Buncombe County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Buncombe County?
Inmate records in Buncombe County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Buncombe County facilities. Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 153A-220, counties are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to county detention facilities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the North Carolina Judicial Branch, document legal proceedings, case filings, and judicial decisions, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and administrative management of detained individuals. The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records that begin at the moment of booking and continue throughout an individual's incarceration period.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes administrative, medical, behavioral, and security-related information
- Records are formally closed upon the inmate's release, transfer, or other disposition
Under North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1.7, certain security-related information within inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure, though basic information about current inmates is generally accessible to the public through the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal.
Are Inmate Records Public In Buncombe County?
Inmate records in Buncombe County are partially public under North Carolina law. The North Carolina Public Records Act § 132-1 establishes that records made or received in the transaction of public business are public property and subject to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. However, this access is balanced against privacy and security considerations specific to correctional facilities.
The following inmate record information is typically accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking and arrest information
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshots (booking photographs)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility location
Certain information within inmate records is restricted from public access under North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1.7 and other applicable laws, including:
- Detailed medical records and health information
- Disciplinary reports and internal security documents
- Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking access to publicly available inmate information may utilize the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office Police to Citizen portal, which provides a searchable database of current inmates. For more comprehensive records, formal public records requests may be submitted to the Sheriff's Office Records Division in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Buncombe County
Inmate records maintained by Buncombe County detention facilities contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional 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)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number and/or FBI number (if applicable)
Custody Information:
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, held for other jurisdiction)
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Projected release date (if sentenced)
Charge Information:
- Current charges (statute numbers and descriptions)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant or case numbers
- Arresting agency and jurisdiction
- Prior booking history within the county system
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, pending, denied)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
- Bonding company information (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Next scheduled court appearance
- Court location and department
- Case numbers
- Assigned judge
- Public defender or private attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Special conditions imposed by the court
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time (upon completion)
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements (if applicable)
- Agency assuming custody if transferred
These records are maintained in accordance with North Carolina Administrative Code Title 10A, Chapter 14, Subchapter J, which establishes minimum standards for local confinement facilities.
Buncombe County Prison System
The Buncombe County correctional system operates under a structured framework that distinguishes between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Buncombe County Detention Facility serves as the primary local confinement facility, housing pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor convictions. This facility operates under the direct authority of the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office, as mandated by North Carolina General Statutes § 162-22.
Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year for felony convictions are typically transferred to the custody of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, which operates state prison facilities, including Craggy Correctional Institution located in Buncombe County.
The county detention system is responsible for:
- Housing individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
- Incarcerating individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions
- Temporarily holding individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Housing individuals held on immigration detainers
- Detaining individuals who have violated probation or parole conditions
The primary agency responsible for operating the county detention system is:
Buncombe County Sheriff's Office
60 Court Plaza
Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: (828) 250-4503
Buncombe County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains administrative oversight of all county detention operations, including inmate records management, facility security, and coordination with the courts and other law enforcement agencies throughout Buncombe County.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Buncombe County
Buncombe County houses several types of correctional facilities that serve different functions within the criminal justice system. Each facility operates under specific security classifications and houses distinct inmate populations based on custody level, sentence length, and other factors.
Buncombe County Detention Facility
20 Davidson Drive
Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: (828) 250-4550
Buncombe County Detention Facility
The Buncombe County Detention Facility serves as the primary county jail, housing pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year. This facility operates under the authority of the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office and provides various inmate services including medical care, commissary, and limited programming. The facility has a capacity of approximately 604 inmates and maintains separate housing units for male and female detainees.
Craggy Correctional Institution
2992 Riverside Drive
Asheville, NC 28804
Phone: (828) 645-5315
Craggy Correctional Institution
Craggy Correctional Institution is a state prison facility operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. This medium-custody facility has a capacity of 416 inmates in its main unit, with an additional 182 beds in its minimum-custody facility. Craggy houses male inmates serving longer sentences for more serious offenses and provides various rehabilitative programs, educational opportunities, and vocational training.
Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women
55 Lake Eden Road
Black Mountain, NC 28711
Phone: (828) 686-0567
Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women
The Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women is a minimum-custody state prison facility located in Buncombe County that houses female offenders. The facility has a capacity of approximately 366 inmates and focuses on rehabilitation, substance abuse treatment, and reentry preparation. This facility is operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction rather than county authorities.
Black Mountain Substance Abuse Treatment Center for Women
1449 North Fork Road
Black Mountain, NC 28711
Phone: (828) 669-4174
Black Mountain Substance Abuse Treatment Center
This specialized facility provides residential substance abuse treatment for female offenders. While technically a correctional facility, it focuses primarily on therapeutic interventions rather than traditional incarceration. The center operates under the authority of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.
Who's in Prison In Buncombe County
The inmate population in Buncombe County detention facilities encompasses a diverse range of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. Understanding the composition of this population provides insight into the county's correctional system and its operational demands.
Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the Buncombe County jail population. These individuals have been arrested and charged with criminal offenses but have not yet been convicted. They remain in custody because:
- They have not posted the required bail amount
- They have been denied bail due to public safety concerns
- They are awaiting initial court appearances
- They have chosen to remain in custody pending trial
Sentenced offenders serving time in Buncombe County facilities typically include:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
- Persons convicted of driving while impaired (DWI) offenses
- Individuals serving active sentences for probation violations
- Weekenders serving intermittent sentences (reporting to jail on weekends only)
The county facilities also temporarily house individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions, including:
- Sentenced felons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Persons awaiting extradition to other counties or states
- Federal detainees held under intergovernmental agreements
According to data from the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Buncombe County's incarceration demographics generally reflect statewide patterns, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees varies significantly based on case complexity, while sentenced misdemeanants typically serve between 30 days and 12 months in county facilities.
The Buncombe County Detention Facility also houses specialized populations requiring additional services or segregated housing, including:
- Individuals with mental health conditions requiring treatment
- Detainees with substance use disorders
- Vulnerable populations requiring protective custody
- High-risk individuals requiring maximum security housing
How To Search for Inmate Records In Buncombe County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Buncombe County may utilize several official channels to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate data while protecting sensitive information in accordance with state law.
To search for current inmates in Buncombe County custody:
- Visit the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office Police to Citizen portal
- Select the "Inmate Inquiry" option from the available search tools
- Enter search criteria such as the inmate's name, booking number, or date of birth
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking photograph
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Housing location (general facility only)
- Next court date
For inmates in state prison facilities located in Buncombe County:
- Access the North Carolina Offender Public Information Search
- Enter the inmate's name or Department of Correction number
- Review comprehensive information about custody status, location, and projected release dates
To obtain more detailed inmate records not available through online portals:
- Submit a formal public records request to the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Specify the exact information being requested and its intended use
- Provide identifying information about the inmate (full name, date of birth, approximate booking date)
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing as required by state law
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction (currently $0.25 per page)
For court records related to an inmate's case:
- Visit the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
- Use the "Find Court Date" search function
- Enter the individual's name and Buncombe County as the jurisdiction
- Review upcoming court dates and basic case information
Authorized parties such as attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and court officials may access more comprehensive inmate records through secure channels by presenting proper credentials and documentation of their need for such information.
How To Find an Inmate in Buncombe County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Buncombe County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources enable family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties to verify an individual's custody status and location without incurring fees.
The primary free resource for locating inmates in Buncombe County is the online inmate search portal:
- Access the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office search page
- Navigate to the "Inmate Inquiry" section
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name format)
- For more precise results, include additional identifiers if known:
- Date of birth
- Booking number
- Case number
- Review the search results, which provide:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Current facility location
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
For individuals who may be in state prison facilities within Buncombe County rather than county jail:
- Visit the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction offender search
- Enter the individual's name or offender ID number
- Review comprehensive custody information, including:
- Current facility assignment
- Custody classification
- Projected release date
- Sentence information
Those without internet access may utilize these alternative free methods:
-
Contact the Buncombe County Detention Facility directly:
- Call the main information line at (828) 250-4550
- Provide the full name and approximate age of the person
- Request basic custody verification and visitation information
-
Visit the Buncombe County Detention Facility in person:
- Go to the public lobby at 20 Davidson Drive, Asheville, NC 28801
- Speak with staff at the information desk during regular business hours
- Provide identifying information about the individual you are attempting to locate
-
Contact the Clerk of Superior Court:
- Call (828) 259-3400
- Request information about recent criminal cases that may indicate custody status
These free resources provide basic custody verification and location information while protecting sensitive details in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1.4 regarding criminal investigation records.
How To Visit an Inmate In Buncombe County
Visitation with inmates housed in Buncombe County detention facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits are subject to the regulations established by the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office in accordance with state detention standards.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must successfully pass security screening before each visit
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
- Pre-registration is required for all visits through the online visitation system
- Visitors must arrive 15 minutes prior to scheduled visitation time
Visit Schedule:
- Video visitation: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Each inmate is permitted two 25-minute video visits per week
- Visit schedules may vary based on housing unit and classification level
- Holidays may affect regular visitation schedules
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitation confirmation number or documentation
- Essential medical items (with prior approval)
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain secured)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
Visit Types:
- Video visitation (primary method for personal visits)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
- Special visits (with prior approval from facility administration)
- Contact visits (limited to certain classifications and special circumstances)
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates released within the past year may be prohibited from visiting
- Persons on probation or parole must obtain permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors exhibiting signs of intoxication will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visits
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
For current visitation information and to schedule a visit, access the Buncombe County inmate visitation portal or contact the Buncombe County Detention Facility directly at (828) 250-4550.
How To Send Money to a Buncombe County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Buncombe County detention facilities have several secure methods available for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other approved services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Buncombe County inmate deposits page
- Create an account or log in to an existing account
- Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of the deposit amount)
-
Kiosk Deposits:
- Use the automated kiosk located in the lobby of the Buncombe County Detention Facility
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Provide a receipt confirming the transaction
- Lower service fees than online deposits (typically $2.00-$3.00 per transaction)
-
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Buncombe County Detention Facility"
- Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order
- Include sender's full name and return address
- Mail to: Buncombe County Detention Facility, Inmate Accounts, 20 Davidson Drive, Asheville, NC 28801
- No service fees apply, but processing takes 5-7 business days
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum account balance permitted: $1,000.00
Service Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-5% of the deposit amount
- Kiosk deposits: $2.00-$3.00 per transaction
- Money orders: No fee
Prohibited Items:
- Personal checks
- Cash sent through mail
- Cashier's checks
- Third-party checks
- Foreign currency
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation sessions
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
Restricted Uses:
- Payments to other inmates
- Payments to facility staff
- Bond or bail payments
- Court fines or fees (separate payment system)
- Purchases from outside vendors
Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. For additional information regarding inmate accounts, contact the Buncombe County Detention Facility at (828) 250-4550.
How To Send Jail Mail In Buncombe County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Buncombe County detention facilities follows specific guidelines established to maintain security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.
General Mail Guidelines:
-
Addressing Requirements:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate's booking number (if known)
- Facility name and address: Buncombe County Detention Facility 20 Davidson Drive Asheville, NC 28801
- Sender's full name and complete return address (required)
-
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (following financial deposit procedures)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
-
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Items containing biohazards
Legal Mail Procedures:
Legal mail receives special handling and is defined as correspondence from:
- Licensed attorneys
- Courts and judicial officers
- Government agencies
- Probation/parole officers
Requirements for legal mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Must include attorney bar number or official letterhead
- Opened in the presence of the inmate
- Subject to inspection for contraband but not read for content
Electronic Messaging Options:
Buncombe County currently offers a secure electronic messaging system:
- Create an account through the inmate messaging portal
- Purchase messaging credits
- Compose and send messages (subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail)
- Attach approved digital photographs (additional fees may apply)
Mail Inspection and Delivery:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
- Mail containing prohibited items is rejected and returned to sender
- Delivery typically occurs within 24-48 hours after receipt and processing
- Mail volume may affect delivery timeframes
Publications and Subscriptions:
Inmates may receive publications under these conditions:
- Must come directly from the publisher or authorized retailer
- Soft-cover books only (no hardcover)
- Magazines must not contain prohibited content
- Maximum of 3 publications per week
- Subject to review for security concerns
For additional information regarding mail procedures, contact the Buncombe County Detention Facility at (828) 250-4550 or visit the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office website.
Lookup Inmate Records in Buncombe County
Buncombe County Sheriff's Office Police to Citizen portal
North Carolina Offender Search database
Buncombe County search services