Kings County Jail is a secure detention center in Brooklyn, New York, run by the New York City Department of Correction. It holds people waiting for trial or serving short sentences. The jail works to keep inmates safe, offer basic care, and support reentry into society. Families, lawyers, and the public use its services to find inmates, visit, send money, and learn about rights and programs. This page gives clear, up-to-date facts about how the jail works, how to contact it, and what help is available.
How to Search for an Inmate in Kings County Jail
Finding someone in Kings County Jail is simple with the online inmate lookup tool. This system shows current inmates, their charges, court dates, and release status. It helps families, friends, and legal teams stay informed. The roster updates daily to reflect new bookings, releases, and changes in custody.
Using the Online Inmate Search Tool
Go to the official NYC Department of Correction website and click “Inmate Lookup.” Enter the person’s full name or DOC number. You can also search by date of birth if the name is common. The results show:
- Full name and photo (mugshot)
- Booking date and facility location
- Charges and bail amount
- Next court date and housing unit
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
If no results appear, double-check the spelling or try a partial name. The system only shows people currently in custody. Released inmates are removed within 24 hours.
Alternative Ways to Find an Inmate
If the website is down or you lack internet access, call the NYC DOC Public Information Line at (718) 546-5240. Have the inmate’s full name and date of birth ready. You can also visit the jail in person at 1219 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11233, during business hours. Bring a valid ID. Staff will assist with lookup requests but cannot give legal advice.
Kings County Jail Booking Process and Mugshots
When someone is arrested in Brooklyn, they go through booking at Kings County Jail. This step records their identity, takes fingerprints and a photo, and checks for health issues. The process ensures accurate records and safety for all inmates.
Steps in the Booking Process
After arrest, the person is brought to the jail intake area. Staff collect fingerprints using live-scan technology. A mugshot is taken facing front and side. Personal details like name, date of birth, address, and arresting officer are entered into the system. A quick health screening checks for injuries, mental health needs, or contagious diseases. Belongings are stored securely, and the inmate receives jail clothing.
Mugshots and Public Records
Mugshots become public records once booked. Anyone can view them online through the inmate lookup tool. There is no fee to see a mugshot on the website. However, third-party sites may charge to remove photos. NYC does not control these sites. If charges are dropped or the person is found not guilty, they can request a record seal through court—but mugshots may still appear online until manually removed by publishers.
Visiting Someone at Kings County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. Kings County Jail offers both in-person and video visits. All visits must be scheduled ahead of time. Rules are strict to keep everyone safe.
In-Person Visitation Rules
Visits happen at the jail’s visiting center, not inside housing units. You must sign up online at the NYC DOC portal at least 24 hours before your visit. Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per day. Visitors must bring a government-issued photo ID. Minors under 18 need a parent or guardian present.
Dress code rules apply: no hats, hoods, revealing clothes, or clothing with gang symbols. Bags, phones, and food are not allowed. Security will scan you with a metal detector. If you break rules, your visit may be denied.
Video Visitation Options
Video visits let you talk face-to-face from home. Use a computer or smartphone with a camera and internet. Schedule through the same online system. Video calls last 30 minutes and cost $12 per session, paid by the visitor. Calls are recorded and monitored. You cannot record the call yourself.
Sending Money to an Inmate
Inmates can buy food, hygiene items, and phone time from the commissary. Family and friends can add money to their account in three ways:
Online Deposits
Use the NYC DOC’s partner site, Access Corrections, to send money with a debit or credit card. Funds appear in the inmate’s account within minutes. A small fee applies per transaction.
Kiosk Payments at the Jail
Pay with cash, debit, or credit at the kiosk in the jail lobby. The machine gives a receipt. Money is available immediately.
Mailing Money Orders
Send a money order via USPS to: NYC Department of Correction, Inmate Name, DOC Number, P.O. Box 3800, New York, NY 10163. Write the inmate’s full name and DOC number on the memo line. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Inmate Mail Guidelines
Inmates can send and receive letters. All mail is opened and checked for contraband. Follow these rules:
- Use plain white paper and standard envelopes.
- Write the inmate’s full name, DOC number, and jail address clearly.
- Do not include stickers, drawings, or Polaroids.
- Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores.
Mail should be sent to: Inmate Name, DOC Number, 1219 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11233. Rejected mail is returned to sender.
Phone Calls and Communication
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. They cannot receive calls. Calls are limited to 20 minutes and cost about $0.26 per minute. Families can prepay for calls through Access Corrections. All calls are recorded except those with lawyers.
Email is also available. Visitors can send messages through the NYC DOC email system. Inmates reply during designated times. Messages are screened for safety.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Kings County Jail provides medical care through NYC Health + Hospitals. Every new inmate gets a health exam within 24 hours. Ongoing care includes treatment for chronic illnesses, mental health counseling, and substance use support.
Mental Health Programs
Trained counselors offer individual and group therapy. Programs focus on anger management, trauma, and addiction. Inmates with serious mental illness may be moved to specialized units with more support. Medications are given as prescribed by jail doctors.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers classes to help inmates prepare for life after release. Programs include:
- GED and high school equivalency courses
- Vocational training in barbering, culinary arts, and construction
- Life skills workshops on budgeting and job interviews
- Substance abuse treatment with certified counselors
These programs reduce recidivism and improve employment chances. Participation is voluntary but encouraged.
Bail and Release Information
Bail is set by a judge during arraignment. The amount depends on the crime, criminal history, and flight risk. To post bail, go to the courthouse or use a bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after processing, which can take a few hours.
If no bail is set or the person cannot pay, they stay in jail until trial. Release dates for sentenced inmates are calculated based on time served and good behavior credits.
Facility Conditions and Safety
Kings County Jail houses over 1,000 inmates across several units. Cells are monitored 24/7 by cameras and staff. Inmates have access to showers, meals three times a day, and outdoor recreation. The jail follows NYC health and safety codes. Reports of overcrowding and delays in medical care have led to ongoing reforms and federal oversight.
Contact Information and Visiting Hours
For questions, call the NYC Department of Correction at (718) 546-5240. The jail is located at 1219 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11233. Visiting hours for in-person visits are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Video visits are available seven days a week. Always check the official website for updates on hours or policy changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Kings County Jail. Below are clear answers based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in Kings County Jail?
Use the free inmate lookup tool on the NYC Department of Correction website. Enter the person’s full name or DOC number. The system shows current inmates only. If no result appears, they may not be in custody or could be held in another facility. Call (718) 546-5240 for help. Have the person’s full name and date of birth ready. The lookup updates daily, so check back if needed.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment?
No. All visits—both in-person and video—must be scheduled in advance through the online portal. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Appointments open 7 days ahead. Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per day. Late arrivals may lose their slot. Bring a valid photo ID and follow the dress code. Minors must be with a parent or guardian.
How much does it cost to send money to an inmate?
Sending money online or by kiosk costs a small fee, usually $2.95 to $4.95 per transaction. Mailing a money order has no fee, but processing takes 3–5 days. Funds are available once processed. Debit and credit cards are accepted online and at kiosks. Cash is only accepted at the jail kiosk. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.
Are inmates allowed to have books or magazines?
Yes, but only if sent directly from a publisher, bookstore, or approved vendor. Do not mail books from home. Hardcover books are not allowed due to safety risks. Paperback books are accepted. Magazines must come sealed. All reading material is inspected. Inmates can also use the jail library for free access to approved books.
What happens if an inmate gets sick or injured?
All inmates receive a medical screening upon arrival. If someone gets sick or hurt, they can request a sick call slip from staff. A nurse or doctor sees them within 24 hours. Emergency care is provided immediately. Chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma are managed with regular medication. Mental health crises are handled by trained counselors. Serious cases may be transferred to a hospital.
How can I get a copy of an inmate’s mugshot?
Mugshots are public records and appear in the inmate lookup tool while the person is in custody. Click on their name to view the photo. There is no charge. Once released, mugshots are removed from the official site but may remain on third-party websites. To request removal from those sites, contact them directly. NYC does not control external publishers.
Can inmates make phone calls to anyone?
Inmates can only call pre-approved numbers. Family or friends must add their number to the inmate’s calling list through Access Corrections. Calls are limited to 20 minutes and cost about 26 cents per minute. All calls are recorded except legal calls. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. If a number is blocked or not approved, the call will not go through.