Berks County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Berks County?
Inmate records in Berks County are official government documents maintained by the Berks County Jail System that chronicle an individual's history within the correctional system. These comprehensive records document the custody, care, and control of persons who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within Berks County facilities. Pursuant to Pennsylvania's Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA), specifically § 9102, these records constitute "criminal history record information" that documents formal criminal justice proceedings.
Inmate records differ substantially from court records. While the Court of Common Pleas of Berks County maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and judicial decisions, the Berks County Jail System maintains custody records that track an individual's physical presence and status within correctional facilities. The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when an individual is processed into custody following arrest. The Berks County Jail System collects identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and details of the alleged offense.
Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Medical treatments
- Visitation logs
- Program participation
- Court appearances
- Classification status changes
Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains on file with the Berks County Jail System as required by Pennsylvania's record retention schedules established under § 9111 of CHRIA.
Are Inmate Records Public In Berks County?
Inmate records in Berks County are partially accessible to the public in accordance with Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), which governs access to public records. Under § 102 of the RTKL, certain inmate information is considered public record, while other components remain confidential due to privacy protections and security concerns.
The Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA), specifically § 9121, further regulates the dissemination of criminal history record information, including inmate records. This statute establishes that certain basic information about current inmates is publicly accessible, while restricting access to more sensitive personal data.
Information that is generally available to the public includes:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (date and time of intake)
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility
The Berks County Jail System maintains an online inmate locator system that provides limited public information about individuals currently in custody. This system allows members of the public to verify if a specific individual is incarcerated and obtain basic information about their status.
Information that is typically restricted from public access includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social Security numbers
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Program participation details
- Victim information
- Confidential informant information
- Records that would jeopardize facility security
What's Included Inmate Records in Berks County
Inmate records maintained by the Berks County Jail System contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records include multiple categories of information as detailed below:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Fingerprints
- State identification number (SID)
- Inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Classification status
- Housing assignment history
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Grievances filed
- Property inventory
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Offense date(s)
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, denied, reduced)
- Bail conditions
- Bail hearing dates
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Attorney information
- Court dates
- Court appearance records
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/earned time credits
- Detainers or holds
Release Information:
- Release date
- Release type (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Probation/parole officer assignment
These records are maintained in accordance with Pennsylvania Department of Corrections policy and Berks County Jail System procedures.
Berks County Prison System
The Berks County prison system operates under the authority of the Berks County Board of Commissioners and is administered by the Berks County Jail System. This correctional system is responsible for the secure confinement of individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of up to 5 years, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. The system functions in accordance with Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Title 61 (Prisons and Parole), which establishes standards for county correctional facilities.
The Berks County Jail System is distinct from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, which operates state prisons. County facilities primarily house individuals who:
- Are awaiting trial and unable to post bail
- Have been sentenced to terms of incarceration of less than 5 years
- Are serving weekend or intermittent sentences
- Have violated probation or parole
- Are awaiting transfer to state facilities
The administration of the Berks County prison system is overseen by the Berks County Prison Board, which includes county commissioners, the district attorney, the sheriff, the controller, and judges from the Court of Common Pleas.
Berks County Jail System Administration
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
610-208-4800
Berks County Jail System
Types of Correctional Facilities In Berks County
Berks County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Berks County Jail
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
610-208-4800
Berks County Jail System
This is the main secure detention facility in Berks County, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility provides multiple security levels and specialized housing units. The jail has a capacity of approximately 1,100 inmates and offers various rehabilitative programs, educational services, and medical care.
Berks County Community Reentry Center
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
610-208-4800
Inmate Services
This minimum-security facility focuses on preparing inmates for successful reintegration into the community. The center houses inmates who are nearing the end of their sentences or who have been deemed low-risk. Programs offered include job training, life skills development, substance abuse treatment, and educational opportunities.
Berks County Work Release Center
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
610-208-4800
Inmate Services
This specialized facility allows eligible inmates to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants typically leave the facility during the day for approved employment and return in the evening. This program helps inmates maintain family ties, employment skills, and financial stability while completing their sentences.
Berks County Treatment Court Housing
(Operated in conjunction with Berks County Treatment Courts)
633 Court Street
Reading, PA 19601
610-478-6208
Berks County Courts
This specialized housing option serves participants in Berks County's treatment court programs, including Drug Court, Veterans Court, and Mental Health Court. These facilities provide structured living environments with access to treatment services for individuals working through court-supervised rehabilitation programs.
Who's in Prison In Berks County
The Berks County Jail System houses a diverse population of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system at various stages. According to data maintained by the Berks County Jail System, the inmate population generally consists of the following categories:
Pre-trial Detainees: These individuals have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. They may be held in custody because:
- They were unable to post the required bail
- They were denied bail due to the severity of charges
- They were deemed a flight risk or danger to the community
- They violated conditions of pre-trial release
Pre-trial detainees constitute approximately 60-65% of the Berks County jail population at any given time.
Sentenced Inmates: These individuals have been convicted of crimes and are serving court-imposed sentences. In Berks County, this includes:
- Persons serving sentences of up to 5 years for misdemeanors and certain felonies
- Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
- Persons awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities
Sentenced inmates make up roughly 30-35% of the jail population.
Specialized Populations:
- Technical probation or parole violators (approximately 10-15% of population)
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Persons awaiting competency evaluations or treatment
- Individuals participating in treatment court programs
The demographic composition of the Berks County jail population generally reflects:
- Predominantly male (approximately 85-90%)
- Diverse age range (18-65+, with median age around 32)
- Varied racial and ethnic backgrounds
- Significant percentage with substance use disorders (estimated 60-70%)
- High prevalence of mental health conditions (estimated 30-40%)
Pursuant to § 9104 of the Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Act, the Berks County Jail System maintains statistical data on inmate populations while protecting individual privacy.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Berks County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Berks County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Berks County Jail System provides multiple channels through which individuals can verify incarceration status and obtain basic inmate information:
Online Inmate Locator:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Inmate Locator website
- Enter the inmate's first and last name or inmate ID number if known
- Select "Berks County Jail" from the facility dropdown menu
- Review the search results for basic information including:
- Full name
- Inmate ID number
- Current housing facility
- Booking date
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
Berks County Sheriff's Mobile App:
- Download the Berks County Sheriff's Office Mobile App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" feature
- Enter the required search criteria
- Review the results for basic custody information
In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the Berks County Jail System Records Office to request inmate information:
Berks County Jail System Records Office
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
610-208-4800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Berks County Jail System
Written Requests: Written requests for inmate information may be submitted to:
Berks County Jail System Records Office
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
Written requests should include:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific information being requested
- Purpose of the request
- Requestor's signature and date
Pursuant to Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law § 703, the Berks County Jail System must respond to formal records requests within 5 business days, though extensions may apply for complex requests.
How To Find an Inmate in Berks County for Free?
Berks County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county jail system. These free resources are available to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public:
Berks County Jail System Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Berks County Jail System website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate's full name
- Inmate ID number
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
Pennsylvania Statewide Inmate Locator:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator
- Enter the inmate's name or ID number
- Filter results by selecting "Berks County" facilities
- Review the basic custody information provided
Telephone Inquiry: Individuals may call the Berks County Jail System directly to verify if someone is in custody:
- Main information line: 610-208-4800
- Hours: 24 hours daily for basic custody verification
- Required information: Full name and date of birth of the person being sought
Berks County Sheriff's Office Mobile Application:
- Download the free Berks County Sheriff's Office mobile app from app stores
- Access the "Inmate Search" feature
- Enter the required search criteria
- View basic custody information
In-Person Inquiry: Individuals may visit the Berks County Jail System during public hours to inquire about an inmate's custody status:
Berks County Jail System
1287 County Welfare Road
Leesport, PA 19533
Public Inquiry Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday
Berks County Jail System
When using any of these methods, it is advisable to have the following information available:
- Inmate's full legal name (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth
- Approximate booking date (if known)
In accordance with § 9121 of the Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Act, basic custody status information is considered public record and is available without charge.
How To Visit an Inmate In Berks County
Visitation with inmates housed in the Berks County Jail System is governed by established policies designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. All visits must comply with Berks County Jail System visitation guidelines and Pennsylvania Department of Corrections standards.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must schedule appointments in advance
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
- All visitors age 18 and older must present valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under age 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors must successfully pass security screening
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or on active probation/parole may be denied entry
- Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting current inmates
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Visit duration: 60 minutes per visit
- Maximum visits: Two visits per week per inmate
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication needed during visit time (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, one small blanket)
- Up to $50 in cash for vending machines (in small bills)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tools
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Controlled substances or alcohol
Dress Code:
- Conservative, modest attire required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts, see-through materials)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language/images
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections staff
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Visit Types:
- Contact Visits: Available for certain classification levels and special circumstances
- Non-Contact Visits: Standard visitation through glass partition with telephone communication
- Video Visitation: Available on-site and remotely through approved devices
- Professional Visits: Separate accommodations for attorneys, clergy, and service providers
Visit Restrictions: Pursuant to Pennsylvania Code Title 37 § 95.233, visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended for:
- Violation of visitation rules
- Inmate disciplinary reasons
- Facility security concerns
- Court orders prohibiting contact
- Protective orders
Visitors should contact the Berks County Jail System Visitation Office at 610-208-4800 at least 24 hours in advance to schedule visits and confirm current visitation policies.
How To Send Money to a Berks County Inmate
The Berks County Jail System provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Berks County Jail System inmate services policies.
Available Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the approved third-party payment processor website
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds available within 24-48 hours
-
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the lobby kiosk at the Berks County Jail
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Enter inmate information
- Insert cash or credit/debit card
- Receive printed receipt
- Nominal service fee applies
- Funds typically available same day
-
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase money order from U.S. Postal Service or approved vendor
- Make payable to "Berks County Jail System" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
- Include sender's full name and return address
- Mail to: Berks County Jail System Inmate Accounts 1287 County Welfare Road Leesport, PA 19533
- No service fee
- Funds available within 3-5 business days after receipt
-
In-Person Cash Deposits:
- Visit the Berks County Jail System during business hours
- Complete deposit form at reception
- Provide cash only (no checks or credit cards)
- Receive printed receipt
- No service fee
- Funds available same day
Deposit Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposits: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposits: $1,500.00
Deposit Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
- Kiosk deposits: $2.00 flat fee
- Money orders: No fee
- In-person cash deposits: No fee
Prohibited Transactions:
- Personal checks
- Cash sent through mail
- Third-party checks
- Cashier's checks from non-U.S. banks
- Transfers from other inmates' accounts
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments
- Court costs and fines
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Transfers to other inmates
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Purchase of contraband items
- Gambling activities
- Payment for unauthorized services
Pursuant to Pennsylvania Department of Corrections policy and § 95.239 of the Pennsylvania Code, all inmate financial transactions are monitored and subject to review.
How To Send Jail Mail In Berks County
The Berks County Jail System permits inmates to receive mail from family, friends, and approved correspondents subject to security protocols and inspection procedures. All mail must comply with Berks County Jail System policies and Pennsylvania Department of Corrections standards.
General Mail Guidelines:
-
Addressing Requirements:
- Clearly print inmate's full name and ID number
- Include complete facility address: Inmate Name, ID Number Berks County Jail System 1287 County Welfare Road Leesport, PA 19533
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
-
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters (limit 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, no padding)
- Photographs (limit 5 per envelope, maximum 4"x6", no Polaroids)
- Money orders (see money deposit section)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved periodicals (must come directly from publisher)
-
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Lipstick marks or other bodily fluids
- Plastic or metal items
- Oversized cards (larger than 8"x10")
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related materials
- Items advocating violence or criminal activity
- Hardcover books (unless sent directly from publisher)
Mail Inspection Process: All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Mail may be rejected if it:
- Contains prohibited items
- Presents a security threat
- Facilitates criminal activity
- Violates facility rules
- Contains escape plans
- Discusses criminal activities
Legal/Privileged Mail: Mail from attorneys, courts, or government officials is considered privileged and is opened only in the presence of the inmate. Such mail must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" and include the attorney's name and bar number.
Publication Delivery: Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor. These items must:
- Be paperback only (no hardcover books)
- Contain no prohibited content
- Be addressed with proper inmate information
- Include proper return address from publisher/vendor
E-Messages: The Berks County Jail System offers a secure electronic messaging system for approved correspondents. To use this service:
- Create an account on the approved vendor website
- Add the inmate to your approved contacts list
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Service fees apply
In accordance with § 93.2 of the Pennsylvania Code and established correctional practices, all inmate mail is subject to monitoring except properly identified legal/privileged correspondence.