logo
SussexRecords.us
Search Public Records
Sussex Public Records /Sussex County Inmate Search

Sussex County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Sussex County?

Inmate records in Sussex County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies that document the custody, care, and control of individuals incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody, from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Delaware Code Title 11, Chapter 86, § 8605, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate and complete records for all persons in their custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records document the judicial proceedings related to a case, inmate records specifically track an individual's status within the correctional system. Court records are maintained by the judicial branch, whereas inmate records are maintained by the Delaware Department of Correction and local detention facilities.

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, where basic identifying information is collected, including:

  • Biographical data
  • Photographs (mugshots)
  • Fingerprints
  • Personal property inventory
  • Medical screening information
  • Initial security classification

Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to document:

  • Housing assignments
  • Disciplinary actions
  • Program participation
  • Medical treatments
  • Visitation logs
  • Release planning

Upon release, the inmate record is closed but maintained according to the Delaware Public Records Law, which governs the retention and eventual disposition of these records.

Are Inmate Records Public In Sussex County?

Inmate records in Sussex County are partially accessible to the public under Delaware's Freedom of Information Act (29 Del. C. § 10001-10007). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate records, should be available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.

The Delaware Department of Correction maintains and provides access to specific inmate information through their public information systems. However, access is limited to protect privacy rights and maintain security. Under current Delaware law, the following inmate record information is generally available to the public:

  • Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
  • Basic booking information
  • Charges filed
  • Mugshots (with certain restrictions)
  • Bond/bail amounts
  • Expected release dates
  • Current housing facility

Information that is typically restricted from public access includes:

  • Detailed medical records
  • Mental health evaluations
  • Disciplinary reports
  • Social security numbers
  • Personal identifying information
  • Victim information
  • Security-sensitive operational details

The Delaware Department of Correction Inmate Locator provides a publicly accessible database where members of the public may search for basic information about individuals currently in custody or under supervision.

What's Included Inmate Records in Sussex County

Inmate records in Sussex County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically 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 identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
  • Mugshot photographs
  • Fingerprints
  • State identification number (SID)
  • Department of Correction identification number

Custody Information:

  • Date and time of admission
  • Arresting agency
  • Booking officer
  • Housing assignments
  • Classification status
  • Security level
  • Disciplinary history while incarcerated
  • Program participation

Charge Information:

  • Current charges
  • Case numbers
  • Arresting agency
  • Warrant information
  • Criminal history (prior convictions)

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
  • Bond amount
  • Bond status (posted, not posted)
  • Bond conditions

Court Information:

  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Judge assigned
  • Attorney information
  • Court dates
  • Court orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Conviction charges
  • Sentence length
  • Sentence start date
  • Projected release date
  • Parole eligibility date
  • Good time credits earned
  • Detainers or holds

Release Information:

  • Release date
  • Release type (completed sentence, bail, transfer)
  • Post-release supervision requirements
  • Conditions of release

These records are maintained in accordance with Delaware Administrative Code Title 11, § 4400, which establishes standards for record-keeping in correctional facilities.

Sussex County Prison System

The correctional system in Sussex County operates as part of Delaware's unified prison system under the authority of the Delaware Department of Correction. Unlike many states where county jails and state prisons function as separate entities, Delaware maintains a unified correctional system where all adult detention facilities are operated by the state Department of Correction.

In this unified system, Sussex County houses the Sussex Correctional Institution (SCI), which serves multiple functions including pre-trial detention, short-term incarceration for misdemeanor convictions, and long-term confinement for felony sentences. This differs from the typical model where county facilities hold pre-trial detainees and those serving sentences of less than one year, while state prisons house individuals serving longer sentences.

The Sussex County Sheriff's Office does not operate detention facilities but serves civil papers, transports prisoners, provides courthouse security, and conducts sheriff sales. The office works in coordination with the Department of Correction regarding inmate matters.

Sussex County Sheriff's Office
2 The Circle
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: (302) 855-7830
Official Website: Sussex County Sheriff's Office

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays

For matters related to inmate custody, the public should contact the Sussex Correctional Institution directly, as the Sheriff's Office does not maintain custody records.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Sussex County

Sussex County houses several types of correctional facilities, each serving different populations and security needs within Delaware's unified correctional system:

Sussex Correctional Institution (SCI)
23203 DuPont Boulevard
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: (302) 856-5280
Official Website: Sussex Correctional Institution

SCI is a Level 5 facility (maximum security) that houses approximately 1,200 inmates of various security classifications. The institution serves multiple functions:

  • Pre-trial detention
  • Medium and maximum security housing
  • Specialized treatment programs
  • Work release preparation

Sussex Community Corrections Center (SCCC)
23207 DuPont Boulevard
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: (302) 856-5790
Official Website: Delaware Community Corrections

SCCC is a Level 4 facility (medium-high security) that provides:

  • Work release programs
  • Treatment programs
  • Community service opportunities
  • Transitional housing for inmates nearing release

Sussex Violation of Probation Center (SVOP)
23207 DuPont Boulevard
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: (302) 856-5790
Official Website: Delaware Community Corrections

SVOP is a Level 4 facility that houses:

  • Probation violators
  • Short-term detention for technical violations
  • Assessment and classification services

Sussex Drug Treatment Program
23203 DuPont Boulevard
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: (302) 856-5280
Official Website: Delaware Treatment Programs

This specialized program within SCI provides:

  • Substance abuse treatment
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Relapse prevention planning
  • Transitional services

All facilities operate under the authority of the Delaware Department of Correction and adhere to standards established by the American Correctional Association and Delaware law.

Who's in Prison In Sussex County

The inmate population in Sussex County correctional facilities consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. Under current Delaware law, the following categories of individuals may be housed in Sussex County correctional facilities:

Pre-trial Detainees:

  • Individuals awaiting trial who have not been convicted
  • Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
  • Persons held on probation or parole violation warrants awaiting hearings

Sentenced Offenders:

  • Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically under 1 year)
  • Persons serving felony sentences of any length
  • Probation violators serving short custodial sanctions

Special Populations:

  • Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
  • Mental health treatment recipients
  • Work release participants
  • Interstate compact transfers from other states

According to Delaware Code Title 11, § 6526, the Department of Correction has the authority to classify and house inmates based on security needs, programming requirements, and available space. This means that Sussex Correctional Institution may house inmates with varying security classifications and sentence lengths.

The demographic composition of the inmate population generally reflects:

  • Predominantly male (Sussex Correctional Institution houses only male inmates)
  • Various age groups, with the majority between 18-45 years old
  • Diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds
  • Various educational levels
  • Range of criminal histories from first-time offenders to those with extensive records

Female inmates from Sussex County are typically housed at Baylor Women's Correctional Institution in New Castle County, as Sussex County does not maintain a separate female detention facility.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Sussex County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Sussex County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Delaware Department of Correction maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate information. The following procedures are currently in place:

Online Inmate Search:

  1. Visit the Delaware Department of Correction Inmate Locator
  2. Enter the inmate's first and last name, or their Department of Correction number if known
  3. Review the search results, which typically include:
    • Full name
    • DOC number
    • Current facility
    • Admission date
    • Current status
    • Projected release date (if applicable)

In-Person Record Requests:

  1. Visit the Sussex Correctional Institution during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
  2. Complete a public information request form at the facility
  3. Provide proper identification
  4. Specify the records being requested
  5. Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction

Written Requests:

  1. Submit a written request to:

    Sussex Correctional Institution
    Records Department
    23203 DuPont Boulevard
    Georgetown, DE 19947

  2. Include the following information:

    • Inmate's full name and DOC number (if known)
    • Your contact information
    • Specific records being requested
    • Purpose of the request (optional)

  3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response

  4. Include payment for any applicable fees

FOIA Requests: For more comprehensive records, submit a formal Freedom of Information Act request:

  1. Complete the Delaware Department of Correction FOIA Request Form
  2. Submit the form via email, mail, or in person
  3. Be specific about the records being requested
  4. Expect a response within 15 business days as required by 29 Del. C. § 10003

Certain information may be redacted from records provided, including personal identifying information, security-sensitive details, and information protected by federal privacy laws.

How To Find an Inmate in Sussex County for Free?

Members of the public can locate inmates in Sussex County without incurring costs through several free resources provided by the Delaware Department of Correction. These services are designed to provide basic custody information while protecting both security interests and inmate privacy.

Delaware Automated Victim Information and Notification (VINE):

  1. Access the Delaware VINE service online
  2. Enter the inmate's name
  3. Review the custody status information
  4. Register for notifications if desired (optional)
  5. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Department of Correction Online Inmate Locator:

  1. Visit the Delaware DOC Inmate Locator
  2. Enter the inmate's name or DOC number
  3. Review the results, which include current facility and status
  4. No registration or payment is required

Telephone Inquiry:

  1. Contact the Sussex Correctional Institution directly at (302) 856-5280
  2. Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
  3. Basic custody status information may be provided over the phone
  4. Available during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)

In-Person Inquiry:

  1. Visit the public information desk at:

    Sussex Correctional Institution
    23203 DuPont Boulevard
    Georgetown, DE 19947

  2. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about

  3. Present valid identification

  4. Receive basic custody information at no cost

When using these free services, please note that information is limited to:

  • Confirmation of custody status
  • Current facility location
  • Projected release date (if applicable)
  • Public court case numbers

More detailed information may require a formal records request and associated fees.

How To Visit an Inmate In Sussex County

Visitation with inmates at Sussex Correctional Institution is governed by established Department of Correction policies designed to maintain security while supporting inmate connections with family and community. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

  • All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
  • To be added to a visitation list, inmates must submit visitor application forms
  • 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

Visit Schedule:

  • General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Special Housing Units: Schedule varies by unit
  • Maximum Security: Limited visitation by appointment only
  • Holidays: Special schedules are posted 30 days in advance
  • Visits are typically limited to 30 minutes during busy periods

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
  • Vehicle keys (limited to one key or fob)
  • Medication required during visit (e.g., asthma inhaler, nitroglycerin)
  • Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, two diapers, one small blanket)
  • Maximum of $50 in cash for vending machines (coins and $1 bills only)

What NOT to Bring:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Electronic devices (cell phones, smartwatches, cameras, tablets)
  • Tobacco products or smoking materials
  • Outside food or beverages
  • Purses, bags, or backpacks
  • Excessive jewelry or accessories
  • Controlled substances
  • Chewing gum

Dress Code:

  • Conservative attire required
  • No revealing clothing (no shorts above knee, no sleeveless shirts)
  • No clothing with offensive language or images
  • No clothing similar to inmate or officer uniforms
  • No gang-related colors or symbols
  • Shoes and shirts required at all times
  • No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions may apply)

Visit Types:

  • Contact visits (general population)
  • Non-contact visits (through glass partition)
  • Video visitation (available for certain housing units)
  • Special visits (clergy, attorneys, consular officials)

Visit Restrictions:

  • Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
  • Persons on probation or parole must obtain written permission
  • Visitors may be subject to search
  • Visitation privileges may be suspended for rule violations
  • Maximum of three visitors per inmate per session

These regulations are established pursuant to Delaware Code Title 11, § 6535, which authorizes the Department of Correction to establish visitation policies. For the most current information, visitors should contact the Sussex Correctional Institution directly before planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a Sussex County Inmate

The Delaware Department of Correction provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account at Sussex Correctional Institution. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.

Electronic Deposits:

  1. Visit GTL ConnectNetwork, the official provider for Delaware DOC
  2. Create an account or log in
  3. Select "Delaware Department of Correction" as the facility
  4. Enter the inmate's name and DOC number
  5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
  6. Funds are typically available within 24 hours
  7. Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$5.00 per transaction)

Money Order by Mail:

  1. Purchase a money order payable to "Delaware Department of Correction"

  2. Write the inmate's full name and DOC number on the money order

  3. Include a brief note with sender's name and address

  4. Mail to:

    Sussex Correctional Institution
    Inmate Accounting
    23203 DuPont Boulevard
    Georgetown, DE 19947

  5. Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks

  6. No service fees apply

  7. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days

Lobby Kiosk:

  1. Visit the lobby kiosk at Sussex Correctional Institution during normal business hours
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions
  3. Insert cash or credit/debit card
  4. Obtain and keep receipt
  5. Funds are typically available within 24 hours
  6. Service fees apply for credit/debit transactions

Amount Limits:

  • Minimum deposit: $5.00
  • Maximum single deposit: $300.00
  • Maximum monthly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
  • Special limits may apply to certain inmates based on security classification

What Money Can Be Used For:

  • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
  • Telephone account funding
  • Educational materials
  • Medical co-pays
  • Restitution payments
  • Child support obligations

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

  • Transferring funds to other inmates
  • Purchasing contraband
  • Paying staff for services
  • Gambling activities
  • Outside purchases without approval

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Delaware Department of Correction Policy 8.60. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and could result in disciplinary action or criminal charges.

How To Send Jail Mail In Sussex County

Correspondence with inmates at Sussex Correctional Institution is permitted but subject to specific regulations to maintain facility security and safety. All mail is inspected upon arrival, and certain restrictions apply to both incoming and outgoing correspondence.

General Mail:

  1. Address envelopes clearly with:

    Inmate's Full Name and DOC Number
    Sussex Correctional Institution
    23203 DuPont Boulevard
    Georgetown, DE 19947

  2. Include your complete return address on the envelope

  3. Use standard white envelopes only

  4. Write in blue or black ink only

  5. Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 48 hours after processing

Permitted Items:

  • Letters (maximum 5 pages per envelope)
  • Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, no padding)
  • Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
  • Money orders (as described in previous section)
  • Legal documents
  • Religious materials (subject to review)

Prohibited Items:

  • Cash or personal checks
  • Stamps or envelopes
  • Stickers or labels
  • Crayon or marker writings
  • Perfumed or scented items
  • Oversized cards
  • Hardcover books or magazines (must come directly from publisher)
  • Photos depicting gang symbols, nudity, or criminal activity
  • Any items with adhesives, glue, or tape

Publications and Books:

  1. Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
  2. Publications must be prepaid
  3. Hardcover books are prohibited
  4. Content is subject to review and may be rejected if deemed inappropriate
  5. Address as shown above for general mail

Legal Mail:

  1. Clearly mark "Legal Mail" on the envelope
  2. Must be sent by an attorney, court, or legal agency
  3. Include attorney bar number if applicable
  4. Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
  5. Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband

Electronic Messaging:

  1. Register at GTL ConnectNetwork
  2. Purchase credits for messages
  3. Compose and send messages through the secure platform
  4. Messages are subject to review
  5. Attachments are not permitted
  6. Fees apply per message

All mail procedures are governed by Delaware Department of Correction Policy 4.4 in accordance with Delaware Code Title 11, § 6536. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges.

Lookup Inmate Records in Sussex County

Locate an Inmate through the Department of Correction database

Contact the Sussex County Sheriff's Office for information

Learn about Sussex Correctional Institution

Find Sussex Correctional Institution details on the county website

Visit the Delaware Department of Correction website

Other Categories in Delaware
Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records