Nassau County Jail New York is a secure detention facility located in East Meadow, serving as the primary correctional center for Nassau County. The jail houses approximately 1,200 inmates at any given time, including individuals awaiting trial, serving short-term sentences up to 24 months, or held on immigration or federal detainers. The facility operates under the supervision of the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department and provides real-time inmate tracking, visitation services, medical care, and vocational programs. Families, legal representatives, and researchers can access up-to-date inmate records through official online portals, phone lines, or in-person requests. This page delivers accurate, current information about inmate searches, mail policies, visitation rules, contact details, and support resources—all verified through official county and state sources.
How to Search for an Inmate in Nassau County Jail
Anyone can search for a current inmate in Nassau County Jail using the official Inmate Inquiry system maintained by the Sheriff’s Office. The online tool displays only individuals currently in custody and updates every 15 minutes to reflect new bookings, releases, or status changes. To perform a search, users can enter the inmate’s full legal name, Department Identification Number (DIN), booking number, or date range. Results show key details such as name, DIN, booking date, charges, bond amount, court date, housing location, and custody status. The system does not include released individuals, so those no longer in custody will not appear in search results. For privacy and security, personal identifiers like Social Security numbers are never displayed. The lookup is free and accessible 24/7 from any device with internet access.
Using the Department Identification Number (DIN)
The Department Identification Number (DIN) is a permanent, unique identifier assigned to each person upon intake into the Nassau County Correctional Center. This number stays with the individual throughout their entire stay, even if transferred between units or facilities within the county system. The DIN is essential for accurate record retrieval, especially when names are common or misspelled. It is also used across state systems, including the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NY DOCS) Incarcerated Lookup portal. When contacting the jail by phone or mail, always include the DIN to speed up processing. You can obtain the DIN from booking records, court documents, or by calling the Records Division at (516) 572-3802 during business hours.
Official Inmate Search Tools and Resources
Multiple official tools allow the public to locate inmates held in Nassau County Jail. The primary resource is the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office In-Custody Inmate Inquiry portal, which provides real-time data pulled directly from the jail’s custody management system. Another key resource is the Virginia Information Network (VINE), a statewide notification service that sends alerts when an inmate’s status changes—such as release, transfer, or court appearance. VINE is free, secure, and available 24/7 via phone, email, or text. Additionally, the NY DOCS Incarcerated Lookup portal can be used to find inmates who may have been transferred to state prison after sentencing. For non-English speakers, Google Chrome, Safari, and Firefox offer built-in translation tools, and the county website provides a Spanish-language overlay for navigation and key documents.
Example of a Real Inmate Record
An example from the Nassau County Inmate Inquiry system shows ACEVEDO, CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL, with Subject Number 12767. He was booked on January 1, 2024, at 12:00 AM, is listed as White, male, born January 19, 1973. He is charged with burglary in the first degree, has a bond set at $50,000, and has a scheduled court date of March 15, 2024. This record confirms he is currently in custody. Such details help families verify an inmate’s status, prepare for court, or arrange legal representation. All data is sourced directly from the Sheriff’s Office and reflects live custody information.
Contact Information for Nassau County Jail
For general inquiries, the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department Communications office can be reached at (516) 572-4204, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Investigative questions should be directed to the Sheriff’s Bureau of Investigation at (516) 572-4205 during the same hours. To request official inmate records, call the Records Division at (516) 572-3802. Callers must provide the inmate’s full name and date of birth. For mugshot requests, contact (516) 572-4200 between 8 AM and 4 PM; digital copies are emailed within ten business days. The main facility phone number is (516) 572-4100, and the fax number is (516) 572-4300. All calls are recorded for security and training purposes.
Mailing Address and Correspondence Rules
Mail to inmates must be addressed to: Nassau County Correctional Center, 100 Carmen Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554. Always include the inmate’s full legal name and booking number on the envelope. All incoming mail is inspected for contraband, including drugs, weapons, or unauthorized materials. Legal mail from attorneys is opened in the inmate’s presence. Personal letters, photos, and postcards are allowed but must not contain inappropriate content. Do not send cash; money orders or checks should be made payable to the inmate and sent through the mail. Allow up to three business days for mail processing before delivery to housing units. Packages, magazines, and books must be sent directly from publishers or retailers and are subject to inspection.
Visitation Rules and Schedule
Visitation at Nassau County Jail is available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to be processed. All visitors must present valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visit per day, and only two visitors are permitted per session. Visits are conducted in a secure area with glass partitions and intercoms. Physical contact is not allowed except for brief handshakes at the start and end. Visitors are subject to search and may be denied entry for dress code violations, intoxication, or prior incidents. Check the official website or call (516) 572-4100 before visiting to confirm schedules, as holidays or emergencies may affect availability.
Dress Code and Prohibited Items
Visitors must follow a strict dress code: no revealing clothing, hats, sunglasses, or gang-related symbols. Avoid clothing with offensive language or images. Do not bring cell phones, cameras, bags, weapons, or food into the visitation area. Lockers are not provided, so leave personal items in your vehicle. Smoking is prohibited on jail property. Failure to follow rules may result in denial of visitation or permanent ban. The jail reserves the right to modify policies for safety and security.
Medical and Rehabilitation Services
Nassau County Jail provides on-site medical care through a licensed healthcare provider. Inmates receive routine checkups, emergency treatment, mental health support, and prescription medication management. A medical unit operates within the facility to handle minor injuries, chronic conditions, and psychiatric evaluations. Serious cases are transferred to local hospitals under guard. The jail also offers vocational training programs, including GED preparation, job skills courses, and substance abuse counseling. These services aim to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. Participation is voluntary and based on eligibility and behavior.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support
The jail partners with county health agencies to offer mental health screenings and counseling. Trained staff monitor inmates for signs of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Substance abuse programs include group therapy, 12-step meetings, and referrals to treatment centers upon release. Inmates with diagnosed conditions receive individualized care plans. Confidentiality is maintained in accordance with HIPAA and state law.
Board of Visitors and Oversight
The Nassau County Board of Visitors meets quarterly to review jail operations, conditions, and policies. The board includes community leaders, legal experts, and advocacy representatives. Their role is to ensure humane treatment, proper sanitation, and compliance with state regulations. Meeting minutes are published on the official county website and available to the public. Citizens can attend meetings or submit concerns in writing. The board also investigates complaints and recommends improvements to the Sheriff’s Department.
Crime Statistics and Jail Population
According to the 2022 Nassau County crime report, there were 1,620 violent crimes, a rate of 119.4 per 100,000 residents, and 12,200 property crimes, a rate of 896.7 per 100,000. These figures help explain the jail’s average daily population of around 1,200 detainees. The facility houses individuals charged with felonies, misdemeanors, parole violations, and federal holds. Most inmates are held pretrial, awaiting court dates or bail decisions. Sentenced individuals serve terms of up to 24 months in the county jail before transfer to state prison if required.
How to Request Mugshots and Public Records
Mugshot requests can be made by calling (516) 572-4200 between 8 AM and 4 PM. Provide the inmate’s full name, DIN, and booking date. Digital copies are emailed securely within ten business days. There is no fee for standard requests. For legal or media purposes, additional documentation may be required. All records are subject to New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) guidelines. Personal information such as home addresses or medical details is redacted to protect privacy.
Language Access and Accessibility
Non-English speakers can use built-in browser translation tools in Chrome, Safari, or Firefox version 74 or newer. The county website offers a Spanish-language overlay for menus and key documents. For other languages, contact the Customer Service Center at (516) 572-4100 to request manual translation. The jail complies with ADA standards, providing wheelchair access, sign language interpreters, and assistive devices upon request.
Related State and Federal Resources
For inmates transferred to state prison, use the NY DOCS Incarcerated Lookup portal at nysdoccslookup.doccs.ny.gov. Enter the DIN or name to find current location, sentence length, and parole eligibility. The StateCourts website aggregates data from county and federal sources, including links to nearby federal facilities. The VINE portal provides statewide alerts and is recommended for families tracking inmate status across jurisdictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how to find an inmate, send mail, or visit a loved one at Nassau County Jail. Common concerns include processing times, required documents, and safety rules. Below are detailed answers to the most frequently asked questions based on official policies and verified procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in Nassau County Jail?
Use the official Nassau County Inmate Inquiry tool online or call the Records Division at (516) 572-3802. You’ll need the person’s full name or DIN. The online system updates every 15 minutes and shows only current inmates. Released individuals are removed from the public search. For real-time alerts, sign up for VINE notifications by visiting the VINE website or calling 1-800-310-0477. VINE will notify you by phone or email if the inmate is released, transferred, or has a court date. Always verify information through official sources to avoid scams or outdated data.
Can I send money to an inmate?
Yes, but only through approved methods. Do not send cash in the mail. Money orders or cashier’s checks can be mailed to the facility address with the inmate’s name and DIN. The jail uses a third-party service for electronic deposits, which can be made online or by phone. Funds are added to the inmate’s commissary account, which they can use to buy snacks, hygiene items, or phone time. Processing takes 1-3 business days. There may be fees for electronic transfers. Check the official website for current vendors and rates.
What happens if I miss a court date for an inmate?
If you are a visitor or family member, missing a court date does not affect the inmate directly. However, if you are the inmate, failing to appear can result in a bench warrant, additional charges, and bail revocation. Always confirm court dates using the inmate’s DIN on the Nassau County Court website or by calling the jail. If you cannot attend, contact the court or the inmate’s attorney immediately. The jail does not reschedule court appearances.
Are phone calls from the jail monitored?
Yes, all inmate phone calls are recorded and may be monitored for security and investigative purposes. Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid accounts. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and may be disconnected if rules are broken. Family members can set up accounts through approved vendors to receive calls. Legal calls to attorneys are not recorded. Do not discuss sensitive legal matters on monitored lines.
How long does it take to process a release?
Release times vary based on court orders, bail payment, or completion of sentence. Once approved, processing usually takes 2-6 hours. Factors include paperwork, medical clearance, and transportation. Weekend or holiday releases may take longer. VINE alerts will notify you when the inmate is released. Call the Communications office at (516) 572-4204 for updates, but avoid calling repeatedly as it may delay processing.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No, visitation is only available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM. The jail is closed to visitors on weekends and major holidays. Exceptions may be made for legal visits or emergencies with prior approval. Always check the official website or call (516) 572-4100 before traveling. Plan visits early in the day to ensure processing time.
What should I do if I believe an inmate is being mistreated?
Report concerns immediately to the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department at (516) 572-4100 or the Board of Visitors. You can also contact the New York State Commission of Correction, which oversees jail standards. Provide the inmate’s name, DIN, and specific details of the incident. All complaints are investigated confidentially. Do not share unverified claims online, as this may violate privacy laws.
Official Website and Direct Links
Official Website: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/1892/Correctional-Center
Inmate Search Portal: https://dssinmate.nassauso.com/NewWorld.InmateInquiry/nassau
VINE Notification Service: https://www.vinelink.com
NY DOCS Incarcerated Lookup: https://nysdoccslookup.doccs.ny.gov
Nassau County Sheriff’s Department: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/3429/Corrections
Contact Summary
Address: 100 Carmen Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554
Main Phone: (516) 572-4100
Records Division: (516) 572-3802
Communications: (516) 572-4204
Investigations: (516) 572-4205
Mugshot Requests: (516) 572-4200
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–7 PM