West Virginia Inmate Lookup

Inmate search in West Virginia involves locating and obtaining information about individuals incarcerated within the state's correctional facilities, which include state, county, and federal prisons. This process is crucial for various stakeholders, including family members, legal representatives, and researchers, who seek to maintain contact, provide legal aid, or gather data for academic or policy purposes. The significance of inmate searches extends beyond personal connections; it also plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the criminal justice system. This text aims to serve as a comprehensive guide, assisting users in navigating the intricacies of inmate search procedures in West Virginia. Whether you're searching for a loved one, handling legal matters, or conducting research, this guide will provide valuable insights and step-by-step instructions to efficiently access the information you need.

What You Need to Know About the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (WV DCR)

The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (WV DCR) is a vital component of the state’s Department of Homeland Security, tasked with the management and operation of correctional facilities throughout West Virginia. The agency's primary focus is on ensuring public safety by providing secure supervision and promoting evidence-based rehabilitation initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism rates among offenders.

Current Leadership, Headquarters, and Notable Office Locations

The WV DCR is currently headed by Secretary Jeff Sandy. The central headquarters of the WV DCR is located in the state's capital, Charleston. This location serves as the hub for overseeing a broad network of facilities and administrative operations essential to the state's corrections system.

Roles and Duties

The WV DCR plays a multifaceted role in managing the state’s correctional facilities. Its duties include the supervision of adult and juvenile offenders, the implementation of rehabilitation programs, and the oversight of various correctional healthcare services. In partnership with Marshall Health and Wexford Health, the WV DCR also ensures that inmates receive quality healthcare, with a network of specialists available to consult on various medical needs. This comprehensive approach to inmate welfare and rehabilitation is crucial for their reintegration into society.

Inmate Search in West Virginia

State Inmate Search in West Virginia

Conducting a state inmate search in West Virginia allows individuals to locate and gather information about persons incarcerated in state correctional facilities. This process is crucial for family members, legal representatives, and various agencies needing up-to-date information on inmates' locations, status, and available services.

Online Inmate Search

1. Access the Inmate Search Tool: Visit the official West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation Offender Search page.
2. Search by Offender ID or Name: Enter at least the first three letters of both the first and last name, or the Offender ID (OID) number of the inmate. The more specific the information, the more accurate the search results will be.
3. Review the Results: The search results will provide a list of inmates matching the entered criteria, including their OID, full name, facility, and status. Detailed information on each inmate can be accessed by selecting their specific record.

Offline Inmate Search

1. Telephone Inquiry: You can call the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation at (304) 558-2036 to request inmate information. Be prepared to provide the inmate's full name or Offender ID for quicker service.
2. Visit the Headquarters: For more detailed inquiries, visiting the headquarters at 1409 Greenbrier Street, Charleston, WV may be necessary. It's advisable to call ahead and check if in-person services are available and what identification or documents are required.

Important Considerations

Data Accuracy: The information provided through the online search is regularly updated, but changes in the inmates' status or location might occur that are not immediately reflected in the database.

Privacy and Legal Limitations: Certain information might be restricted due to legal or privacy concerns.

County Inmate Search in West Virginia

Searching for an inmate at the county level in West Virginia involves using specific tools provided by individual county jails or regional facilities. Each county may have different methods or systems in place for locating inmates, which can include online search tools, telephone inquiries, or visiting the facility.

Online Inmate Search

1. Identify the Relevant County Jail: Determine which county jail or regional facility the inmate is likely to be held in. This can be based on the location of arrest or the jurisdiction of the court handling the case.
2. Use Online Search Tools: Most county jails in West Virginia provide an online inmate search tool. For example, the Southern Regional Jail allows searches by name or inmate ID.
3. Access County or Regional Jail Websites: You can visit websites like Jail Exchange that list all the county and city jails in West Virginia, providing direct links to the jails' own inmate search tools.

Offline Inmate Search

1. Telephone Inquiry: Call the county jail directly. Contact information can be found through local government websites or directories. For instance, Wood County Jail can be reached at 304-424-1945 for inquiries.
2. Visit the Facility: If online information is not available or if more detailed information is needed, visiting the county jail directly can be an option. Be sure to check the visiting hours and any required identification or prior approval needed.

Important Considerations

Data Accuracy and Updates: Information about inmates can change rapidly. The online tools are updated regularly, but always verify the information directly with the facility if there is any doubt.

Privacy and Security: Be aware that certain information might be restricted due to privacy laws or security policies of the facility.

Federal Inmate Search in West Virginia

Searching for federal inmates in West Virginia is facilitated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), which maintains a comprehensive online inmate locator. This system includes inmates incarcerated from 1982 to the present, allowing you to locate inmates based on their name or identification numbers.

Online Inmate Search

1. Access the BOP Inmate Locator: You can find an inmate by visiting the BOP's Inmate Locator. This tool provides options to search by either the inmate's BOP Register Number, DCDC Number, FBI Number, or INS Number.
2. Search by Name: If you don't have the inmate's identification number, you can search using the inmate's first, middle, and last name. Additional filters like race, age, and sex can help refine your search results.
3. Review Search Results: The search results will provide details such as the inmate's register number, age, race, sex, release date, and the location of the facility where they are being held.

Offline Inmate Search

1. Contact the Facility: If you know the specific facility where the inmate is located, you can directly contact the prison for more information. Each facility has its own procedures for handling inquiries.
2. Visit BOP Facilities: For more in-depth assistance or to handle specific issues, visiting a BOP facility might be necessary. Ensure you check with the facility about their visitor policies and hours of operation before making a trip.

Sex Offender Search in West Virginia

In West Virginia, searching for registered sex offenders is facilitated through a comprehensive state-managed system. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of using the West Virginia Sex Offender Registry to find information about registered sex offenders in various localities, ensuring you can take the necessary precautions for safety and awareness.

How to Conduct a Sex Offender Search

1. Access the Registry: Begin by visiting the West Virginia Sex Offender Registry provided by the West Virginia State Police. You must acknowledge the disclaimer about the use of information before proceeding.
2. Search Options: You can search the registry by last name, address, or other identifiers such as county or email. The search tool is versatile, allowing for broad or narrow queries depending on the information available to you.
3. Review the Results: Search results will typically include the offender's name, address, physical description, photograph, and the criminal offense. There is also functionality to view maps of offenders' locations relative to your own, aiding in geographical awareness of risks.

Using Information Responsibly

The information obtained from the sex offender registry is intended for public safety purposes. It is illegal to use this information to threaten, harass, or intimidate registered offenders. Misuse of this information can result in legal action.

Legal Restrictions and Use of Information

Under West Virginia law, particularly detailed in the West Virginia Code §15-12, information about registered sex offenders is made available to the public to enhance community safety. However, this information comes with strict guidelines for use:

• Privacy: While public safety is a priority, the privacy rights of offenders must also be respected. Avoid using the information for purposes other than personal safety or community awareness.
• Accuracy: The West Virginia State Police update the registry information but note that there might be delays in data updates. If you find discrepancies or outdated information, you're encouraged to contact the registry office.

The OffenderWatch Network also supports the state’s efforts by providing additional tools and resources for monitoring sex offenders, including email alerts and safety tips.

Death Row in West Virginia

West Virginia abolished the death penalty in 1965, making it one of the states in the U.S. without capital punishment. Historically, the state carried out executions through hanging until 1949 and later by electrocution until the last execution in 1959. Today, the discussion of death row in West Virginia is more historical, as there are no current death row inmates or facilities due to the abolition of the death penalty.

History Context and Methods of Execution

The history of capital punishment in West Virginia is marked by various methods of execution. Initially, executions were conducted publicly at the county level until 1899 when the state took over and mandated that all executions be carried out privately within the walls of the West Virginia Penitentiary. The last execution in the state occurred on April 3, 1959, marking the end of the death penalty era in West Virginia before its official abolition in 1965.

Execution History and Statistics

Before the abolition, West Virginia carried out numerous executions, predominantly by hanging. The transition to the electric chair in 1951 marked a significant change in execution methods, though it was short-lived. From 1899 to 1959, West Virginia executed 94 individuals, all of whom were men, underscoring the state's historical use of capital punishment.

Facilities and Locations

Executions were centralized at the West Virginia Penitentiary after 1899. This move was part of a broader shift towards more controlled and less public execution methods, which was common across many states during this period.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The abolition of the death penalty in West Virginia was influenced by various legal and ethical considerations. Concerns about the morality and efficacy of capital punishment, along with its fairness and potential for wrongful convictions, played a significant role in its discontinuation. Despite occasional legislative attempts to reinstate it, none have been successful, reflecting a continued stance against capital punishment in the state.

Crime Statistics in West Virginia

West Virginia has observed a fluctuating trend in crime rates over recent years, with a general decrease in violent crimes and property crimes as reported by various sources including the FBI and local data analytics. The state's crime rates are notably lower than the national averages, indicating a relatively safer environment.

Overall Crime Rates and Trends

For the year 2023, West Virginia reported a violent crime rate of approximately 3.1 incidents per 1,000 people, which is 22% below the national average of 4.0 incidents per 1,000. Property crime rates also saw a significant decrease, dropping nearly 26% from previous years, moving from 18.0 incidents per 1,000 people to 13.4 incidents per 1,000 people. The overall crime rates show a positive trend towards a safer state environment, with particular improvements noted in the safest cities.

Crime by Category

• Violent Crimes: The total number of violent crimes reported was 4,934, which includes offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault. The breakdown of these incidents includes 81 murders, 789 rapes, 178 robberies, and 3,886 assaults. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in West Virginia is 1 in 360, which is lower than the national average.
• Property Crimes: Property crime figures stood at 21,836 incidents, which encompass burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. Specifically, there were 3,377 burglaries, 16,885 thefts, and 1,574 cases of motor vehicle theft. The likelihood of experiencing property crime is about 1 in 81 for state residents, significantly lower compared to the national median.

The data indicates that while the overall crime rate in West Virginia is lower than the national average, the state continues to face challenges in specific areas such as drug-related offenses and gun violence, though these are also on a declining trend according to local surveys and FBI reports.

Inmate Welfare in West Virginia

Inmate Rehabilitation and Re-entry Programs in West Virginia

West Virginia has implemented a variety of programs aimed at supporting inmates' reintegration into society. These initiatives are designed to reduce recidivism by addressing various barriers that formerly incarcerated individuals often face upon re-entry.

Different Programs Offered in West Virginia for Inmates

West Virginia's approach to inmate rehabilitation and re-entry includes comprehensive support services facilitated by several organizations and state agencies. Key programs include:

• The REACH Initiative: This program offers a statewide network to help justice-impacted individuals reintegrate by providing resources like mentorship from experienced peers and training workshops. It focuses on overcoming re-entry barriers and empowering individuals through education and community support (The REACH Initiative).
• Peer Reentry Navigator Program (R²N): This initiative connects former inmates with mentors who have successfully navigated re-entry. These mentors provide guidance and support to help new returnees integrate into the community (The REACH Initiative).
• Re-entry Simulations and Training Workshops: Workshops like "Building Bridges to a Better Community" and "Leading & Organizing through Personal Narratives" help participants understand and tackle re-entry challenges through role-playing and team activities. These are often free and available to various community members beyond just returning inmates (The REACH Initiative).

Inmate Communication in West Virginia

West Virginia's Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation facilitates various communication methods for inmates, aimed at maintaining their connections with the outside world. These communication options are crucial for inmate welfare and play a significant role in their rehabilitation process.

Inmate Calls

Inmates can make phone calls using services provided by GettingOut, part of GTL. This platform allows family members and friends to set up prepaid accounts to manage incoming calls from inmates, offering both direct billing and prepaid options. This system ensures flexible and consistent communication between inmates and their loved ones.

Inmate Mail

Family and friends can send mail to inmates, including letters, photos, and books, provided they adhere to the facility's rules. The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation outlines that all non-privileged mail is inspected for contraband, but it remains a vital link for inmates to the outside world. Items like books must be new and sent directly from vendors like Amazon to meet security requirements.

Inmate Visitation

For in-person and virtual visits, GettingOut offers a comprehensive system that supports video visits from home computers and mobile devices, enhancing familial interactions during incarceration. Setting up an account with GettingOut allows users to schedule and manage their visits based on the specific regulations and times provided by the inmate's facility.

Inmate Funds and Commissary in West Virginia

In West Virginia, the commissary system allows inmates to purchase items such as snacks, hygiene products, and stationery, providing a semblance of normalcy and comfort while they serve their time. Family and friends can deposit money into inmate accounts to fund these purchases.

How to Send Inmate Funds in West Virginia

To send money to inmates in West Virginia correctional facilities, you can utilize several convenient methods:

• Telephone: By calling a designated number (e.g., 888.988.4768) you can deposit funds directly into the inmate's account.
• Online: Websites like ConnectNetwork allow you to deposit funds electronically.
• Mobile App: Apps for iOS and Android devices are available through which you can make deposits anytime.
• In-person: At certain facilities, you may also be able to deposit funds directly at a kiosk.

These methods ensure that funds are quickly and securely transferred to the inmate’s account, typically within one business day.

What is Inmate Commissary?

The inmate commissary is essentially a store within a correctional facility where inmates can purchase products that are not provided by the institution. These items range from food and snacks to personal hygiene products and sometimes even electronic devices, depending on the facility's rules. The funds for these purchases are typically drawn from the inmate's trust account, into which family and friends can deposit money.

Inmate welfare funds, generated from commissary sales, are often used to fund other beneficial programs within the facility, which can include educational and recreational activities.

Managing Inmate Accounts

The process for managing and depositing into inmate accounts is streamlined via platforms like ConnectNetwork, where you can set up an account to manage deposits and track spending by the inmate. This system not only facilitates financial support for inmates but also ensures transparency and ease of use for those contributing to the inmate's welfare.

Police Departments, State Prisons, and County Jails in West Virginia

West Virginia Prison Statistics

Total Corrections Population (2019, except a is 2013 and b is 2020))
Total incarcerated	10,827
Prison population	6,800
Jail population	4,027a
Prison incarceration rate (per 100,000)	381
Jail incarceration rate (per 100,000)	270a
Probation population	6,454
Parole population	4,718
Life sentences	604
(% of prison population)	(8.9)b
Life without parole	290
(% of prison population)	(4.3)b
Juvenile life without parole	0b
Imprisonment by Gender (2019)
Men in prison	5,979
Women in prison	821
Imprisonment by Race/Ethnicity (2019)
White imprisonment rate (per 100,000)	348
Black imprisonment rate (per 100,000)	1337
Hispanic imprisonment rate (per 100,000)	155
Racial/Ethnic Disparity in Imprisonment (2019)
Black : white ratio	3.8
Hispanic : white ratio	0.4
Juveniles in Custody (2015)
Total juveniles in custody	474
Committed	351
Detained	120
White custody rate (per 100,000)	243
Black custody rate (per 100,000)	764
Latino custody rate (per 100,000)	76
Felony Disenfranchisement (2020)
Disenfranchised population	17,274
(% Disenfranchised)	(1.20)
Disenfranchised African Americans	1,912
(% Disenfranchised)	(3.73)
Corrections expenditures (in millions)	166