Knox County Inmate Search
How To Search for Inmate Records in Knox County in 2026
KnoxCountyRecords.org provides access to publicly available information related to inmate records in Knox County, Maine. Members of the public may find booking records, custody status, charge information, bond details, and facility location data through this resource. The following record categories are available for search:
- Current and recently released inmate records
- Booking photographs and personal identifiers
- Charge descriptions and case numbers
- Bond and bail information
- Court dates and hearing schedules
Records can be searched through official government resources, clerk offices, public access terminals, and online tools maintained by state and county agencies.
Online Search Methods:
1. County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
The Knox County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of county jail inmate records. Members of the public may access the inmate roster by navigating to the Sheriff's Office website and selecting the inmate search function. Users may search by full legal name, booking number, or booking date. Once search criteria are entered, the system returns a list of matching records. Selecting an individual record displays detailed information including:
- Full legal name and aliases
- Booking photograph
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Bond type and bond amount
- Facility location within the county
- Booking date
- Expected release date (when available)
The inmate roster is updated on a regular basis; recent bookings may require several hours to appear in the online system. No mobile application is currently available for the Knox County Sheriff's Office inmate search.
2. State Department of Corrections Inmate Search
For individuals who have been transferred from county jail to a state correctional facility, the Maine Department of Corrections maintains a statewide inmate search tool. The Maine Adult Resident/Adult Community Corrections Client Search allows members of the public to locate individuals housed in Maine state prisons, county jails, other states, and federal facilities. Users may search by name or inmate identification number. The state database includes:
- Current facility assignment
- Custody status
- Sentence information
- Projected release date
Individuals arrested on state charges are held in county jail during the pre-trial period. Following conviction and sentencing for offenses carrying terms exceeding one year, inmates are transferred to a Maine Department of Corrections facility. This transfer process may take several weeks following sentencing.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator
For individuals charged with federal offenses, the Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains the BOP Inmate Locator at bop.gov. This resource is appropriate when an individual is believed to be in federal custody rather than county or state custody. The locator provides current facility assignment, projected release date, and register number for federal inmates.
Phone Search:
Members of the public may contact the Knox County Jail directly at (207) 594-0429 to inquire about inmate status. Staff can confirm whether an individual is currently in custody, provide basic booking information, and direct callers to appropriate resources. Callers should have the inmate's full legal name and date of birth available. Phone inquiries are accepted during regular business hours.
In-Person Inquiry:
Members of the public may visit the Knox County Sheriff's Office in person to request inmate information. A valid government-issued photo identification is required. Staff at the front desk can provide current custody status, booking information, and scheduled court dates.
Knox County Sheriff's Office
301 Park Street
Rockland, ME 04841
Phone: (207) 594-0429
Knox County Sheriff's Office
By Mail:
Written requests for inmate information may be directed to the Knox County Sheriff's Office at 301 Park Street, Rockland, ME 04841. Requests should include the full legal name of the individual, date of birth, and the specific information being sought. Processing time varies based on request volume.
Search Tips:
- Use the inmate's full legal name as it appears on official identification
- Attempt name variations, including nicknames, maiden names, and alternate spellings
- Include the date of birth to narrow results when multiple individuals share a name
- Search by booking number if that information is available
- Check both current inmates and recently released individuals
- Allow several hours for recent bookings to appear in the online system
- Inmates who have been transferred to state or federal custody may not appear in the county roster
What If You Cannot Find an Inmate:
If a search of the county roster returns no results, the individual may be held in a Maine state prison — in which case the Maine Adult Resident/Adult Community Corrections Client Search should be consulted. The individual may also be in federal custody, which requires a search of the BOP Inmate Locator. Additional possibilities include release from custody, transfer to another jurisdiction, or a recent booking not yet reflected in the online system. Name spelling variations may also affect search results. Members of the public may contact the Knox County Jail directly at (207) 594-0429 for assistance.
Are Inmate Records Public in Knox County?
Inmate records maintained by Knox County are subject to public disclosure under Maine's Freedom of Access Act, codified at 1 M.R.S. § 401 et seq. Under current law, government records are presumed to be open to public inspection unless a specific statutory exemption applies. The State of Maine Judicial Branch similarly operates under a framework of presumptive public access to court-related records.
Information That Is Public:
- Current inmate roster and population data
- Booking information including date and time of booking
- Criminal charges and charge descriptions
- Bond and bail amounts
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Expected release date (when available)
- Scheduled court dates
Information With Restricted Access:
Certain categories of inmate information are exempt from public disclosure under Maine law. 1 M.R.S. § 402 identifies categories of records that agencies may withhold from public inspection. Restricted information includes:
- Medical records and health conditions
- Mental health information and treatment records
- Prescription medication information
- Detailed disciplinary records (may be restricted)
- Visitor contact lists (may be restricted)
- Confidential informant status
- Juvenile detention records
- Witness protection participant information
- Specific cell assignments maintained for security purposes
Why Inmate Records Are Public:
The public availability of inmate records serves several recognized governmental interests. Transparency in the operation of correctional facilities promotes accountability in the administration of justice. Public safety is served when community members can verify the custody status of individuals charged with criminal offenses. Family members and legal representatives rely on inmate records to locate individuals following arrest. The bail bond industry depends on timely access to booking and bond information to fulfill its function within the criminal justice system.
Privacy Considerations:
Maine law recognizes that the public interest in transparency must be balanced against the privacy interests of individuals in custody. As stated in the Maine Freedom of Access Act, the Legislature has declared that "public proceedings and public records are essential to the operation of a democratic government." At the same time, sensitive personal information — including medical and mental health data — receives statutory protection. The release of inmate records can affect employment prospects and family relationships, and agencies are directed to apply exemptions narrowly and in accordance with the specific provisions of applicable law.
What Is Inmate Records in Knox County?
Inmate records are official government documents created and maintained by correctional authorities to document the custody, classification, and legal status of individuals held in detention. These records serve as the authoritative source of information regarding an individual's presence within the correctional system and are created at the point of booking following an arrest.
In Knox County, inmate records are created and maintained by the Knox County Sheriff's Office for individuals held at the county jail. The Maine Department of Corrections maintains records for individuals serving sentences in state correctional facilities. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains records for individuals in federal custody.
The principal categories of inmate records are distinguished as follows:
- Booking records document the initial intake process, including personal identification information, charges, and bond information at the time of arrest.
- Custody records reflect the ongoing status of an individual within the correctional system, including housing assignment, classification level, and transfers between facilities.
- Incarceration history encompasses the complete record of an individual's prior and current periods of custody within a jurisdiction.
- Release records document the circumstances and date of an individual's discharge from custody, whether by bond, completion of sentence, transfer, or court order.
The distinction between county jail records and state or federal prison records is significant for search purposes. County jail records pertain to individuals held pre-trial or serving sentences of one year or less. State prison records pertain to individuals serving sentences exceeding one year following conviction on state charges. Federal prison records pertain to individuals convicted of federal offenses and sentenced to federal custody.
What's Included in Inmate Records in Knox County
Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Inmate or booking number assigned at intake
- Date of birth and age
- Sex and gender
- Race and ethnicity
- Height, weight, and physical description
- Booking photograph taken at intake
- Identifying marks, scars, and tattoos
Custody Information:
- Current facility location
- Housing unit or cell block designation (may be limited for security reasons)
- Custody date and booking date
- Expected release date (when available)
- Actual release date (following discharge)
- Current custody status: in custody, released, or transferred
Charges and Legal Information:
- Current criminal charges
- Charge descriptions and statutory citations
- Case numbers assigned by the court
- Court jurisdiction
- Date of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Warrant information, if applicable
Bond and Bail Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Bond type: cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond
- Bond status: posted, pending, or forfeited
- Bail bondsman information, if applicable
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates and hearing times
- Court location and division
- Hearing types (arraignment, bail hearing, trial, sentencing)
- Attorney of record (when available)
Sentence Information (for sentenced inmates):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length imposed by the court
- Sentence commencement date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date, if applicable
- Good time credits applied
Previous Custody History:
- Prior bookings within Knox County
- Previous charges and dispositions
- Historical custody dates
Administrative Information:
- Security classification level: minimum, medium, or maximum
- Special housing requirements
- Work assignment information (when available)
- Program participation records
What Is Not Typically Included in Public Records:
- Medical history and health conditions
- Mental health diagnoses and treatment information
- Prescription medication records
- Detailed disciplinary incident reports
- Visitor contact information
- Inmate account balances
- Telephone call logs
- Specific cell assignments maintained for security purposes
Knox County Prison System
Overview of the County Corrections System:
The Knox County correctional system is operated under the authority of the Knox County Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff serves as the chief law enforcement officer of the county and is responsible for the administration of the county jail. The facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving sentences of one year or less, and individuals awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities.
Administration:
The Knox County Sheriff's Office is currently led by Sheriff Patrick W. Polky. Administrative oversight of the jail is conducted through the Sheriff's Office, which is accountable to the Knox County Commissioners.
Knox County Sheriff's Office
301 Park Street
Rockland, ME 04841
Phone: (207) 594-0429
Email: sheriff@knoxcountymaine.gov
Knox County Sheriff's Office
Facility Operations:
The Knox County Jail houses pre-trial detainees, individuals sentenced to terms of one year or less, and individuals awaiting transfer to Maine Department of Corrections facilities. The facility operates a classification system that assigns inmates to appropriate housing based on the nature of their charges, criminal history, and behavioral assessment.
Inmate Services:
The Knox County Jail provides the following services to individuals in custody:
- Medical care and health screening at intake
- Mental health services and referrals
- Substance abuse programming
- Educational programming including GED preparation
- Religious services and chaplaincy access
- Library access and reading materials
- Recreation time
Legal Services:
Individuals in custody at the Knox County Jail have access to legal resources including law library materials and coordination with the public defender's office. Attorney visitation is available during designated hours.
Reentry Programs:
The Knox County Sheriff's Office coordinates pre-release planning to assist individuals transitioning out of custody. Services include referrals for substance abuse treatment continuation, housing assistance, and connection to community support resources.
Oversight and Accountability:
The Knox County Jail operates under the oversight of the Maine Department of Corrections, which conducts inspections of county correctional facilities pursuant to state law. Grievance procedures are available to individuals in custody in accordance with applicable standards.
Types of Correctional Facilities in Knox County
Knox County Jail
The Knox County Jail is the primary detention facility serving Knox County, Maine. The facility is operated by the Knox County Sheriff's Office and serves as the point of intake for all individuals arrested within the county.
Knox County Jail
301 Park Street
Rockland, ME 04841
Phone: (207) 594-0429
Knox County Sheriff's Office
The facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and felony holdovers awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities. The jail operates at multiple security classification levels to accommodate the range of individuals in custody.
Alternative Custody Programs
Home Detention and Electronic Monitoring
Knox County operates an electronic monitoring program for eligible individuals as an alternative to incarceration. Eligibility is determined by the court based on the nature of the offense, criminal history, and assessed risk level. Members of the public seeking information about this program may contact the Knox County Sheriff's Office at (207) 594-0429.
Work Release
A work release program may be available for eligible sentenced individuals, permitting participation in employment while serving a sentence. Eligibility criteria are established by the Sheriff's Office and the court.
State Prison Facilities
Individuals convicted of felony offenses in Knox County and sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to facilities operated by the Maine Department of Corrections. The Maine State Prison, located in Warren, Maine — within Knox County — is a state-operated facility and is distinct from the county jail system.
Maine Department of Corrections
111 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Phone: (207) 287-2711
Department of Corrections - Maine.gov
Maine State Prison
807 Cushing Road
Warren, ME 04864
Phone: (207) 273-5300
Department of Corrections - Maine.gov
The Maine State Prison is a state-operated facility and is not administered by Knox County. Individuals held at the Maine State Prison are searchable through the Maine Adult Resident/Adult Community Corrections Client Search.
Federal Detention Facilities
There are no federal detention facilities physically located within Knox County. Individuals charged with federal offenses and held in federal custody may be located through the BOP Inmate Locator maintained by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Federal custody is entirely separate from county and state correctional systems.
Facility Contact Information Summary:
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Knox County Jail | 301 Park Street, Rockland, ME 04841 | (207) 594-0429 |
| Maine State Prison | 807 Cushing Road, Warren, ME 04864 | (207) 273-5300 |
| Maine DOC (Administrative) | 111 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333 | (207) 287-2711 |
How To Find an Inmate in Knox County for Free?
Members of the public may locate an inmate in Knox County at no cost through several official government resources. No registration, subscription, or payment is required to access basic inmate information through official channels.
Free Online Resources:
1. Official County Inmate Roster
The Knox County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible inmate roster on its official website. This resource is completely free and requires no registration. The roster includes current inmates, booking information, charges and bond details, facility location, and booking photographs. The roster is updated regularly; recent bookings may take several hours to appear.
2. State Department of Corrections Free Search
The Maine Adult Resident/Adult Community Corrections Client Search is available at no cost for locating individuals in Maine state correctional facilities. This resource includes historical information for individuals who have been in state custody.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
The BOP Inmate Locator provides free access to federal inmate information, including current facility assignment and projected release date.
4. Court Records Search
Members of the public may verify custody status and upcoming court dates through the re:SearchMaine electronic court records system, maintained by the State of Maine Judicial Branch. As noted by the Maine Judicial Branch, "members of the public can use re:SearchMaine to search only for public cases in courts where eFiling is available and view a list of court events." Court records may reflect custody status and scheduled hearing dates.
Free Phone Information:
Members of the public may call the Knox County Jail at (207) 594-0429 to request basic inmate information at no charge. Callers should have the inmate's full legal name and date of birth available. Phone inquiries are accepted during regular business hours.
Free In-Person Search:
Members of the public may visit the Knox County Sheriff's Office at 301 Park Street, Rockland, ME 04841 to request inmate information in person. Staff assistance is available during business hours. No fee is charged for basic information requests.
What Is Free vs. What Costs Money:
The following services are available at no cost:
- Online inmate search through official government websites
- Current custody status verification
- Basic booking and charge information
- Phone inquiry for basic information
- In-person information requests at the Sheriff's Office
The following services involve fees:
- Sending money to an inmate's commissary account
- Video visitation services (fees set by service provider)
- Telephone calls placed by inmates (fees set by service provider)
- Certified copies of booking records
- Comprehensive background check reports
Members of the public are advised to use official government websites for inmate searches. Numerous third-party websites charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official sources. Under 1 M.R.S. § 408-A, public records are to be made available without unreasonable barriers to access. Members of the public should verify that any website used for inmate searches displays a .gov domain before submitting personal information or payment.