Essex County Jail – Lewis, NY

Essex County Jail is in Essex County and is the main jail for this area. Know someone at Essex County Jail? This guide gives you all about anything a person needs to know about Essex County Jail,like: How to do a jail inmate search. Find mugshots. The jail’s address and phone number. Bail and how to get out of jail. Essex County Jail intake procedures. Court records. And more…

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The prospect of getting arrested and going to jail is a scary and daunting thought, not only for whoever gets arrested, but also their friends and family. The goal of this guide is to give information that you’ll need to make the process less stressful. If you have questions, please feel free to ask it, and any feedback or comments that could be beneficial to others would be welcome.

General Information

Address

Essex County Jail
Po Box 68, 702 Stowersville Road
Lewis, NY 12950

Phone Number and Fax Number

Phone Number: (518) 873-6913
Fax Number:

Map and Directions

Click Here for Map & Directions

Inmate Search – Find Out Who’s In Jail

Do you know someone that is in jail and want to locate them?

Do you know a family member or friend that’s been arrested and you need to locate them?

In order to search who is in jail at Essex County Jail you will have to navigate to their website and perform an inmate search.

Inmate Lookup

The Essex County Jail Inmate List has information on persons who have been arrested and are in custody, which includes custody status, bail amount, and times you can visit. You can find information about anyone processed or released within the past 24 hours. Prisoners are shown in alphabetical order by last name. You will be able to get their arrest information more quickly if you enter their first and last name, birth date, or inmate ID Number.

If the person you’re searching for could possibly be at a different jail you should look here: List of all jails in New York


Mugshots

A mugshot, also called a jail booking photograph, is a picture that the jail takes when you are booked into jail. They take one and a profile picture. Your name and jail ID number will appear on the pictures, and they’re kept on file.

View Mugshots

Mugshots of Essex County Jail inmates can be viewed on the website, or you can go in person to the Essex County Jail. When viewing mugshots online you will have to put in the prisoner’s full name, and the arrest date, if you have it.

Mugshot Search

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Last Name

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How To Get Your Mugshot Removed

Need to know how to have your mugshot removed from the Essex County Jail website? This is difficult, because your mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot removed you have to file a Petition to Expunge in court. What this means is that all of your arrest records would be sealed, so no one will be able to access them. It is difficult to do this, and you will most likely need the services of a lawyer.

To learn more about getting your mugshot taken down, the many different mugshot sites, and the mugshot removal services: How To Get Your Mugshot Removed


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Bail & Bail Bondsmen – How To Get Out of Jail

Of course, if you’re in jail, your main thought is about getting out. After you’ve gone through booking, your bail amount is decided by a special judge called a magistrate. If no bail is set this may mean that you will either be free to go until your court date, or you have to stay in jail until your trial.

If you are released you must promise to go to your court date, and until that day you are required not to leave the county.

Usually, a prisoner in the Essex County Jail will be given time off in exchange for good behavior when they don’t break the rules and don’t cause any problems while incarcerated.

If you do exhibit good behavior and the jail believes you can be trusted, you may be allowed to do work release. You will either have to stay jail every day when you’re finished at your job, or you may be allowed to move to a halfway house when you are not working.

Bail

Bail is how much money that you will be required to pay to be released from jail until your trial. The amount you will have to pay all depends on the crime you are charged with. You or someone you know will have to pay to the courts 10 percent of the total that was set before you can get discharged from jail. If you miss court, the person that paid your bail will lose that money.

Find Out How Much Someone’s Bail Is

To find out someone’s bail amount you have to call the jail or the county courthouse. If you’ve got the person’s info, including name, address and date of birth, they’ll let you know what their bail is set at. Also, you can see the bail amount online.

How To Bail Someone Out of Jail

Bailing out of jail is never a fun thing, but usually, it’s really easy. First, figure out if they have a “Cash Bond Only”. If it is, you won’t be able to use the services of a bail bondsman. Cash only – the jail will not accept a check. As soon as you’ve posted (paid) bond, the prisoner will be discharged. If the conditions of bail are not violated, you will get this money back.

Bail Bondsman

If the amount of bail set is large, or you can’t afford it, you should hire a bail bondsman. They will usually have a fee of 10 to 15 percent of total bail, and sometimes have a minimum of $100. The money you pay to the bail bondsman is non-refundable and is typically cash only. If the bail is extremely high, the bail bondsman will usually ask to use assets as collateral in addition to the fee they charge.

To contact a bail bondsman click here: Bail bondsman

Have you ever had to use a bail bondsman because you or someone you know got arrested? If you have, leave a comment below and tell your story, and let us know how it worked out for you.

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Other Ways to Get Out of Jail

  • Time Off For Good Behavior
  • Work Release Programs
  • Get Out For Time Served
  • Be Released on a Pre-Trial Release Program
  • Get Out on House Arrest
  • Be Released on Your Own Recognizance


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Jail Policies and Procedures

Intake Procedures / Booking

The jail intake procedure is made up of these steps:

  • They’ll put you in a holding cell. If there are a lot of arrests, you will have to wait a while to get processed.
  • The first step is that you must answer some basic questions, such as what is your full legal name, your address, date of birth and an emergency contact.
  • They’ll also ask about your medical and psychological history.
  • You will be issued an inmate ID.
  • Your fingerprints will be taken.
  • You will get your mugshot taken.
  • All personal property will be taken from you and will be stored until you are released.
  • You will then be allowed to use the telephone to call a member of your family, friend, or bail bondsman.
  • If they expect that you will make bail and be released quickly, they will let you wear your street clothes, but if you are not expected to make bail quickly you will be given a jumpsuit.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If so, please tell us how it happened. How long did you have to wait? How were you treated? Do you know any secrets that will help other people that get arrested to get through the procedure?

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Discharge Procedures

When you finally post bail, you will be allowed to go home after you get discharged. Getting discharged from jail takes anywhere between 15 minutes to all day. Or, simply, the faster you post bail, the sooner you will get released. Also, how fast you get released might depend on whether you’ve been given a cash bond amount or if the magistrate still needs to figure out your bail amount. For a minor charge, you will be booked and released on your own recognizance. When you have served your sentence and have a date of your release, you should plan to get discharged at any time that day – but usually in the morning.

How To Turn Yourself In

If there is a, or if you must begin your jail sentence, you really should follow the rules and turn yourself in. If it is for a warrant, report to the jail, in the reception area, and tell the intake officer that think that there is an outstanding arrest warrant out for you. A record check will be run, and if you do, you will be taken into the sheriff’s custody. If it is for a jail sentence, go to the jail on the date and time that the sentence order requires you to. Be sure that you aren’t late. Only bring required items when you turn yourself in, such as a driver’s license or even your ID, prescription medication, as well as a sentencing order from court.

Visitation Procedures

Inmates must provide each visitor’s name to the jail in advance. Your visitor’s names will be entered in the visitors log as an authorized visitor. All visitors must provide identification. Visitors that gets to visitation or without a visiting order will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Jail visitation policies frequently change, so visit the official Essex County Jail jail site before go to the jail to visit an inmate.

Visiting Hours

Phone Calls & Phone Usage Policy

All phone calls from jail are with a pre-paid phone card or account, or are collect calls . Phone calls made in jail are usually more expensive than phone calls made at home. There are certain restrictions about how often you can use the phone, but you should keep in mind that you are just one of many people who want to talk to their loved ones. If you are under any sort of disciplinary procedure, an inmate’s phone privileges might get reduced or eliminated completely.

Phone Number: (518) 873-6913

Sending Mail to Inmates

All mall sent to inmates is required to be sent using the actual US Postal Service. You can’t use any other type of mail delivery. You have to write the person’s name, prisoner number, and jail address on the letter. Don’t send a box, envelope with padding, plastic or paper bag, or an envelope containing metal parts. All mail will be opened and reviewed by the jail staff, and the mail will get sent back to the person who mailed it if deemed inappropriate.

Mailing Address

If you would like to send a letter to an inmate at Essex County Jail, use this address:

Essex County Jail
Po Box 68, 702 Stowersville Road
Lewis, NY 12950

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Essex County Jail
Po Box 68, 702 Stowersville Road
Lewis, NY 12950


The mail policy changes often, so we suggest that you double check the the Essex County Jail website when you send a letter to an inmate.


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Court Information

Get A Lawyer

When you get arrested, you still have rights, the most important of which is the right to request an attorney. You don’t get to make many phone calls when you get arrested, so it is important to get a friend or family member to locate a lawyer when you call. I know you’re probably asking yourself right now ‘do I really need a lawyer?’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal lawyer will advise you about your rights, look after your best interests and help you through the criminal justice system. The sooner you hire an attorney to represent you and work on your situation, the better your chances.

For more information about the benefits of and how to hire an attorney, click: How to Find a Lawyer

Public Defender

If you’ve been arrested and don’t have the money to hire an attorney, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. The Public Defender has a number of staff such as independent investigators, crime scene and forensics experts as well as social workers. You should be reassured that Public Defenders are licensed attorneys who are members of the State Bar and are fully licensed to handle your case.

Have you or someone you know used a Public Defender or court appointed attorney? Do you think they properly handled your case?

Court Records

Essex County court records are public records. They include a court case file with a docket and all of the documents and motions filed in the case. You can access your court case records via the internet service, or by going to the Essex County Clerk of Court.

Clerk of Court

A Clerk of Court is a member of the court who maintains the records. They also administer the oath for any court participant who must be under oath, and read the jury’s verdict. All records, documents, and evidence relating to your case are held at Essex County Clerk of Court office.

Fees

Court fees and costs are all costs from your court case, for example filing fees, motion fees and various court charges. If you don’t have the money to pay these fees and have been assigned a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees and won’t have to pay them.

Magistrate

A Magistrate acts as the judge that will preside over your court case. Magistrates do many different things, such as setting your bail amount, issuing warrants, and presiding over preliminary and procedural court proceedings and detention hearings.

Pre-Sentencing

Your pre-sentencing report is completed to include information about the arrestee’s background and information about the arrestee’s life and history, which the judge will review when decide your sentence. Information, details, and character witnesses will be requested from the person on trial, their family, and if necessary the victim. Keep in mind that you can request to have a copy of your pre-sentencing report before your sentencing, and correct any mistakes that it contains.

Sentencing

If you get convicted of a crime during your trial, you will then get sentenced. The presiding judge in your case will weigh several options when determining your sentence, including community service, house arrest, and probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on the particulars of your trial, the severity of your crime, and any sentencing guidelines that they judge will use, you might get immediately taken into custody, or you could receive a date that you must turn yourself into jail to serve your jail time according to your sentence.


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Public Records

Inmate Inquiry

Are you trying to find out if somebody you know is incarcerated in jail, or has been an inmate in the past?

To do so, you should query the jail’s website, and search using:

  • Their name.
  • Birth date.
  • Approximate booking date.
  • or jail ID.

If you’re not sure if your friend or family member is in jail, you can also call the jail to find out.

Warrant Inquiry

If you have an outstanding warrant, you are able to check the arrest warrants online or you are able to call the court directly. You have to have the person’s first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask the officer in charge. Keep in mind that if there is a warrant for your arrest, you should be prepared to get taken into custody immediately.

Arrest Inquiry

If you have a first and last name, and their arrest date, contact the Essex County jail, by phone, in person, or check online. An arrest is in the public record and the information is accessible by the public.

Civil Inquiry

Civil processes are when you get served with papers, which can be court orders. You can access civil process orders by contacting the Essex County Sheriff’s office, either by phone or through their website.

Sex Offender Search / Lookup

All convicted sex offenders have to be registered on a sex offender database. Those listed on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex crime. You are able to view these listings on the website, but keep in mind that you won’t see the precise address, but rather the block they live on.

Court Records

Court Records are public records. Court Records include a court case file containing a court docket and all of the documents filed in the court case. You are able to access the court records via the internet, or at Clerk of Court office where the case was filed.

Criminal Records

Each state keeps a record of their state citizen’s criminal background. These state databases are all linked so you can track criminal convictions from any other state. You are able to go to county courthouse and inquire, or you can check online. It is helpful to know the county the crime was committed in, and in the event that it was in a different state entirely, you might have to pay for a more complete search.

A search of someone’s criminal history you can get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for any crimes, which can include:

  • DUI or DWI.
  • Drug crimes like possession or trafficking.
  • Kidnapping.
  • Sex offenses which could include rape, and sexual assault.
  • Violent crimes including assault, battery and murder.
  • Theft.

But, when you do a criminal records check, you generally won’t find if they have had any moving violations, like:

  • Speeding tickets.
  • Drivers license revoked or suspended.
  • Any accidents.
  • Moving violations.
  • Parking Tickets.
  • To find driving records, you must do a driving records search.

    Have you ever tried to search for someone’s criminal records? How easy was it? Was your search online or did you have to call the local courthouse? Did you get information that was correct? There are many reasons that folks look up criminal records and backgrounds, and your account may make it easier for others.

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    Most Wanted

    On a Federal level, the FBI has a listing of the Top Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Essex County, the Essex County Sheriff has their own list of the most wanted criminals, that you can access online.

    FBI Ten Most Wanted List: External Link


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    Life In Jail / What Its Like

    Daily Life

    While the prospect of getting locked up in the Essex County jail is quite unpleasant, in time you will become accustomed to the daily routine. Expect an alarm to wake up at about 6:00 AM, and then you’ll have roll call. You will then have breakfast. When you finish breakfast participate in the work program or other activity that you are assigned. This could be working in the kitchen, laundry, or some sort of manufacturing job. While this may seem tedious, it may help you when you leave jail, as you are gaining experience in a certain field of work. Other inmates go to school, while some take part in mandated treatment programs. After lunch, there will be another roll call, then back to work. Your evening will be spent either in your cell or a common room. During this time dinner is served and you will be expected to take a shower. After another roll call, it’s lights out. Even though you will be confined to your cell, there may be enough light to read or write letters. Then again, most inmates welcome lights out, and try to get as much sleep as they can.

    Most people are frightened at the idea of jail because they don’t know what to expect. If you have spent any time in Essex County Jail, your experiences would be welcomed, if it can help another person to deal with it.

    Dress Code

    When incarcerated, all inmates are expected to wear the Essex County Jail uniform. This is normally a jumpsuit or scrubs. Of note to anyone visiting an inmate – you must be properly dressed. Any clothing considered inappropriate will not be permitted.

    How To Send Money to an Inmate

    You will have your own ‘bank account’ while in jail. This money is used to purchase items from the Commissary. Family and friends can deposit money into this account for you, and any money you earn while in prison will also be deposited into your account. Outside money can be paid in to your account via a money order, cash or check. If someone sends a check or money order, make sure that they write your inmate ID on it. The maximum amount you are allowed in your account is $290 per month.

    The process for sending money to someone in jail is always changing, so you should visit the the Essex County Jail website before you send funds to an inmate there.

    Commissary

    The commissary is the jail store. You can purchase a number of things here, such as toiletries, snacks and writing supplies. Bear in mind that you will probably want to use the commissary daily, and any infractions will get that privilege taken away from you.

    Inmate Medications

    If you are on any type of prescription medication, you will be allowed to continue taking it while in jail. When you are first processed, you will be asked what medication you take. You will then be referred to the jail nurse or doctor who will be in charge of monitoring your health and prescribing your medication.

    Meals

    You will get three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. As expected, they are very basic, but healthy. A typical breakfast might be cereal, toast, coffee and fruit. Lunch might be spaghetti, salad, bread and milk. Dinner could be chicken casserole, rice, vegetables, dessert and milk. Contrary to popular belief, prison food has greatly improved over the years, and you might find that it’s not much different from what you would eat at home.

    Pods / The Yard

    The jail is designed in a ‘pod’ layout, with self-contained housing arranged around an outdoor yard. Each pod has a central control station and a common room, and the inmates take turns in using the yard. The jail is designed this way to keep certain inmates together, and others away from the general population.

    Gangs

    As with life in general, gangs are a part of prison life. Obviously it is best to avoid becoming a part of this environment as it will only lead to trouble. When you first enter prison, you might find yourself being ‘primed’ to join a gang, or worse, you might get their attention in a negative way. The best thing to do is keep your head down and don’t get involved.


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    News and Media

    News

    Photos / Pictures

    Videos


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    Jobs

    Types of Jobs at Essex County Jail

    The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Essex County Jail, overseeing the day to day operations and administration of the jail. An inmate is unlikely to have much interaction with the Deputy Sheriff, unless they have committed an infraction. Detention Officers are responsible for the custody and care of the inmates. They maintain order in the jail, and handle security. A Detention Officer is assigned to a certain pod, and therefore is responsible for the same inmates each day. They get to know the inmates on a certain level and are well equipped to handle any problems that may occur.

    Apply for a Job at Essex County Jail

    Requirements:

    • You have to be over the age of 21.
    • You have to possess a High School Diploma or GED
    • You have to be a US Citizen.
    • You have to pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
    • You have to pass a drug test.
    • You have to have a good level of fitness.
    • You have to be in good health.
    • You have to have a valid Driver’s License
    • An applicant for Deputy Sheriff must possess a Law Enforcement Certification.


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    Family Resources

    There are resources for families of both the perpetrator of the crime and the victim. The social and emotional impact of crime is far reaching, affecting many. Families can receive professional counseling, court related assistance, social services assistance and help in navigating the criminal justice system.

    If you are a family member, which resources did you find to be particularly helpful? Please let us know, as this will be helpful to other families in the same situation.

    Speak Your Mind


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    Victim Resources

    Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.

    Victim’s Rights

    The Victim Rights Act grants victims the following rights:

    • You have the right to protection from the accused.
    • You have the right to notification.
    • You have the right to attend proceedings.
    • You have the right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
    • You have the right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
    • You have the right to restitution.
    • You have the right to a speedy trial.
    • You have the right to be treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

    The definition of victim includes:

    • Spouses and children of all victims.
    • Parents and guardians of minor victims.
    • Parents, guardians and siblings of mentally or physically incapacitated victims or victims of homicide.
    • Foster parents or other caregivers, under certain circumstances.

    There are a number of services and programs designed to help victims and their families. You can find out about these services by contacting the courthouse, or local law enforcement agency.

    Victim Notification

    The Department of Justice Victim Notification System (VNS) is a system that provides victims with information pertaining to their case and/or any defendants in the case. You will receive a Victim Identification Number (VIN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow you to access VNS via the internet or by phone. Here, you will find information about future court hearings, historical court events, and detailed information about the defendant. This will include criminal charges filed, the outcome of charges, sentence imposed, custody location, projected release date and any other release information. The VNS website is updated daily. You will also receive any ongoing information by mail or email.

    Have you, a family member or friend ever used the Victim Notification System? If so, was it effective? Did you get the information in a timely manner? Was the system difficult to use? We would like to hear from you, so please post any comments here.

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    Sex Offender Information and Search

    All people registered as sex offenders are registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information online, but bear in mind that you will not get the exact address, rather the block that they live on.

    Domestic Violence

    If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are services to help you. Your county will have a Domestic Violence Services office. They provide free and confidential services, such as emergency shelter information, legal advocacy, support groups and domestic violence education. They will work to help you create a safe and violence-free life, and heal from the trauma of abuse.

    Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.


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    Reviews

    Reviews of this Jail

    Have you ever been incarcerated at Essex County Jail? Do you know someone there? Have you ever been to visit someone there?

    If your answer is yes, then you should write your review about it. Write down your experience so that other people will know what to expect.

    Things you can put in what you write:

    • Jail conditions.
    • Jail and pod facility and layout
    • Guards and jail staff
    • Food and commissary
    • Visitation Days
    • The other inmates.
    • Safety
    • Jail gangs
    • Inmate activities and programs


    Click here to write your review

    Tell Your Story

    Anybody that’s ever been locked up has some stories to tell about the whole experience. Why’d you end up in jail? How did the guards treat you? What was it like in jail? Tell us about the other inmates. How did going to jail affect your life?

    Click here to post a comment

    Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

    Make some good friends in jail? Trying to get in touch with somebody you met in jail? Leave a message for them here.

    Send a message


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