Kenton County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Kenton County?
Inmate records in Kenton County are official government documents maintained by the Kenton County Detention Center and Sheriff's Office that document the custody status and personal information of individuals who have been arrested and detained within the county's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody. Pursuant to Kentucky Revised Statutes § 197.025, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate records of all persons in their custody.
Inmate records differ from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
- Court records are maintained by the Kenton County Circuit Court Clerk
- Inmate records are maintained by detention facility administrators
The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when an individual is processed into the detention facility. During this intake process, correctional staff collect identifying information, photograph the individual, document personal property, and record the charges for which the person is being detained. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, and other relevant custody details. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document.
The Kenton County Detention Center serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals incarcerated within the county's correctional system.
Are Inmate Records Public In Kenton County?
Inmate records in Kenton County are generally considered public information under the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS § 61.870-61.884), with certain important exceptions and limitations. This statute establishes the public's right to access government records while balancing privacy concerns and security considerations.
The Kentucky Department of Corrections and local detention facilities must provide public access to basic inmate information while protecting sensitive details. According to KRS § 197.025, correctional facilities may deny inspection of records containing information that would identify an inmate informant or records that might endanger the life of any person.
Information typically available to the public includes:
- Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
- Mugshot photographs
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
Information generally restricted from public access includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary reports
- Personal identifying information (SSN, driver's license)
- Victim information
- Security-related information
The Kenton County Detention Center maintains a publicly accessible inmate search database that provides basic custody information in compliance with state public records laws.
What's Included Inmate Records in Kenton County
Kenton County inmate records contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the county detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Booking number and identification numbers
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification status (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Visitation logs
- Phone call records
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Incident reports
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, property)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Projected release date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Parole eligibility date
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, time served, transfer)
- Conditions of release
- Probation/parole requirements
These records serve multiple purposes including ensuring proper custody management, facilitating court proceedings, and maintaining public safety through appropriate information sharing with law enforcement agencies and the public.
Kenton County Prison System
The Kenton County correctional system operates under the authority of the Kenton County Fiscal Court and is administered by the Kenton County Jailer, an elected position. The system primarily consists of the Kenton County Detention Center, which serves as the main incarceration facility for the county.
The Kenton County Detention Center houses several categories of inmates:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to 12 months)
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state facilities
- State inmates housed under contract with the Kentucky Department of Corrections
It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Kenton County Detention Center is a county-operated facility primarily designed for short-term incarceration and pre-trial detention. State prisons, operated by the Kentucky Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences, typically exceeding one year.
The Kenton County Sheriff's Office works in conjunction with the Detention Center by providing transportation of inmates to court appearances and assisting with warrant service and arrests.
Kenton County Detention Center
3000 Decker Yard Road
Covington, KY 41017
Phone: (859) 363-2400
Kenton County Detention Center
Kenton County Sheriff's Office
1840 Simon Kenton Way, Suite 1200
Covington, KY 41011
Phone: (859) 392-1800
Kenton County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Kenton County
Kenton County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's overall correctional system.
Kenton County Detention Center (Main Facility)
3000 Decker Yard Road
Covington, KY 41017
Phone: (859) 363-2400
Kenton County Detention Center
This is the primary detention facility in Kenton County, housing both male and female inmates across various security classifications. The facility has a capacity of approximately 600 inmates and includes specialized housing units for different populations.
Kenton County Restricted Custody Center
3000 Decker Yard Road
Covington, KY 41017
Phone: (859) 363-2400
Kenton County Detention Center
This minimum-security facility operates as part of the main detention center complex and houses non-violent offenders who qualify for work release and community service programs. Inmates in this facility may participate in outside work details and rehabilitation programs.
Kenton County Juvenile Detention Center
(Operated by the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice)
370 Eagleview Drive
Covington, KY 41017
Phone: (859) 356-3100
Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice
This facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) who are awaiting adjudication or have been adjudicated for criminal offenses. The juvenile facility operates separately from adult facilities and provides educational and rehabilitative programming specific to youth.
Kenton County Community Corrections
303 Court Street
Covington, KY 41011
Phone: (859) 392-1500
Kenton County Community Corrections
While not a physical detention facility, this department oversees alternative incarceration programs including home incarceration, electronic monitoring, and community service supervision for qualifying offenders.
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and housing classifications based on the risk level and needs of the inmate population they serve.
Who's in Prison In Kenton County
The Kenton County Detention Center houses a diverse population of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system at various stages. The facility accommodates several distinct categories of inmates as authorized under Kentucky Revised Statutes § 441.025.
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- These individuals maintain the legal presumption of innocence
Misdemeanor Offenders:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor crimes (less serious offenses)
- Typically serving sentences of less than 12 months
- May include offenses such as DUI, simple assault, petty theft, or disorderly conduct
- Often eligible for work release or other alternative sentencing programs
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of felonies serving shorter sentences
- May be awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Some low-level felony offenders may serve their entire sentence in the county facility
State Inmates:
- Convicted felons housed under contract with the Kentucky Department of Corrections
- Placed in county detention due to state prison overcrowding
- The state reimburses the county for housing these inmates
Federal Detainees:
- Individuals held under contract with the U.S. Marshals Service
- Awaiting federal court proceedings or transfer to federal facilities
- The federal government provides payment to the county for housing these inmates
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment participants
- Work release program participants
- Weekend sentence servers (individuals permitted to serve time on weekends only)
The demographic composition of the Kenton County inmate population generally reflects trends seen throughout Kentucky's correctional system, with disproportionate representation of individuals with substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Kenton County in 2026
Kenton County provides several methods for searching inmate records. Members of the public seeking information about individuals in custody may utilize the following resources:
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the official Kenton County Detention Center website
- Locate the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically last name, first name, or booking number)
- Review the results, which generally include basic custody information
- Note that information is updated regularly but may not reflect very recent bookings or releases
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Kenton County Detention Center at (859) 363-2400
- Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
- Be prepared to explain your relationship to the inmate
- Staff can confirm basic custody status but may limit detailed information provided by phone
In-Person Request:
- Visit the Kenton County Detention Center during regular business hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Excluding holidays
- Bring government-issued photo identification
- Complete an information request form at the reception desk
- Specify the information you are seeking
Formal Public Records Request:
- Submit a written request under the Kentucky Open Records Act
- Address the request to the Records Custodian at the Detention Center
- Clearly identify the specific records being requested
- Include your contact information
- Allow up to three business days for a response as required by state law
- Be prepared to pay reasonable copying fees if requesting physical documents
VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):
- Access the VINE service at Kentucky VINE
- Register for an account if seeking ongoing notifications
- Search by the inmate's name
- Receive custody status updates and notification of release
When searching for inmate records, be aware that certain information may be redacted or restricted based on privacy laws and security considerations. The most current and accurate information is maintained by the Kenton County Detention Center as the official custodian of these records.
How To Find an Inmate in Kenton County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Kenton County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties.
Kenton County Detention Center Online Inmate Lookup:
- Navigate to the Kenton County Detention Center website
- Select the "Inmate Search" function
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review the results showing current custody status
- Information typically includes booking date, charges, and bond information
- This service is available 24/7 and updates regularly
Kentucky VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):
- Visit Kentucky VINE or call 1-800-511-1670
- Search using the inmate's name
- Receive basic custody information including facility location
- Register for free automated notifications about changes in custody status
- Available in multiple languages
Kentucky Online Offender Lookup (KOOL):
- Access the Kentucky Department of Corrections Offender Search
- Enter the inmate's name or ID number if known
- This system primarily tracks state inmates but may include county inmates serving state sentences
- Provides information on custody status, location, and potential release dates
Telephone Inquiry to Detention Center:
- Call the Kenton County Detention Center at (859) 363-2400
- Request inmate location information from the operator
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the inmate
- Available during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday)
Kenton County Clerk of Courts:
- Contact the Kenton County Clerk of Courts at (859) 392-1800
- Request information about pending cases which may indicate custody status
- Court records can confirm if someone has been ordered into custody
- Available during regular business hours
When using these free resources, be prepared to provide accurate spelling of the inmate's name. If you have additional identifying information such as date of birth or booking number, this will help ensure you receive accurate information. These systems are designed to provide basic custody information while protecting sensitive personal data.
How To Visit an Inmate In Kenton County
Visiting an inmate at the Kenton County Detention Center requires adherence to specific protocols established to maintain facility security and ensure orderly visitation. All visits are subject to the regulations set forth in Kentucky Administrative Regulations Title 501 KAR 3:140 governing jail visitation.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent/guardian
- Maximum of two adults and two children per visit
- All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must have birth certificate or other proof of identity
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication needed during visit time (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products or lighters
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $50
- Prescription medications not needed during visit
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above knee, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions may apply)
Visit Types:
- On-site video visitation (primary method)
- Remote video visitation (available for fee through third-party provider)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) available by appointment
- Contact visits only permitted in special circumstances with prior approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
- Persons with felony convictions require special permission to visit
- Visitors appearing under the influence will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Three missed visits in 30 days may result in visitation privileges suspension
Kenton County Detention Center Visitation Office
3000 Decker Yard Road
Covington, KY 41017
Phone: (859) 363-2400
Kenton County Detention Center
Visitors are advised to verify current visitation hours and requirements before traveling to the facility, as policies may be subject to change.
How To Send Money to a Kenton County Inmate
Sending funds to individuals incarcerated at the Kenton County Detention Center can be accomplished through several authorized methods. These funds are deposited into the inmate's commissary account, allowing them to purchase approved items and services while in custody.
Online Deposits:
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Kentucky" and "Kenton County Detention Center"
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and ID number if available)
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using credit/debit card
- Processing fees apply (typically $2.95-$9.95 depending on amount)
- Funds are usually available within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Kenton County Detention Center lobby during business hours
- Locate the automated payment kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt as proof of transaction
- Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
- Smaller service fee than online deposits
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from U.S. Postal Service or authorized vendor
- Make payable to "Kenton County Detention Center"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to: Kenton County Detention Center Inmate Accounts 3000 Decker Yard Road Covington, KY 41017
- No fee for this method
- Processing time: 3-5 business days
Phone Deposits:
- Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Higher service fees apply for phone transactions
- Available 24/7
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Deposit Fees:
- Online/Phone: $2.95 for deposits up to $50; $3.95 for $50.01-$100; $4.95 for $100.01-$200; $7.95 for $200.01-$300
- Lobby Kiosk: $2.00 flat fee for any amount
- Money Order: No fee
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary items (hygiene products, snacks, clothing)
- Phone calls
- Video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fees or fines
- Restitution payments
- Transfer to other inmates
- Outside purchases
All deposits are subject to a 10% deduction for the Inmate Welfare Fund as authorized by Kentucky Revised Statutes § 441.135. This fund supports programs and services that benefit the inmate population.
Individuals sending money should verify the inmate's custody status before making deposits, as funds sent to released inmates require additional processing for refunds.
How To Send Jail Mail In Kenton County
Corresponding with inmates at the Kenton County Detention Center requires adherence to specific guidelines established to maintain facility security and efficient mail processing. All mail is subject to inspection as outlined in Kentucky Administrative Regulations Title 501 KAR 3:130 governing jail security.
Regular Mail Guidelines:
-
Address envelopes clearly with the following format: Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known) Kenton County Detention Center 3000 Decker Yard Road Covington, KY 41017
-
Include your complete return address with full name
-
Use standard white envelopes only
-
Write in blue or black ink only
-
Mail is typically delivered to inmates within 24-48 hours after receipt and processing
Permitted Mail Items:
- Personal letters (limit 5 pages per envelope)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope)
- Must be 4x6 inches or smaller
- No Polaroid photos
- No explicit content
- No gang symbols or signs
- Money orders (see previous section on sending money)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Hardcover books or magazines
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Glitter or glued items
- Plastic or laminated materials
- Colored paper or envelopes
- Photos showing illegal activity or explicit content
- Any items containing biohazards or unknown substances
Books and Publications:
- All books must be sent directly from the publisher or authorized retailer
- Soft-cover books only
- Maximum of 3 books per shipment
- Subject to content review by facility staff
- Address using the same format as regular mail
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come from an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
Electronic Messaging:
- Available through SmartJailMail
- Create an account and purchase credits
- Locate Kenton County Detention Center in the facility list
- Compose and send messages (subject to monitoring)
- Fees apply per message
- Faster delivery than traditional mail
All incoming mail is inspected for contraband, and content is reviewed for security concerns. Mail containing threats, escape plans, criminal activity, or other prohibited content will be rejected and may result in criminal investigation. Senders of rejected mail will not typically receive notification unless the mail contains illegal items.
Inmates have limited storage space, so correspondents are encouraged to be mindful of the quantity of mail sent. The facility does not forward mail when an inmate is released; unclaimed mail is returned to sender.