Muskegon County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Muskegon County?
Inmate records in Muskegon County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's correctional system. Pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.230a, these records constitute the official documentation of an individual's incarceration history within the county.
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 Muskegon County Circuit Court
- Inmate records are maintained by the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial record creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes personal information, criminal charges, custody status, and behavioral records
- Records are finalized upon release but maintained according to Michigan's record retention schedules
Under Michigan's Correctional Facilities and Prisoner Records Act, correctional facilities must maintain comprehensive records for each person in custody, including demographic information, criminal history, and institutional behavior.
Are Inmate Records Public In Muskegon County?
Inmate records in Muskegon County are partially accessible to the public under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Act 442 of 1976. However, access is limited by specific exemptions outlined in MCL § 15.243 and regulations governing correctional records.
The following inmate record information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently incarcerated)
- Basic booking information (date of booking, arresting agency)
- Criminal charges filed
- Mugshots (subject to certain restrictions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court appearances
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility
Certain information is explicitly exempt from public disclosure:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary reports (except as summaries)
- Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
- Security threat group affiliations
- Victim information
- Information that would compromise facility security
Members of the public seeking inmate records must submit requests through the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Michigan FOIA procedures. The Sheriff's Office is required to respond to such requests within 5 business days, with a possible 10-day extension as permitted under MCL § 15.235.
What's Included Inmate Records in Muskegon County
Inmate records in Muskegon County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include:
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 (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- State identification number and/or booking number
- Fingerprints and mugshot photographs
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary incidents and sanctions
- Participation in work programs or educational activities
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Arresting agency and jurisdiction
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Prior booking history within the county
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond conditions (if applicable)
- Bond hearing dates
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction (District or Circuit)
- 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
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/earned credit calculations
- Probation terms (if applicable)
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time
- Release type (time served, bond, transfer, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
These records are maintained in compliance with Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 01.04.130 regarding prisoner and parolee records.
Muskegon County Prison System
The Muskegon County correctional system operates under a tiered structure that distinguishes between county-level detention facilities and state-operated prisons. The Muskegon County Sheriff's Office administers the county jail system, which primarily houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor offenses.
The county jail system serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice framework:
- Pre-trial detention for individuals awaiting court proceedings
- Incarceration for misdemeanor convictions with sentences up to one year
- Temporary holding for individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Work release programs for eligible inmates
- Substance abuse and mental health treatment programs
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons:
- County jails house pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences
- State prisons house felony offenders serving longer sentences
- County jails are operated by the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office
- State prisons are operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections
The primary administrative authority for the county correctional system is:
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6351
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains operational oversight of the Muskegon County Jail and coordinates with state and federal agencies for inmate transfers, court appearances, and other correctional matters in accordance with Michigan Compiled Laws § 51.75, which establishes the sheriff's authority over county jails.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Muskegon County
Muskegon County's correctional landscape includes both county-operated and state-operated facilities, each serving distinct populations within the criminal justice system:
Muskegon County Jail
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6259
Muskegon County Jail
The Muskegon County Jail is the primary detention facility operated by the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office. This medium-security facility houses:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically under one year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Work release program participants
- Weekend sentence servers
The facility provides various services including medical care, mental health services, substance abuse programs, educational opportunities, and religious services.
Muskegon Correctional Facility (MCF)
2400 S. Sheridan Drive
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 773-3201
Muskegon Correctional Facility
The Muskegon Correctional Facility is a state prison operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections. This Level II (medium security) facility houses adult male felony offenders serving longer sentences. The facility offers:
- Academic education programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Sex offender treatment
- Religious services
- Recreation programs
Earnest C. Brooks Correctional Facility
2500 S. Sheridan Drive
Muskegon Heights, MI 49444
(231) 773-9200
Brooks Correctional Facility
The Brooks Correctional Facility is another state prison operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections. This multi-level security facility houses adult male offenders and provides:
- Academic and vocational programming
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious programming
- Recreational activities
These facilities operate under the authority of Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.201, which establishes the Michigan Department of Corrections, and MCL § 51.75, which governs county jails.
Who's in Prison In Muskegon County
The Muskegon County correctional population consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The county jail primarily houses:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
- Weekend sentence servers (individuals permitted to serve time on weekends only)
- Work release participants (allowed to leave for employment during specified hours)
- Those serving sentences for:
- Driving under the influence
- Simple assault
- Petty theft
- Disorderly conduct
- Other lower-level offenses
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Those serving short felony sentences as determined by the court
- Probation violators serving short sanctions
Special Populations:
- Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment participants
- Veterans in specialized programming
- Individuals in educational or vocational programs
The state correctional facilities in Muskegon County (Muskegon Correctional Facility and Brooks Correctional Facility) house:
- Male felony offenders serving sentences longer than one year
- Individuals convicted of more serious offenses
- Prisoners transferred from other state facilities
- Inmates in specialized treatment programs
According to the Michigan Department of Corrections, the average daily population of the Muskegon County Jail is approximately 370 inmates, while the state facilities in the county house over 2,000 prisoners combined.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Muskegon County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Muskegon County may utilize several official channels to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate data while protecting confidential information.
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS):
- Access the OTIS website
- Enter the inmate's name or identification number
- Review comprehensive information about state prisoners, including:
- Current location and security level
- Offense information
- Sentence details
- Earliest release date
- Parole eligibility
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6351 - Complete a records request form
- Provide identification and specify the information sought
- Pay applicable fees for copies of records
- Allow processing time as required by Michigan FOIA laws
Written FOIA Request:
- Prepare a written request specifying the records sought
- Include contact information and preferred delivery method
- Submit the request to:
Muskegon County FOIA Coordinator
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442 - Pay applicable fees as determined by the county
- Await response within 5 business days (with possible 10-day extension)
All record searches must comply with Michigan's Freedom of Information Act and Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 01.06.110 regarding public information and communications.
How To Find an Inmate in Muskegon County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Muskegon County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. These free search options provide basic information about individuals currently in custody.
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Navigate to the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Search" option
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
Michigan Department of Corrections OTIS System:
- Visit the Michigan OTIS website
- Enter the inmate's name in the search fields
- Review results for inmates in state custody
- Access information including:
- Current facility
- Offense information
- Sentence details
- Earliest release date
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Muskegon County Jail directly at (231) 724-6259
- Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
- Request basic custody information
- Note that certain information may be restricted over the phone
VINELink Notification System:
- Access the VINELink website
- Select Michigan as the state
- Enter the inmate's name
- Receive basic custody information
- Register for free notifications regarding custody changes
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Muskegon County Jail lobby during business hours:
Muskegon County Jail
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday - Speak with jail staff regarding an inmate's status
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
These free search methods are provided in accordance with Michigan Compiled Laws § 15.233, which establishes the public's right to inspect and receive copies of public records. While basic information is available at no cost, fees may apply for detailed records or certified copies.
How To Visit an Inmate In Muskegon County
Visitation with inmates in Muskegon County facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must adhere to specific guidelines.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must successfully pass security screening before each visit
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
- Pre-registration is required for most visits through the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office website
- Visitors must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visitation time
Visit Schedule:
- General Population Inmates: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Maximum Security Inmates: Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Work Release Inmates: Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medications needed during visit (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
- Up to $20 in quarters for vending machines (where available)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Controlled substances or alcohol
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or miniskirts)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits (limited to certain classifications)
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone)
- Video visitation (available at designated terminals)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Special visits (with prior approval from facility administration)
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Individuals on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors who appear to be under the influence will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
These visitation policies are established pursuant to Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6607, which governs visitation in correctional facilities, and may be modified based on facility security needs.
How To Send Money to a Muskegon County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates in Muskegon County facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items and pay for services within the facility.
Methods for Sending Money:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Muskegon County Jail" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Processing fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
-
Kiosk Deposits
- Visit the lobby kiosk at the Muskegon County Jail
- Muskegon County Jail
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
Hours: 24/7 access - Follow on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt as proof of deposit
- Minimal processing fees apply
-
Money Order by Mail
- Purchase money order from post office or financial institution
- Make payable to "Muskegon County Jail" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
Muskegon County Jail Inmate Accounts
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442 - No processing fees, but allow 7-10 days for processing
-
Phone Deposits
- Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Higher processing fees apply for phone transactions
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
- Special limits may apply to certain inmates based on classification
Processing Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
- Kiosk deposits: $2.00 flat fee
- Money orders: No fee
- Phone deposits: $6.95 per transaction
What You Cannot Send:
- Cash through the mail
- Personal checks
- Cashier's checks
- Third-party checks
- Cryptocurrency
- Foreign currency
- Money hidden in packages or letters
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls and video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Release savings
Restricted Uses:
- Payment for services not approved by facility administration
- Transfers to other inmates
- Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)
- Purchase of contraband items
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 04.02.105 regarding prisoner funds and MCL § 791.204, which establishes the department's authority to manage inmate accounts.
How To Send Jail Mail In Muskegon County
Correspondence with inmates in Muskegon County correctional facilities follows specific guidelines designed to maintain security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives.
Methods for Sending Mail:
-
Regular Postal Mail
- Address envelope with inmate's full name and ID number
- Include your complete return address
- Send to:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Muskegon County Jail
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442 - All mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service
- Mail from other delivery services will be rejected
-
Legal/Privileged Mail
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney bar number or official letterhead
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Send to the same address as regular mail with "Legal Mail" designation
-
Electronic Messaging (where available)
- Register on the Access Corrections website
- Purchase electronic "stamps"
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
- Messages are subject to review and monitoring
- Fees apply per message
Mail Rules and Restrictions:
-
Permitted Items:
- Letters on plain white or lined paper
- Greeting cards (no musical, oversized, or padded cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum 4"x6", no Polaroids)
- Money orders (in separate envelopes from letters)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
-
Prohibited Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash, personal checks, or currency
- Stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or labels
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Plastic, cloth, or metal items
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Excessive or loose glitter
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or accessories
-
Content Restrictions:
- No plans for escape or criminal activity
- No threats or intimidation
- No gang-related communications
- No explicit sexual content
- No information that could compromise facility security
- No coded messages
Mail Processing:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery
- Mail may be photocopied with originals destroyed (facility policy)
- Contraband items will be confiscated and may result in disciplinary action
- Mail from unauthorized senders may be rejected
- Delivery typically occurs within 24-48 hours after processing
Mail Rejection:
- Senders will be notified if mail is rejected
- Reasons for rejection will be documented
- Appeals may be submitted to the facility administrator
- Rejected items may be returned to sender at their expense
These mail procedures comply with Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6603 regarding prisoner mail and MCL § 791.204, which establishes the department's authority to regulate inmate communications.
Lookup Inmate Records in Muskegon County
Muskegon Correctional Facility information
Michigan Offender Tracking Information System
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office inmate information