The Great Philadelphia Inmate Escape... Except You're Trying to Find One
Let's face it, sometimes life throws curveballs that land you needing to find an inmate in the City of Brotherly Love. Maybe you're a superstar lawyer with a client on the wrong side of the bars. Perhaps you're estranged family and, hey, curiosity got the cat (and in this case, it dragged you to the internet). Whatever the reason, you're here, and we're here to help you navigate the thrilling world of Philadelphia inmate location.
How To Find An Inmate In Philadelphia Pa |
First Stop: The Digital Dig
The City of Philadelphia offers a user-friendly online tool called the Incarcerated Person Locator. This is your best bet for a speedy search. All you need is either the inmate's police identification number (PID) or their full name and date of birth. Think of it as a like Tinder for the incarcerated, but with less swiping and more clanging cell doors (hopefully metaphoric for our friend).
Pro Tip: If you're searching by name, try to be as specific as possible. Philadelphia is a big city, and there's a chance you might have a John Smith situation on your hands. Throwing in a middle name or a nickname (Spader? Maybe not) could be the key to inmate-finding success.
When the Web Fails You: Calling in the Cavalry (or Classification)
Sometimes, the internet just doesn't cooperate. Fear not, intrepid searcher! The Philadelphia Prison System has a phone line specifically dedicated to inmate location woes. Just dial (215) 685-8394, (215) 685-8395, or (215) 685-8396 and a friendly voice (hopefully) will guide you to your incarcerated quarry.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
Bonus points: If Spanish is your preferred language, dial (215) 685-8392 for assistance.
Uh Oh, I Found Them! Now What?
Congratulations! You've successfully located your inmate. Now what? This, my friend, depends entirely on your motives. If you're a lawyer, get to work! If you're estranged family, consider this a sign to maybe send a card.
Important Note: Inmate Locator only provides basic information such as the facility where the inmate is being held. For details on visitation, contact information, or sending a care package, you'll need to visit the Philadelphia Prison System website or reach out to the specific facility.
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
Frequently Asked Questions (Inmate Edition):
How to find out if someone is in jail in Philadelphia?
Head to the Incarcerated Person Locator on the City of Philadelphia website.
How to lookup an inmate in Philadelphia?
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
Use the aforementioned Incarcerated Person Locator and enter the inmate's PID or full name and date of birth.
How to visit an inmate in Philadelphia?
Each prison facility has its own visitation policy and procedures. Check the Philadelphia Prison System website for specific details.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
How to send money to an inmate in Philadelphia?
Contact the specific facility where the inmate is being held for information on their money transfer policy.
How to write a letter to an inmate in Philadelphia?
Find out the address of the specific facility where the inmate is being held and mail your letter accordingly. Be sure to follow the facility's guidelines on letter content and format.