Mason County Inmate Search
How To Search for Inmate Records in Mason County in 2026
MasonCountyRecords.us provides data and publicly available information related to inmate records in Mason County, West Virginia. Members of the public may access records that include booking information, custody status, charges, bond amounts, and facility location. The information presented reflects what is available through official government sources and may include:
- Current and recent inmate rosters
- Booking photographs and personal identifiers
- Charge descriptions and case numbers
- Bond and bail status
- Scheduled court dates
Records can be searched through official government resources, the county sheriff's office, public access terminals, and state-operated online tools. The following methods are available to members of the public seeking inmate information.
1. County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
The Mason County Sheriff maintains custody records for individuals held at the county level. Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office directly to inquire about current inmates. To conduct a search:
- Access the Sheriff's Office contact page or visit in person
- Provide the inmate's full legal name and, if known, date of birth
- Request current custody status, booking number, and charge information
- Ask about bond status and next scheduled court date
Information available through the Sheriff's Office includes personal identification details, booking photographs, current charges, bond amounts, facility location, and booking date. Records are updated as bookings and releases occur.
Mason County Sheriff's Office
200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550
Phone: (304) 675-2080
Mason County Sheriff
2. State Department of Corrections Inmate Search (for state prison)
For individuals who have been transferred from county custody to a state correctional facility, the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation maintains a statewide offender search tool covering both jails and prisons. To search:
- Navigate to the offender search portal
- Select whether to search jails or prisons
- Enter the individual's last name (at least three letters are required)
- Review results for custody status, facility assignment, and charge information
The distinction between county jail and state prison is significant. County jails house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving short sentences, while state prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer terms. Transfer from county to state custody occurs after sentencing and classification, which may take several weeks following conviction.
The WV Regional Jail & Correctional Facility Authority also provides an OIS inmate search that allows searches by name across regional jail facilities statewide. Additionally, the Authority publishes a daily incarcerations list organized by county, which members of the public may use to identify recent bookings.
West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation
1409 Greenbrier Street, Charleston, WV 25311
Phone: (304) 558-2036
Offender Search
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator (for federal inmates)
For individuals charged with or convicted of federal offenses, the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator provides a free search tool. This resource is appropriate when the arresting agency is a federal entity such as the FBI, DEA, or U.S. Marshals Service, or when the charges involve federal statutes. The locator provides facility location, projected release date, and register number.
Phone Search:
- Phone: (304) 675-2080 (Mason County Sheriff's Office)
- Staff can provide basic custody status information during business hours
- Callers should have the inmate's full legal name and date of birth available
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Mason County Sheriff's Office at 200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550
- Government-issued photo identification is required
- Staff at the front desk can provide current custody status, charges, and bond information
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
By Mail:
- Address written requests to: Mason County Sheriff's Office, 200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550
- Include the inmate's full legal name, date of birth, and the specific information requested
- Processing time varies; written requests are handled in the order received
Search Tips:
- Use the individual's full legal name as it appears on government-issued identification
- Try name variations, including nicknames, maiden names, and alternate spellings
- Include date of birth to distinguish between individuals with similar names
- Search by booking number if available, as this provides the most precise result
- Check both current inmates and recently released individuals
- Recent bookings may take several hours to appear in online systems
- Individuals who have been transferred may not appear in county records
What If You Can't Find an Inmate:
- The individual may have been transferred to a state prison; check the WV Division of Corrections offender search
- The individual may be in federal custody; check the Federal Bureau of Prisons locator
- The individual may have been released
- The individual may be held in an adjacent jurisdiction
- A recent booking may not yet be reflected in the online system
- Name spelling variations may affect search results
- Contact the Sheriff's Office directly at (304) 675-2080
Are Inmate Records Public in Mason County?
Inmate records in Mason County are subject to public disclosure under West Virginia's open records framework. Pursuant to W. Va. Code § 29B-1-1 et seq., the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, all persons are entitled to inspect and copy public records maintained by government bodies, including law enforcement and correctional agencies. Booking records, custody status, and charge information are treated as public records accessible to any member of the public upon request.
As the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation states, "The Division is committed to providing the public with access to offender information in a manner consistent with applicable law and the safety and security of correctional facilities."
Information That Is Public:
- Current inmate roster and population
- Booking information, including date and arresting agency
- Criminal charges and charge descriptions
- Bond and bail amounts
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Expected release date (where available)
- Scheduled court dates
Information With Restricted Access:
- Medical records and health conditions
- Mental health evaluations and treatment information
- Prescription medication records
- Detailed disciplinary records (may be withheld on security grounds)
- Visitor contact lists
- Confidential informant status
- Juvenile detention records
- Witness protection participant information
- Specific cell or housing unit assignments where disclosure poses a security risk
Why Inmate Records Are Public:
- Government transparency and accountability in the administration of justice
- Public safety, including notification of community members
- Family notification and the ability to locate detained individuals
- Support of legal proceedings, including bail bond determinations
- Facilitation of attorney-client communication
Privacy Considerations: West Virginia law recognizes a balance between the public's right to access government records and the privacy interests of individuals. Under W. Va. Code § 29B-1-4, certain categories of information may be withheld where disclosure would constitute an unreasonable invasion of privacy or jeopardize institutional security. Medical and mental health information receives heightened protection, and records pertaining to juveniles are subject to separate confidentiality requirements under state law.
What Is Inmate Records in Mason County?
Inmate records are official government documents created and maintained by law enforcement and correctional agencies to document the custody, charges, and status of individuals detained or incarcerated within the jurisdiction. These records serve as the authoritative account of an individual's interaction with the county corrections system and are used for administrative, legal, and public safety purposes.
The Mason County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of county-level inmate records. The West Virginia Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority maintains records for individuals held in regional facilities, and the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation maintains records for state prisoners.
The principal categories of inmate records include:
- Booking records: Created at the time of arrest and intake, documenting the individual's identity, charges, and physical description
- Custody records: Ongoing documentation of an individual's housing assignment, classification, and status while in custody
- Incarceration history: A cumulative record of all prior bookings, charges, and custody periods within the jurisdiction
- Release records: Documentation of the date, manner, and conditions of an individual's release from custody
The distinction between county jail records and state or federal prison records is significant. County jail records pertain to individuals held pre-trial or serving sentences of one year or less. State prison records pertain to individuals convicted of felonies and serving longer sentences in a state facility. Federal prison records pertain to individuals convicted of federal offenses and housed in a Bureau of Prisons facility.
What's Included in Inmate Records in Mason County
Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Inmate or booking number
- Date of birth and age
- Sex and gender
- Race and ethnicity
- Height, weight, and physical description
- Booking photograph
- Identifying marks, scars, and tattoos
Custody Information:
- Current facility location
- Housing unit or cell block (subject to security restrictions)
- Custody date and booking date
- Expected release date, where available
- Actual release date following release
- Custody status: in custody, released, or transferred
Charges and Legal Information:
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Case numbers and court jurisdiction
- Arrest date and arresting agency
- Warrant information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Bond type: cash, surety, or no bond
- Bond status: posted or pending
- Bail bondsman information, where applicable
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates and hearing types
- Court location and division
- Attorney information, where available
Sentence Information (for sentenced inmates):
- Conviction charges and sentence length
- Sentence start date and projected release date
- Parole eligibility date, where applicable
- Good time credits
Previous Custody History:
- Prior bookings within the county
- Previous charges and historical custody dates
Administrative Information:
- Classification level: minimum, medium, or maximum security
- Special housing needs
- Work assignments and program participation, where publicly available
What's NOT Typically Included in Public Records:
- Medical history or active health conditions
- Mental health evaluations or treatment records
- Prescription medications
- Detailed disciplinary incident reports
- Visitor contact information
- Inmate account balances
- Phone call logs
- Specific cell assignments where disclosure poses a security concern
Mason County Prison System
The Mason County corrections system operates under the authority of the Mason County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the operation of the county jail and the custody of individuals detained within the county. The Sheriff's Office coordinates with the West Virginia Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority for the housing of inmates who exceed local capacity or require specialized classification.
The Mason County Sheriff serves as the chief law enforcement officer of the county and oversees correctional operations at the county level. The administrative office is located at 200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550, and may be reached at (304) 675-2080.
Facility Operations: The county jail houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving short misdemeanor sentences, and felony holdovers awaiting transfer to state facilities. Classification is conducted at intake to determine appropriate housing and security level.
Inmate Services:
- Medical care provided on-site or through contracted health services
- Mental health referrals and crisis intervention
- Substance abuse program referrals
- Religious services and chaplaincy access
- Recreation and library access
Legal Services:
- Law library access for self-represented individuals
- Coordination with the public defender's office
- Attorney visitation during designated hours
Oversight and Accountability: The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation provides state-level oversight of county correctional operations. The Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority conducts inspections and maintains standards for facilities operating under its authority. Grievance procedures are available to inmates pursuant to W. Va. Code § 25-1A-1 et seq.
Types of Correctional Facilities in Mason County
Mason County Jail
The Mason County Jail operates under the authority of the Mason County Sheriff's Office and serves as the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county.
Mason County Sheriff's Office / County Jail
200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550
Phone: (304) 675-2080
Mason County Sheriff
The facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and felony holdovers awaiting transfer to a regional or state facility. Security classification ranges from minimum to medium security.
Lakin Correctional Center and Jail
The Lakin Correctional Center and Jail is a state-operated correctional facility physically located in Mason County. This facility is operated by the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation and is distinct from the county jail. It houses state-sentenced inmates and is not administered by the Mason County Sheriff's Office.
Lakin Correctional Center and Jail
11264 Ohio River Road, West Columbia, WV 25287
Phone: (304) 386-4500
Lakin Correctional Center and Jail
Alternative Custody Programs
Home Detention/Electronic Monitoring Home detention and electronic monitoring programs may be available to eligible individuals as an alternative to incarceration. Eligibility is determined by the court and the Sheriff's Office based on the nature of the offense, criminal history, and assessed risk level. Members of the public seeking information on program eligibility may contact the Mason County Sheriff's Office at (304) 675-2080.
Work Release Work release programs permit sentenced individuals to maintain employment in the community while serving a custodial sentence. Eligibility criteria are established by the court and the supervising agency.
Federal Detention Facilities
There are no federal detention facilities physically located in Mason County. Individuals held on federal charges are transferred to federal custody and housed in Bureau of Prisons facilities. The Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator provides location information for federally held individuals.
Facility Contact Information Summary:
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Mason County Jail | 200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550 | (304) 675-2080 |
| Lakin Correctional Center and Jail | 11264 Ohio River Road, West Columbia, WV 25287 | (304) 386-4500 |
| WV Division of Corrections | 1409 Greenbrier Street, Charleston, WV 25311 | (304) 558-2036 |
How To Find an Inmate in Mason County for Free?
All primary inmate search resources available through official government channels are provided at no cost to members of the public.
1. Official County Inmate Roster
Members of the public may contact the Mason County Sheriff's Office directly to request current inmate information at no charge. No registration is required. Information available includes current inmates, booking information, charges and bonds, facility location, and booking photographs where applicable. Records are updated as bookings and releases occur.
2. State Department of Corrections Free Search
The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation provides a free offender search for jails and prisons statewide. The search is available to any member of the public without registration or fee. Historical custody information may be available for previously incarcerated individuals.
The WV Regional Jail Authority also provides a free OIS offender search by name across all regional jail facilities, as well as a daily incarcerations list searchable by county.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
The Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator is a free resource for locating individuals in federal custody. No fee or registration is required.
4. Court Records Search
Court records maintained by the Mason County Circuit Court and Magistrate Court may be used to verify custody status and identify upcoming court dates. Court case information is publicly accessible pursuant to W. Va. Code § 29B-1-2.
Free Phone Information:
- Call (304) 675-2080 for inmate information from the Mason County Sheriff's Office
- No charge for basic custody inquiries
- Available during business hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Free In-Person Search:
- Visit the Mason County Sheriff's Office at 200 6th Street, Point Pleasant, WV 25550
- Public access terminals may be available for self-service inquiries
- Staff assistance is available during business hours
- No fee is charged for information provided at the front desk
What's Free vs. What Costs Money:
Always free:
- Online inmate search through official government portals
- Current custody status and basic inmate information
- Phone inquiry for basic information
- In-person information at the Sheriff's Office
Services that carry a cost:
- Sending money to an inmate through approved deposit services
- Video visitation through contracted vendors
- Phone calls placed by inmates through facility phone systems
- Commissary orders placed on behalf of an inmate
- Certified copies of booking records or official documents
- Third-party background check services
Members of the public are advised to use official government websites for inmate location and basic record information. Numerous third-party websites charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official sources. Members of the public should verify that any website used for inmate searches displays a .gov domain before providing personal information or payment.