Genesee County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Genesee County?
Inmate records in Genesee County are official government documents maintained by the Genesee County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. Pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.230a, these records document an individual's custody status from initial booking through release.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- 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 Genesee County Circuit Court
- Inmate records are maintained by the Genesee County Sheriff's Office
The creation of inmate records begins at booking when an individual is processed into custody. During this intake procedure, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, and record the charges for which the person is being detained. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as required by Michigan's record retention schedules.
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502
(810) 257-3407
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
Are Inmate Records Public In Genesee County?
Inmate records in Genesee County are generally considered public information under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), specifically MCL 15.231-15.246. This statute establishes the public's right to access government records, including those pertaining to incarcerated individuals, with certain limitations to protect privacy and security.
According to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.230a, the following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed
- Mugshots/booking photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, certain components of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under Michigan law. These protected elements include:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers
- Personal financial data
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Records related to juveniles (unless charged as adults)
- Information that would interfere with ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Genesee County may submit requests through the Sheriff's Office FOIA coordinator. The county is required to respond to such requests within 5 business days, though this period may be extended by an additional 10 business days if necessary.
What's Included Inmate Records in Genesee County
Inmate records in Genesee County 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 distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- State identification number
Custody Information:
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency
- Intake assessment results
- Housing assignment history
- Classification status
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Program participation
- Visitation records
- Commissary account activity
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Incident reports
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond conditions
- Bail hearing dates
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case numbers
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders affecting custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned credit calculations
- Parole eligibility date
- Probation terms
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Supervising agency (if applicable)
This information is maintained in accordance with Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 01.06.130 regarding records management and retention.
Genesee County Prison System
The Genesee County correctional system operates under the authority of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals charged with or convicted of criminal offenses within the county's jurisdiction. The system primarily consists of the Genesee County Jail, which serves as the central detention facility for the county.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Michigan's correctional hierarchy:
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County jails, including the Genesee County Jail, primarily house:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
- Those serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Those serving short felony sentences as determined by the courts
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State prisons, operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections, house:
- Individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year
- Those requiring higher security classifications
- Specialized populations requiring specific programming
The Genesee County Sheriff's Office maintains operational control of the county jail system and is responsible for inmate records, facility security, inmate transportation, and coordination with the courts.
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502
(810) 257-3407
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Genesee County
Genesee County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Genesee County Jail
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502
(810) 257-3407
Genesee County Jail
The main detention facility for Genesee County houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. The facility includes:
- Maximum security housing units
- Medium security housing units
- Minimum security housing units
- Special management units for inmates requiring protective custody or disciplinary segregation
- Medical housing for inmates with health concerns
Genesee County Work Release Center
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502
(810) 257-3407
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
This facility houses low-risk, non-violent offenders who are permitted to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants:
- Leave the facility for approved work shifts
- Return to custody during non-working hours
- Pay room and board from their earnings
- May participate in educational and vocational programs
Genesee County Juvenile Justice Center
G-4096 W. Pasadena Avenue
Flint, MI 48504
(810) 257-3510
Genesee County Juvenile Justice Center
While not operated by the Sheriff's Office, this facility houses juvenile offenders (typically under age 17) who are detained pending court proceedings or serving court-ordered detention. The center provides:
- Secure detention
- Educational services
- Counseling and rehabilitation programs
- Family visitation
These facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Michigan Department of Corrections and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding inmate housing, safety, and services.
Who's in Prison In Genesee County
The Genesee County Jail houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The jail population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who have not posted bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
- Individuals deemed flight risks or dangers to the community
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
- Individuals serving weekend sentences or intermittent confinement
- Those participating in work release programs while serving misdemeanor sentences
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of certain felonies who are serving sentences in county custody rather than state prison
- Persons serving the jail portion of a split sentence (part jail, part probation)
Probation/Parole Violators:
- Individuals who have violated terms of probation and are awaiting court hearings
- Parolees who have violated conditions of parole and are pending review
Temporary Holds:
- Persons awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Those awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held for court appearances from other facilities
According to data from the Michigan Department of Corrections, the Genesee County Jail population fluctuates but typically maintains an average daily population of approximately 580-620 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects:
- Predominantly male population (approximately 85-90%)
- Majority of inmates between ages 18-45
- Disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals
- Significant percentage with substance abuse issues
- Many with untreated mental health conditions
The jail population is subject to significant turnover, with many individuals staying for relatively short periods while awaiting bail, court appearances, or transfer to other facilities.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Genesee County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Genesee County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of inmate status and basic custody information:
Online Inmate Lookup:
- Visit the Genesee County Sheriff's Office official website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Jail Information" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or booking number)
- Review the results, which generally include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if applicable)
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Genesee County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours:
- Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Excluding county holidays
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Allow processing time as required by department policy
FOIA Request:
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Submit a written Freedom of Information Act request to:
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
FOIA Coordinator
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502 -
Include specific information about the inmate (full name, date of birth)
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Detail the exact records being requested
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Provide contact information for response
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Be prepared to pay reasonable fees for search, retrieval, and copying as permitted under Michigan FOIA law
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Genesee County Jail at (810) 257-3407
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
- Note that basic information (confirmation of custody status) may be provided by phone, but detailed records typically require written requests
For state prison inmates who may have been transferred from Genesee County custody, the public may utilize the Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS), which provides information on individuals under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Corrections.
How To Find an Inmate in Genesee County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Genesee County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Genesee County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Genesee County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Housing facility
This online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody.
Telephone Verification:
- Call the Genesee County Jail at (810) 257-3407
- Request inmate verification from the operator
- Provide the full legal name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
- Receive basic confirmation of custody status and visiting hours
Michigan Vinelink System:
- Visit the Michigan VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) website
- Select "Michigan" from the state dropdown menu
- Choose "Find an Offender"
- Enter the inmate's information
- Receive custody status and location information
Court Records Search:
- Access the MiCOURT Case Search system
- Enter the individual's name
- Review case information, which may include custody status
- Note that some court records may have restricted access or require creation of a free account
In-Person Inquiry:
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Visit the Genesee County Jail lobby during regular business hours:
Genesee County Jail
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502 -
Request inmate verification from the reception desk
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Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
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Receive basic custody information and visiting procedures
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS) provides free public access to information about offenders under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Corrections.
How To Visit an Inmate In Genesee County
Visitation with inmates at the Genesee County Jail is governed by specific policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be 18 years of age or older with valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors may only visit when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must successfully pass through security screening
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or who are on probation/parole must obtain prior approval
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
Visit Schedule:
- Visitation hours are conducted according to housing unit assignment:
- A-Pod: Monday and Thursday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- B-Pod: Tuesday and Friday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- C-Pod: Wednesday and Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- D-Pod: Sunday and Wednesday, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled visitation time
- No visits are conducted on county holidays
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medications needed during visit time (must be declared)
- Baby care items if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above knee, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
Visit Types:
- Non-contact visits through glass partition with telephone communication
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) in designated interview rooms
- Special visits may be arranged for out-of-state visitors with advance approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visiting privileges
- Maximum of two visitors per inmate per session
These regulations are established pursuant to Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6607 governing correctional facility visitation and may be modified based on institutional needs or security concerns.
How To Send Money to a Genesee County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Genesee County Jail have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.
Methods for Sending Money:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Select "Genesee County Jail" from the facility list
- Create an account or proceed as guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Print or save confirmation receipt
Lobby Kiosk:
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Visit the Genesee County Jail lobby during regular hours:
Genesee County Jail
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502
Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, seven days a week -
Use the automated kiosk located in the lobby
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Follow on-screen instructions
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Make payment using cash, credit, or debit card
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Retain receipt for your records
Money Order by Mail:
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Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
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Make payable to "Genesee County Inmate Trust Fund"
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Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
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Mail to:
Genesee County Jail
Inmate Accounts
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502 -
Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
Amount Limits and Fees:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Online transaction fee: $2.95 for deposits up to $100; $4.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
- Lobby kiosk fee: $2.50 per transaction
- Money order processing: No fee
Funds Restrictions:
- Deposits may take 1-3 business days to process
- Funds are subject to collection of court-ordered financial obligations
- Money cannot be used for bail or bond payments
- Deposits from individuals with active criminal cases are subject to review
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for services not approved by jail administration
- Purchase of contraband items
- Gambling or betting activities
All financial transactions are governed by Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 04.02.105 regarding prisoner funds and are subject to monitoring for security purposes.
How To Send Jail Mail In Genesee County
Correspondence with inmates at the Genesee County Jail follows specific guidelines to ensure security while maintaining important connections between inmates and their support networks. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.
General Mail Guidelines:
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All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Facility address:
Genesee County Jail
Inmate Name, ID#
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502 -
Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
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Mail without proper return address will be rejected
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All mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
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Personal mail is limited to standard white envelopes and postcards
Approved Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages, standard white paper)
- Greeting cards (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Postcards (standard size, no larger than 4" x 6")
- Money orders (following procedures outlined in financial section)
- Photos (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4" x 6", no Polaroids)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
- Religious materials (subject to review by chaplain)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Blank paper, cards, or stationery
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Information regarding escape or criminal activity
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come from an identifiable legal source (attorney, court, legal agency)
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
Publications:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
- Hardcover books are not permitted
- Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
- Limited to three publications per mailing
E-Messages:
- Visit the SmartJailMail website
- Create an account
- Add the inmate to your contacts using their full name and ID number
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages following system guidelines
All mail procedures comply with Michigan Administrative Code R 791.6603 regarding prisoner mail and are subject to change based on security considerations or administrative needs.