Johnston County Public Records /Johnston County Inmate Search

Johnston County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Johnston County?

Inmate records in Johnston County are official government documents maintained by the Johnston County Sheriff's Office and detention facilities that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody.

Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1.7, inmate records are distinct from court records, which are maintained separately by the judicial system. While court records document legal proceedings, charges, and case dispositions, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within detention facilities.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where detention officers collect and document:

Biographical information
Photographs (mugshots)
Fingerprints
Personal property inventory
Medical screening information
Initial security classification

These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect:

Housing assignments
Disciplinary actions
Visitation logs
Medical treatments
Court appearances
Program participation

Upon release, inmate records are finalized with discharge information but remain in the custody of the Johnston County Sheriff's Office as permanent records subject to state retention schedules and public records laws.

Are Inmate Records Public In Johnston County?

Inmate records in Johnston County are generally considered public records under the North Carolina Public Records Law § 132-1, which establishes that records made or received in the transaction of public business are the property of the people. However, certain components of inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure due to privacy concerns, security considerations, or other statutory exemptions.

The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
Charges filed
Mugshots
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Facility housing location (general)

Information that may be restricted from public access includes:

Medical and mental health records
Juvenile records (with exceptions)
Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
Information that would compromise facility security
Victim information in certain cases

The Johnston County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides public access to basic custody information in accordance with state law. For more comprehensive records, members of the public may submit formal public records requests to the Sheriff's Office Records Division.

What's Included Inmate Records in Johnston County

Inmate records in Johnston County contain a comprehensive collection of documents and data points that track an individual throughout their incarceration. These records typically include:

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
Address of residence prior to incarceration

Custody Information:

Booking date and time
Arresting agency
Booking officer
Intake assessment results
Classification status
Housing assignment history
Disciplinary records
Visitation logs
Telephone call records
Commissary account activity

Charge Information:

Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Warrant or citation numbers
Arresting agency case numbers
Court case numbers
Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
Bondsman information (if applicable)

Court Information:

Court dates
Court appearance records
Court orders
Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction date
Sentence length
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Good time/work time credits earned
Probation/parole eligibility dates

Release Information:

Release date and time
Release type (bond, time served, transferred)
Release authorization
Post-release supervision requirements

These records are maintained in compliance with the North Carolina Jail Records Retention Schedule and are subject to both state and federal regulations regarding records management and privacy.

Johnston County Prison System

The Johnston County correctional system operates under a bifurcated structure that distinguishes between county-level detention and state-level incarceration. The Johnston County Sheriff's Office administers the Johnston County Detention Center, which primarily houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions, as authorized under North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-218.

The county detention facility serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice system:

Pre-trial detention for individuals awaiting court proceedings
Incarceration for misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year)
Temporary holding for individuals awaiting transfer to state prison
Housing for individuals who have violated probation or parole
Detention of individuals facing federal charges or immigration holds

It is important to distinguish between the county detention center and state prisons. While the Johnston County Detention Center is operated by the Sheriff's Office and houses individuals for shorter periods, state prisons are administered by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and typically house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences.

Johnston County Sheriff's Office
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 989-5010
Johnston County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Johnston County

Johnston County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security requirements:

Johnston County Detention Center
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 989-5010
Johnston County Detention Center

The main detention facility serves as the primary housing location for most inmates in county custody. This medium-security facility accommodates both male and female inmates with a capacity of approximately 369 beds. The facility includes:

Intake and booking area
General population housing units
Administrative segregation units
Medical housing unit
Program spaces for rehabilitation services
Video visitation stations
Court holding areas

Johnston County Detention Center Annex
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 989-5010

This auxiliary facility provides additional housing capacity and specialized units including:

Minimum security dormitory-style housing
Work release program housing
Trustee housing units
Specialized program spaces

Johnston County Juvenile Detention Center
2723 US 301 South
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 934-6229

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18) who are awaiting court proceedings or placement in youth development centers. The facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities and provides:

Age-appropriate housing
Educational services
Mental health services
Family visitation areas

While these facilities are operated at the county level, Johnston County does not house state prisoners serving extended sentences. Individuals sentenced to state prison terms are transferred to facilities operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.

Who's in Prison In Johnston County

The Johnston County Detention Center houses a diverse population of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment
Defendants who have been denied bail
Defendants who cannot afford to post bail
Individuals awaiting trial on criminal charges

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

Individuals serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions
Persons convicted of driving while impaired (DWI)
Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences

Short-term Felony Offenders:

Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Felony offenders serving short split sentences (combination of active time and probation)

Probation/Parole Violators:

Individuals who have violated terms of community supervision
Probationers serving quick-dip confinements (2-3 day periods)
Probationers serving split sentences

Special Populations:

Federal detainees (housed through intergovernmental agreements)
Immigration detainees awaiting deportation proceedings
Individuals awaiting competency evaluations
Individuals serving contempt of court sentences

According to data from the Johnston County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population fluctuates between 250-300 inmates, with approximately 85% male and 15% female. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 23 days, while sentenced misdemeanants typically serve an average of 45-90 days.

The demographic composition of the detention center population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in North Carolina, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups. The facility maintains specialized housing units to accommodate various classification needs, including mental health concerns, protective custody requirements, and administrative segregation.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Johnston County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Johnston County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains multiple platforms for inmate record searches:

Online Inmate Search Portal:

Visit the Johnston County Sheriff's Office online services website
Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
Enter the inmate's first and last name (full or partial names accepted)
Alternatively, search by booking number if known
Review the results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Current housing facility

In-Person Records Request:

Visit the Johnston County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
Complete a public records request form
Provide identification and specify the records being requested
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
Allow processing time as required by state law

Written Records Request:

Submit a formal written request to:

Johnston County Sheriff's Office Records Division
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
Include the following information:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific inmate name and/or booking number
- Date range of incarceration (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Preferred method of receiving records

Telephone Inquiry:

Contact the Johnston County Detention Center at (919) 989-5010
Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
Note that basic custody status information may be provided by phone, but detailed records typically require formal requests

For state prison inmates who have been transferred from Johnston County custody, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction offender search provides comprehensive information on individuals in state custody.

All record requests are processed in accordance with the North Carolina Public Records Law, which generally requires responses "as promptly as possible." Complex requests may require additional processing time.

How To Find an Inmate in Johnston County for Free?

Johnston County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody. These free resources enable family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties to verify an individual's incarceration status and obtain basic custody information:

Johnston County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:

Access the Johnston County online services portal
Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
Review results showing current inmates matching the search criteria
Access basic information including:
- Current charges
- Bond amounts
- Next court date
- Facility location

North Carolina Statewide VINE System:

Visit the NC VINE website or call 1-877-627-2826
Select "Find an Offender"
Enter the individual's name
Review custody information for inmates in participating facilities
Register for automated notifications about changes in custody status (optional)

Telephone Inquiry to Detention Center:

Call the Johnston County Detention Center at (919) 989-5010
Provide the full name and date of birth of the person you are trying to locate
Request verification of custody status
Inquire about basic information such as visitation eligibility and bond amount

In-Person Inquiry at Sheriff's Office:

Visit the Johnston County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:

Johnston County Sheriff's Office
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Speak with staff at the reception desk
Provide the name of the individual you are trying to locate
Request verification of custody status and basic information

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction public records online system provides a free searchable database of all state inmates.

These free resources provide basic custody information, while more detailed records may require formal public records requests and associated fees for document reproduction.

How To Visit an Inmate In Johnston County

The Johnston County Detention Center has established specific procedures for inmate visitation to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with facility regulations as outlined below:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
Inmates may update their visitation list once every 30 days
Visitors must be 18 years or older with valid government-issued photo ID
Minors may only visit when accompanied by an approved adult visitor
All visitors are subject to security screening prior to visitation
Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

Video visitation hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Each inmate is permitted two 20-minute video visits per week
Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
Holiday schedules may vary; check with facility for updates

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Visitation confirmation number (if pre-registered online)
Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicle or lockers)
Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, mobility devices)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Tobacco products or vaping devices
Food or beverages
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

Conservative, appropriate attire required
No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing with offensive language or images
No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Shoes and shirts required at all times

Visit Types:

Video visitation (primary method for personal visits)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
Special visits (with prior approval from facility administration)

Visit Restrictions:

Physical contact is not permitted during video visitation
Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
Providing false information on visitation applications will result in visitation privileges being revoked

To schedule a visit, use the Johnston County Sheriff's Office online visitation system or call the visitation scheduling line at (919) 989-5060. All visitation policies are established in accordance with North Carolina Administrative Code 10A NCAC 14J .1513 governing local confinement facilities.

How To Send Money to a Johnston County Inmate

Johnston County Detention Center provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds enable inmates to purchase approved items from the facility commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, writing materials, and other authorized items.

Online Deposits:

Visit the Johnston County Sheriff's Office inmate services portal
Select "Inmate Deposits"
Create an account or log in to existing account
Enter inmate's full name and booking number
Select deposit amount
Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
Save confirmation receipt
Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours

Kiosk Deposits:

Visit the lobby kiosk at the Johnston County Detention Center:

Johnston County Detention Center
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
Lobby Hours: 24 hours daily
Select "Inmate Deposit" on the touchscreen
Enter inmate information when prompted
Insert cash or credit/debit card
Complete transaction and retain receipt
Funds are typically available immediately

Money Order by Mail:

Purchase a money order payable to "Johnston County Detention Center"
Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order
Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
Mail to:

Johnston County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
Funds are typically available within 3-5 business days after receipt

Deposit Limits and Fees:

Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
Online transaction fee: $2.50 per transaction
Kiosk transaction fee: $2.00 per transaction
Money order processing: No fee

Restrictions on Funds:

Funds may only be used for commissary purchases and approved services
Inmates cannot transfer funds between accounts
Funds cannot be used for bond payments
Deposits from individuals with criminal histories may require approval
Suspicious transactions may be investigated and rejected

Upon an inmate's release, any remaining balance in their account will be returned via debit card or check according to facility procedures. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the Johnston County Detention Center at (919) 989-5010.

How To Send Jail Mail In Johnston County

The Johnston County Detention Center has established specific guidelines for sending mail to inmates in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-224, which governs supervision and care of local confinement facilities. All incoming mail must adhere to these regulations to ensure delivery:

Addressing Requirements:

All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
Address envelopes as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Johnston County Detention Center
1071 US 70 Business Highway West
Smithfield, NC 27577
Include complete return address with sender's full name
Mail without proper addressing will be returned to sender

Acceptable Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages, standard white paper only)
Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
Money orders (must be separate from letters)
Legal documents from attorneys (clearly marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to security review)

Prohibited Items:

Packages or padded envelopes
Colored paper or envelopes
Cardstock or construction paper
Stickers, labels, or tape
Perfumed or scented items
Polaroid photographs
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Any items with glitter, glue, or adhesives
Books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
Any contraband or unauthorized items

Mail Processing Procedures:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
Mail containing prohibited items will be rejected and returned
Mail is typically distributed to inmates within 24-48 hours of receipt
Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
Mail may be photocopied with originals placed in inmate property

Electronic Messaging Alternative:

The facility offers a secure electronic messaging system through the Johnston County Sheriff's Office inmate services portal
Create an account on the system
Purchase message credits
Compose and send messages to inmates
Messages are subject to review before delivery
Standard fees apply per message

All mail sent to the Johnston County Detention Center is subject to screening for security purposes. Correspondence that contains threats, criminal activity, escape plans, or other security concerns may be forwarded to investigative authorities and may result in criminal charges. Questions regarding mail policies may be directed to the facility at (919) 989-5010.