Greater-Boston County Jail is a key part of the criminal justice system in Massachusetts. It serves as a secure facility where individuals are held before trial or while serving short-term sentences. The jail operates under strict rules to ensure safety, fairness, and proper care for all inmates. It also supports families and communities by offering clear ways to find, visit, and support loved ones inside. This page gives you everything you need to know about Greater-Boston County Jail—from how to search for an inmate to what services are available and how the system works.
What Is Greater-Boston County Jail?
Greater-Boston County Jail refers to the main detention centers in Suffolk County, including the Suffolk County House of Correction and the Nashua Street Jail. These facilities are managed by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department and serve Boston and surrounding areas. They hold people arrested in the region who are waiting for court hearings, sentencing, or transfer to state prisons. The jail focuses on safety, rehabilitation, and preparing inmates for life after release.
The jail is not the same as a state prison. It mainly holds people for shorter periods—usually under two and a half years. Longer sentences go to state facilities run by the Massachusetts Department of Correction. Greater-Boston County Jail works closely with courts, police, and social services to support fair treatment and successful reentry into the community.
How to Find an Inmate in Greater-Boston County Jail
If you need to find someone in Greater-Boston County Jail, the fastest way is through the official inmate lookup tool. This online system is updated daily and gives accurate, real-time information. You can search by name or inmate ID number. Results show current status, charges, court dates, and housing location.
To use the lookup, go to the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department website and click “Inmate Search.” Enter the full legal name or ID. If you don’t get results, try a partial name or check spelling. If still unsure, call the jail at (617) 635-1100. Staff can help confirm if someone is in custody.
You can also visit the jail in person at 20 Bradston Street, Boston, MA 02118. Bring a photo ID and any known details about the person. Public kiosks may show basic roster info during business hours. Always call ahead—visitation and lookup services can change due to security or health reasons.
What Information Is Available?
The inmate lookup shows key details such as:
- Full name and known aliases
- Date of birth and physical description
- Booking date and current housing unit
- Charges and court case number
- Bail amount and eligibility
- Next court date and expected release (if sentenced)
This data helps families, lawyers, and advocates stay informed. It also supports transparency in the justice system. All records are public unless sealed by a judge.
Visitation Rules and Schedules
Visiting someone in Greater-Boston County Jail requires planning. All visits must be scheduled in advance. You can book online or by calling the visitation office. Walk-in visits are not allowed.
Visitation hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Some holidays may have reduced hours. Check the website or call before you go. Each visit lasts about 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per session.
All visitors must bring a valid photo ID—driver’s license, passport, or state ID. Minors under 18 need a parent or guardian with them. No cell phones, bags, or food are allowed in the visiting area. Dress modestly: no shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with offensive words or images.
Virtual Visits
If you can’t come in person, virtual visits are available. These are video calls you schedule online. You’ll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and internet. Virtual visits follow the same rules as in-person ones. They’re monitored for security.
Virtual visits are great for people who live far away or have health issues. They cost a small fee, paid online when you book. Both in-person and virtual visits help inmates stay connected with loved ones—a key part of rehabilitation.
How to Send Money to an Inmate
Family and friends can send money to inmates in Greater-Boston County Jail. Funds go into a secure account the inmate can use for commissary, phone calls, or medical co-pays. There are three easy ways to send money:
- Online: Use the jail’s approved payment partner. Enter the inmate’s name and ID. Pay with a credit or debit card.
- Kiosk: Visit the jail lobby and use the self-service kiosk. Accepts cash, credit, or debit cards.
- Mail: Send a money order only. Make it payable to the inmate. Write the inmate’s full name and ID on the memo line. Do not send cash or personal checks.
Money orders should be mailed to: Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, 20 Bradston Street, Boston, MA 02118. Processing takes 1–3 business days. Online and kiosk deposits are instant.
Avoid common mistakes: double-check the name and ID number. Personal checks or cash in mail will be returned. Keep receipts for all transactions. Inmates get a weekly statement of their account balance.
Commissary and Inmate Purchases
Inmates in Greater-Boston County Jail can buy items from the commissary. This includes snacks, hygiene products, writing supplies, and approved clothing. Commissary orders are placed once a week. Items are delivered to the inmate’s housing unit.
Popular items include instant coffee, chips, toothpaste, soap, envelopes, and socks. Prices are low and set by the jail. Inmates cannot trade or share items. All purchases come from their personal account.
Commissary helps inmates feel more comfortable and maintain routines. It also reduces stress and supports mental health. Families can add funds anytime using the methods above. There’s no limit on how much you can send, but inmates have weekly spending caps for safety.
Phone Calls and Mail Guidelines
Inmates can make outgoing phone calls to approved contacts. Calls are limited to 15–20 minutes. All calls are monitored and recorded. Inmates pay for calls using their account. Families can add money online or at kiosks.
To receive calls, you must be on the inmate’s approved list. Add your name when you visit or call the jail. Calls cannot be transferred or recorded by the recipient. International calls are not allowed.
Mail is another way to stay in touch. Inmates can send and receive letters. All mail is opened and checked for contraband. Use plain white envelopes and paper. Do not include stickers, drawings, or Polaroids.
Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores. No used books. Address mail clearly with the inmate’s full name, ID number, and jail address. Do not send cash or gift cards.
Health and Mental Health Care
Greater-Boston County Jail provides medical and mental health services to all inmates. Upon arrival, each person gets a health screening. This includes checks for injuries, illnesses, and mental health needs.
Routine care includes treatment for chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma. Prescription medications are given as prescribed. Dental and vision care are available for serious issues. Emergency care is provided 24/7.
Mental health support includes counseling, group therapy, and substance abuse programs. Trained staff help inmates manage anxiety, depression, or addiction. Referrals to community programs are made before release.
All services follow state and federal standards. Inmates can request medical help at any time. Privacy is respected, and treatment is voluntary unless there’s a risk of harm.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to help inmates build skills and prepare for life after release. These include GED classes, vocational training, and life skills workshops. Education is free and open to all eligible inmates.
GED programs help inmates earn a high school equivalency diploma. Classes are held on-site with certified teachers. Many inmates complete their GED while in custody.
Vocational training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. These programs partner with local trade schools and employers. Graduates may get job referrals upon release.
Other programs focus on anger management, parenting, and financial literacy. Substance abuse treatment includes detox support and counseling. These services reduce recidivism and support successful reintegration.
Bail and Release Process
If an inmate is granted bail, the amount is set by a judge. Bail can be paid in cash, by credit card, or through a bail bondsman. Contact the Booking Office at (617) 635-1100 to confirm the amount and payment options.
Once bail is paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is completed. This usually takes 1–4 hours. Release times vary based on staffing and court schedules.
If no bail is set or posted, the inmate remains in custody until their court date. Sentenced inmates serve their time and are released on the scheduled date. Families are notified when possible.
Security and Safety Measures
Greater-Boston County Jail uses strict security to protect everyone. The facility has 24/7 surveillance with high-definition cameras. Staff monitor all areas, including housing units, common spaces, and entrances.
Inmates are classified by risk level. Low-risk inmates may live in dorm-style units. Higher-risk individuals are housed in single cells with more supervision. Movement is tracked electronically.
Emergency plans are in place for fires, medical crises, or disturbances. Staff train regularly in crisis response. Inmates are taught safety procedures during orientation.
All visitors go through metal detectors and bag checks. Prohibited items include weapons, drugs, phones, and recording devices. Security ensures a safe environment for staff, inmates, and the public.
Community Partnerships and Outreach
The jail works with local organizations to support inmates and the community. Partnerships include job training programs, mental health services, and victim assistance.
Educational tours are offered to schools and community groups. These help people understand how the justice system works. The jail also hosts reentry fairs to connect inmates with housing, jobs, and counseling.
Victim support services provide resources to those affected by crime. This includes counseling, legal help, and safety planning. The jail aims to balance accountability with compassion.
Contact Information and Visiting Hours
For more information about Greater-Boston County Jail, use these official contacts:
| Facility Name | Suffolk County House of Correction |
|---|---|
| Address | 20 Bradston Street, Boston, MA 02118 |
| Phone | (617) 635-1100 |
| Website | Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department |
| Visiting Hours | Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Always call ahead to confirm hours or schedule a visit. Emergency contact: 911. For non-emergencies, call the main jail number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Greater-Boston County Jail. Below are answers to the most common ones. These cover inmate search, visitation, mail, and more. If you need more help, call the jail directly.
How do I find out if someone is in jail?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. If you don’t find them, call (617) 635-1100. Staff can check their database. You can also visit the jail in person with a photo ID. The roster is updated daily, so information is current. If the person was recently arrested, it may take a few hours to appear online.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No, visitation is only available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Weekends and holidays are not open for visits. You must schedule in advance. Virtual visits may have different hours—check the website. Always confirm before traveling. If you miss your appointment, you’ll need to reschedule.
What happens if I send cash in the mail?
Cash will be returned to you. The jail only accepts money orders sent by mail. Personal checks are also not accepted. Use a money order from the post office or bank. Write the inmate’s name and ID on it. Mail to 20 Bradston Street, Boston, MA 02118. Online and kiosk payments are faster and safer.
Are mugshots public record?
Yes, mugshots taken during booking are public records in Massachusetts. You can request them from the Sheriff’s Department. Some websites publish them, but you may be able to request removal if charges were dropped. Contact the jail or a lawyer for help. Be aware that once online, mugshots can be hard to remove completely.
What programs help inmates get jobs after release?
The jail offers vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer skills. GED classes are also available. These programs partner with local employers and trade schools. Inmates learn real skills and may get job leads. Counseling and life skills classes support long-term success. Many former inmates find work and stay out of jail because of these programs.