Lackawanna County Jail is a secure correctional facility located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, operated by the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office. It houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences, or awaiting transfer to state prisons. The jail provides essential services including medical care, mental health support, educational programs, and rehabilitation services. Families, legal representatives, and the public can access inmate records, visitation schedules, bail information, and commissary services through official channels. This page delivers accurate, up-to-date details about the jail’s operations, policies, and resources to help users navigate the justice system efficiently and with confidence.
Official Contact Information and Location
The Lackawanna County Correctional Facility is situated at 155 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503. It operates under the direct supervision of the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office. For general inquiries, the main phone number is (570) 963-6730. The facility is open for in-person visits and administrative requests Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays. Emergency contact should be directed to local law enforcement or 911. All official communications, including public records requests, must go through the Sheriff’s Office to ensure compliance with Pennsylvania law and jail policies.
Inmate Search and Jail Roster Access
Finding an inmate at Lackawanna County Jail is a straightforward process using the official online inmate locator tool. The system is updated daily and allows searches by full name, date of birth, or inmate ID number. Results display current booking status, charges, bond amount, court dates, and housing location. The roster includes both pre-trial detainees and sentenced individuals. For those without internet access, calling the jail directly or visiting in person during business hours provides the same information. Always have the inmate’s full legal name ready to ensure accurate results.
How to Use the Online Inmate Locator
Visit the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office website and navigate to the “Inmate Search” section. Enter the inmate’s first and last name exactly as it appears on legal documents. If known, include the date of birth to narrow results. The system will return a list of matching inmates with current status details. Click on a name to view full booking information, including mugshot, charges, and next court appearance. This tool is free and available 24/7, making it the fastest way to check an inmate’s status.
Offline Inmate Search Options
If the online system is unavailable, call (570) 963-6730 during office hours. Staff can verify an inmate’s presence, location, and basic status. For in-person inquiries, go to the jail’s front desk with a valid photo ID. Public kiosks near the entrance also display recent booking information. Note that sensitive details like medical conditions or disciplinary records are not disclosed due to privacy laws. Always allow extra time for verification during peak hours.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visitation at Lackawanna County Jail is available by appointment only. All visitors must schedule visits at least 24 hours in advance using the online portal or by calling the visitation office. Walk-in visits are not permitted. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visit per week. Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID and pass a security screening. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Failure to follow rules may result in denied entry or permanent suspension.
Visitation Hours and Days
Visits occur Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The jail is closed for visitation on Mondays and major holidays. Each time slot accommodates a limited number of visitors, so early booking is recommended. Late arrivals may forfeit their appointment. Virtual video visitation is also offered through a third-party provider, allowing remote access from home. Both in-person and virtual visits are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Dress Code and Prohibited Items
Visitors must dress modestly. Revealing clothing, hats, sunglasses, and clothing with offensive language or graphics are not allowed. No bags, phones, weapons, or food items may be brought into the visitation area. Lockers are available for personal belongings. Children must remain supervised at all times. Any attempt to pass contraband will lead to immediate removal and possible criminal charges.
Bail and Release Procedures in Scranton PA
Bail in Lackawanna County is set during the inmate’s initial court appearance, typically within 48 hours of arrest. The amount depends on the severity of charges, criminal history, and flight risk. Bail can be posted in cash, via a bail bondsman, or through a certified check. The jail accepts payments at the front desk or online through the official payment portal. Once bail is processed, the inmate is released after completing release paperwork, which usually takes 1–2 hours.
How to Post Bail
Contact the Booking Office at (570) 963-6730 to confirm the bail amount and payment method. Cash payments must be made in exact amount. For amounts over $10,000, a bail bondsman is required. Bondsman fees are typically 10% of the total bail. Online payments are processed through the jail’s secure payment partner. Receipts are provided for all transactions. Failure to appear in court after release may result in forfeiture of bail and additional charges.
Release Information and Timelines
Inmates are released once all legal and administrative steps are complete. This includes verifying identity, confirming bail payment, and completing medical clearance. Release times vary but typically occur within 2 hours of bail posting. Inmates with medical needs may take longer. Families will be notified upon release if contact information is on file. Released individuals must report to their probation officer if applicable.
Inmate Communication: Mail, Phone, and Email
Inmates at Lackawanna County Jail can communicate with the outside world through approved channels. All mail is screened for contraband. Letters must be sent in standard envelopes with the inmate’s full name and ID number. No Polaroids, stickers, or cash are allowed. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Phone calls are limited to 15 minutes and must be made to pre-approved numbers. Inmates can receive emails through a secure messaging system, which are printed and delivered daily.
Phone Call Rules and Costs
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid accounts funded by family members. Calls are monitored and recorded. Each call costs approximately $0.25 per minute. Families can add funds online or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All numbers must be approved in advance by jail staff. International calls are not permitted.
Sending Mail to Inmates
Address mail as follows: [Inmate’s Full Name], [Inmate ID Number], Lackawanna County Jail, 155 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503. Use only plain white envelopes and paper. Include your return address. Do not send cash, stamps, or personal items. All mail is opened and inspected. Rejected items are returned or destroyed. Inmates receive mail Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
Commissary and Sending Funds to Inmates
Inmates can purchase snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies from the jail commissary using funds in their account. Families can deposit money online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Money orders sent by mail must be made payable to “Lackawanna County Jail” with the inmate’s name and ID. Personal checks and cash are not accepted. Deposits are processed within 24 hours. Commissary orders are placed weekly and delivered on scheduled days.
Commissary Items Available
The commissary offers a variety of items including chips, candy, coffee, soap, toothpaste, socks, and envelopes. Prices are regulated and posted online. Inmates can spend up to $100 per week. Special dietary needs are accommodated upon request. All purchases are deducted from the inmate’s account. Unused funds remain in the account and can be used for future purchases or refunded upon release.
How to Send Money
Use the jail’s official online portal to send funds instantly. Kiosks in the lobby accept cash, credit, and debit cards. Phone deposits are available 24/7. Mail money orders to the jail’s finance office. Always include the inmate’s full name and ID number. Transactions are secure and tracked. Refunds are issued within 10 business days of release.
Medical and Mental Health Services
Lackawanna County Jail provides comprehensive healthcare to all inmates. Upon intake, each person receives a medical screening. Routine care includes treatment for chronic conditions, prescription medications, dental services, and mental health evaluations. Licensed nurses and doctors are on staff. Emergency care is available 24/7. Inmates can request medical attention at any time through staff or medical request forms.
Mental Health and Counseling
The jail offers individual and group counseling for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Trained counselors conduct regular sessions. Inmates with severe mental illness are referred to specialized facilities when needed. Medication-assisted treatment is available for opioid addiction. Confidentiality is maintained in all mental health interactions, in compliance with HIPAA and state law.
Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation Programs
Rehabilitation services include detox support, 12-step programs, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Inmates can participate in educational workshops on addiction recovery. These programs aim to reduce recidivism and support successful reentry. Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Certificates of completion are provided and may be used in court or parole hearings.
Educational and Vocational Training
Lackawanna County Jail offers GED preparation, adult basic education, and vocational training. Courses are taught by certified instructors. Subjects include carpentry, food service, and computer literacy. Inmates earn certificates upon completion, improving job prospects after release. Library access is available weekly, with books and educational materials provided free of charge.
Reentry and Life Skills Programs
Life skills training covers budgeting, job searching, and conflict resolution. Inmates learn how to write resumes, prepare for interviews, and manage stress. Partnerships with local nonprofits provide mentorship and job placement assistance. These programs are designed to support a smooth transition back into the community and reduce the risk of reoffending.
Jail Conditions and Oversight
Lackawanna County Jail maintains strict safety and sanitation standards. Cells are inspected daily. Inmates receive three meals a day, clean bedding, and access to showers. The facility undergoes regular audits by state and independent inspectors. Reports are publicly available upon request. Overcrowding has been a concern in recent years, but the county has implemented alternative sentencing and diversion programs to reduce population levels.
Inspection Reports and Transparency
Annual inspection reports are published by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and the Lackawanna County Controller. These reports evaluate health, safety, staffing, and program effectiveness. Findings are shared with the public and used to improve operations. Citizens can request copies through a formal public records request submitted to the Sheriff’s Office.
Inmate Rights and Legal Representation
All inmates have the right to legal counsel, medical care, and protection from harm. They can file grievances through the jail’s internal process. Legal mail is not opened or read by staff. Public defenders are assigned to indigent defendants. Inmates can contact attorneys via phone or mail. Court appearances are scheduled through the jail’s transport unit, which coordinates with local courts in Scranton and surrounding areas.
Court Appearances and Transfers
Inmates attend court via video conferencing or in-person transport. Video hearings are common for arraignments and status updates. Transfers to state prisons occur after sentencing. Families are notified of location changes when possible. Inmates can request transfer reviews under certain conditions, but decisions are made by the state Department of Corrections.
Public Records and Mugshot Requests
Mugshots and booking records are public information in Pennsylvania. Requests can be made in writing to the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s name, date of birth, and booking date. A small processing fee may apply. Records are typically provided within 10 business days. Some details may be redacted to protect privacy or ongoing investigations.
Privacy and Mugshot Removal
Once released, individuals may request mugshot removal from third-party websites, though the jail cannot control external sites. Legal action may be necessary for persistent publication. The jail does not charge for official record corrections. Always verify information accuracy with the Sheriff’s Office before disputing records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the Lackawanna County Jail operates, how to contact inmates, and what rights individuals have while in custody. This section answers the most common concerns with clear, factual responses based on current policies and Pennsylvania law. Whether you’re a family member, attorney, or community member, these answers provide reliable guidance for navigating the system.
How do I find out if someone is in Lackawanna County Jail?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. The system shows current status, charges, and court dates. If no results appear, call (570) 963-6730 during business hours. Staff can confirm if someone is booked. Always have the full legal name ready. The roster updates daily, so recent arrests may take 24 hours to appear.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Use the online portal or call the visitation office at least 24 hours before your desired time. Walk-ins are not allowed. Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week. Late arrivals may lose their slot. Bring a valid ID and follow the dress code. Children must be supervised. Virtual visits are also available and require advance booking.
How do I send money to an inmate?
Deposit funds online through the jail’s secure payment system, by phone, or at kiosks in the lobby. Mail money orders to the jail’s finance office. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number. Personal checks and cash are not accepted. Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. Inmates can use the money for commissary, phone calls, or medical co-pays. Refunds are issued upon release.
What happens during the booking process?
Booking includes fingerprinting, a mugshot, medical screening, and personal property inventory. Inmates are assigned a housing unit based on risk level. They receive jail clothing, bedding, and hygiene items. A court date is scheduled within 48 hours. Bail may be set at this hearing. All steps are documented for legal and safety purposes. The process usually takes 2–4 hours.
Are inmates allowed to make phone calls?
Yes. Inmates can make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and cost about $0.25 per minute. Families must add funds to the inmate’s account. Incoming calls are not allowed. All calls are monitored and recorded. Numbers must be approved by staff. International calls are prohibited. Phone access is available daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What medical care is available in the jail?
Inmates receive medical screenings upon arrival. Routine care includes treatment for chronic illnesses, prescription medications, dental services, and mental health support. Emergency care is available 24/7. Inmates can request medical attention at any time. Licensed professionals provide care on-site. Serious conditions may require transfer to a hospital. All services follow state and federal health standards.
How can I get a copy of a mugshot or booking record?
Submit a written request to the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Office. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and booking date. There may be a small fee. Records are usually provided within 10 business days. Some information may be redacted for privacy or legal reasons. The jail does not control third-party websites that publish mugshots. Legal action may be needed for removal from those sites.
Official Website: https://www.lackawannacounty.org/sheriff Phone Number: (570) 963-6730 Visiting Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM (by appointment only) Address: 155 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503