McHenry County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In McHenry County?
Inmate records in McHenry County are official government documents maintained by the McHenry County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks an individual from initial booking through release.
Pursuant to Illinois Compiled Statutes Chapter 730 ILCS 5/3-5-1, correctional institutions are required to maintain records of persons committed to their custody. These records are distinct from court records, which document legal proceedings and are maintained by the McHenry County Circuit Clerk's Office. While court records focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document custody status and institutional management.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge information are collected. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect:
• Housing assignments • Disciplinary actions • Medical information • Visitation logs • Program participation • Court appearances • Release information
The McHenry County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and privacy laws that govern their management and accessibility.
Are Inmate Records Public In McHenry County?
Inmate records in McHenry County are partially public under Illinois law. The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/) establishes the framework for public access to government records, including certain inmate information. However, access is limited by privacy protections outlined in both state and federal laws.
The following inmate information is generally available to the public:
• Full name and booking ID • Current custody status • Facility location • Booking date • Charges filed • Bond/bail amounts • Expected release date (if determined) • Court dates
Certain information is explicitly exempt from public disclosure under Section 7 of the Illinois FOIA, including:
• Medical and mental health records • Disciplinary records • Personal identifying information (Social Security numbers, birth dates) • Information that would compromise institutional security • Juvenile records (subject to additional protections under 705 ILCS 405/)
The McHenry County Sheriff's Office currently provides basic inmate information through their online inmate lookup system, which is updated regularly to reflect current custody status. This public access system balances transparency with privacy and security concerns as mandated by state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in McHenry County
Inmate records in McHenry County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. The following represents the standard components of these official records:
Basic Identifying Information: • Full legal name • Booking photograph (mugshot) • Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks) • Age and date of birth • Assigned identification numbers • Gender
Custody Information: • Booking date and time • Arresting agency • Custody classification • Housing assignment • Security level designation • Disciplinary history (restricted access) • Institutional movement history
Charge Information: • Current charges • Charge classification (misdemeanor/felony) • Charge status (pending/convicted) • Warrant information • Case numbers • Arresting agency
Bond/Bail Information: • Bond type • Bond amount • Bond status (posted/not posted) • Bond conditions • Bond court dates
Court Information: • Court of jurisdiction • Case numbers • Scheduled court appearances • Court orders • Attorney of record
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence): • Sentence length • Sentence start date • Projected release date • Good time/earned time credits • Parole eligibility date • Probation terms
Release Information: • Release date • Release type (bond, completion of sentence, transfer) • Post-release supervision requirements • Conditions of release
These records are maintained in accordance with the Illinois County Jail Standards (20 Ill. Adm. Code 701), which establishes minimum record-keeping requirements for county correctional facilities.
McHenry County Prison System
The McHenry County correctional system operates under a tiered structure that distinguishes between local detention and state incarceration. The McHenry County Jail serves as the primary facility for pre-trial detention and sentences of less than one year, while longer sentences are served in state prisons operated by the Illinois Department of Corrections.
The McHenry County Sheriff's Office has statutory responsibility for operating the county jail under 55 ILCS 5/3-6017, which mandates the sheriff to "take charge and custody of the jail" and "receive and safely keep all prisoners committed to his custody."
The county jail primarily houses: • Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail • Persons serving sentences of less than one year • Individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities • Federal detainees (through intergovernmental agreements)
For administrative matters related to the McHenry County correctional system, the public may contact:
McHenry County Sheriff's Office
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 338-2144
McHenry County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In McHenry County
McHenry County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
McHenry County Adult Correctional Facility
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 334-4704
McHenry County Corrections
This is the main detention facility in McHenry County with a capacity of approximately 650 inmates. The facility houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced inmates serving less than one year, and federal detainees through an intergovernmental agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The facility provides various rehabilitative programs, medical services, and educational opportunities.
McHenry County Juvenile Detention Facility
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 334-4800
Juvenile Facility
This separate facility houses juvenile offenders under 18 years of age. Records pertaining to juvenile detainees are subject to stricter confidentiality requirements under the Illinois Juvenile Court Act (705 ILCS 405/).
McHenry County Work Release Center
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 334-4704
Work Release Program
This program allows qualifying low-risk offenders to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Participants report to the facility when not working and are subject to strict monitoring and supervision.
Electronic Monitoring Program
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 334-4704
Electronic Monitoring
While not a physical facility, this alternative to incarceration allows certain offenders to serve sentences at home under electronic supervision, reducing jail population and costs while maintaining public safety.
Who's in Prison In McHenry County
The McHenry County Jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals, each with different legal statuses and custody requirements. Current demographic information indicates the following composition:
Pre-trial Detainees: The largest segment of the jail population consists of individuals who have been charged with crimes but not yet convicted. These individuals are legally presumed innocent and are detained because they: • Could not post the required bail • Were denied bail due to public safety concerns • Voluntarily remain in custody
Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanors or low-level felonies and are serving sentences of less than one year, as prescribed by 730 ILCS 5/5-8-6. These sentences typically result from: • Misdemeanor convictions • Class 4 felonies (least serious felony classification) • Probation violations
Federal Detainees: Through an Intergovernmental Service Agreement (IGSA), McHenry County houses federal detainees, primarily those in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody awaiting immigration proceedings.
Temporary Holds: Individuals temporarily housed while awaiting: • Transfer to Illinois Department of Corrections facilities • Interstate transfer to other jurisdictions • Court appearances from other counties
Weekend Sentences: Individuals serving intermittent sentences that allow them to maintain employment and family responsibilities while serving time on weekends.
The jail population fluctuates daily, with an average daily population of approximately 250-350 inmates. Demographic data indicates the population is predominantly male (approximately 85%), with females housed in separate units. The age range typically spans from 18 to 65+ years, with the majority between 20-40 years of age.
How To Search for Inmate Records In McHenry County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in McHenry County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide timely and accurate information about individuals in custody.
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the McHenry County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Jail Information" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically last name and first name)
- Review the results, which generally include: • Inmate name • Booking date • Current charges • Bond information • Next court date • Housing facility
In-Person Requests:
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Visit the McHenry County Sheriff's Office Records Division
McHenry County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 338-2144
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM -
Complete a public information request form
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Provide identification and specify the information requested
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Pay applicable fees for copies of records
Written Requests:
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Submit a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to:
McHenry County Sheriff's Office FOIA Officer
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098 -
Include the following information: • Requestor's name and contact information • Specific inmate information being requested • Purpose of the request (optional) • Preferred format for receiving records
Telephone Inquiries:
- Call the McHenry County Jail at (815) 334-4704
- Provide the name of the individual
- Note that limited information is available via telephone
All requests are processed in accordance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/), which requires responses within 5 business days under standard circumstances.
How To Find an Inmate in McHenry County for Free?
McHenry County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody. These resources are designed to provide basic information about an inmate's status and location without requiring payment or subscription fees.
McHenry County Sheriff's Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the McHenry County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review results showing current inmates
- Information typically includes booking date, charges, and bond amount
Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search
- Enter the individual's name or IDOC number
- Review custody status and location information
McHenry County Circuit Clerk Case Information:
- Access the McHenry County Circuit Clerk's online case access
- Search by name to locate criminal cases
- Review case information, which often indicates custody status
- Note court dates and case disposition
Telephone Verification:
- Call the McHenry County Jail at (815) 334-4704
- Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
- Request basic custody information
- Available during normal business hours
Vinelink Notification Service:
- Visit VINELink
- Select Illinois as the state
- Enter the inmate's name
- Receive custody status and facility information
- Optional: Register for custody status change notifications
These free resources provide basic information in compliance with the Illinois Compiled Statutes (730 ILCS 5/3-5-1), which governs the maintenance and accessibility of records regarding persons in custody.
How To Visit an Inmate In McHenry County
Visitation at McHenry County correctional facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits are subject to the regulations established under 20 Illinois Administrative Code 701.200, which governs county jail operations.
Visit Rules and Procedures: • All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list • Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance • Maximum of two adults per visit (children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult) • Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification • All visitors are subject to search • Visitation may be terminated at any time for rule violations
Visit Schedule: • Non-contact visits: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM • Visit duration: 30 minutes for standard visits • Frequency: Two visits per week per inmate
What to Bring: • Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport) • Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit) • Medications needed during visit (must be declared) • Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)
What NOT to Bring: • Cell phones or electronic devices • 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 • Shoes and shirts required • No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Visit Types: • Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone) • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy in private rooms) • Video visitation available for certain housing units
Visit Restrictions: • Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting • Persons on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer • Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry • Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination and possible suspension of privileges
For current visitation information or to schedule a visit:
McHenry County Jail Visitation Office
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: (815) 334-4704
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
How To Send Money to a McHenry County Inmate
McHenry County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds enable inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary and pay for services such as phone calls.
Online Deposits:
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "McHenry County Jail" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds are usually available within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the McHenry County Jail lobby during business hours
- Use the automated kiosk located in the public area
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Minimal processing fees apply
- Funds typically available same day
Money Order by Mail:
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Obtain a money order payable to "McHenry County Jail"
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Write inmate's full name and ID number on money order
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Do not send cash or personal checks
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Mail to:
McHenry County Jail Inmate Accounts
2200 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098 -
No fee for this method
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Processing time: 3-5 business days
Amount Limits: • Minimum deposit: $5.00 • Maximum single deposit: $300.00 • Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 • Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Funds Usage Regulations: Inmates may use funds for: • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing) • Phone calls and video visitation • Medical co-pays • Haircuts • Educational materials
Funds may not be used for: • Bail or bond payments • Court fees or fines (separate payment system) • Transfers to other inmates • Outside purchases
Upon release, remaining funds are returned to the inmate via debit card or check. Unclaimed funds are handled according to Illinois Revised Statutes Chapter 765, Act 1025, governing unclaimed property.
How To Send Jail Mail In McHenry County
Correspondence with inmates at McHenry County correctional facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain security while facilitating communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail procedures comply with 20 Illinois Administrative Code 701.180.
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes clearly with: • Inmate's full name and ID number • McHenry County Jail • 2200 N. Seminary Avenue • Woodstock, IL 60098
- Include your complete return address
- Use standard white envelopes only
- All incoming mail is opened and inspected (except legal mail)
- Processing time: 24-48 hours after receipt
Permitted Items: • Letters (maximum 5 pages) • Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope)
- Must be 4"x6" or smaller
- No Polaroids
- No explicit content • Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards) • Money orders (following money deposit procedures) • Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Prohibited Items: • Cash or personal checks • Stamps or envelopes • Stickers or labels • Crayon or marker writings • Perfumed or scented items • Hardcover books or magazines • Packages or padded envelopes • Food items or clothing • Any contraband or unauthorized items
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney bar number and return address
- Opened in the presence of the inmate
- Not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
Books and Publications:
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Soft-cover books only
- Subject to content review
- Maximum of 3 books in possession at one time
E-Messages (if available):
- Register at GTL Connect Network
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages through the platform
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Fees apply per message
All mail is subject to inspection for contraband and content that violates facility rules or poses security concerns. Mail containing prohibited content will be rejected and either returned to sender or placed in the inmate's property. Persistent violations may result in restrictions on correspondence privileges.