprehensive educational, vocational, and therapeutic programming designed specifically for adolescent offenders.
Who's in Prison In New Castle County
The inmate population in New Castle County correctional facilities encompasses diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. According to data from the Delaware Department of Correction, the county's facilities house approximately 2,500 individuals on any given day, representing the following categories:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail due to public safety concerns
- Persons awaiting trial, plea hearings, or sentencing
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending revocation hearings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Persons serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions
- Individuals serving longer sentences for felony convictions
- Offenders awaiting transfer to other facilities based on classification
- Persons nearing the end of their sentences who are participating in reentry programs
Special Populations:
- Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing and treatment
- Persons with substance use disorders participating in treatment programs
- Veterans enrolled in veteran-specific programming
- Elderly inmates requiring age-appropriate accommodations
- Individuals with medical conditions requiring specialized care
Juvenile Detainees:
- Youth awaiting adjudication in Family Court
- Adjudicated youth serving dispositional sentences
- Juveniles participating in rehabilitative and educational programs
The demographic composition of New Castle County's incarcerated population generally reflects statewide trends, with disproportionate representation of racial minorities and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. According to the Department of Correction's annual report, approximately 60% of inmates are from New Castle County, reflecting the county's larger population compared to Kent and Sussex counties.
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case type, with pre-trial detainees typically remaining in custody for several months while their cases proceed through the court system, and sentenced offenders serving terms ranging from days to multiple years depending on their offenses.
How To Search for Inmate Records In New Castle County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals incarcerated in New Castle County may utilize several official channels to access inmate records. The Delaware Department of Correction maintains comprehensive systems for providing custody information while balancing security concerns and privacy protections.
The primary method for locating an inmate is through the Department's online Inmate Locator system, which provides real-time information about individuals in custody. To conduct a search:
- Navigate to the Delaware Department of Correction's official website
- Select the "Inmate Locator" option from the main menu
- Enter the inmate's information in at least one of the following fields:
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional, but recommended)
- Department of Correction number (if known)
- Click "Search" to view results
- Review the information displayed, which typically includes:
- Full name and DOC number
- Current facility
- Custody status
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
For more detailed information not available through the online system, interested parties may submit a formal request under the Delaware Freedom of Information Act. To do so:
- Complete the Department of Correction's FOIA request form, available on their website
- Specify the exact information being requested
- Provide the inmate's full name and DOC number if available
- Submit the request via email, mail, or fax to:
Delaware Department of Correction
FOIA Coordinator
245 McKee Road
Dover, DE 19904
(302) 739-5601
Delaware Department of Correction
Requests are processed in the order received, and responses are typically provided within 15 business days as required by 29 Del. C. § 10003. Fees may apply for document retrieval, copying, and staff time in accordance with the Department's established fee schedule.
For information about juvenile detainees, inquiries must be directed to the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services, as these records are subject to stricter confidentiality protections under Delaware law.
How To Find an Inmate in New Castle County for Free?
Locating an individual in custody in New Castle County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by state agencies. The Delaware Department of Correction offers free public access to basic inmate information through official channels designed to balance public information needs with security and privacy considerations.
The most efficient method for finding an inmate at no cost is through the Department's online Inmate Locator tool. This searchable database is accessible 24 hours a day and provides immediate results. To use this resource effectively:
- Enter the inmate's last name (required)
- Include the first name if known (improves accuracy of results)
- Use exact spelling when possible (the system does not recognize partial names)
- If multiple results appear, narrow your search by reviewing date of birth or physical descriptors
For individuals without internet access, the Department of Correction provides telephone assistance during regular business hours:
Delaware Department of Correction Central Office
245 McKee Road
Dover, DE 19904
(302) 739-5601
Delaware Department of Correction
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- The full name of the person you are trying to locate
- Their approximate age or date of birth if known
- The approximate date they may have entered custody
For information about court appearances and case status, which may help in determining custody status, the Delaware Courts provide free public access to their case search system:
- Visit the Delaware Courts website
- Select "Case Search" from the available options
- Enter the individual's name or case number
- Review case information, including scheduled court dates
For juvenile detainees, limited information may be available by contacting the New Castle County Detention Center directly, though confidentiality laws restrict the release of detailed information about minors in custody.
How To Visit an Inmate In New Castle County
Visitation with inmates housed in New Castle County correctional facilities is governed by specific protocols established by the Delaware Department of Correction to ensure security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. All visits must comply with the Department's policies and facility-specific rules.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
Before planning a visit, potential visitors should be aware of the following general requirements:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- To be added to a visitation list, inmates must submit a visitor application form
- 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 criminal histories may require special approval
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) follow separate protocols
Visit Schedule:
Each facility in New Castle County maintains its own visitation schedule:
- Howard R. Young Correctional Institution: Visits are scheduled by housing unit on rotating days
- Baylor Women's Correctional Institution: Visits occur on weekends and select weekdays
- Plummer Community Corrections Center: Weekend visitation only
- New Castle County Detention Center (juveniles): Visits limited to specific evening hours
Visitors should contact the specific facility or check the Department of Correction website for current schedules, as these are subject to change.
What to Bring:
Visitors are permitted to bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- Vehicle keys (limited to one key fob)
- Medication required during visit (e.g., asthma inhaler, nitroglycerin)
- Baby supplies if accompanied by infant (limited to essentials)
What NOT to Bring:
The following items are prohibited:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $50 (for vending machines where available)
Dress Code:
Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code:
- No revealing clothing (shorts must be knee-length)
- No tank tops, halter tops, or sleeveless garments
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No excessively baggy clothing
- Shoes must be worn at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
Facilities offer different types of visits based on security level:
- Contact visits: Available at minimum and some medium security units
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition): Standard at maximum security units
- Video visitation: Available at select facilities as a supplement to in-person visits
Visit Restrictions:
Visits may be denied or terminated for:
- Failure to comply with facility rules
- Signs of intoxication or impairment
- Inappropriate behavior during visits
- Providing false information
- Attempting to introduce contraband
All visitation is subject to the provisions of 11 Del. C. § 1256, which prohibits promoting prison contraband and establishes penalties for violations.
How To Send Money to a New Castle County Inmate
The Delaware Department of Correction provides several secure methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable incarcerated individuals to purchase items from the commissary, pay for telephone calls, and cover other approved expenses while in custody.
Approved Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the GTL ConnectNetwork, the Department's authorized vendor
- Create an account or log in to an existing account
- Select "Delaware DOC" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and DOC number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
-
Telephone Deposits
- Call GTL ConnectNetwork at 1-888-988-4768
- Provide the inmate's information when prompted
- Follow the automated instructions to complete the payment
-
Mobile App Deposits
- Download the "GTL ConnectNetwork" app from the App Store or Google Play
- Create an account or log in
- Follow the in-app instructions to deposit funds
-
Money Order by Mail
-
Purchase a money order payable to "Delaware DOC"
-
Write the inmate's full name and DOC number on the money order
-
Mail to:
Delaware Department of Correction
Inmate Accounting
245 McKee Road
Dover, DE 19904
-
Deposit Limits and Fees:
- Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
- Maximum online/phone deposit: $300.00 per transaction
- Maximum money order amount: $1,000.00
- Transaction fees apply to online and telephone deposits (typically $2.50-$5.95 based on amount)
- No fee for money orders sent by mail
Restrictions on Funds:
- Funds from one inmate to another are prohibited
- Third-party checks are not accepted
- Cash sent through mail will be returned to sender
- Deposits from individuals on supervised release may require special approval
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls and video visits
- Electronic messaging where available
- Educational materials and program fees
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution and court-ordered payments
The Department of Correction reserves the right to place holds on inmate accounts or deduct funds for court-ordered obligations, institutional restitution, or other legal financial obligations as authorized by 11 Del. C. § 6532.
How To Send Jail Mail In New Castle County
Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in New Castle County facilities is subject to specific regulations established by the Delaware Department of Correction. These guidelines ensure security while facilitating important connections between inmates and their support networks.
General Mailing Instructions:
All mail sent to inmates must be properly addressed using the following format:
Inmate's Full Name and DOC Number
Facility Name
Facility Address
City, State, ZIP Code
For example:
John Doe, DOC #12345
Howard R. Young Correctional Institution
1301 East 12th Street
Wilmington, DE 19802
Approved Mail Items:
The following items are generally permitted:
- Letters (on plain white or lined paper)
- Greeting cards (plain cards without musical, electronic, or pop-up components)
- Photographs (maximum 4×6 inches, limit of 5 per envelope)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Money orders (following proper procedures)
Prohibited Mail Items:
The following items are not permitted and will result in the entire mail piece being rejected:
- Packages (without prior authorization)
- Padded or oversized envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Cards larger than 8×10 inches
- Items containing glitter, glue, or other adhesives
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
Mail Processing and Inspection:
All non-privileged mail (regular correspondence) is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Mail may be read if there is reasonable suspicion that it contains plans for illegal activities or threatens security.
Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate and inspected only for contraband, not read for content.
Electronic Messaging:
Some facilities offer secure electronic messaging through the GTL ConnectNetwork system. To use this service:
- Create an account on the GTL ConnectNetwork website
- Add the inmate to your contacts using their DOC number
- Purchase messaging credits
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
Electronic messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail and are reviewed before delivery to the inmate.
Special Considerations for Juvenile Facilities:
The New Castle County Detention Center for juveniles maintains separate mail policies. Key differences include:
- Mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service (hand-delivered letters are not accepted)
- Residents are not permitted to correspond with inmates in other facilities
- All mail must be reviewed by staff before distribution
- Additional restrictions apply to protect the safety and rehabilitation of minors
All mail procedures comply with Delaware Administrative Code Title 11, Section 4000, which governs correctional institutions, and are subject to change based on security needs.
Lookup Inmate Records in New Castle County
Locate an Inmate through the Department of Correction
New Castle County Sheriff's Office information
New Castle County Detention Center for juvenile detainees