Hanover County Public Records /Hanover County Inmate Search

Hanover County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Hanover County?

Inmate records in Hanover County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities and the Hanover County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who are currently incarcerated or have previously been detained in Hanover County facilities. Pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, these records serve as the official documentation of an individual's time in custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records, maintained by the Hanover County Circuit Court and General District Court, document the judicial proceedings related to a case, inmate records specifically track the custodial status and management of individuals within correctional facilities. The Code of Virginia § 53.1-28 requires correctional facilities to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody.

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first taken into custody. The record is subsequently updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant information. Upon the individual's release from custody, the record is closed but maintained according to Virginia's records retention requirements.

The Hanover County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining these records for individuals housed at county facilities, while records for inmates transferred to state facilities fall under the purview of the Virginia Department of Corrections.

Are Inmate Records Public In Hanover County?

Inmate records in Hanover County are generally considered public information under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which governs access to government records in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Specifically, § 2.2-3706 of the Code of Virginia addresses the disclosure of law enforcement and criminal records, including inmate information.

However, not all information contained within inmate records is publicly accessible. The Virginia FOIA provides for certain exemptions to protect privacy, security, and ongoing investigations. According to § 2.2-3706(B), law enforcement agencies may withhold certain categories of records, including those that would jeopardize ongoing investigations or compromise security procedures within correctional facilities.

Information that is typically available to the public includes:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking and arrest records
Charges filed against the inmate
Mugshots (in most circumstances)
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Facility where the inmate is housed

Information that may be restricted includes:

Medical and mental health records
Disciplinary records
Personal identifying information beyond what is necessary for identification
Information that could compromise facility security
Juvenile records (subject to additional restrictions)

The Pamunkey Regional Jail, which serves Hanover County, maintains records of individuals in its custody and provides certain information to the public in accordance with state law.

What's Included Inmate Records in Hanover County

Inmate records in Hanover County contain comprehensive information documenting 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
Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks such as tattoos or scars)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency
Booking officer
Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
Disciplinary incidents and actions taken
Participation in jail programs or work assignments

Charge Information:

Current charges (including statute numbers)
Case numbers
Warrant information
Prior criminal history (if relevant to current custody)
Probation/parole status and violations (if applicable)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond/bail amount
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
Bond conditions

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Scheduled court appearances
Court outcomes and dispositions
Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Length of sentence
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Good time/earned sentence credits
Parole eligibility date (if applicable)

Release Information:

Scheduled release date
Type of release (time served, bond, transfer to another facility)
Post-release supervision requirements
Release conditions

These records are maintained in accordance with the Code of Virginia § 53.1-5, which establishes requirements for record-keeping in correctional facilities throughout the Commonwealth.

Hanover County Prison System

The Hanover County correctional system operates within the broader framework of Virginia's tiered approach to incarceration. The county primarily utilizes the Pamunkey Regional Jail for local detention needs, while more serious offenders serving longer sentences are housed in state facilities operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections.

The Hanover County Sheriff's Office has jurisdiction over law enforcement and certain aspects of corrections within the county. The Sheriff's Office is responsible for the transportation of inmates to and from court appearances, as well as coordination with the regional jail facility.

Hanover County Sheriff's Office
7522 County Complex Road
Hanover, VA 23069
(804) 365-6140
Hanover County Sheriff's Office

The local correctional system in Hanover County primarily houses:

Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detention)
Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses
Individuals serving sentences of up to 12 months
Persons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions

Individuals sentenced to more than 12 months of incarceration for felony offenses are typically transferred to the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections to serve their sentences in state prison facilities. This transfer process is governed by Code of Virginia § 53.1-20, which outlines the procedures for the reception and classification of state-responsible offenders.

The Hanover County correctional system operates in accordance with standards established by the Virginia Department of Corrections and is subject to regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding inmate care, facility conditions, and operational procedures.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Hanover County

Hanover County utilizes a regional approach to corrections, participating in a multi-jurisdictional facility rather than operating its own independent jail. The primary correctional facility serving Hanover County is:

Pamunkey Regional Jail
7240 Courtland Farm Road
Hanover, VA 23069
(804) 365-6400
Pamunkey Regional Jail

The Pamunkey Regional Jail is a state-of-the-art detention facility that serves Hanover County, Caroline County, and King William County. Established through a regional jail authority, this facility operates under the governance of a board with representatives from each participating locality. The jail is designed to accommodate various security classifications and houses both male and female inmates.

The facility includes:

General population housing units
Special management units for inmates requiring separation
Medical and mental health services
Educational and vocational programming areas
Visitation areas
Administrative offices

For individuals sentenced to longer terms of incarceration for felony offenses, transfer to a state correctional facility operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections occurs after sentencing. These state facilities include:

State Correctional Centers

Various security levels (1-5, with 5 being maximum security)
Located throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia
House inmates serving sentences longer than 12 months
Operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections

Work Centers and Field Units

Lower security facilities
House minimum-security inmates
Often focus on work programs and community service

Detention and Diversion Centers

Short-term, intensive programs
Alternative to traditional incarceration
Focus on substance abuse treatment and life skills

Hanover County does not operate separate juvenile detention facilities. Juvenile offenders from Hanover County are typically housed at regional juvenile detention centers in accordance with the provisions of the Virginia Juvenile Justice Code.

Who's in Prison In Hanover County

The Pamunkey Regional Jail, which serves Hanover County, houses several categories of individuals within its facility. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
Persons who could not post bail or were denied bail
Individuals awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
These detainees constitute a significant portion of the jail population

Misdemeanant Offenders:

Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses (crimes punishable by up to 12 months in jail)
Common misdemeanor convictions include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Simple assault
- Petty larceny
- Trespassing
- Disorderly conduct
- Possession of small amounts of controlled substances

Short-term Felony Offenders:

Persons serving sentences of 12 months or less for felony convictions
Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions

Probation/Parole Violators:

Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole
May be held pending revocation hearings or serving sanctions for violations

Weekend/Intermittent Sentences:

Persons serving sentences on weekends or other intermittent schedules
Allows individuals to maintain employment while serving their sentence

Federal Detainees:

In some cases, individuals held under contract with federal agencies
May include persons facing federal charges or immigration detainees

Temporary Holds:

Individuals temporarily housed for court appearances
Persons in transit between facilities

The demographic composition of the jail population varies over time but generally reflects patterns seen throughout the Virginia correctional system. According to data from the Virginia Department of Corrections, the inmate population includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, with varying levels of education, employment history, and prior involvement with the criminal justice system.

The average daily population at the Pamunkey Regional Jail fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and sentencing practices. The facility is designed to accommodate these fluctuations while maintaining appropriate classification and housing assignments for safety and security.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Hanover County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Hanover County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of inmate records through various channels:

Online Inmate Search:

Visit the Pamunkey Regional Jail website
Navigate to the inmate search function
Enter the required information (typically last name and first name)
Additional identifiers such as date of birth may help narrow results
Review the search results for basic custody information

Virginia Department of Corrections Inmate Locator:

Access the Virginia DOC Inmate Locator
Enter the inmate's name or DOC number
This system provides information on inmates in state custody
Particularly useful for locating individuals who have been transferred from county facilities to state prisons

In-Person Requests:

Visit the Pamunkey Regional Jail during normal business hours
Proceed to the information desk or records department
Complete an information request form
Provide proper identification
Specify the information being requested

Written Requests:

Submit a written request to:

Pamunkey Regional Jail
Attn: Records Department
7240 Courtland Farm Road
Hanover, VA 23069
Include the following information:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Your contact information
- Specific information requested
- Purpose of the request

Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests:

Submit a formal FOIA request for more detailed records
Clearly state that the request is being made pursuant to the Virginia FOIA
Be specific about the records being sought
Expect to pay reasonable fees for copying and staff time
Allow up to five working days for an initial response

When searching for inmate records, it is important to note that certain information may be restricted due to privacy laws, security concerns, or ongoing investigations. Additionally, records for individuals who have been released may be archived and require additional time to retrieve.

How To Find an Inmate in Hanover County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Hanover County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods that are accessible to the general public. These resources provide basic information about an individual's custody status and location:

Pamunkey Regional Jail Online Inmate Lookup:

Visit the Pamunkey Regional Jail website
Locate and select the inmate search function
Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (recommended)
Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if available)

Virginia Judiciary Case Information System:

Access the Virginia Courts Case Information portal
Select "Circuit Court Case Information" or "General District Court Case Information"
Choose Hanover County from the jurisdiction list
Search by the individual's name
Review case information, which may indicate custody status

Virginia Department of Corrections Offender Locator:

Navigate to the Virginia DOC Inmate Locator
Enter the individual's name or DOC number
This system will show if the person has been transferred to state custody
Provides information on current location and projected release date

Telephone Inquiry:

Contact the Pamunkey Regional Jail directly at (804) 365-6400
Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate
Basic custody information can typically be provided over the phone

Hanover County Sheriff's Office:

Contact the Sheriff's Office at (804) 365-6140
Request information about a person who may be in custody
The Sheriff's Office can direct you to the appropriate facility

When using these free search methods, it is important to have accurate information about the individual, including their full legal name and, if possible, date of birth. Common names may return multiple results, making additional identifying information helpful in locating the specific person. These public resources provide basic custody information but do not include confidential details such as medical records, disciplinary history, or protected personal information.

How To Visit an Inmate In Hanover County

Visitation with inmates at the Pamunkey Regional Jail in Hanover County is conducted primarily through video visitation, with specific protocols established to maintain security while facilitating important family connections. Visitors must adhere to the following guidelines when planning to visit an inmate:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must register in advance through the jail's video visitation system
Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
Minors (under 18) must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
All visits are monitored and recorded in accordance with Code of Virginia § 53.1-127
Visitors exhibiting signs of intoxication will be denied visitation

Visit Schedule:

Video visits are available seven days a week
Morning sessions: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Evening sessions: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Each inmate is permitted two 20-minute video visits per week
Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Confirmation of scheduled visit
Payment method for any applicable fees
Necessary medical items (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Illegal substances or alcohol
Tobacco products
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, laptops, cameras)
Food or beverages
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories

Dress Code:

Conservative, appropriate attire is required
No revealing clothing (low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts, see-through materials)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing with offensive language or images
No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times

Visit Types:

Standard video visitation (primary method)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
Special visits (may be granted in exceptional circumstances)

Visit Restrictions:

Inmates on disciplinary status may have limited visitation privileges
Maximum security inmates have additional restrictions
Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval
Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges

On-site Video Visitation:

Available at the Pamunkey Regional Jail
7240 Courtland Farm Road
Hanover, VA 23069
Visitors should arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visit time

Remote Video Visitation:

Available from any location with internet access
Requires compatible device (computer, tablet) with webcam
Requires creation of account through the jail's visitation system
Fees apply for remote video visitation services

For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact the Pamunkey Regional Jail at (804) 365-6400 or visit the Hanover County inmate visitation page.

How To Send Money to a Hanover County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed at the Pamunkey Regional Jail in Hanover County have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access certain services within the facility.

Methods for Sending Money:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the jail's designated money service provider website
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number)
- Select the deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Mobile App Deposits:
- Download the jail's authorized money service provider app
- Register or log in to your account
- Enter the inmate's information
- Select the deposit amount
- Complete the transaction using available payment methods
- Receive confirmation of the deposit
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the Pamunkey Regional Jail lobby during business hours
- Use the self-service kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt as proof of deposit
- Funds are typically available immediately
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from an authorized provider
- Make payable to "Pamunkey Regional Jail" with inmate's name and ID number
- Mail to:
  
  Pamunkey Regional Jail
  Inmate Accounts
  7240 Courtland Farm Road
  Hanover, VA 23069
- Include sender's full name and address
- Processing may take 5-7 business days

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Additional restrictions may apply to inmates with certain charges or disciplinary status

Transaction Fees:

Online/mobile deposits: $2.95 - $9.95 (varies by amount and method)
Kiosk cash deposits: $2.00 - $8.00 (varies by amount)
Credit/debit card deposits: Additional percentage-based fee may apply
Money orders: No fee charged by the jail (postal fees may apply)

Prohibited Funding Sources:

Funds from other inmates or their families
Proceeds from illegal activities
Money from individuals with active protective orders against the inmate
Funds from unidentified sources
Third-party checks

Authorized Uses of Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Video visitation fees
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Educational materials
Release funds

Unauthorized Uses of Funds:

Payment for services from other inmates
Gambling activities
Purchase of contraband
Transfer to other inmates' accounts
Payment of fines or restitution (separate processes apply)

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with facility policies and procedures. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially declined. Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account will be returned via check or debit card.

How To Send Jail Mail In Hanover County

Correspondence with inmates at the Pamunkey Regional Jail in Hanover County must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations as established under Code of Virginia § 53.1-26.

General Mail Guidelines:

All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Pamunkey Regional Jail
- 7240 Courtland Farm Road
- Hanover, VA 23069
Sender information must include:
- Full name
- Complete return address
- Mail without proper return address will not be delivered

Acceptable Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Plain postcards
Greeting cards (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
Black and white photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 size only)
Money orders (following financial guidelines)
Legal documents
Religious materials (subject to review)
Approved periodicals (must be sent directly from publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages of any kind
Colored paper or envelopes
Cardstock or construction paper
Plastic or metal items
Stickers or labels
Perfumed or scented items
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Polaroid photographs
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related content
Materials depicting violence or weapons
Coded messages
Items containing biohazards or unknown substances

Legal Mail:

Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
Must come from an identifiable legal source (attorney, court, legal agency)
Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
Is subject to inspection for contraband but not read for content
Should include attorney bar number when applicable

Publications:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
Hardcover books are not accepted
Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
Limited to 3 publications per inmate at any time

E-Messages:

Available through the jail's authorized electronic messaging system
Requires account creation and payment of applicable fees
Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
Typically delivered more quickly than postal mail
May include the option to attach approved digital photos

Mail Processing Times:

Regular mail is typically processed within 24-48 hours of receipt
Legal mail is processed within 24 hours when possible
Rejected mail will be returned to sender with explanation
Mail for released inmates will be returned to sender

All correspondence is subject to monitoring and inspection except privileged legal mail. Any attempt to circumvent mail regulations may result in disciplinary action for the inmate and possible suspension of mail privileges. Contraband discovered in mail may be turned over to law enforcement for investigation.