Fairfax County Public Records /Fairfax County Inmate Search

Fairfax County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Fairfax County?

Inmate records in Fairfax County are official government documents maintained by the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records document an individual's entire custody history from initial booking through release and are distinct from court records maintained by the judicial system.

Pursuant to Virginia Code § 53.1-28, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody. These records begin at the intake process when an individual is first booked into the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center and continue to be updated throughout the duration of incarceration.

Inmate records typically include:

Demographic and identifying information
Booking photographs (mugshots)
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Current charges and case status
Custody classification information
Housing assignments
Disciplinary records
Medical information (subject to privacy restrictions)
Visitation logs
Release information

Unlike court records, which focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal matters, inmate records specifically document the custodial aspects of incarceration. The Fairfax County Sheriff's Office is the official custodian of these records for individuals housed in county facilities, while the Virginia Department of Corrections maintains records for those in state prison facilities.

Are Inmate Records Public In Fairfax County?

Inmate records in Fairfax County are partially accessible to the public under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA). According to Virginia Code § 2.2-3706, certain information regarding individuals in custody must be disclosed upon request, while other information remains confidential due to privacy and security concerns.

The following inmate record information is generally available to the public:

Full name and aliases
Current incarceration status
Physical description (height, weight, etc.)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Current charges
Scheduled court dates
Bond/bail amount (if applicable)
Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
Facility location

However, several categories of information are exempt from public disclosure:

Social Security numbers
Medical and mental health records
Disciplinary records
Detailed housing assignments that could compromise security
Information about protective custody status
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Records that would jeopardize ongoing investigations

The Virginia Department of Corrections and Fairfax County Sheriff's Office maintain online inmate locator systems that provide basic public information about current inmates. For more detailed records, formal requests may be submitted under VFOIA procedures, though certain exemptions will still apply.

What's Included Inmate Records in Fairfax County

Inmate records in Fairfax County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. These records are maintained by the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office and 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 other physical descriptors
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and other biometric identifiers
State identification number and/or booking number

Custody Information:

Date and time of admission
Arresting agency
Custody classification level
Housing assignment history
Disciplinary incidents and hearings
Participation in jail programs and work assignments
Visitation records
Phone call logs (not content of calls)

Charge Information:

Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Charge status (pending, convicted, etc.)
Warrant information
Arresting agency
Criminal history (prior bookings)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond/bail amount
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
Bond conditions

Court Information:

Court case numbers
Jurisdiction of cases
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction details
Sentence length and terms
Credit for time served
Probation/parole eligibility dates
Good time/earned sentence credits
Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions

Release Information:

Scheduled or actual release date
Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer)
Post-release supervision requirements
Conditions of release

Certain portions of these records are subject to privacy protections under Virginia Code § 2.2-3705.1 and other applicable laws, particularly medical information protected by HIPAA and information that could compromise facility security.

Fairfax County Prison System

The Fairfax County correctional system operates under the authority of the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody and care of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanors and certain felonies. The system is distinct from the Virginia Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons for individuals serving longer felony sentences.

The primary correctional facility in Fairfax County is the Adult Detention Center (ADC), which houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms typically up to 12 months, as prescribed by Virginia law. The facility operates under the direct supervision model and provides various rehabilitative programs, educational opportunities, and medical services to the incarcerated population.

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and state prisons:

County jails (like the Fairfax ADC) primarily house pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences for less serious offenses
State prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than 12 months

The Fairfax County Sheriff's Office, which administers the county's correctional facilities, can be contacted at:

Fairfax County Sheriff's Office
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 140
Fairfax, VA 22035
703-246-3227
Fairfax County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office operates under the leadership of an elected Sheriff and employs sworn deputies and civilian staff who manage all aspects of the correctional facilities, including security, inmate programs, medical services, and administrative functions.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Fairfax County

Fairfax County maintains several correctional facilities and programs to accommodate different security levels and inmate needs. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system:

Adult Detention Center (ADC)
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-2100
Adult Detention Center

The ADC is the main correctional facility in Fairfax County with a capacity of approximately 1,260 inmates. It houses both male and female inmates who are awaiting trial or serving sentences up to 12 months. The facility operates under direct supervision and provides various services including medical care, mental health services, educational programs, and religious services.

Alternative Incarceration Branch (AIB)
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-4400
Alternative Incarceration Programs

The AIB administers several alternative sentencing programs designed to reduce recidivism and promote rehabilitation while maintaining public safety:

Pre-Release Center (PRC): A work-release facility for minimum-security inmates nearing the end of their sentences who are permitted to work in the community during the day while returning to secure housing at night.
Electronic Incarceration Program (EIP): Allows qualified offenders to serve their sentences at home under electronic monitoring.
Community Labor Force (CLF): A supervised work program where non-violent offenders perform community service projects throughout the county.
Work Training Program: Provides vocational training and work experience to help inmates develop marketable skills for employment after release.

Diversion First Program
Merrifield Center
8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive
Fairfax, VA 22031
703-559-3000
Diversion First

While not a correctional facility per se, this program diverts individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities from incarceration to appropriate treatment services when they have committed low-level offenses. The program involves collaboration between law enforcement, the judicial system, and mental health services.

Each of these facilities and programs operates under specific security protocols and admission criteria as established by the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office and in accordance with Virginia Department of Corrections standards.

Who's in Prison In Fairfax County

The Fairfax County Adult Detention Center houses a diverse population of individuals who fall into several distinct categories based on their legal status and the nature of their charges. Understanding who is incarcerated in the county jail system provides important context for those seeking inmate records.

Pre-trial Detainees The largest segment of the jail population consists of individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are:

Awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
Unable to post bail or denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
Held on charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies

Sentenced Misdemeanants Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses and sentenced to terms of incarceration up to 12 months. Common misdemeanor convictions include:

Driving under the influence (DUI)
Simple assault
Petty theft
Trespassing
Disorderly conduct
Probation violations for misdemeanor offenses

Short-term Felony Offenders Some individuals convicted of certain lower-level felonies may serve their sentences in the county jail rather than state prison, particularly if:

The sentence is 12 months or less
The facility has available space
The individual does not require the higher security level of a state prison

Transfer Pending Inmates Individuals who have been sentenced to terms longer than 12 months in state prison but are temporarily housed in the county jail while awaiting transfer to a Virginia Department of Corrections facility.

Federal Detainees The Fairfax County Adult Detention Center may house federal detainees through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies such as:

U.S. Marshals Service
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Other federal law enforcement agencies

Weekend/Intermittent Sentences Some offenders are permitted to serve their sentences on weekends or other intermittent schedules to maintain employment and family responsibilities.

According to data from the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population of the Adult Detention Center fluctuates but typically ranges between 650-900 inmates, with the facility having a maximum capacity of approximately 1,260 inmates.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Fairfax County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Fairfax County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of basic inmate data while protecting sensitive information.

Online Inmate Locator System

The most efficient method for locating current inmates is through the online inmate search tools:

Visit the Virginia Department of Corrections Inmate Locator for a statewide search
Enter the inmate's first and last name (middle name or initial is optional but helpful)
Alternatively, search using the inmate's DOC number if known
Review the search results, which typically include:
- Full name and DOC number
- Current location/facility
- Projected release date (if applicable)
- Basic demographic information

For Fairfax County-specific information:

Navigate to the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office website
Select the "Inmate Search" function
Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, etc.)
Review the results for basic custody information

In-Person Record Requests

For more detailed records not available online, individuals may submit requests in person:

Fairfax County Sheriff's Office Records Section
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-3245
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)

When requesting records in person:

Bring government-issued photo identification
Complete the required records request form
Specify the exact records being requested
Be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies
Allow processing time as specified by staff

Written Requests

Written requests for inmate records may be submitted via mail:

Prepare a written request including:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Purpose of the request (if relevant)
Mail the request to: Fairfax County Sheriff's Office
Records Section
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response

All record requests are processed in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and applicable privacy laws. Certain information may be redacted or withheld based on statutory exemptions.

How To Find an Inmate in Fairfax County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Fairfax County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information to the public while maintaining appropriate security and privacy protections.

Virginia Statewide Inmate Search

The Virginia Department of Corrections maintains a comprehensive inmate locator system that includes individuals housed in county facilities:

Access the Virginia DOC Inmate Locator
Enter the inmate's name (last name and first name required)
For more precise results, include any known middle name or initial
Review the search results, which will indicate if the person is currently in custody at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center

This system provides basic information including:

Inmate's full name
Current facility location
Inmate identification number
Expected release date (if applicable)

Fairfax County Sheriff's Office Resources

The Fairfax County Sheriff's Office provides several free methods to locate inmates:

Online Inmate Search
- Visit the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the inmate search function
- Enter the required search criteria
- Review results for current custody status
Telephone Information
- Call the Adult Detention Center at 703-246-2100
- Provide the full name and date of birth (if known) of the person you are trying to locate
- Staff can confirm if an individual is currently in custody
Court Records Search
- The Virginia Judicial System provides case information that may indicate if someone is in custody
- Search by name to locate criminal cases
- Case information often includes custody status and next court dates

When using these free resources, it's helpful to have as much identifying information as possible, including:

Full legal name (including any known aliases)
Date of birth
Approximate date of arrest (if known)
Case numbers (if available)

These public resources provide only basic custody information. More detailed records may require formal requests through the Virginia Freedom of Information Act procedures and may involve fees for processing and copies.

How To Visit an Inmate In Fairfax County

Visiting an inmate at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center requires adherence to specific protocols established to maintain security and order within the facility. All visits are subject to the regulations set forth by the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office and in accordance with Virginia Code § 53.1-127, which governs visitation rights in local correctional facilities.

Visit Rules and Procedures

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
Inmates may update their visitor list during designated periods
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
Visitors must register at least 30 minutes before the scheduled visit time
Late arrivals may result in denial of visitation

Visit Schedule

The Adult Detention Center offers visitation during the following hours:

Tuesday through Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
No visits on Mondays or county holidays

Specific housing units have designated visitation days and times. Visitors should confirm the correct schedule for the specific inmate they wish to visit by calling 703-246-2100.

What to Bring

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
Birth certificates for minor visitors
Locker key deposit (quarters for facility lockers)
Medical devices necessary for health (must be approved by security)

What NOT to Bring

Cell phones or electronic devices
Cameras or recording equipment
Weapons of any kind
Food or beverages
Tobacco products or vaping devices
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash or items for inmates (must be sent through approved channels)

Dress Code

All visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:

No revealing or provocative clothing
No gang-related attire or symbols
No clothing with offensive language or images
Shirts and shoes required
No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
No excessively baggy clothing
No clothing similar to inmate or staff uniforms

Visit Types

The facility offers two primary types of visitation:

Video Visitation: Most visits occur via video terminals located in the visitation area
Contact Visits: Limited to certain classifications of inmates and special circumstances, requiring advance approval

Visit Restrictions

Visitation privileges may be suspended or revoked for:

Violation of facility rules
Disruptive behavior
Suspected introduction of contraband
False identification
Appearing under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Court orders prohibiting contact

For additional information or to confirm current visitation policies, contact:

Fairfax County Adult Detention Center
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-2100
Adult Detention Center FAQs

How To Send Money to a Fairfax County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access certain services within the facility.

Approved Deposit Methods

Online Deposits
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Fairfax County Adult Detention Center"
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on deposit amount)
Kiosk Deposits
- Use the TouchPay kiosk located in the lobby of the Adult Detention Center
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Provide receipt for all transactions
- Lower service fees than online deposits
Mail-In Money Orders
- Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
- Mail to: Fairfax County Adult Detention Center
  Inmate Accounts
  10520 Judicial Drive
  Fairfax, VA 22030
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No personal checks or cash accepted through mail

Deposit Limits and Restrictions

Minimum deposit: $1.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
Maximum account balance: $750.00
Deposits exceeding limits will be returned or rejected

Processing Fees

Online deposits: $2.50-$10.00 based on amount
Kiosk deposits: $1.50-$8.00 based on amount
Money orders: No processing fee

Prohibited Uses of Funds

Inmate funds cannot be used for:

Bail or bond payments
Court fees or fines (separate payment systems exist for these)
Purchasing items for other inmates
Obtaining contraband
Gambling or unauthorized transactions

Authorized Expenditures

Inmates may use account funds for:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Tablet rentals and services
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Approved educational materials

Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:

Fairfax County Sheriff's Office Inmate Accounts
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-2178
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

How To Send Jail Mail In Fairfax County

Corresponding with inmates at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center requires adherence to specific guidelines established to maintain facility security while allowing inmates to maintain important connections with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail procedures comply with Virginia Code § 53.1-26, which governs inmate correspondence in correctional facilities.

General Mail Guidelines

All non-legal mail sent to inmates must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known)
Fairfax County Adult Detention Center
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030

Mail must include a complete return address with the sender's full name. Items without proper addressing or return information will be returned to sender when possible or otherwise disposed of according to facility policy.

Permitted Mail Items

The following items are generally permitted:

Letters on plain white or light-colored paper
Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, electronic, or oversized cards)
Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
Up to 10 pages of newspaper or magazine clippings
Self-addressed stamped envelopes for return correspondence

Prohibited Mail Items

The following items are prohibited and will result in the entire mail package being rejected:

Packages or padded envelopes
Plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
Polaroid photographs
Sexually explicit or obscene materials
Gang-related content or symbols
Items containing unknown substances
Stickers, labels, or tape
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Cards larger than 8"x10"
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes (except self-addressed stamped envelopes)
Food items or cosmetics
Clothing or accessories

Legal Mail

Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies receives special handling:

Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
Should include the attorney's bar number or court/agency information
Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
Is not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
Should be addressed with "Legal Mail" prominently displayed

Mail Inspection Process

All non-legal mail is subject to inspection for contraband and prohibited content. This process includes:

Opening and visual inspection of all contents
Reading for security concerns (threats, escape plans, criminal activity)
Removal of unauthorized items
Documentation of rejected mail

Electronic Messaging Alternative

The facility offers a secure electronic messaging system through GTL ConnectNetwork. This service:

Allows for faster communication
Requires account creation and inmate information
Charges fees per message
Limits message length and attachment options
Is subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail

For questions regarding mail policies or to report issues with inmate correspondence, contact:

Fairfax County Adult Detention Center
Mail Room
10520 Judicial Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-246-2100

Lookup Inmate Records in Fairfax County

Virginia Department of Corrections Inmate Locator

Fairfax County Sheriff's Office

Virginia Court System Case Information

Adult Detention Center Information

Adult Detention Center FAQs