Pender County Public Records /Pender County Inmate Search

Pender County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Pender County?

Inmate records in Pender County are official government documents maintained by the Pender County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county detention facilities. These records document the entire custody lifecycle of an inmate from initial booking through release. Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-220, local confinement facilities are required to maintain accurate and detailed records of all persons committed to custody.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations maintained by the judicial system, inmate records specifically document an individual's physical custody status and institutional management. The Pender County Jail Division creates and maintains these records as part of their statutory responsibility to document all aspects of inmate custody.

The record creation process begins at booking when an individual is first processed into the detention facility. During this intake procedure, jail staff collect identifying information, document charges, record property, and conduct initial health screenings. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, visitation logs, and other significant events. Upon release, final disposition information is added to complete the custody record.

Are Inmate Records Public In Pender County?

Inmate records in Pender County are considered public records under the North Carolina Public Records Law § 132-1, which establishes that records made or received in the transaction of public business are the property of the people. However, access to specific components of inmate records may be restricted based on privacy considerations and security concerns as outlined in North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1.4, which governs criminal investigation records and intelligence information.

The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

Current inmate roster showing individuals currently in custody
Basic booking information including name, age, and gender
Charges filed and their status (pending or disposed)
Mugshot photographs
Bond/bail amounts
Scheduled court dates
Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
Facility housing location (general information)

Certain sensitive information is generally excluded from public disclosure, including medical records, social security numbers, and detailed security-related information. The Pender County Sheriff's Office maintains the authority to withhold specific information when disclosure would compromise facility security or ongoing investigations.

What's Included Inmate Records in Pender County

Pender County inmate records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration. The following categories of information are typically maintained in these official records:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth and age
Gender and race
Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency and officer
Housing assignment within facility
Classification status and security level
Disciplinary incidents and actions
Visitation logs
Phone call records
Property inventory

Charge Information:

Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Warrant or citation numbers
Arresting agency case numbers
Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Prior booking history at the facility

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
Bondsman information (if applicable)
Pre-trial release conditions

Court Information:

Case numbers
Assigned court (district or superior)
Scheduled court appearance dates
Court disposition of charges

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction date
Sentence length and terms
Credit for time served
Probation/parole status
Good time/work time credits

Release Information:

Scheduled or actual release date
Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
Post-release supervision requirements
Release destination

This information is maintained in accordance with North Carolina jail record-keeping standards and is subject to regular audits to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Pender County Prison System

The Pender County correctional system operates under the authority of the Pender County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the detention of individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. The county system is distinct from the North Carolina state prison system, which houses individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences.

The Pender County detention system primarily focuses on short-term incarceration, including pre-trial detention for individuals who have not yet been convicted, those serving misdemeanor sentences of less than one year, and temporary housing of individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities. The Pender County Jail serves as the central detention facility for the county.

For matters related to inmate custody, the public may contact:

Pender County Sheriff's Office
605 E. Fremont Street
Burgaw, NC 28425
(910) 259-1212
Pender County Sheriff's Office

Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year for felony convictions are typically transferred to the custody of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction to serve their sentences in state prison facilities, not in the county jail.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Pender County

Pender County maintains a single primary correctional facility operated by the Pender County Sheriff's Office:

Pender County Jail
605 E. Fremont Street
Burgaw, NC 28425
(910) 259-1212
Pender County Jail Division

The Pender County Jail is a 92-bed facility that houses both male and female inmates. This facility accommodates several categories of detainees:

Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically less than one year)
Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions through interagency agreements

The facility provides various services including:

Medical and mental health screening and care
Commissary services
Visitation programs
Religious services
Limited educational and rehabilitative programming

The jail operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with professional corrections staff maintaining security and providing essential services to the inmate population. All operations adhere to standards established by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services' Jail and Detention Section, which conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Who's in Prison In Pender County

The Pender County Jail houses a diverse population of individuals who fall into several distinct categories based on their legal status and the nature of their charges. The facility population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with criminal offenses but have not yet been convicted. These detainees are held in custody because they:

Could not post the required bail amount
Were denied bail due to the severity of charges or flight risk
Are awaiting their initial court appearance
Have violated conditions of pre-trial release

Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses and sentenced to terms of incarceration less than one year. Common misdemeanor convictions include:

Driving While Impaired (DWI)
Simple assault
Petty larceny
Trespassing
Disorderly conduct
Probation violations for misdemeanor offenses

Short-term Felony Convictions: Some individuals convicted of lower-level felonies may serve portions of their sentences in the county jail before transfer to state facilities.

Temporary Holds: The facility may temporarily house:

Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Detainees held for other counties or jurisdictions
Probation/parole violators awaiting hearings
Federal detainees through interagency agreements

According to the Pender County Jail Division, the facility maintains separate housing areas for male and female inmates, with classification systems that separate inmates based on factors including security risk, behavioral history, and special needs. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Pender County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Pender County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Pender County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate data and provides multiple channels for public access:

Online Inmate Search:

Visit the Pender County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Information" section
Access the online inmate lookup tool
Enter the inmate's name or booking number in the search fields
Review the results, which typically include current custody status, charges, and bond information

In-Person Records Request:

Visit the Pender County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
Complete an inmate information request form at the front desk
Provide the name and, if known, the date of birth of the inmate
Present valid government-issued photo identification
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction

Telephone Inquiry:

Contact the Pender County Detention Center at (910) 259-1484
Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
Basic custody status information may be provided over the phone

Written Request:

Submit a written request to: Pender County Sheriff's Office Attn: Records Division 605 E. Fremont Street Burgaw, NC 28425
Include the inmate's full name, date of birth (if known), and specific information requested
Provide return contact information
Enclose any applicable fees for document reproduction

For individuals seeking historical inmate records or information about former inmates, the Records Division may require additional processing time. All record requests are processed in accordance with the North Carolina Public Records Law.

How To Find an Inmate in Pender County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Pender County custody can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided as a public service. The following resources are available to assist individuals seeking to verify if someone is currently incarcerated in Pender County:

Pender County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:

Access the Pender County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Information" section
Use the online inmate search function
Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
Review the results showing current inmates

North Carolina Offender Public Information Search:

Visit the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction Offender Search
Enter the individual's name or identification number
Review results for current custody status and location
Note that this system includes both county and state facilities

Telephone Verification:

Call the Pender County Detention Center directly at (910) 259-1484
Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
Basic information about current inmates, including confirmation of custody status, is typically provided at no cost

Court System Resources:

Access the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
Use the court date search function
Enter the individual's name
Review upcoming court dates, which may indicate custody status

When using these free resources, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name and date of birth if available. These services are designed to provide basic custody information only; more detailed records may require formal requests and applicable fees.

How To Visit an Inmate In Pender County

The Pender County Sheriff's Office maintains specific protocols for inmate visitation to ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with the established Visitation Policy of the Pender County Detention Center.

Visit Schedule:

Non-contact visitation is available Wednesday through Sunday
Morning sessions: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Evening sessions (Wednesday and Sunday only): 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
No visitation is scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week

Registration Requirements:

Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled visitation time
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Visitors must register at the visitation desk prior to each visit
Pre-registration is required for first-time visitors

Visit Types:

Standard visitation is non-contact through secure visitation booths
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may be conducted in designated contact areas
Remote video visitation may be available through the facility's approved vendor

Dress Code:

Conservative attire is required for all visitors
Prohibited clothing includes:
- Revealing or transparent garments
- Clothing with offensive language or images
- Tank tops, halter tops, or sleeveless shirts
- Shorts or skirts shorter than knee-length
- Gang-related colors or symbols
Visitors not in compliance with the dress code will be denied entry

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification
Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
Necessary medical items (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring:

Cell phones or electronic devices
Cameras or recording equipment
Weapons of any kind
Food or beverages
Tobacco products or vaping devices
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $50

Visit Restrictions:

Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
Individuals on probation or parole must provide written permission from their supervising officer
Persons with active warrants or pending criminal charges may be subject to arrest
Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit

All visitation procedures are subject to modification based on facility security needs and public health considerations. Visitors are advised to verify current policies by contacting the Pender County Detention Center at (910) 259-1484 prior to planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a Pender County Inmate

The Pender County Sheriff's Office provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds enable inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, and communication services.

In-Person Deposits:

Location: Pender County Detention Center lobby kiosk
Address: 605 E. Fremont Street, Burgaw, NC 28425
Hours: 24 hours daily
Accepted forms: Cash only
Maximum single deposit: $300
Fee: $2.00 per transaction
Requirements: Inmate's full name and booking number

Online Deposits:

Visit the approved third-party vendor website (available through the Pender County Sheriff's Office website)
Create an account or log in
Select "Pender County Detention Center"
Enter inmate information (full name and booking number)
Enter deposit amount
Complete payment using credit/debit card
Maximum single deposit: $300
Fees: 5% of deposit amount ($2.50 minimum)

Telephone Deposits:

Call the approved vendor's toll-free number: 1-866-345-1884
Follow automated prompts
Provide inmate information and payment details
Maximum single deposit: $300
Fees: 5% of deposit amount ($2.50 minimum)

Mail Deposits:

Send money order only (no personal checks, cash, or other items)
Make payable to: Pender County Inmate Trust Fund
Include inmate's full name and booking number on money order
Mail to: Pender County Detention Center Attn: Inmate Accounts 605 E. Fremont Street Burgaw, NC 28425
Maximum single deposit: $300
No processing fee

Amount Limits and Restrictions:

Maximum account balance: $500
Weekly deposit limit: $500 per inmate
Funds from unidentified sources will be returned
Deposits from other inmates or their families are prohibited
Deposits from individuals with active criminal cases are subject to review

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone account funding
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Restitution payments (court-ordered)

Prohibited Uses:

Transfer to other inmates
Payment for unauthorized services
Gambling or bartering
Purchase of contraband items

Upon an inmate's release, any remaining balance will be returned via debit card or check. Questions regarding inmate accounts may be directed to the Pender County Detention Center at (910) 259-1484.

How To Send Jail Mail In Pender County

The Pender County Detention Center permits inmates to receive mail subject to specific guidelines designed to maintain facility security and safety. All correspondence must comply with the Inmate Information policies established by the Pender County Sheriff's Office.

Mailing Address Format:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Pender County Detention Center
605 E. Fremont Street
Burgaw, NC 28425

Letter Guidelines:

All mail must include a complete return address with sender's full name
Letters must be written on plain white paper (no colored paper, construction paper, or cardstock)
Envelopes must be standard white or manila (no colored envelopes)
No perfume, lipstick, stickers, glitter, crayon, marker, or paint on correspondence
No plastic, metal, wood, or cloth items enclosed
Maximum page count: 10 pages per envelope (excluding the envelope)
Letters with excessive stains or unidentifiable substances will be rejected

Permitted Items:

Handwritten or typed letters on plain paper
Commercially printed black and white photographs (maximum 5 per envelope)
Money orders (must be separate from letters)
Legal documents related to the inmate's case
Religious materials (subject to review)
Self-addressed stamped envelopes for return correspondence

Prohibited Items:

Polaroid photographs
Photos depicting gang symbols, nudity, or criminal activity
Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
Packages or padded envelopes
Cash, personal checks, or stamps
Cards larger than 5"x7"
Greeting cards with musical, electronic, or pop-up components
Food items or candy
Clothing or personal items
Blank paper, envelopes, or writing materials

Mail Processing:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
Mail is typically distributed to inmates within 24-48 hours of receipt
Rejected mail is returned to sender with explanation
Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the inmate's presence

Publications:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
Soft-cover books only (no hardcover)
Publications containing prohibited content (weapons, escape methods, explicit material) will be rejected
Maximum of 3 books and 5 magazines in possession at any time

E-Messages:

Available through approved third-party vendor
Access through kiosks in facility lobby or online
Fees apply for electronic messaging services
Subject to same content restrictions as physical mail

Mail privileges may be restricted for inmates who violate facility rules or misuse mail services. Questions regarding mail policies may be directed to the Pender County Detention Center at (910) 259-1484.