How to Find an Inmate in Colorado for Free

Michelle Wilson - November 11, 2023

Tracking an inmate’s location isn’t always transparent or straightforward. There are several different databases available to search individually. Each platform has its unique advantages and disadvantages, depending on the qualifying information you have available. 

For many users, it’s best to start with an online background check website. These reports will always compile all publicly accessible records into a PDF document. Alternatively, users can access inmate information through different state and federal platforms. These platforms include the CDCO, Colorado State Penitentiary Archives, Federal Inmate Search, and JPay. 

Finding an Inmate in Colorado Using a Background Check Platform

Using a background check website to track down an inmate’s location is arguably one of the easiest search methods available. These websites will use basic information to locate the proper inmate, typically asking the requesting user for verification as the records are referenced. To get started, interested parties will need the first and last name of the party. From there, you’ll need to answer a few basic questions about the individual if you know the answer. After cross-referencing the details, users will receive a PDF report in their email. 

A background check report will include all public records, including incarceration records on file. Unlike manual search options, the background check completes all scans of public documents instantly, compiling all results within minutes.

Reviewing the Background Check for Inmate Results

Background check websites will use an algorithm to skim through all records to retrieve accurate results. Users often receive additional prompts to narrow the search results if the answers are known. These qualifying questions may include family history, residence, or criminal activity. All users can skip a question if they don’t know the correct answer. Once finalized, the background check report is available instantly, including any incarceration records on file. 

What Other Information is Available in a Background Report?

The information available in a background check will largely depend on the issuing company. Generally, the background report will include a complete record of all criminal activity, financial accounts, civil litigation, lawsuits, and other verifying details. The information will also have copies of all arrest records on file. Arrest details will include:

• The arresting officer.
• Elements of the alleged crime.
• The outcome of any litigation.
• The current jail address. 

The background check will also include all contact information for the intended individual. Contact details have any known phone numbers, addresses, and social media accounts. As part of the cross-referencing, many companies will have an alternative name or alias attached to the individual. To confirm an accurate history of the individual, perform an additional screening of any nickname or other aliases on file. 

Finding an Inmate with the Colorado Department of Corrections Offender Search Tool

The Colorado Department of Corrections Offender Search Tool is an option for anyone trying to find an inmate within the prison system. The online search function allows interested parties to search using any portion of an individual’s name, gender, or the DOCNO. Results will populate according to the indicated details and result requirements. 

The CDCO allows a few different search options; users can sort through the results according to the parole boards, use an interactive form, or review all available information on the website. Results will only include current inmates within the prison. Unfortunately, this website doesn’t include individuals with a previous criminal history. 

Review the Colorado State Penitentiary Archives

All available archives are extensive, with many results starting in the early 1900s. This search option is an effortless way to determine whether an inmate has spent time incarcerated in the past. A few state archives are available through this platform, allowing a search function with the type of record, name, and county of arrest.

Available records will only show the name and number of the individual in question, meaning users must call the facility to follow up. Although this search method offers results, it is rather labor-intensive. Documents available through the archive cover previous inmates and don’t include a list of current candidates within a correctional facility. 

Performing a Search with the Federal Inmate Search

Although this option is considered more complex due to the number of entries, the Federal Inmate Search is a comprehensive search for individuals wanting to find an inmate. This database includes records from 1892, which makes it a time-consuming process for anyone with common names. Basic search functions will likely show hundreds of records, which may prove overwhelming for the average search function. Inmates holding a common name may yield hundreds of results, making the search difficult to narrow. 

This platform does offer a few different search functions, depending on the user’s needs. Search options include first and last name, age, sex, and race. The database covers 49 states but may not be relevant for individual search options. 

Using JPay to Find an Inmate in Colorado

JPay is helpful for anyone wanting to send money to an inmate directly. This platform allows individuals to connect with inmates through financial contributions. Users can use the network to send messages, gifts, or monetary contributions to an inmate, although the website doesn’t offer an inmate search function. JPay offers various rates for these services, which can add up quickly. 

To use JPay, enter the inmate’s ID into the search function on the website. If you don’t have this information, you won’t be able to use the service. You can’t look through records on JPay, making it considerably difficult to track an inmate on the website. 

Find an Inmate in Colorado on Your Own

When finding an individual without a common database, consider using the Federal Bureau of Prisons website. This network allows users to search a comprehensive database from one centralized search. To get started, visit the Federal Bureau of Prison home screen. Users can find the search option under the inmate’s menu, where they can look for an individual’s number or name. Any matching results will appear on the results page. 

Conclusion

There are many different ways to try and locate an inmate in Colorado. Records will vary according to which platform an individual uses. You may need to run a prospective inmate’s name through several search options before finding adequate results. While the free networks may indicate the inmate’s location, they often leave relevant details in the documents. 

If you’re trying to find relevant criminal history for the individual, consider using a background check to run the search. A background check scans through all federal, state, and county databases to compile accurate information. From there, users receive a PDF report including current inmate location and any relevant criminal history.