Cook County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Cook County?
Inmate records in Cook County are official government documents maintained by the Cook County Department of Corrections and the Cook County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals detained in county correctional facilities. These records constitute the official administrative history of an individual's incarceration within the Cook County correctional system.
Pursuant to Illinois Compiled Statutes Chapter 730 ILCS 5/3-5-1, correctional institutions are required to maintain comprehensive records for each person committed to custody. These records differ from court records in several important aspects:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
- Court records are maintained by the Circuit Court of Cook County
- Inmate records are maintained by correctional authorities
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when individuals are first processed into custody. Information is collected regarding the individual's identity, charges, medical status, and security classification. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and eventual release information.
The Cook County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in the Cook County Jail system, which is one of the largest single-site county pre-detention facilities in the United States.
Are Inmate Records Public In Cook County?
Inmate records in Cook County are partially accessible to the public under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 5 ILCS 140. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate records, should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.
The publicly accessible portions of Cook County inmate records typically include:
- Current inmate roster information
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility (general location)
- Inmate identification numbers
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
However, significant portions of inmate records remain confidential under various exemptions contained in 5 ILCS 140/7, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Disciplinary records
- Security classification details
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
- Records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
Members of the public seeking access to Cook County inmate records may utilize the online inmate locator system provided by the Sheriff's Office or submit formal FOIA requests for additional information. The Cook County Sheriff's Office processes such requests in accordance with statutory timelines established in the Illinois FOIA.
What's Included Inmate Records in Cook County
Cook County inmate records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. 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
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Assigned inmate identification number
- Fingerprints and biometric data
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Security classification
- Housing assignment history
- Scheduled court appearances
- Disciplinary incidents and hearings
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges (felony/misdemeanor classification)
- Case numbers
- Warrant information
- Arresting agency
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, etc.)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Bond court date and location
Court Information:
- Next scheduled court date
- Court location
- Judge assigned
- Public defender or private attorney information
- Court appearance history
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Credit for time served
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/earned time credits
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole requirements
These records are maintained in accordance with Illinois County Jail Standards (20 Ill. Adm. Code 701), which establishes minimum requirements for record-keeping in county detention facilities.
Cook County Prison System
The Cook County correctional system operates under the authority of the Cook County Sheriff's Office and primarily consists of the Cook County Department of Corrections (CCDOC). This system functions as a pre-trial detention facility for individuals awaiting adjudication of their cases and houses those serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions.
The Cook County Jail is distinct from the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) state prison system. Key differences include:
- Cook County Jail primarily houses pre-trial detainees and those serving sentences under one year
- Illinois state prisons house convicted felons serving sentences longer than one year
- Cook County Jail is administered by county government
- State prisons are administered by the Illinois Department of Corrections
As one of the largest single-site county jail facilities in the United States, the Cook County Jail system processes approximately 100,000 admissions annually and houses an average daily population of approximately 6,000 detainees.
Cook County Sheriff's Office - Department of Corrections
2700 S. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60608
(773) 674-5700
Cook County Sheriff's Office
The Cook County Department of Corrections operates under the authority of 55 ILCS 5/3-15003, which establishes the Sheriff's responsibility for the custody and care of all persons committed to the county jail.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Cook County
Cook County operates several correctional facilities under the jurisdiction of the Cook County Sheriff's Office. These facilities serve different populations and security needs within the county correctional system:
Cook County Department of Corrections (Main Complex)
2700 S. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60608
(773) 674-5700
Cook County Department of Corrections
The main jail complex consists of multiple divisions:
- Division I: Maximum security facility for male detainees
- Division II: Medium security facility for male detainees
- Division III: Dormitory-style medium security facility
- Division IV: Minimum security dormitory facility
- Division V: Maximum security facility for male detainees
- Division VI: Medium security facility for male detainees
- Division VIII/RTU: Residential Treatment Unit for detainees with mental health needs
- Division IX: Super-maximum security facility
- Division X: Medium security facility
- Division XI: Medium security facility
- Division XVI (Boot Camp): Rehabilitative incarceration alternative program
Cermak Health Services
2800 S. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60608
(773) 674-7300
Cermak Health Services
Cermak Health Services provides medical and mental health services to detainees within the Cook County Jail system.
Department of Community Supervision and Intervention (DCSI)
3026 S. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60608
(773) 674-3500
Department of Community Supervision and Intervention
This department administers alternative incarceration programs including Electronic Monitoring and Pre-Release Center operations.
Who's in Prison In Cook County
The Cook County Jail population consists primarily of individuals who fall into several distinct categories:
Pre-trial Detainees: The majority of individuals housed in Cook County correctional facilities are awaiting trial and have not been convicted of the charges against them. These individuals are detained because:
- They could not afford to post bond
- They were denied bond due to public safety concerns
- They violated conditions of pre-trial release
- They are awaiting transfer to another jurisdiction
Misdemeanant Sentenced Inmates: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of less than one year. Common misdemeanor convictions include:
- Driving under the influence (first or second offense)
- Simple battery
- Retail theft
- Criminal trespass
- Disorderly conduct
Short-term Felony Sentences: Some individuals convicted of low-level felonies may serve short sentences in county jail rather than state prison.
Technical Violators: Individuals who have violated terms of probation, parole, or court-ordered supervision.
Federal Detainees: The Cook County Jail occasionally houses federal detainees under intergovernmental agreements.
According to data from the Cook County Sheriff's Office, the jail population demographics reflect significant racial and socioeconomic disparities:
- Approximately 70% of detainees are African American
- Approximately 15% are Hispanic/Latino
- Approximately 10% are Caucasian
- Approximately 90% are male
- The average age is approximately 32 years
- Approximately 25-30% report mental health conditions
The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 90 days, though this varies significantly based on case complexity and court scheduling.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Cook County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Cook County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Cook County Sheriff's Office currently maintains an online inmate locator system that provides basic custody information for individuals detained in county facilities.
To search for inmate records using the online system:
- Visit the Cook County Sheriff's Inmate Locator website
- Enter the individual's information in at least one of the following fields:
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional but recommended)
- Date of birth (optional but recommended)
- Booking number (if known)
- Click "Search" to view results
- Review the list of matching records
- Select the specific record to view detailed information
The online system provides the following information:
- Full name
- Age
- Booking date
- Booking number
- Housing location
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Charges
For more comprehensive inmate records, interested parties may submit a formal request under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). To submit a FOIA request:
- Prepare a written request specifying the records sought
- Include your contact information
- Submit the request via one of the following methods:
- Email: sheriff.foia@cookcountyil.gov
- Mail: Cook County Sheriff's Office, FOIA Officer, 50 W. Washington St., Room 704, Chicago, IL 60602
- Fax: (312) 603-4557
- Wait for a response (the agency must respond within 5 business days)
Requests should be as specific as possible to facilitate processing. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140/6, certain fees may apply for reproduction of records, though the first 50 pages are provided at no cost.
How To Find an Inmate in Cook County for Free?
Cook County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody within the county correctional system. These resources are available to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public.
The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the Cook County Sheriff's Inmate Locator online system. This searchable database is updated regularly and provides basic custody information including:
- Current custody status
- Housing location
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Charges
To use this system effectively:
- Enter the individual's last name (required)
- Include first name if known (improves accuracy)
- Add date of birth if known (further improves accuracy)
- Search results appear immediately
For individuals who lack internet access, the following alternatives are available:
Telephone Information Line
(773) 674-5245
Available 24 hours daily
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
In-Person Inquiry
Cook County Department of Corrections
2700 S. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60608
Information Desk Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, 7 days a week
For individuals who have been transferred to state custody after sentencing, the Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search provides a similar free online lookup service.
How To Visit an Inmate In Cook County
Visitation with individuals in custody at Cook County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with the following guidelines:
Visit Registration and Scheduling:
- All visits must be pre-registered at least 24 hours in advance
- Registration is available through the Cook County Sheriff's Visitation Portal
- Visitors without internet access may register by calling (773) 674-5225
- Each eligible detainee may receive one 15-minute visit per week
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
Visitor Eligibility:
- Visitors must be 18 years or older with valid government-issued photo ID
- Minors may only visit when accompanied by an approved adult guardian
- Individuals on probation, parole, or with pending criminal cases require special approval
- Former Cook County Jail detainees must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Maximum of two visitors per visit (including children)
Required Identification:
- State-issued driver's license or ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
- Permanent resident card
- Matricula consular
Dress Code Requirements:
- No revealing or provocative clothing
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling law enforcement or correctional uniforms
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or halter tops
- No shorts, skirts, or dresses shorter than knee-length
- No see-through fabrics
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Prohibited Items:
- Cell phones and electronic devices
- Cameras and recording equipment
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Medications (except life-sustaining medications with prior approval)
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry
Visit Types:
- Standard in-person visits are non-contact (through glass partition)
- Video visitation options are available at some facilities
- Attorney and clergy visits occur in designated professional visiting areas
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Providing false information on registration forms will result in visitation privileges being revoked
- All visitors are subject to search
These procedures are established pursuant to 20 Illinois Administrative Code 701.200, which governs visitation in county detention facilities.
How To Send Money to a Cook County Inmate
Individuals in custody at Cook County correctional facilities may receive funds from approved sources to purchase commissary items and pay for services such as telephone calls. The Cook County Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Cook County Sheriff's Inmate Trust Fund portal
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and booking number)
- Select deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 5% of deposit amount)
- Funds are generally available within 24 hours
Kiosk Deposits:
- Self-service kiosks are located in the lobby of the Cook County Jail
- Available 24 hours daily
- Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Provide immediate receipt
- Funds typically available within 1-2 hours
- Service fees apply
Money Order by Mail:
- Make money order payable to "Cook County Department of Corrections"
- Write inmate's full name and booking number on money order
- Do not send cash or personal checks
- Mail to: Cook County Department of Corrections Inmate Trust Fund P.O. Box 089002 Chicago, IL 60608
- No service fees apply
- Processing time: 5-7 business days
Deposit Limits and Restrictions:
- Minimum deposit: $10.00
- Maximum single deposit: $500.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $1,000.00
- Deposits from individuals with criminal records may require approval
- Deposits from other inmates are prohibited
- All deposits are subject to review
Permitted Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging services
- Educational materials
- Medical co-pays
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for prohibited services
- Gambling or betting activities
- Purchase of contraband items
Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account is returned via debit card or check. Unclaimed funds are held according to Illinois unclaimed property laws.
How To Send Jail Mail In Cook County
Correspondence with individuals in custody at Cook County correctional facilities is permitted subject to security protocols and institutional guidelines. All mail must comply with the following requirements:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes with complete information: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Division Number Cook County Department of Corrections P.O. Box 089002 Chicago, IL 60608
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Do not use colored ink, markers, crayons, or pencil
- Do not include stickers, labels, tape, or glitter
- All mail is opened and inspected before delivery
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 5 pages)
- Photographs (maximum 5, no larger than 4"x6")
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
- Money orders (see money deposit section)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Hardcover books
- Newspapers or magazines (must come directly from publisher)
- Food items or clothing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Plastic or laminated items
Books and Publications:
- Must be shipped directly from publisher or authorized retailer
- Paperback books only
- Maximum of 3 books per shipment
- Subject to content review
- Address to: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Division Number Cook County Department of Corrections P.O. Box 089002 Chicago, IL 60608
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney's name, title, and return address
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Address to: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Division Number Cook County Department of Corrections P.O. Box 089002 Chicago, IL 60608
All mail procedures are established in accordance with 20 Illinois Administrative Code 701.180, which governs mail privileges in county detention facilities.