Looking up someone in custody across Ohio? This helpful guide cuts through the confusion by showing you the official search tools for both county jails and state prisons.
No single database covers everything, so we’ll cover the main ones with simple steps that work on any phone or computer.
State Prisons vs County Jails in Ohio
County jails handle most new arrests, pre-trial cases, and short stays. State prisons are for people serving longer sentences after conviction.
You’ll need different tools depending on where the person is.
Official Statewide Prison Search (ODRC)
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Offender Search Direct link: https://appgateway.drc.ohio.gov/OffenderSearch Phone: (614) 752-1150
Simple steps:
- Go to the link.
- Type the last name (add the first name to narrow results).
- Or enter the offender number if you know it.
- Click Search.
- Tap the matching name to see current prison location, status, sentence details, and release information.
This tool covers everyone in Ohio prisons or under supervision.
Most-Searched County Jail Rosters
Franklin County Jail (Columbus area)
Direct search: https://fcsojmsweb.franklincountyohio.gov/Publicview Phone: (614) 525-5000
How to search:
- Visit the link.
- Enter last name and first name.
- Add age, sex, or race if you want fewer results.
- Click Search.
- Click any name for the full profile: mugshot, charges, bail, housing unit, and court dates.
Hamilton County Justice Center (Cincinnati)
Direct link: https://www.hcso.org/justice-center-services/inmate-search/ Phone: (513) 946-6400
Enter the name in the search box to see current inmates, housing location, and status right away.
Cuyahoga County Jail (Cleveland)
Best tool: Free Cuyahoga County Sheriff App (App Store or Google Play). Phone: (216) 443-6000
Open the app → Jail Roster → search by name. You’ll see mugshots, charges, booking time, and housing (updates often).
Finding Any Other Ohio County Jail
Google “[County Name] Ohio sheriff inmate search” or “[County Name] jail roster.” Click the official sheriff site — most have a quick name search.
Popular ones include Montgomery (Dayton), Lucas (Toledo), Summit (Akron), and Mahoning (Youngstown).
What Details You’ll See
Full name and mugshot, booking date, current charges (these can change), bail amount, housing unit, custody status, and estimated release date.
When the Person Doesn’t Show Up
Wait a few hours after booking, try both county and ODRC tools, or call the jail with the full name and date of birth.
They may have bonded out, been released, or transferred.
Visitation, Phone Calls, Commissary & Mail
Rules vary by county — always check the official site or app:
- Visitation: Usually video only (via GettingOut, SmartJailMail, or the county app). Set up a free account and schedule ahead.
- Phone Calls: Inmates call out through Securus or GTL — add money to their account first.
- Commissary: Deposit funds online through JPay, AccessCorrections, or the county portal.
- Mail: Follow exact address rules (often scanned). No packages, food, or prohibited items.
Posting Bail
Most jails allow 24/7 bonding with cash, credit card, or a local bondsman (usually 10% fee). Check the sheriff site for exact details.
Common Questions About Ohio Jail Inmate Search
How soon do new bookings appear?
Usually within a few hours.
Is there one search for every Ohio jail?
No — county jails are separate from prisons.
Can I search with just the first name?
Almost never — last name is required on most sites.
Where can I see recent arrests and mugshots?
Use the county tools listed above.
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