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Peoria County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Peoria County?

Inmate records in Peoria County are official government documents maintained by the Peoria County Sheriff's Office that document and track individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional facilities. These records constitute the official documentation of an individual's incarceration history and status within the Peoria County jail system. Pursuant to Illinois Compiled Statutes Chapter 730 ILCS 5/3-5-1, correctional institutions are required to maintain comprehensive records on all persons committed to their custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

  • Court records document judicial proceedings and are maintained by the Peoria County Circuit Clerk
  • Inmate records document custody status and are maintained by the Sheriff's Office
  • Court records focus on case progression, while inmate records focus on custody management

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process when an individual is first taken into custody at the Peoria County Jail. During this process, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, record biometric data such as fingerprints, document personal property, and note the charges for which the person is being detained. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information. Upon release, the record is updated to reflect the date and circumstances of release, but remains part of the permanent record system.

Are Inmate Records Public In Peoria County?

Inmate records in Peoria County are partially accessible to the public under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate records, should be available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. However, access is limited to protect privacy rights and security concerns as outlined in the Illinois Compiled Statutes.

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

  • Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
  • Basic booking information (name, date of birth, gender, race)
  • Charges filed against the inmate
  • Mugshot photographs
  • Bond/bail amounts
  • Expected release dates
  • Current housing facility

Certain portions of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under 5 ILCS 140/7, including:

  • Medical and mental health information
  • Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
  • Information that would compromise institutional security
  • Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
  • Records that would interfere with pending law enforcement proceedings

The Peoria County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate information system that provides public access to basic information about individuals currently in custody. This system allows members of the public to verify if someone is incarcerated and view limited information about their custody status without submitting a formal records request.

What's Included Inmate Records in Peoria County

Inmate records in Peoria County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody. These records typically include the following categories of information:

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 and other biometric data
  • Last known address

Custody Information:

  • Booking date and time
  • Arresting agency
  • Intake assessment information
  • Housing assignment history
  • Classification status (security level)
  • Disciplinary records while in custody
  • Visitation logs

Charge Information:

  • Current charges (including statute numbers)
  • Warrant information
  • Arresting agency case numbers
  • Charge severity (felony/misdemeanor)

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
  • Bond amount
  • Bond status (posted/not posted)
  • Bond conditions

Court Information:

  • Court case numbers
  • Scheduled court appearances
  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Judge assigned to case

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Conviction details
  • Sentence length
  • Projected release date
  • Good time/earned time credits
  • Parole eligibility date (if applicable)

Release Information:

  • Release date and time
  • Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer)
  • Release conditions (if applicable)
  • Probation/parole contact information (if applicable)

The Peoria County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Illinois County Jail Standards (20 Ill. Adm. Code 701), which establishes minimum record-keeping requirements for county jails throughout Illinois.

Peoria County Prison System

The Peoria County correctional system operates under the authority of the Peoria County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county jail facilities. The primary function of the Peoria County jail system is to provide secure detention for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of less than one year as prescribed by Illinois state law.

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system:

  • County jails house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving shorter sentences (typically under one year)
  • State prisons, operated by the Illinois Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences
  • County jails focus on temporary detention and local offenses, while state prisons focus on long-term incarceration and rehabilitation programs

The Peoria County jail system operates under the direct supervision of the Sheriff and is funded primarily through county tax revenues, with some supplemental funding from the state for housing state inmates awaiting transfer.

Peoria County Sheriff's Office
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 697-8515
Peoria County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office Corrections Division is responsible for the daily operations of the jail facilities, including inmate supervision, classification, transportation, and record-keeping. The division operates according to standards established by the Illinois Department of Corrections and is subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Peoria County

Peoria County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security needs and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system.

Peoria County Jail
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 697-8515
Peoria County Corrections

The Peoria County Jail is the primary detention facility in the county, housing both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility has a capacity of approximately 305 beds and operates under direct supervision management. The jail includes:

  • Maximum security housing units
  • Medium security housing units
  • Minimum security housing units
  • Special management units for inmates requiring separation
  • Medical housing for inmates with health concerns

Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center
223 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 634-4200
Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center

This facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) who are awaiting adjudication or have been adjudicated delinquent. The juvenile facility operates separately from the adult jail and provides age-appropriate services, including:

  • Educational programming
  • Counseling services
  • Recreational activities
  • Family visitation
  • Court services

Work Release Center
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 697-8515
Peoria County Sheriff's Office

The Work Release program allows qualifying low-risk inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Participants typically:

  • Leave the facility during work hours
  • Return to custody during non-working hours
  • Pay room and board from their earnings
  • Maintain community ties and employment

These facilities operate under the authority of the Peoria County Sheriff's Office and adhere to standards established by the Illinois Department of Corrections pursuant to 730 ILCS 5/3-15-2, which governs county jail operations throughout the state.

Who's in Prison In Peoria County

The Peoria County jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. Understanding the composition of this population provides insight into the function of the county correctional system.

Pre-trial detainees constitute the largest segment of the Peoria County jail population. These individuals:

  • Have been arrested and charged with crimes but not yet convicted
  • Are awaiting trial or other court proceedings
  • May be detained because they could not post bail or were denied bail
  • Have a presumption of innocence under the law

Sentenced inmates make up another significant portion of the jail population. These individuals:

  • Have been convicted of misdemeanors or certain low-level felonies
  • Are serving sentences of less than one year (longer sentences are typically served in state prisons)
  • May be participating in work release, educational, or treatment programs
  • Are preparing for reintegration into the community

The jail also houses individuals who are:

  • Awaiting transfer to Illinois Department of Corrections facilities after receiving felony sentences
  • Being held on probation or parole violations
  • In custody for contempt of court or failure to appear at court proceedings
  • Temporarily detained on immigration holds
  • Serving weekend sentences that allow them to maintain employment during weekdays

According to data from the Peoria County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population of the Peoria County Jail fluctuates between 270-300 inmates. Demographic analysis indicates that the population is predominantly male (approximately 85-90%), with an average age of 32 years. The racial and ethnic composition generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of minority populations.

The length of stay varies significantly based on case type and individual circumstances:

  • Pre-trial detainees may remain in custody for periods ranging from days to months or even years in complex cases
  • Sentenced inmates typically serve terms of less than one year
  • Individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities may be held for several weeks pending bed availability

How To Search for Inmate Records In Peoria County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals in custody at Peoria County correctional facilities have several methods available to access inmate records. The Peoria County Sheriff's Office currently maintains multiple platforms for public access to inmate information.

The most efficient method for searching inmate records is through the online Peoria County Jail Records Inquiry system. To utilize this system:

  1. Navigate to the Peoria County Records Inquiry website
  2. Select "Jail Records" from the available options
  3. Enter search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
  4. For more specific results, include first name or date of birth if known
  5. Review the search results, which will display basic information about current inmates
  6. Click on an individual record to view additional details, including charges, bond information, and next court date

For those unable to access the online system, telephone inquiries may be directed to:

Peoria County Sheriff's Office - Corrections Division
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 697-8515
Hours: 24 hours daily

When making telephone inquiries, be prepared to provide:

  • The full name of the person you are inquiring about
  • Date of birth (if known)
  • Your name and relationship to the inmate

In-person record requests can be submitted at:

Peoria County Sheriff's Office - Records Division
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 697-8515
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

For more comprehensive records beyond basic custody information, a formal request under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act may be necessary. Such requests should be submitted in writing to the Peoria County Sheriff's Office Records Division, either in person, by mail, or via email to the designated FOIA officer. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140/3, the agency must respond to FOIA requests within five business days under normal circumstances.

How To Find an Inmate in Peoria County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Peoria County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These free resources are designed to help family members, friends, legal representatives, and other interested parties verify custody status and obtain basic information about individuals in detention.

The primary resource for free inmate searches is the Peoria County Jail Inmate Information portal. This online system provides:

  • Real-time information on current inmates
  • Basic demographic details
  • Booking date
  • Charges
  • Bond information
  • Next scheduled court appearance

To conduct a search using this system:

  1. Visit the Peoria County Sheriff's Office website
  2. Navigate to the Inmate Information section
  3. Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
  4. Add first name or date of birth for more precise results
  5. Review the matching records displayed

For individuals who may be in state custody rather than county jail, the Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search provides a similar free service for locating offenders in the state prison system.

Additional free methods for locating inmates include:

Telephone Inquiry: Contact the Peoria County Jail directly at (309) 697-8515. Jail staff can confirm if an individual is in custody and provide basic information. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Court Records Search: The Peoria County Circuit Clerk's Office maintains public court records that often indicate custody status. These records can be searched online through the county's judicial information system or in person at:

Peoria County Circuit Clerk
324 Main Street, Room G-22
Peoria, IL 61602
(309) 672-6059
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

When searching for an inmate, having the following information ready will expedite the process:

  • Full legal name (including possible aliases)
  • Date of birth
  • Approximate date of arrest (if known)
  • Case number (if available)

How To Visit an Inmate In Peoria County

Visitation with inmates at Peoria County correctional facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections. All visits are subject to the rules and regulations established by the Peoria County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division.

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 through security screening
  • Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
  • Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
  • Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting current inmates
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) follow separate protocols

Visit Schedule:

  • General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, various times based on housing unit
  • Maximum Security: Tuesday and Saturday, scheduled by housing unit
  • Special Management: Monday and Thursday, by appointment only
  • No visits on county holidays
  • Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
  • Inmates are permitted two visits per week

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
  • Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
  • Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
  • Attorney credentials (for legal visits)

What NOT to Bring:

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

Dress Code:

  • Conservative attire required
  • No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts)
  • No gang-related colors or symbols
  • No clothing with offensive language or images
  • No uniforms resembling those worn by correctional staff
  • Shoes and shirts required at all times

Visit Types:

  • Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
  • Video visitation (available for certain housing units)

Visit Restrictions: Pursuant to 20 Ill. Adm. Code 701.200, visitation privileges may be suspended or restricted for:

  • Violation of facility rules
  • Security concerns
  • Disciplinary reasons
  • Facility lockdowns or emergencies

Visitors are advised to arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time to complete processing. The facility address for in-person visitation is:

Peoria County Jail
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
(309) 697-8515
Visitation Information Line: (309) 697-8515, ext. 5

How To Send Money to a Peoria County Inmate

The Peoria County Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, writing materials, and other permitted items.

Online Deposits: The most convenient method for sending money is through the TouchPay system, which allows for secure online deposits:

  1. Visit the TouchPay website through the link on the Peoria County Sheriff's website
  2. Create an account or log in if you have an existing account
  3. Select "Peoria County Jail" from the facility options
  4. Enter the inmate's full name and booking number (if known)
  5. Enter the deposit amount
  6. Provide payment information (credit/debit card)
  7. Complete the transaction and retain the confirmation number

Lobby Kiosk Deposits: Self-service kiosks are available in the jail lobby for in-person deposits:

Peoria County Jail Lobby
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604
Hours: 24 hours daily

The kiosks accept:

  • Cash (bills only, no coins)
  • Credit/debit cards
  • No personal checks

Mail-In Deposits: Money orders may be sent via postal mail:

  1. Make the money order payable to the inmate's full name
  2. Include the inmate's booking number on the money order
  3. Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
  4. Mail to:

Peoria County Jail - Inmate Accounts
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604

Amount Limits and Fees:

  • Minimum deposit: $5.00
  • Maximum single deposit: $300.00
  • Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
  • Online transaction fee: $2.95 for deposits up to $100; $4.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
  • Kiosk transaction fee: $2.95 for deposits up to $100; $4.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
  • Money order deposits: No fee

Prohibited Items:

  • Cash sent through mail
  • Personal checks
  • Cashier's checks
  • Traveler's checks
  • Foreign currency

Fund Usage Guidelines: Inmates may use commissary funds for:

  • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
  • Phone calls
  • Medical co-pays
  • Haircuts
  • Approved educational materials

Funds may not be used for:

  • Bail or bond payments
  • Court fees or fines (separate payment system)
  • Sending money to other inmates
  • Purchasing prohibited items

Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account will be returned via debit card or check. Pursuant to 730 ILCS 5/3-4-3, the facility must maintain accurate accounting of all inmate funds and provide statements upon request.

How To Send Jail Mail In Peoria County

Correspondence with inmates at Peoria County correctional facilities is subject to specific guidelines established to maintain security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail, except privileged legal correspondence, is subject to inspection and screening.

General Mail Guidelines: All non-legal mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service and addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Peoria County Jail
301 N. Maxwell Road
Peoria, IL 61604

Acceptable Mail Items:

  • Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
  • Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
  • Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
  • Money orders (must be separate from letters)
  • Approved religious materials (subject to review)
  • Legal documents (from attorneys of record)

Prohibited Mail Items:

  • Packages or padded envelopes
  • Plastic or metal items of any kind
  • Stickers, labels, or tape
  • Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
  • Perfumed or scented items
  • Polaroid photographs
  • Sexually explicit materials
  • Gang-related content
  • Cash or personal checks
  • Stamps or envelopes
  • Food items or candy
  • Clothing or accessories
  • Books or magazines (must come directly from publisher)

Legal Mail: Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is handled with special protocols:

  • Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Privileged"
  • Must include attorney bar number or official letterhead
  • Is opened in the presence of the inmate
  • Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband

Publications: Books, magazines, and newspapers must:

  • Come directly from the publisher or approved vendor
  • Be paperback only (no hardcover books)
  • Contain no prohibited content
  • Be pre-approved by jail administration

E-Messages: The Peoria County Jail offers a digital messaging system through its inmate communication platform:

  1. Create an account on the approved vendor website
  2. Purchase message credits
  3. Compose and send messages to the inmate
  4. Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours after review
  5. Fees apply for each message sent

All correspondence is subject to monitoring and may be rejected if it violates facility rules or presents security concerns. Pursuant to 20 Ill. Adm. Code 701.180, inmates have the right to receive mail, subject to reasonable limitations necessary for the safety and security of the facility.

Lookup Inmate Records in Peoria County

Peoria County Jail Inmate Information

Peoria County Sheriff's Office Records

Peoria County Records Inquiry System

Peoria County Corrections Division

Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search

Illinois Courts Information