Hawaii County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Hawaii County?
Inmate records in Hawaii County are official government documents maintained by correctional facilities that chronicle an individual's incarceration history. These records document the custody, care, and control of persons who have been arrested, detained, or sentenced to imprisonment within Hawaii County's jurisdiction. Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes § 353-2.5, the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is authorized to maintain comprehensive records on all individuals under its supervision.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations, inmate records specifically document an individual's status within the correctional system. The Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center maintains criminal history record information, while correctional facilities maintain custody records.
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into a correctional facility. During this initial phase, personal information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge details are collected and documented. These records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other relevant events. Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains on file according to state record retention schedules.
Are Inmate Records Public In Hawaii County?
Inmate records in Hawaii County are partially accessible to the public under the Uniform Information Practices Act, Hawaii's public records law. According to Hawaii Revised Statutes § 92F-12, certain government records must be disclosed upon request, including information about individuals confined in correctional facilities. However, access is limited to specific information while protecting sensitive personal data.
The following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed
- Custody status
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Facility location
Certain portions of inmate records remain confidential under Hawaii Revised Statutes § 92F-13, which exempts information that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy or could pose security risks. Protected information typically includes:
- Social security numbers
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary details
- Precise internal housing locations
- Victim information
- Information that could compromise facility security
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic details through the Hawaii Statewide Victim Notification Service (SAVIN), which provides custody status information. More comprehensive records may require a formal public records request submitted to the appropriate agency.
What's Included Inmate Records in Hawaii County
Inmate records in Hawaii County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- State identification number
- Booking number/inmate ID
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Classification status
- Housing assignment
- Custody level
- Disciplinary records
- Program participation
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Warrant information
- Arresting agency
- Offense dates
- Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits
- Detainers or holds
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole requirements
The Hawaii Community Correctional Center maintains these records in accordance with Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation policies.
Hawaii County Prison System
The Hawaii County correctional system operates within the larger framework of the State of Hawaii's Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The county-level facility primarily serves as a pre-trial detention center and houses individuals serving shorter sentences, typically less than one year. For longer sentences, inmates are transferred to state facilities operated by the Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
The primary distinction between county and state facilities lies in their purpose and the length of incarceration. The Hawaii Community Correctional Center (HCCC) serves as the county jail facility, primarily housing pre-trial detainees and those serving misdemeanor sentences. State prisons, by contrast, house felony offenders serving longer sentences after conviction.
Hawaii County's correctional operations are overseen by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, which maintains facilities on the island. For information regarding inmates in Hawaii County, members of the public may contact:
Hawaii Police Department
349 Kapiolani Street
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 935-3311
Hawaii Police Department
For state-level inmate information:
Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
1177 Alakea Street, Room 400
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 587-1350
Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
Types of Correctional Facilities In Hawaii County
Hawaii County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various inmate populations and security needs:
Hawaii Community Correctional Center (HCCC)
60 Punahele Street
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 933-0400
Hawaii Community Correctional Center
HCCC serves as the primary correctional facility in Hawaii County. It is a multi-purpose facility that houses pre-trial detainees and inmates serving sentences of less than one year. The facility provides various rehabilitative programs, including educational services, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training.
Kulani Correctional Facility
HC-01 Box 4670
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 969-9166
Kulani Correctional Facility
Kulani is a minimum-security prison located on the slopes of Mauna Loa. It houses minimum custody inmates and focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration programs. The facility specializes in providing vocational training and work opportunities to prepare inmates for successful reentry into society.
Hale Nani Reintegration Center
2199 Kaumana Drive
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 933-0400
Hale Nani Reintegration Center
Hale Nani is a work release center that serves as a transitional facility for inmates nearing the end of their sentences. It focuses on reintegration programs and allows qualifying inmates to work in the community while still under supervision.
Each facility operates under the authority of the Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and adheres to policies established by state law and departmental regulations.
Who's in Prison In Hawaii County
The inmate population in Hawaii County correctional facilities consists of several distinct categories of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. Understanding the composition of this population provides context for those seeking inmate records.
Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the Hawaii County jail population. These individuals have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. They are held in custody while awaiting trial for various reasons, including:
- Inability to post bail
- Denial of bail due to public safety concerns
- Flight risk determination
- Violation of pre-trial release conditions
- Severity of charges
Sentenced offenders serving misdemeanor sentences typically remain in county facilities. Under Hawaii Revised Statutes § 706-663, misdemeanor convictions carry maximum sentences of less than one year, which are generally served in county jails rather than state prisons.
Parole and probation violators may be temporarily housed in county facilities while awaiting hearings or transfer to other institutions. These individuals have violated the terms of their supervised release and are subject to additional sanctions or revocation proceedings.
Individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities may also be temporarily housed in county jails. After sentencing for felony offenses, inmates are typically transferred to state prisons, but may remain in county custody until space becomes available or transfer arrangements are completed.
The booking logs maintained by the Hawaii Police Department provide current information about recent arrests and individuals entering the county correctional system. These logs are updated regularly and serve as a public record of law enforcement activities.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Hawaii County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Hawaii County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate record searches:
Online Search Options:
-
Visit the Hawaii Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (SAVIN) system, which provides custody status information for inmates throughout Hawaii.
- Select "Hawaii" from the state dropdown menu
- Choose to search by name or ID number
- Enter the required information
- Review the results for custody status and location
-
Access the Hawaii Police Department's booking logs for recent arrest information:
- Navigate to the booking logs section
- Review chronological listings of recent arrests
- Note that these logs only display information for 48 hours after arrest
In-Person Record Requests:
Individuals may submit requests for inmate records in person at:
Hawaii County Police Department Records Division
349 Kapiolani Street
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 935-3311
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
Written Record Requests:
Written requests for inmate information may be submitted to:
Hawaii Community Correctional Center
60 Punahele Street
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 933-0400
Written requests should include:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Specific information being requested
- Purpose of the request
- Signature and date
Pursuant to the Uniform Information Practices Act, agencies have 10 business days to respond to record requests. Fees may apply for search, review, and reproduction of records in accordance with Hawaii Administrative Rules.
How To Find an Inmate in Hawaii County for Free?
Hawaii County residents and other interested parties can locate inmates within the county correctional system without incurring costs through several free resources:
VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday): The Hawaii Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification system provides free custody status information. This service allows users to:
- Search for inmates by name
- Receive notification of changes in custody status
- Access facility information
- Obtain general release dates
Hawaii Police Department Resources: The Hawaii Police Department maintains public booking logs that provide information about recent arrests. These logs include:
- Name of arrested individual
- Age
- Residence
- Charges
- Bail amounts
- Date and time of arrest
Telephone Inquiries: Basic inmate information can be obtained by calling the appropriate facility directly:
- Hawaii Community Correctional Center: (808) 933-0400
- Kulani Correctional Facility: (808) 969-9166
When making telephone inquiries, be prepared to provide:
- Inmate's full legal name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Your relationship to the inmate
- Reason for inquiry
Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center: The Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center provides limited public information about criminal history records, though some services may involve fees for detailed reports.
For all search methods, users should be aware that only certain information is publicly available. Personal details such as social security numbers, medical information, and specific security-related information remain confidential under Hawaii law.
How To Visit an Inmate In Hawaii County
Visitation with inmates in Hawaii County correctional facilities is governed by specific regulations designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to visits at Hawaii County correctional facilities:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
All visitors must adhere to facility regulations established under Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 23. Visitors are required to:
- Schedule visits in advance (typically 24-48 hours)
- Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
- Present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Submit to security screening procedures
- Register in the visitor log
- Follow all staff instructions
Visit Schedule:
Visitation schedules vary by facility and inmate classification:
Hawaii Community Correctional Center:
- Pre-trial detainees: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Sentenced inmates: Wednesday and Thursday, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Special management: By appointment only
Kulani Correctional Facility:
- Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Hale Nani Reintegration Center:
- Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitor pass (if pre-approved)
- Small clear plastic bag for authorized items
- Locker key deposit (quarters may be required)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons or items that could be used as weapons
- Drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products
- Electronic devices (cell phones, cameras, recording devices)
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- Cash exceeding $50
- Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:
- No revealing or provocative clothing
- No gang-related attire or symbols
- No law enforcement or security-type uniforms
- Shirts and shoes required
- No shorts above mid-thigh
- No tank tops, halter tops, or bare midriffs
- No see-through clothing
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for eligible inmates based on classification
- Non-contact visits: Conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
- Special visits: May be arranged for professional or emergency purposes
Visit Restrictions: Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended under certain circumstances:
- Facility lockdown or emergency situations
- Inmate disciplinary status
- Visitor rule violations
- Court-ordered restrictions
- Maximum visitor capacity reached
For the most current information on visitation policies, contact the specific facility or visit the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation website.
How To Send Money to a Hawaii County Inmate
Hawaii County provides several methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase items from the commissary, pay for services, and save for release. The following options are currently available:
Electronic Deposits:
The Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation contracts with TouchPay/GTL for electronic deposits. Funds can be deposited through:
-
Online deposits via ConnectNetwork:
- Create an account
- Select Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
- Enter inmate information
- Follow prompts to complete payment
-
Telephone deposits:
- Call 1-888-988-4768
- Follow automated instructions
- Processing fees apply
-
Mobile app deposits:
- Download the ConnectNetwork mobile app
- Create an account
- Follow prompts to deposit funds
Money Orders:
Money orders remain an acceptable method for sending funds:
- Make payable to "Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Include sender's full name and address
- Mail to the specific facility where the inmate is housed
Deposit Limits and Fees:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum online deposit: $300.00 per transaction
- Maximum monthly deposit: $999.99
- Electronic deposit fees: $2.95-$9.95 (varies by amount and method)
- Money orders: No processing fee
Prohibited Transactions:
The following transactions are not permitted:
- Cash sent through mail
- Personal checks
- Third-party checks
- Cashier's checks from foreign banks
- Money transfers from unauthorized sources
Fund Usage Guidelines:
Inmates may use funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Educational materials
- Restitution payments
- Savings for release
Funds cannot be used for:
- Purchasing contraband
- Paying other inmates
- Gambling activities
- Unauthorized services
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 23, Chapter 100. For specific questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the business office at the facility where the inmate is housed.
How To Send Jail Mail In Hawaii County
Correspondence with inmates in Hawaii County correctional facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following guidelines apply to sending mail to inmates:
General Correspondence:
All general mail must be addressed as follows:
Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known)
Facility Name
Facility Address
City, HI ZIP Code
For example:
John Doe #123456
Hawaii Community Correctional Center
60 Punahele Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Mail Regulations:
- All incoming mail must include a complete return address with sender's full name
- Envelopes must be standard-sized (no larger than 9" x 12")
- Contents must be on plain paper (no cardstock, construction paper, etc.)
- No perfumed or scented items
- No stickers, glitter, lipstick marks, or unknown substances
- No plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
- No Polaroid photos
- Standard photos must be no larger than 4" x 6"
- No sexually explicit or gang-related content
- No information related to criminal activity
Permitted Items:
- Letters on plain paper
- Greeting cards (no musical or oversized cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following proper procedure)
- Up to 10 pages of newspaper or magazine clippings
Prohibited Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Food or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Jewelry or watches
- Books or magazines (must come directly from publisher)
- Hardcover books
- Electronic devices or components
- Drugs or alcohol
- Weapons or items that could be fashioned into weapons
Legal Mail:
Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies receives special handling:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney's name, title, and bar number
- Will be opened in the inmate's presence
- Contents are not read but are inspected for contraband
Publications:
Books, magazines, and newspapers must:
- Come directly from the publisher or authorized retailer
- Comply with Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation policy COR 15.05
- Not contain material deemed to present security concerns
- Not exceed facility property limits
All mail is subject to inspection for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Items that violate regulations will be returned to sender, destroyed, or placed in the inmate's property. For specific questions regarding mail policies, contact the facility directly.
Lookup Inmate Records in Hawaii County
Inmate Information - Hawaii Police Department
Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
Hawaii Community Correctional Center