Providence County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Providence County?
Inmate records in Providence County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Providence County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Providence County correctional facilities. Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-2, these records are classified as public records subject to specific disclosure limitations.
Inmate records differ substantially from court records. While the Rhode Island Judiciary maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and dispositions, correctional facilities maintain custody records that track an individual's physical location, behavior, and status within the detention system. The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge information are collected and documented.
Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, visitation logs, and other relevant custody information. Upon release, these records are closed but maintained according to the Rhode Island Public Records Administration retention schedules.
Are Inmate Records Public In Providence County?
Inmate records in Providence County are generally considered public records under the Rhode Island Access to Public Records Act (APRA), specifically pursuant to § 38-2-3, which establishes that "all records maintained or kept on file by any public body... shall be public records and every person shall have the right to inspect and/or copy those records." However, this access is subject to specific exemptions and limitations.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking and arrest records
- Charges filed
- Mugshot photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Facility housing location
Certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure under § 38-2-2(4), including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Information that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
- Records pertaining to juvenile detainees
- Information that might compromise institutional security
- Records related to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records must submit requests in accordance with established procedures, which may include completing specific forms and paying applicable fees as permitted under § 38-2-4.
What's Included Inmate Records in Providence County
Inmate records in Providence County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level
- Disciplinary records
- Behavioral notes and incident reports
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute numbers)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor, felony)
- Warrant information
- Prior booking history
- Pending charges in other jurisdictions
- Detainers or holds
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
Court Information:
- Case numbers
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time credits
- Parole eligibility date
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Release type (time served, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release conditions
Providence County Prison System
The Providence County correctional system operates within Rhode Island's unified corrections structure. Unlike many states where county and state facilities operate independently, Rhode Island maintains a consolidated Department of Corrections that oversees all adult correctional facilities. The Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) operates facilities that house both pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals regardless of sentence length.
Providence County does not maintain separate county jails; instead, individuals arrested in Providence County are processed through local police departments and then transferred to RIDOC facilities. The Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) in Cranston serves as the central correctional complex for the state, housing inmates from all counties including Providence.
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
40 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-2611
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
Local law enforcement agencies in Providence County, including the Providence Police Department, maintain temporary holding facilities for individuals prior to their transfer to RIDOC custody. These holding facilities are designed for short-term detention only, typically less than 24 hours.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Providence County
As part of Rhode Island's unified correctional system, Providence County utilizes several facilities within the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) complex in Cranston:
Intake Service Center
51 West Road
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-1000
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
The Intake Service Center serves as the primary reception and classification facility for male detainees awaiting trial and newly sentenced inmates. All male inmates entering the system are processed through this facility before assignment to appropriate housing.
Women's Facilities (Gloria McDonald)
111 West Road
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-3250
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
This facility houses all female inmates in Rhode Island, including those from Providence County, regardless of security classification or sentence status.
Maximum Security
Maximum Security Road
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-3600
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
Houses inmates classified as requiring the highest level of security, including those serving long sentences for serious offenses.
Medium Security
51 West Road
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-3380
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
Houses inmates classified as requiring moderate security measures, typically those serving sentences of moderate length.
Minimum Security
51 West Road
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-3240
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
Houses inmates nearing release or those classified as low risk, often with work release privileges.
Who's in Prison In Providence County
The Providence County correctional population, housed within the Rhode Island Department of Corrections facilities, consists of several categories of individuals:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are either awaiting trial or have been unable to post bail. Under the presumption of innocence established in the U.S. Constitution, these individuals are legally considered innocent until proven guilty.
Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences typically less than one year. Common misdemeanor offenses include simple assault, petty theft, driving under the influence (first offense), and disorderly conduct.
Sentenced Felons: Individuals convicted of felony offenses serving sentences that may range from one year to life imprisonment. Due to Rhode Island's unified corrections system, all felony offenders remain within the RIDOC system regardless of sentence length.
Parole/Probation Violators: Individuals who were previously released on parole or probation but have been returned to custody due to violations of their release conditions.
Federal Detainees: In some cases, the RIDOC may house federal detainees through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
According to the Rhode Island Department of Corrections Population Report, approximately 60% of the state's incarcerated population originates from Providence County, reflecting the county's larger population and higher urban crime rates compared to other Rhode Island counties.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Providence County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Providence County may utilize several methods to access this information:
Online Inmate Locator System:
- Visit the Rhode Island Department of Corrections Inmate Search portal
- Enter the inmate's first and last name or inmate ID number
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and ID number
- Date of birth
- Current facility
- Admission date
- Projected release date (if applicable)
- Current status
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Rhode Island Department of Corrections Administrative Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM)
- Complete a Public Records Request Form
- Provide identification and specify the records being requested
- Pay applicable fees as established under § 38-2-4
Written Records Request:
- Submit a written request to:
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
Records Unit
40 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920 - Include the following information:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Preferred method of receiving records
Pursuant to § 38-2-3(e), the Department must respond to requests within ten (10) business days. Fees may apply for document reproduction, search, and retrieval as permitted under § 38-2-4.
How To Find an Inmate in Providence County for Free?
Providence County residents seeking to locate an inmate without incurring costs may utilize several free resources:
RIDOC Online Inmate Search: The Rhode Island Department of Corrections maintains a free online inmate locator system accessible to the public at RIDOC Inmate Search. This database is updated regularly and provides basic information including:
- Inmate's full name
- Inmate ID number
- Current facility
- Admission date
- Anticipated release date (if applicable)
Rhode Island Judiciary Public Portal: The Rhode Island Judiciary Public Portal provides free access to court case information, which can help determine if an individual is in custody and their current case status. Users can search by name to locate criminal cases and view upcoming court dates.
Telephone Inquiry: Members of the public may contact the Rhode Island Department of Corrections Information Center at (401) 462-2611 during regular business hours to inquire about an inmate's custody status. When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Reason for inquiry
Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE): Rhode Island participates in the VINE program, which provides custody status information and notification services. This free service is available at VINELink or by calling 1-877-744-8463.
How To Visit an Inmate In Providence County
Visitation at Rhode Island Department of Corrections facilities for Providence County inmates is governed by strict protocols established to maintain security while facilitating important family connections:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance through the RIDOC Visitor Registration System
- Adults must present valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors are subject to search procedures
- Visitors with active warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
Visit Schedule: Visitation schedules vary by facility and security level. Current schedules are maintained on the RIDOC Visitation Information page. Generally:
- Maximum Security: Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Medium Security: Wednesday-Sunday, various times
- Minimum Security: Friday-Sunday, 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Women's Facility: Tuesday-Sunday, various times
- Intake Service Center: Tuesday-Sunday, various times
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitor registration confirmation
- Vehicle keys (all other items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
- Medical necessities (with prior approval)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Drugs or alcohol
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches)
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Excessive cash (over $50)
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:
- No revealing clothing (shorts/skirts must be knee-length)
- No tank tops, halter tops, or clothing exposing midriff
- No see-through clothing
- No clothing with offensive language/images
- No gang-related attire
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Contact visits (available for minimum and medium security inmates)
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
- Special visits (clergy, legal counsel, etc.)
- Video visitation (available at select facilities)
Visitation policies are established pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws § 42-56-10, which grants the Director of Corrections authority to establish rules for the proper operation of correctional facilities.
How To Send Money to a Providence County Inmate
Providence County inmates housed in Rhode Island Department of Corrections facilities may receive funds through several approved methods:
Electronic Deposits:
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Rhode Island" as the state
- Enter the inmate's ID number and name
- Follow prompts to complete the transaction
- Fees: $2.95 for deposits up to $20; $3.95 for deposits $20.01-$100; $4.95 for deposits $100.01-$200
- Maximum deposit: $200 per transaction; $900 per month
Money Order by Mail:
- Obtain a money order payable to "Inmate Accounts"
- Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
- Complete a money order deposit slip (available at RIDOC Forms)
- Mail to:
Rhode Island Department of Corrections
Inmate Accounts Office
40 Howard Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920 - No fees for money orders
- Maximum deposit: $500 per money order
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit any RIDOC facility during regular business hours
- Locate the Access Corrections kiosk in the lobby
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash only (no bills larger than $20)
- Fees: $2.95 per transaction
- Maximum deposit: $300 per transaction
Amount Limits:
- Daily maximum: $300
- Weekly maximum: $600
- Monthly maximum: $900
- Annual maximum: $10,000
Funds Usage Regulations: Inmates may use funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging (where available)
- Educational materials
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments
- Child support obligations
Funds may not be used for:
- Purchasing contraband
- Paying other inmates
- Gambling activities
- Bribing staff
- Unauthorized business activities
All financial transactions are monitored and subject to review under Rhode Island General Laws § 42-56-22, which governs inmate accounts and financial management.
How To Send Jail Mail In Providence County
Correspondence with inmates in Providence County correctional facilities must adhere to strict guidelines established by the Rhode Island Department of Corrections:
General Mail: All non-legal mail must be addressed as follows:
Inmate's Full Name, Inmate ID Number
Facility Name
P.O. Box 8249
Cranston, RI 02920
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages, single-sided)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (must be accompanied by deposit slip)
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Newspaper clippings (maximum 5 per envelope)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages (without prior approval)
- Padded or bubble-lined envelopes
- Plastic or metal items
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or stained paper
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Sexually explicit materials
- Materials depicting violence or criminal activity
Legal Mail: Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" and include the sender's name, title, and return address. Legal mail should be addressed to:
Inmate's Full Name, Inmate ID Number
Legal Mail
Facility Name
P.O. Box 8249
Cranston, RI 02920
Mail Processing: All non-legal mail is opened, inspected, and may be read by correctional staff. Items deemed contraband will be rejected and either returned to sender, destroyed, or held as evidence if illegal. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate but may be inspected for contraband.
Electronic Messaging: The Rhode Island Department of Corrections offers secure electronic messaging through ConnectNetwork. Family and friends can create an account to send electronic messages to inmates at participating facilities. Fees apply for this service.
Mail regulations are established pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws § 42-56-10(22), which authorizes the Director of Corrections to establish rules governing inmate communications.