Everglades Correctional Institution Inmate Search gives families, attorneys, and the public direct access to real-time inmate data through the Florida Department of Corrections online portal. Enter a DC number or full legal name to instantly view housing location, custody level, release date, program enrollment, and disciplinary history. The system updates nightly and includes downloadable PDF profiles with photos and case details. This service is free, public, and available 24/7 from any device with internet access.
How to Use the Everglades Correctional Institution Inmate Search Tool
The Florida Department of Corrections maintains a secure, searchable database for all state inmates, including those housed at Everglades Correctional Institution. To begin, visit the official FDC Offender Information Search page. You can search using either the inmate’s unique Department of Corrections identification number (DC number) or their complete legal first and last name. Partial names are not accepted—spelling must match court records exactly. Results appear within seconds and show current status, location, and key dates.
What Information Appears in the Inmate Search Results
Each search result displays essential details about the inmate’s status. This includes the current housing unit within the facility, security classification (such as Level V maximum custody), and the most recent projected release date. The profile also lists active programs like GED classes, vocational training, or substance abuse counseling. Disciplinary actions from the past 12 months are shown, along with parole eligibility dates if applicable. A downloadable PDF version of the full offender record is available for printing or sharing.
Official Contact Information for Everglades Correctional Institution
Everglades Correctional Institution is located at 1599 SW 187th Avenue, Miami, FL 33194. The main phone number is (305) 228-2000. For legal mail, use the inmate’s full name and DC number, sent to the same address. All legal correspondence must follow FDC Rule 11-2, which requires plain white envelopes with no markings except return address and recipient details. The chaplaincy office operates 24 hours and offers spiritual support, crisis counseling, and religious services for all faiths.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling at Everglades Correctional Institution
Visits occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Only approved visitors may enter. To be added to the list, submit a completed visitor application through the FDC website at least 10 days before the desired visit. First-time visitors are limited to 30 minutes; after three approved visits, time increases to 60 minutes. All visitors must present a government-issued photo ID and follow strict dress codes—no gang symbols, profanity, or revealing clothing. The visitation lobby has video monitoring and staff assistance.
Facility Overview: Security Level, Capacity, and Population
Everglades Correctional Institution is a Level V maximum-security prison for adult males. Built in 1995 on a 38-acre site in southwest Miami-Dade County, it was designed for 1,525 beds. As of 2023, the average daily population was 1,596 inmates, indicating consistent overcapacity. The facility features high perimeter fencing, electronic surveillance, and 24-hour armed patrols. Internal zones range from open dormitories for low-risk inmates to isolated cells with reinforced doors for high-risk individuals.
Rehabilitation and Educational Programs Available
Inmates at Everglades Correctional Institution can enroll in multiple rehabilitation programs. These include high school equivalency (GED) courses, computer literacy training, and certified vocational programs in plumbing, welding, and culinary arts. The facility partners with local community colleges to offer accredited certificates. Participation is tracked in the inmate’s official record and can influence parole decisions. Program availability depends on funding, staffing, and security conditions.
Inmate Communication: JPay, Mail, and Phone Services
Friends and family can communicate with inmates through approved channels. JPay allows electronic messaging, video calls, and money transfers. Deposits under $10 incur a $1.95 fee; amounts from $10 to $19.99 cost $2.95. Users must register online and link the inmate’s DC number. Traditional mail is also accepted but may be delayed for screening. Inmates cannot receive packages except from approved vendors. Phone calls are collect or prepaid via JPay and monitored for security.
Public Records and Offender Data Access
The Florida Department of Corrections provides public access to offender records through its statewide database. Each entry includes the inmate’s photograph, biometric data, conviction charges, bond amounts, and case file numbers. Demographic information such as age, race, and citizenship status is also listed. Booking details show intake date, arresting agency, and initial medical screening results. This data is updated nightly and used by attorneys, researchers, and victims to track case progress.
Family Support Services and Resources
Everglades Correctional Institution offers dedicated support for families. The Family Liaison Office assists with visitation scheduling, grievance reporting, and general inquiries. A 24-hour hotline handles emergencies and complaints. The Victim-Offender Communication Program allows supervised written contact between inmates and victims, with approval from both parties and the warden. Workshops on navigating the correctional system are offered quarterly and cover topics like parole hearings and reentry planning.
Historical Background and Facility Nickname
Everglades Correctional Institution opened in 1995 as part of Florida’s effort to expand high-security prison capacity. Its design includes a central control tower, three main housing units, and an on-site medical clinic capable of handling emergencies. Due to chronic overcrowding and inadequate heating, winter temperatures inside often drop below comfort levels. Staff and inmates have nicknamed the facility “Florida’s Little Icebox” because of these cold conditions, especially in older housing blocks.
Comparison with Federal Facilities: FCI Terminal Island
Unlike Everglades, which is a state-run maximum-security prison, the Federal Correctional Institution Terminal Island in California is a low-security federal facility. FCI Terminal Island houses male inmates serving shorter sentences (typically under 10 years) and focuses on reentry preparation. It features open-air recreation, horticulture training, and minimal perimeter security. Everglades, by contrast, holds long-term, high-risk offenders with strict movement controls and higher staff-to-inmate ratios.
Frequently Asked Questions About Everglades Correctional Institution Inmate Search
Many people have questions about how to locate an inmate, what data is available, and how to stay connected. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official FDC policies and verified user experiences.
How often is the inmate search database updated?
The Florida Department of Corrections updates its inmate database every night at 2:00 a.m. Eastern Time. This means any changes in housing, program enrollment, or release dates will appear by the next morning. Disciplinary actions are logged within 24 hours of issuance. However, court-ordered releases or transfers may not appear until paperwork is processed, which can take up to 48 hours. For urgent matters, call the facility directly at (305) 228-2000.
Can I search for an inmate using only their first name?
No, the FDC inmate search requires either the full legal name (first and last) or the DC identification number. Partial names, nicknames, or aliases will not return results. If you’re unsure of the exact spelling, check court documents or contact the arresting agency. Some inmates may have changed their names legally, so always use the name listed on official records.
Is inmate information available to everyone?
Yes, inmate records in Florida are public under state law. Anyone can access basic information such as name, photo, charges, and location. However, sensitive details like medical history, psychological evaluations, or victim identities are protected and not disclosed. Law enforcement, attorneys, and victims may request additional data through formal channels with proper authorization.
How do I send money to an inmate at Everglades?
Use JPay to send funds electronically. Create an account at jpay.com, add a payment method, and enter the inmate’s DC number. Fees apply: $1.95 for deposits under $10, $2.95 for $10–$19.99. Money appears in the inmate’s account within one business day. Cash, checks, or money orders sent by mail are not accepted. Only JPay or approved kiosks in the visitation lobby can add funds.
What happens if an inmate is transferred to another facility?
When an inmate is moved, their record updates in the FDC database within 24 hours. The new location, housing unit, and contact details will appear in the search results. Families should check the portal regularly or sign up for email alerts through the FDC website. If you can’t find someone previously housed at Everglades, they may have been released, transferred, or placed in protective custody.
Are there restrictions on what I can bring during visitation?
Yes. Visitors may only bring a valid ID and car keys into the visitation area. No bags, phones, food, or gifts are allowed. All items are subject to search. Inmates receive hygiene kits and meals from the facility. Exceptions for medical devices require prior approval from the warden. Failure to follow rules can result in suspension of visiting privileges.
How can I check if an inmate is eligible for parole?
Parole eligibility dates are listed in the inmate’s online profile under “Projected Release Date” or “Parole Hearing Schedule.” Not all inmates qualify—Florida abolished parole for crimes committed after 1983, replacing it with conditional release. Check the FDC website or contact the Records Division at (850) 488-5555 for clarification. Attorneys can request detailed case reviews through the Parole Commission.
Official Website: http://www.dc.state.fl.us/ci/401.html
Phone: (305) 228-2000
Visiting Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Mailing Address: 1599 SW 187th Avenue, Miami, FL 33194