Chittenden County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Chittenden County?
Inmate records in Chittenden County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Chittenden County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's correctional system. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration history, from initial intake through release. Pursuant to Vermont Statutes Title 28 § 601, the Vermont Department of Corrections is authorized to maintain records on all persons committed to its custody.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and supervision of individuals
- Court records are maintained by the Vermont Judiciary
- Inmate records are maintained by correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies
The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when an individual is processed into a correctional facility. The record is continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to document housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is closed but maintained according to Vermont's records retention requirements.
The Vermont Department of Corrections maintains these records in accordance with state law and departmental policies, ensuring accurate documentation of all individuals in custody within Chittenden County's correctional system.
Are Inmate Records Public In Chittenden County?
Inmate records in Chittenden County are partially accessible to the public under Vermont's Public Records Act, codified in 1 V.S.A. §§ 315-320. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate records, are public unless specifically exempted by law.
The Vermont Department of Corrections provides limited public access to inmate information while balancing privacy concerns and security considerations. Under current law, the following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently incarcerated)
- Basic booking information
- Current charges
- Facility location
- Expected release date (for sentenced individuals)
- Bail/bond amounts (for pre-trial detainees)
However, certain components of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under 1 V.S.A. § 317(c), which provides numerous exemptions to the Public Records Act. These exemptions typically include:
- Medical and mental health information
- Disciplinary records
- Program participation details
- Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
- Security-related information
The Vermont Rules for Public Access to Court Records further restrict certain judicial records related to inmates, particularly those involving ongoing investigations or juvenile matters.
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic details through the Vermont Department of Corrections' online inmate locator system or by contacting the specific correctional facility directly.
What's Included Inmate Records in Chittenden County
Inmate records in Chittenden County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Assigned inmate identification number
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Booking officer information
- Custody classification
- Housing assignment history
- Scheduled court appearances
- Disciplinary incidents and hearings
- Program participation and work assignments
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Arresting agency
- Warrant or case numbers
- Charge severity (misdemeanor/felony)
- Charge status (pending, convicted, dismissed)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond/bail type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond/bail status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case numbers
- Scheduled court dates
- Court orders affecting custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/earned time calculations
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time
- Type of release (completed sentence, bail, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in accordance with Vermont Department of Corrections Directive 254.01 regarding inmate records management and retention.
Chittenden County Prison System
The correctional system in Chittenden County operates as part of Vermont's unified state prison system, rather than as a county-administered jail system found in many other states. Vermont is one of six states nationwide that operates a unified correctional system, where the state government administers all correctional facilities, including those that would typically be county jails in other jurisdictions.
The Vermont Department of Corrections oversees all correctional facilities in the state, including those located in Chittenden County. This unified system handles both pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals, regardless of sentence length. Unlike states with separate county and state systems, Vermont does not distinguish between "jail" and "prison" facilities based on sentence length.
The Chittenden County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services but does not operate a county jail facility. The Sheriff's Office is responsible for transporting individuals to state correctional facilities after arrest.
Chittenden County Sheriff's Office
70 Ethan Allen Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 863-4341
Chittenden County Sheriff's Office
Individuals arrested in Chittenden County are typically processed and housed at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility in South Burlington, which is operated by the Vermont Department of Corrections.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Chittenden County
Chittenden County houses one primary correctional facility operated by the Vermont Department of Corrections:
Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility (CRCF)
7 Farrell Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 419-0471
Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility
The Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility serves as Vermont's only women's prison, housing female inmates from throughout the state. The facility accommodates:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Sentenced individuals serving terms of any length
- Individuals with varying security classifications
The facility provides various rehabilitative programs, including:
- Educational services
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Vocational training
- Reentry planning
While CRCF is the only state correctional facility physically located in Chittenden County, male inmates from the county may be housed at other Vermont Department of Corrections facilities throughout the state, including:
- Northern State Correctional Facility (Newport)
- Southern State Correctional Facility (Springfield)
- Northeast Correctional Complex (St. Johnsbury)
- Northwest State Correctional Facility (Swanton)
- Marble Valley Regional Correctional Facility (Rutland)
The Vermont Department of Corrections determines facility placement based on security classification, programming needs, and available space within the unified state system.
Who's in Prison In Chittenden County
The Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility (CRCF) houses female inmates exclusively, as it serves as Vermont's only women's correctional facility. The inmate population at CRCF typically consists of:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings who have not been convicted
- Individuals serving sentences after conviction
- Individuals who have violated probation or parole conditions
- Individuals awaiting transfer to other facilities or jurisdictions
The facility houses inmates with various security classifications, from minimum to maximum security. As the state's only women's prison, CRCF houses female inmates from all Vermont counties, not just Chittenden County.
Male inmates from Chittenden County are housed in other Vermont Department of Corrections facilities throughout the state based on their security classification, programming needs, and available space.
According to the Vermont Department of Corrections, the inmate population typically includes individuals charged with or convicted of:
- Property crimes (burglary, theft, fraud)
- Drug offenses
- Violent crimes (assault, robbery)
- Motor vehicle violations
- Public order offenses
- Sex offenses
- Probation/parole violations
The average daily population at CRCF fluctuates but typically ranges from 120-150 inmates. The facility's population reflects broader criminal justice trends in Vermont, including efforts to implement evidence-based practices and reduce incarceration rates through alternative sentencing options when appropriate.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Chittenden County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Chittenden County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Vermont Department of Corrections provides multiple channels for obtaining inmate records:
Online Inmate Locator:
- Visit the Vermont Department of Corrections Inmate Locator website
- Enter the inmate's first and last name or inmate ID number
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Current facility location
- Inmate ID number
- Booking date
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility directly at (802) 419-0471
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Request the specific information needed about the inmate
Written Request:
-
Submit a written public records request to:
Vermont Department of Corrections
NOB 2 South, 280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-2000
(802) 241-2442
Vermont Department of Corrections -
Include in your request:
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Your contact information
- Preferred method of receiving records
-
The Department will respond within the timeframes established by 1 V.S.A. § 318, typically within 3-10 business days
In-Person Request:
- Visit the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Complete a public records request form at the facility
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the records being requested
Requesters should note that certain information may be redacted from inmate records in accordance with exemptions under Vermont's Public Records Act. Fees may apply for copying or extensive record searches as permitted by state law.
How To Find an Inmate in Chittenden County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Chittenden County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by the Vermont Department of Corrections:
Vermont Department of Corrections Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Vermont Department of Corrections Inmate Locator on the department's website
- Enter the inmate's first and last name in the search fields
- If known, include the inmate ID number for more precise results
- Review the search results, which typically display:
- Current facility location
- Inmate ID number
- Booking date
- Expected release date (for sentenced individuals)
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility directly at (802) 419-0471
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if available
- Request confirmation of the individual's incarceration status and location
Vermont Department of Corrections Central Office:
- Contact the central office at (802) 241-2442 during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Provide the inmate's name and any other identifying information
- Request information about the inmate's current location
Victim Services Unit: Registered victims can obtain inmate information through the Victim Services Unit:
- Contact the Victim Services Unit at (802) 241-2302
- Verify your status as a registered victim
- Request information about the inmate's status and location
When searching for an inmate, having the following information available will facilitate the process:
- Inmate's full legal name (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth
- Vermont Department of Corrections inmate ID number (if known)
The Vermont Department of Corrections updates inmate location information regularly, but there may be a brief delay in updating records following transfers between facilities or recent bookings.
How To Visit an Inmate In Chittenden County
Visiting an inmate at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility requires adherence to specific protocols established by the Vermont Department of Corrections. All visits must comply with Vermont Department of Corrections Directive 327 regarding inmate visitation.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- To be added to an inmate's visitor list, the inmate must submit a visitor application form
- Visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification
- All visitors are subject to search prior to entering the facility
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
Visit Schedule:
- Regular visiting hours at CRCF are:
- Wednesday: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) may be scheduled during additional hours
- Visit duration is typically limited to one hour
- The number of visitors allowed per inmate at one time is limited to three
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Locker key (provided at facility) for storing personal items
- Medication needed during visit (must be declared and approved)
- Up to $25 in cash or coins for vending machines (where available)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, etc.)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Any items to give directly to inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No clothing resembling inmate attire
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Contact visits (physical contact limited to brief embrace at beginning and end)
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition) for certain security classifications
- Special visits may be arranged for out-of-state visitors with advance approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors showing signs of intoxication will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior may result in visit termination
- Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval
- Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
- Visitors who violate rules may have visiting privileges suspended
For the most current visiting information, contact the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility directly at (802) 419-0471 prior to planning a visit, as schedules and procedures may change.
How To Send Money to a Chittenden County Inmate
The Vermont Department of Corrections provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility. These funds can be used by inmates to purchase items from the commissary, pay for phone calls, and cover other approved expenses.
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in if you already have one
- Select "Vermont" as the state
- Enter the inmate's ID number and last name
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50 for deposits up to $50; $3.50 for deposits $50.01-$100; $4.50 for deposits $100.01-$300)
Telephone Deposits:
- Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Provide the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the automated prompts to complete the transaction
- Service fees apply (typically $4.95 per transaction)
Money Order by Mail:
-
Purchase a money order payable to "Vermont Department of Corrections"
-
Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
-
Complete a money order deposit form (available on the DOC website)
-
Mail to:
Vermont Department of Corrections
Inmate Accounting
NOB 2 South, 280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-2000 -
No service fees apply for money orders
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the kiosk in the lobby of any Vermont correctional facility
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically $3.00 per transaction)
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum online/phone deposit: $300.00 per transaction
- Maximum money order: $1,000.00
- Maximum monthly deposit limit: $1,500.00 per inmate
What the Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging where available
- Approved educational materials
- Medical co-pays
- Restitution payments (if ordered by court)
What the Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Transferring to other inmates
- Purchasing contraband items
- Paying for items prohibited by facility rules
- Direct payments to outside vendors or individuals
Funds deposited into an inmate's account are typically available within 1-3 business days for money orders and within 24 hours for electronic deposits. The Vermont Department of Corrections retains the right to place holds on deposits or deduct funds for court-ordered obligations, including restitution, child support, and other legal financial obligations.
How To Send Jail Mail In Chittenden County
Sending mail to inmates at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility must comply with the Vermont Department of Corrections' mail policies. All correspondence is subject to inspection and must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure delivery.
Addressing Mail:
-
Address envelopes or packages as follows:
Inmate's Full Name and DOC Number
Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility
7 Farrell Street
South Burlington, VT 05403 -
Include your complete return address on the envelope or package
-
Use standard white or manila envelopes
Letter Guidelines:
- All mail must be written in blue or black ink or pencil
- No crayon, marker, colored pencil, glitter, or other decorative elements
- No perfume, lipstick, stickers, labels, or tape on correspondence
- No plastic, metal, or other non-paper items enclosed
- No Polaroid photos (standard photos are permitted, maximum of 5 per envelope)
- No greeting cards larger than 5" x 7"
- No greeting cards with electronic or musical components
- No homemade cards with multiple layers or added materials
Permitted Items:
- Personal letters (no limit on number of pages)
- Legal correspondence
- Standard photographs (maximum size 4" x 6", no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following proper procedures)
- Approved religious materials
- Approved educational materials
Prohibited Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Sexually explicit materials
- Materials depicting violence or criminal activity
- Correspondence containing threats or extortion
- Items containing gang symbols or references
- Books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Food items or clothing
- Any contraband or illegal items
Publications and Books:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
- Publications must be paperback only (no hardcover books)
- Address publications using the same format as personal mail
- Publications are subject to review for prohibited content
Legal Mail:
- Mail from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Legal mail is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
All mail is processed according to Vermont Department of Corrections Directive 409.05 regarding inmate mail. Violation of mail rules may result in the mail being returned to sender, placed in the inmate's property, or, in cases of contraband, turned over to law enforcement.
Lookup Inmate Records in Chittenden County
Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility visiting information
Vermont Department of Corrections official website