Schenectady County Jail – Schenectady, NY

Schenectady County Jail is located in Schenectady County, NY and is the primary correctional facility for that region. Know somebody locked up in Schenectady County Jail? This guide will tell you info about anything a person needs to know about Schenectady County Jail: How to locate an inmate. Find mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. How to post bail. Intake procedures and booking. Court information. And much, much more.

The prospect of getting arrested and going to jail is a daunting and scary idea, not only for the person who is incarcerated, but also their family and friends. The purpose of this guide is to give you information and tips that you need to make helping someone get out of jail a lot easier. If you have specific questions, just ask it, and please leave any tips or comments that would be beneficial to other people in the same situation is welcome.

Do you have a friend or family member that is in jail and don’t know how to find out where they are?

Do you know a family member or friend who has been arrested and you want to locate them?

In order to see who’s in jail at Schenectady County Jail you will need to go to their website and use the inmate search.

The Schenectady County Jail Inmate Locator has information on persons who have been arrested and are in jail, which includes custody status, bail amount, and times you can visit. You can also find information for anybody booked or discharged in the last 24 hours. Prisoners are shown in alphabetical order by their last name. You will be able to find their inmate information quicker if you have your friend or family member’s first and last name, date of birth, or inmate ID Number.

If your friend or family member is at a different jail you can check our guide to other New York jails: New York County Jails Directory

A mugshot, or jail intake photograph, is a picture that the jail takes during jail intake processing. A mugshot is make of one face photo and one profile photo. Your full name and jail booking number will be in the pictures, and they are on file at the jail.

Mugshots of Schenectady County Jail prisoners are on the website, or you can see them at the Schenectady County Jail. When viewing mugshots online you will have to put in their first and last name, and the booking date.

Need to know how to get your mugshot removed from the Schenectady County Jail website? This may not be possible, because your mugshot is a public record. To get your mugshot removed you have to file a Petition to Expunge with the court. This means that all of your arrest records will be sealed, and unavailable to the public. Depending on your situation, this may be a longshot.

To learn more about getting your mugshot taken down, the different mugshot websites, and the mugshot removal websites: Mugshot Removal

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Obviously, if you’re arrested and put in jail, your main thought is about when and how you will get out. After you’ve gone through the booking process, your bail amount is set by the magistrate. If there is no bail set this may mean that you will either be released, or you have to stay in jail until your trial.

If you do bail out of jail you will have to promise to be in court on your court date, and in the meantime you are required not to leave town.

In most cases, prisoners at Schenectady County Jail are given time off in exchange for good behavior if they respect the rules and conduct themselves properly while in jail.

If you follow the rules, you may be allowed to do work release. You will either have to return to jail at the end of the day after work, or you may be permitted to live in a halfway house instead of jail.

Bail is how much money that you have to pay to the courts to be released from jail until your court date. The amount of bail that is set all depends on the seriousness of your charges. Someone you know will need to post 10% of the amount that was determined in order to be released from jail. If you fail to show up for your court date, whoever paid your bail won’t get their money back.

To find out someone’s bail amount you will need to call the jail. If you have all the person’s information, including name, address and date of birth, they’ll be able to let you know how much their bail is. Also, you can see the bail amount on the Schenectady County Jail website.

Having to bail a friend or family member out of jail is an unpleasant situation, but in some cases, its easy. First, you need to find out if it is a “Cash Bond Only” situation. If so, you can’t use a Bail Bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – the jail won’t accept checks. Once you have paid the bond, the prisoner will get released. If they don’t violate the terms of their bail, you’ll get your money back.

If the amount of bail set is large, of if you can’t pay it, you should try a bail bondsman. They usually charge a fee of 10-15% of total bail, and in most cases have a minimum of $100. The amount you pay to the bondsman is non-refundable and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If the bail has been set really high, the bail bondsman might require that they use assets as collateral for the bond.

You can find a bail bondsman visit our page about: Find a bail bondsman at Schenectady County Jail

Have you ever had to find a bondsman for someone you know or yourself? If so, leave a comment below and tell your story, and let us know how it worked out for you.

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

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The intake process includes each of the following steps:

• You will get put in a holding cell. If the jail is busy, it will take a while to get processed.
• The first step is that you have to answer a number of questions, such as your full name, address, birth date and a contact person.
• You will also be asked about your medical and mental history.
• You’ll be given an inmate number.
• You will get fingerprinted.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• All of your personal property will be taken from you and stored until you get discharged from jail.
• You will be allowed to use the phone so you can talk to a family member, friend, or bail bondsman.
• If you think you will get released quickly, you might be allowed to skip the jumpsuit and keep wearing your own clothes, if not you will have to wear a jail uniform.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If you have, you should tell your story. How long did it take to get through intake? How were you treated? Can you share any things that will help others to get through jail processing?

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When you pay your bail, you will be allowed to go home after you get discharged. This process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to all day. In other words the faster you can pay your bail, the sooner you will get discharged from jail. Also, it can depend on whether you have a cash bond amount or if the judge must figure out the bail amount. For a minor offense, you will simply be booked and get released without having to post bail. When you have completed your jail sentence and are given a date of your release, you should expect to be released at any time that day – but usually in the morning.

out against you, or if you need to start a jail sentence, you really should follow the rules and turn yourself into the authorities. In the case of an outstanding warrant, go down to the jail processing area, and tell the intake officer that you think there is a warrant out for your arrest. A record check will be run, and if they verify that you have one, you will be taken into the sheriff’s custody. When reporting to serve a sentence, report to the jail on the date and time that the sentence order states. Make sure that you aren’t late. Be sure to only bring allowed items with you, like a driver’s license or even your ID, any prescription medication you might take, along with your doctor’s prescription, and a copy of the sentencing order.

Inmates have to give each visitor’s name to the jail in advance of the visit. Your visitors will be put in the log as an approved visitor. All visitors have to provide acceptable photo identification when visiting an inmate. Any visitors arriving late or any visitors that are not approved to visit will not be allowed to attend visitation.
Jail visitation policies are always changing, so we suggest that you visit the official Schenectady County Jail jail site before you go.

The only phone calls that inmates are allowed to make are collect calls or through a pre-paid phone account. Phone calls made in jail are generally pricier than phone calls made at home. Phone calls are restricted on when and how often you can use the phone, but bear in mind that every inmate wants to use the phone too, so they can call their family. If you break the rules and are disciplined, phone privileges might get cut back or forbidden completely.

The Schenectady County Jail phone number is: (518) 388-4586

All inmate mail must be sent using US Postal Service. You must not use any other type of mail or package delivery. You should write or type the name, prisoner number, and jail address on the letter that you send. Don’t send a box, padded envelope, plastic bag, or an envelope with any metal in it. Any mail sent to inmates is opened and reviewed by the jail administration, and the mail will be returned if it can’t be delivered.

The address that you should use if you are sending a letter to an inmate at Schenectady County Jail is:

Schenectady County Jail
320 Veeder Avenue
Schenectady, NY 12307

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Schenectady County Jail
320 Veeder Avenue
Schenectady, NY 12307

The mail policy at Schenectady County Jail changes frequently, so we suggest that you double check the official Schenectady County Jail site when you send a letter to an inmate there.

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When you’ve been arrested, you still have rights, one of these is the right to request a lawyer. Remember that you may be limited to the amount of phone calls you can make, so make sure you have a friend or family member locate a lawyer for you. You might be thinking ‘but do I really need an attorney’ You can represent yourself if you really want to, but, a criminal attorney will make sure you know your rights, help protect your best interests and help you navigate the criminal justice system that you are now faced with. The faster you hire a lawyer to represent you and work on your situation, the better off you’ll be.

For more information about how to find an attorney, read: How to Find an Attorney

If you need an attorney, but can’t afford a lawyer, you will be given a public defender for a lawyer. In addition, the Public Defender Office has a number of staff such as private investigators, experts in forensics as well as case workers. Public Defenders are bona-fide lawyers that are members of the New York State Bar and are fully licensed to practice law in New York.

Have you or someone you know had to use the services of a Public Defender? Do you think that they did a good job of defending you?

All court records are public and available to anyone who requests them. They include a court case file with a docket sheet and every documents and motions in your case. You can access the records and documents in your court case via the website, or at the Clerk’s office of the Court.

The Clerk of Court is an officer of the court who manages the records. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath for anyone testifying in court, and read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All court records related to your case are kept and available to you at the office of the Clerk of Court.

Court fees and costs are all costs associated with your case, such as filing charges, motion and claim fees, and court appearance fees. 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.

The Schenectady County magistrate is the judge that will preside over your case. Magistrate judges do a number of different things, such as determining how much your bail will be, issuing warrants for arrest, and overseeing first court appearances and detention proceedings.

A pre-sentencing report is completed with information about the defendant’s background and as much detail about the arrestee’s life, which the magistrate judge will review and take into account when deciding on the sentence. Information will be solicited from the defendant, his or her family, and, if applicable, the victim in the crime. Be sure to remember you are allowed to ask to get a copy of this report before your sentencing, and make sure that you correct any inaccurate information.

When you are convicted of a crime, you will be given a sentence for your crime. The presiding judge in your case will weigh several options when determining your sentence, including community service, house arrest, and probation, to even incarceration in jail or prison. Depending on how serious your crime was, you may be immediately taken into custody, or you could get a date that you are supposed to surrender and report to jail to serve your term.

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Do you want to find out if somebody you know is locked up, or has gone to jail in the past?

This is pretty easy to do, simply you will have to go to the jail’s website, and do a search using:

• The inmate’s name.
• Birth date.
• Their approximate booking date.
• and their jail inmate ID.

If you think this person is in jail, you can also call the jail to find out.

If you have a warrant out for your arrest, you can access arrest warrants inquiry on the Schenectady County jail website or call the court. You have to have their first and last name. Or, you can just go the jail in person and ask them. You should know that if there is an arrest warrant out for you, you will be taken into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s first and last name, and possibly an arrest date, contact the Schenectady County jail, by phone, in person, or you can check online. Records of arrests are public record and the information is freely available.

A Civil Process is when you are served with legal papers, like a court order. You can find these by going to the Schenectady County Sheriff’s office, by phone or online.

All people registered as sex offenders are required to be registered and listed on both a national and state sex offender database. The people listed on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information on the internet, but remember that you will not find the precise address, but rather the address block of the address that they registered.

Court Records are considered public records, so they are accessible to anyone who requests them. These records include a case file that includes a court docket and any documents and filings filed in the court case. You are able to access court records on the internet, or at the clerk’s office of the court in the county where the case was filed.

Each and every state maintains a record of someone’s criminal past. These state databases are connected so you can track criminal histories from any other state. You can go to courthouse and inquire in person, or you can check the website. You must know which county the crime occurred in, and if the crime was in a totally different state, you may have to pay a fee for a more complete search.

When you look up someone’s criminal record you will find out if a person has ever been arrested, charged or convicted for crimes, which include:

• DWI or DUI.
• Drug crimes like possession or trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Rape or other sexual assault.
• Violent crimes including assault, battery and murder.
• Theft.

When you do a criminal history search, you won’t be able to find out if that person has had any moving violations, like:

• Tickets for speeding.
• Drivers license suspended or revoked.
• Any accidents.
• Moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To find this kind of information, you will have to do a driving records search.

Have you ever needed to find criminal records? How easy was it? Was your search online or did you call the local courthouse? Was the information correct? There are lots of reasons that people search for criminal records, and your feedback could help other people that are in the same situation.

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Most Wanted

For Federal crimes, the FBI has a list of the Top Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Schenectady County, the Sheriff has their own list of the most wanted criminals, that you can access online.

FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

While the prospect of getting locked up in Schenectady County Jail is very scary, soon you will get accustomed to the daily routine there. You should expect an alarm for wake-up every morning at 6:00am, and next you’ll have roll call. After roll call you will get breakfast. When you finish breakfast you will be required to work in the work program that you’ve been assigned to. 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 Schenectady 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 Schenectady 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 people in jail might change, so it would be best to check the site before you send any money.


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 Schenectady County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Schenectady 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 Schenectady County Jail

Requirements:

• You must be over the age of 21.
• You must possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You must be a US Citizen.
• You must pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You must pass a drug test.
• You must have a good level of fitness.
• You must be in good health.
• You must 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.

Tell Your Story


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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:

• The right to protection from the accused.
• The right to notification.
• The right to attend proceedings.
• The right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• The right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• The right to restitution.
• The right to a speedy trial.
• 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 an inmate in this jail? Do you have a family member or friend that spent time there? Have you ever been to visit a prisoner at this jail?

If your answer is yes, then please tell us about it. Tell us about your experience so that other people can learn what to expect.

Things you might want to write in your review:

• Jail conditions.
• Jail layout and facility
• Guards and staff
• Commissary and food
• Visitation Days
• The other inmates – what are they like?
• Inmate safety
• Gangs
• Prisoner activities and programs


Click here to write your review

Tell Your Story

Anyone who’s been in jail has some stories about their time ‘inside’. Why’d you end up in jail? Were you mistreated? What happened to you while you were locked up? How did you get along with the other inmates? How did getting locked up affect your life?

Click here to tell about all about it

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you meet some cool folks in jail? Do you need to reconnect with an inmate you met while you were incarcerated? Write your message below.

Say Hello to people incarcerated at Schenectady County Jail


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