James A. Karnes Corrections Center

James A. Karnes Corrections Center Information

The James A. Karnes Corrections Center is a 1290 bed jail in the city of Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio.

This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 614-525-5785, directions to the facility, and inmate services such as the visitation schedule and policies, funding an inmate's account, mailing them a letter, receiving phone calls from an inmate, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary purchases.

Phone: 614-525-5785

Physical Address:
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate # and Booking #
James A. Karnes Corrections Center
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate # and Booking #
James A. Karnes Corrections Center
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center?

To search for an inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 614-525-5785 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up Franklin County Criminal Court Cases online, as well as cases in every other county in Ohio.

James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmate Search

The James A. Karnes Corrections Center maintains an average of 1290 offenders in custody on any given day. The James A. Karnes Corrections Center has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year Franklin County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 62,440 offenders.

The following charts of Franklin County inmate population demographics are updated daily. The information shown is for today. For research purposes we have broken down the inmates by sex, age, ethnicity, and criminal charges.

The information is compiled from the Franklin County Corrections Department, the state of Ohio Department of Corrections, as well as the United States Department of Justice and Census Bureau records. It represents every person in custody in Franklin County.

For complete information on how to get directions, bond, visit, mail, send and receive email and texts, receive phone calls, and send money or commissary to an inmate, find arrest information for Franklin County and other counties surrounding this one, scroll down this page. We have a section for each.

We also provide photos of the jail that we have collected over the years.

For a collection of over 20 additional graphs and charts of the demographic and criminal arrest information of the inmates in Franklin County and Ohio state prisons, click the button below.
Franklin County INMATE DEMOGRAPHICS

Franklin County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 4/23/2024

Race Inmates % Total
White 826 34.63%
Black 1,123 47.09%
Hispanic or Latino 323 13.54%
American Indian/Native Alaskan 0 0.00%
Asian 113 4.74%
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian 0 0.00%
Other 0 0.00%
Total 2,385 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Ohio Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Franklin County Inmate Criminal Charges - 4/23/2024

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Charge Inmates % Total
Felony (3rd Degree) 790 33.12%
Felony (2rd Degree) 712 29.85%
Felony (1st Degree) 184 7.71%
State Jail Felony 282 11.82%
Felony (Uncategorized) 291 12.20%
Misdemeanor (Class A) 126 5.28%
Misdemeanor (Class C) 0 0.00%
Holds 0 0.00%
Uncategorized 0 0.00%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Ohio Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Franklin County Inmate Sex - 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 2,114 88.64%
Female 271 11.36%
Total 2,385 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Ohio Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

Franklin County Inmate Age - 4/23/2024

Age Inmates % Total
Under 18 25 1.05%
18-20 131 5.49%
21-24 199 8.34%
25-30 630 26.42%
31-35 455 19.08%
36-40 283 11.87%
41-45 247 10.36%
46-50 139 5.83%
51-55 121 5.07%
56-60 75 3.14%
61-65 47 1.97%
66-75 31 1.30%
76-85 2 0.08%
Total 2,385 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Ohio Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.
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About the James A. Karnes Corrections Center

The James A. Karnes Corrections Center took three years to build, but is was finally completely finished and occpied over several months in 2022 and 2023. At a cost of $360 million, it is one of the most state of the art and progressive thinking county jails in America today and a role model for any other jail that is looking to be both secure and help rehabilitate the inmates they are responsible for.

The Franklin County Sheriff, who manages the jail, the hundreds of staff and its 1,200+ inmates, claims that 70% of the inmates that are booked into the James A. Karnes Corrections Center are released within three days. He believes that since they are being released immediately back intoi the community, they can't be treated as second class citizens; men and women who are treated as animals, for the guy booked into jail today, could be the guy serving you food in a restaurant or having contact with your children tomorrow.

The jail has recreation facilities, a visitation center, a state of the art medical and dental clinic, a streamlined booking area, a detox area for inmates going throughh withdrawal, thousands of cameras covering every inch of the facility and a security system that rivals any maximum security prison in America.


The James A. Karnes Corrections Center is located at 2551 Fisher Road in Columbus, OH 43204. They can be reached 24 hours a day by calling 614-525-5785. You can use the Inmate Search & Jail Roster to not only confirm an offender is in the jail but find out their inmate number, booking number, court case information, their criminal charges, bond, date of birth, what law enforcement agency arrested them, and view their official mugshot.

Mail can be received every day and is processed and passed to the inmates quickly. Friends and family of inmates in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center can arrange to visit inmates by video, both at the jail and remotely from home. Friends and family can also communicate using an online text/email system, send them money and buy them commissary online, and set up a phone account that allows the inmates to call them during the day and evening seven days a week.

All the information on these inmate services can be found in the sections below.  If you still have questions, you can phone the jail 24 hours a day by calling 614-525-5785.

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Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the James A. Karnes Corrections Center?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the James A. Karnes Corrections Center, call the jail’s booking line at 614-525-5785.

There may be an automated method of looking them up by their name over the phone, or you may be directed to speak to someone at the jail. Sometimes the jail staff may ask you the offender’s date of birth to ensure privacy of the offender’s status.

Keep in mind that after an arrest, the information on an offender may not be publicly available for several hours.

If you don’t want to check up on an offender by calling the jail, you can also try looking up people recently booked online.

James A. Karnes Corrections Center Booking Roster

What happens during booking in Franklin County?

After being arrested and taken into custody, and after being read their Miranda Rights, an offender will next be transported to the local police or department or the Sheriff’s Department in Franklin County for booking.

Booking is very involved and requires multiple steps in the process, however, keep in mind that most attorneys will advise that an offender remain silent and not offer any additional information about the crime they have been arrested for because anything they do say may be recorded and may very well be used against them in court.

What is the booking process like at the James A. Karnes Corrections Center?

Booking includes having their photo (mugshot) and fingerprints taken, as well as being asked a lot of questions about their personal history and state of mind. If it’s a serious felony, their DNA may also be taken. They will also be checked for warrants in Franklin County and other Ohio and USA jurisdictions.

If the offender was arrested for a DUI offense, and has refused a breathalyzer test, they may also be forced to have blood drawn by a doctor or nurse.

It is also very likely that the offender will undergo a humiliating full body search while in the nude. This includes bending over, spreading their cheeks in the direction of an officer, and coughing. They will also be walked through a metal detector or x-ray machine, like those used at an airport.

What kind of questions are asked during booking?

The arresting jurisdiction will ask about gang affiliations, tattoos, medical conditions, prescribed medication they are taking, recreational drugs they are on or addicted to, allergies, if they are suicidal, and other relevant information that will help with determining their cell assignment and special needs.

What happens to an offender’s personal property during booking?

During the arrest and booking process an offender will also have all their personal property confiscated and held for either their release from jail, or with the offender’s approval, released to a friend or family member.

Personal property includes the clothing they are wearing, money, wallets, purses, cell phones, jewelry, body rings, earrings, watches, and even glasses if they are deemed a security risk. If they are allowed to keep their shoes or sneakers, the laces are removed.

What happens after booking?

At this point the offender will be allowed to make a free phone call to a person of their choice to notify them of their arrest, and/or arrange a bond or bail for their release.

If the offender is being detained and housed while awaiting arraignment, the James A. Karnes Corrections Center will provide a jail garment and slip-on shoes, a blanket, sheets, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel.

Often, before they are dressed in the jail outfit and brought to their housing location, they will be forced to take a shower and undergo a disinfectant treatment for body and hair lice, scabies or other pests that may be residing on their person.

How long does the James A. Karnes Corrections Center Booking process take?

Booking can take anywhere from an hour to 24 hours or more. It all depends on the number of people that are awaiting processing, the number of staff on duty at the time, and the behavior of the offender.

If the offender is heavily intoxicated and/or violent, the Booking Officer may decide to stick the offender in a holding cell for several hours until they become more manageable.

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Directions / Map to the James A. Karnes Corrections Center
Inmate Bail and Bonding

Franklin County Inmate Bail Bond Information

All questions regarding bail for inmates incarcerated in the Karnes or Jackson Pike Jails need to be directed to the Franklin County Court Clerk's office.  You can reach them by phone by calling 614-525-3621.

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Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center? What is the Schedule?

James A. Karnes Corrections Center at-the-jail Inmate Video Visitation Schedule & Guidelines

2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204
614-525-5785

  • First, Register and Schedule your visit online with GTL/Viapath.

  • Second, download both apps so that you can use your devices from home. Search “GTL Inmate Visits.” 
  • Each inmate gets two 20-minute minute on-site visits free each week.
  • Children must have an ID as well (birth certificate, health insurance card, etc.)
  • Each inmate can have no more than 2 adults and 3 children maximum per visit.
DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
MONDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
TUESDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
WEDNESDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
THURSDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
FRIDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
SATURDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM

NOTE: Attorneys, Clergy and Law Enforcement may still visit in person.


James A. Karnes Corrections Center Remote Inmate Video Visitation Schedule & Guidelines

DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
MONDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
TUESDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
WEDNESDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
THURSDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
FRIDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
SATURDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM

NOTE: Attorneys, Clergy and Law Enforcement may still visit in person.

James A. Karnes Corrections Center offers Video Visitation for Inmates using the Services of GTL, aka ViaPath Techologies

In order to schedule and then visit an inmate using GTL you need to first register with GTL.

Next Steps:

  • Register yourself and all visitors.
  • Select James A. Karnes Corrections Center
  • Select your inmate.
  • Schedule your preferred time for the visit.

For at-home video visits: Sign in to the visitation scheduling site 15 minutes prior to your scheduled visit. Test your connection, and follow the steps to start your visit.
For on-site video visits: Arrive at the facility at least 15 minutes prior to check-in. A valid photo ID is required. 

All your questions can be answered after you register, at the Frequently Asked Questions page, or call 855-208-7349 during the following hours:
6AM – 4PM MST Monday – Friday, or 
7AM – 4PM MST Saturday – Sunday

Costs for Visits are subject to change but generally run less than $10.00 for a 30 minute visit.
Payment can be made with Visa, Mastercard debit, credit or gift cards.

How to Arrange Video Visitation with James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmates

Follow these instructions to schedule and then visit an inmate using GTL.

  • Register yourself and all visitors.
  • Select James A. Karnes Corrections Center
  • Select your inmate.
  • Schedule your preferred time for the visit.

For all the information you need to know regarding scheduling, cost, rules, tips and guidelines of inmate visits at the James A. Karnes Corrections Center, check out our Visit Inmate Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Remote Video Visitation

Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center?

James A. Karnes Corrections Center at-the-jail Inmate Video Visitation Schedule & Guidelines

2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204
614-525-5785

DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
MONDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
TUESDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
WEDNESDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
THURSDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
FRIDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM
SATURDAY 10:30AM - 1:30PM
4:30PM - 9:00PM

NOTE: Attorneys, Clergy and Law Enforcement may still visit in person.


James A. Karnes Corrections Center Remote Inmate Video Visitation Schedule & Guidelines

DAY TIMES
SUNDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
MONDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
TUESDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
WEDNESDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
THURSDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
FRIDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM
SATURDAY 10:30AM - 9:00PM

NOTE: Attorneys, Clergy and Law Enforcement may still visit in person.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center?

There are multiple ways to add money to an inmate's account at James A. Karnes Corrections Center, using Access Corrections Secure Deposits

1. Online - Making a deposit using a verified Visa or Mastercard online, or using their Apple or Android App.
2. By phone - Dial 866.345.1884 to reach their 24/7 Access Corrections domestic call centers.
3. Jail Lobby Kiosk - Kiosks accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
4. Mail-in Lockbox - Friends or Family who do not have a credit or debit card can mail money orders to their secure lockbox to make deposits to an inmate’s account. Depositors use a customized form that captures all needed information. Upon receipt, they process and post the deposits to the inmate's trust fund in approximately 48 hours.

Money orders may be mailed to inmates at:
Access Corrections
P.O. Box 12486
St. Louis, MO 63132

Money orders must be made out to "Access Secure Deposits".
Include the state, city, inmate name and ID number on all money orders.

5. Walk-in Cash Deposits - Go to any Cash Pay Today location to deposit cash to your inmate's account.

Secure Deposits - Frequently Asked Questions
Secure Deposits - Video Tutorial on How it Works
Secure Deposits - Help Pages

Customer Service Contacts:
Phone: 866-345-1884
Email[email protected]
Online Chat - Look for 'bubble' on bottom right of the page linked here.

How to Send Money to an Inmate in Franklin County

To send commissary money to an inmate in James A. Karnes Corrections Center follow these steps:

  • Register with Access Corrections by creating an account.
  • Select Ohio, then select James A. Karnes Corrections Center, and then the inmate you want to send money to.
  • Choose the amount of money you want to send, and input your payment method.

For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account check out our full money and commissary guide for James A. Karnes Corrections Center.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center?

How Do You Communicate with an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center by Phone

Follow these instructions on how to open an account with GTL Connect Network (aka Viapath Technologies)

  • Advance Pay - This phone account allows you to prepay so that your inmate can call you (and only you) whenever he/she wants and the cost of each call is deducted from your balance. You can even be notified by text when your balance gets low. You still have the option of accepting or rejecting each call.
  • Pin Debit  -  This option allows you to fund an inmate's commissary account and lets him pay for phone calls to you and others with the money. You will have no control over who your inmate calls.
  • Voicemail  -  You can leave a secure voicemail without having to contact the facility. When you call the local phone number for a facility offering Inmate Voicemail (call Customer Service at 877-650-4249 to get the local voicemail number for James A. Karnes Corrections Center, you will be informed of the cost for leaving a message. To leave your message, simply select the inmate by ID number. Then, record your voicemail.

For full instructions on the James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmate Phone System, what the costs are, how it works, and tips and guidelines on rules, regulations and saving money on calls, check out our Inmate Phones Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center, and what can I send them?

James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmate Mail Guidelines

Postcards
The James A. Karnes Corrections Center allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. They may also allow certain photo postcards as long as they have not been tampered with or contain images that may be considered to be obscene or violent in nature. It is best to only use blue or black ink. Always include your name and return address.

Envelopes
The James A. Karnes Corrections Center also allows envelopes to be mailed to inmates. It is best to only use blue or black ink.

Postcards and envelopes MUST HAVE the sender's full name and return address on the envelope. 

Postcards and envelopes MUST be mailed to the following address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate # and Booking #
James A. Karnes Corrections Center
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204



Legal Mail

Send all Legal Mail to this Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate # and Booking #
James A. Karnes Corrections Center
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204



Newspapers
Newspapers may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher.

Magazines
News, special interest or sports magazines may also be mailed to an inmate as long as they are shipped directly from the publisher. Any magazines that contain profanity, weapons, pornography or other content that is adult in nature will be confiscated by the jail staff and will NOT be delivered to the inmate.

Books
The James A. Karnes Corrections Center allows books to be mailed directly to the jail from a reputable source such as AmazonBarnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. You can order them directly from your computer and have them shipped to the inmate at the address noted.
Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the James A. Karnes Corrections Center standards will be disposed of. 
Hard cover books will not be accepted by the jail due to their potential to be used as a weapon.


All newspapers, magazines and books are to be shipped to:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate # and Booking #
James A. Karnes Corrections Center
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204

James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmate Mail Policies and Address - What Can You Send, and Where?

For inmates receiving mail in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center there are different addresses and policies depending on the inmate's status, as well as what type of mail they are receiving; personal mail, legal mail, subscriptions or books sent from a third-party such as Amazon.

All mail is to be shipped to the James A. Karnes Corrections Center:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate # and Booking #
James A. Karnes Corrections Center
2551 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH 43204


For complete information on mail policies, what you can send an inmate and what address to send them, check out our Inmate Mail page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center, and what can I purchase?

James A. Karnes Corrections Center contracts with Access Securepak (aka MyCarePak) for families to send pre-determined packages of commissary items to your inmate.

Access Securepak carries over 1,000 different items in the following categories:
- Food and Snacks
- Personal Hygiene Products
- Electronics
- Apparel

Registration Process:
1. Register here.
2. Select Ohio.
3. Select James A. Karnes Corrections Center.
4. Find your Inmate.
5. Deposit Funds.
6. Order Commissary Items.
Once you are logged in, you will receive instructions on how much (and what products) you can send your inmate.
Contact Information:
* If you have any questions, you can call Access Securepak at 800-546-6283.
* You can email My Care Pack at [email protected].
* You can write them at:
    Access Securepak
    10880 Linpage Place
    St. Louis, MO 63132

* You can Live Chat with a Representative online: (bottom left corner of page)
   Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m. CST, 
   and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. CST.

*Note* Access Securepak will issue a refund for or replace broken, damaged, or missing products reported by James A. Karnes Corrections Center staff. They will not honor reports of discrepancies from inmate's families or friends.
My CarePack is the James A. Karnes Corrections Center's outside vendor for Commissary Items. They have a very good mix of Chips, Snacks, Candy, Meat, Seafood, Hygiene products, Letter writing materials, Electronics and Apparel items for sale on their website.


*NOTE* -- Once you are fully registered and have selected the inmate you wish to send commissary to, you will receive instructions on how much you can deposit, how much (and what) you can purchase for your inmate, and how often you can send commissary.

How to Send Money to an Inmate in Franklin County

To send commissary money to an inmate in James A. Karnes Corrections Center follow these steps:

  • Register with Access Corrections by creating an account.
  • Select Ohio, then select James A. Karnes Corrections Center, and then the inmate you want to send money to.
  • Choose the amount of money you want to send, and input your payment method.

For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account check out our full money and commissary guide for James A. Karnes Corrections Center.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center using an Online Messaging Service?

Emailing and Texting Messages, Photos & Videograms

James A. Karnes Corrections Center contracts with GTL GettingOut, the same service that handles Inmate Phone Systems and Video Visitation, for sending secure messages and photos between you and your inmate.


If you are not already registered, do so here, or Log in.

Then use the Facility Finder to:
1.  Select James A. Karnes Corrections Center,
2. Add your inmate to your list of contacts,
3. Add a credit or debit card to cover your costs.

How Messaging Works
Watch this video on how to send a message.
1.
  Messages can be up to 500 characters long, including punctuation. At the bottom of your message there is a 'character countdown' feature.  
2. After you click the “CONTINUE” button, you can review the cost to send your message to your inmate. You can also attach credits for your inmate to reply to your message.  Be sure to accept the Terms and Conditions and click the “SEND” button for your message to be successfully delivered to your inmate.

How Uploading Photos Works
Watch this video on how to upload a photo.
1.
  Select the Photos Tab.
2. Select “Take New Photo” or “Upload New Photo”.
3. Take a new photo with your webcam, or select "Choose File" to upload a photo from your computer.
4. Give your photo a Title or add it to the "Gallery" of your choice.
5. Select the "Share" button.
6. Select your inmate(s) and then select "Share".
7. Once the photo is approved, it will be shared with your inmate(s).

Customer Service Questions
'Online' Contact Form, or
Call   866-516-0115

How to Communicate with an James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmate by Mail and by Email

To mail or email an inmate in Franklin County follow these steps:

When mailing a letter or postcard to an inmate, please follow these instructions:

  • All mail sent to an inmate at the James A. Karnes Corrections Center must include the sender's name and mailing address in the top left corner of the envelope or postcard.
  • All mail must include the facility's address, as well as the inmate's name and assigned number.
  • Failure to include your return address will most likely result in your mail NOT being delivered and your letter destroyed.
  • The James A. Karnes Corrections Center has a zero-tolerance policy regarding mail violations. 
  • All the information you need to understand mail and email policies can be found on our Inmate Mail Page and our Text/Email an Inmate Page.

Emailing Messages & Photos

Facility_name_1} contracts with GTL GettingOut, the same service that handles iInmate Phone Systems and Video Visitation, for sending secure messages and photos between you and your inmate.
 
If you are not already registered, do so here, or Log in.

Then use the Facility Finder to:
1.  Select James A. Karnes Corrections Center,
2. Add your inmate to your list of contacts,
3. Add a credit or debit card to cover your costs.

  • Messages can be up to 500 characters long, including punctuation. At the bottom of your message there is a 'character countdown' feature.  
  • After you click the “CONTINUE” button, you can review the cost to send your message to your inmate. You can also attach credits for your inmate to reply to your message.  Be sure to accept the Terms and Conditions and click the “SEND” button for your message to be successfully delivered to your inmate.
  • You can also send your Franklin County inmate photos and videos.

Customer Service Questions
'Online' Contact Form, or
Call   866-516-0115

Go here to this FAQ to get answers to how the transition to ViaPath from GTL and gettingout will affect your account.

All the information you need to understand mail and email policies for Franklin County can be found on our Inmate Mail Page and our Text/Email an Inmate Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the James A. Karnes Corrections Center have Access to Tablets or Computers?

James A. Karnes Corrections Center allows inmates access to tablets to use for the services provided by 'gettingout'.


The devices are similar to common handheld tablets, but are made exclusively by GettingOut, a GTL / Viapath company.
Tablets offer specialized content and services for inmates to use during their stay at James A. Karnes Corrections Center, such as:

  • Music
  • Books
  • Games
  • Education
  • News
  • Radio
  • Television
  • Read mail and messages
  • Video visits

-  Free services are already available for use on the device at James A. Karnes Corrections Center.
-  Subscription services are funded separately by family and friends with deposits made into an inmate’s Debit Link account.
-  James A. Karnes Corrections Center Inmates will then be able to purchase subscription services and premium content to enjoy.

What Does a Tablet Cost?

  • Tablet devices include some services and the content is free.
  • The subscription services require additional funding.
  • There may be multiple options such as 7-day or 30-day subscriptions.
  • Costs are dependent upon the available services and what the James A. Karnes Corrections Center charges.

To estimate costs for phone calls, sign in to your account and click “Rate & Fees Calculator” in the footer (bottom of the page) or call 866-516-0115 for assistance.

How Inmates Can Use a Tablet to Access Services at James A. Karnes Corrections Center

To find out how to get access to a tablet for inmate read the following:

1.  First, Register or Sign In to GettingOut/GTL

2.  Purchase the services you want for your James A. Karnes Corrections Center inmate.
3. All inmates have free access to the tablets to read their letters from family & friends, but there are many other services available to keep your inmate busy while incarcerated... such as Games, Books, Music and Movies. These other services come with fees that you can pay for when you pay for phone service.

To learn more about Tablet Rentals for inmates, including the cost, all the services available and everything else you need to know, check out our Tablet Rental Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about James A. Karnes Corrections Center’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 614-525-5785 for further assistance.

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Are there photos of the James A. Karnes Corrections Center? What does it look like?
Other Jails in Franklin County

What are the other City and County Jails in Franklin County?

Franklin County County Jails
Franklin County Juvenile Facilities
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Other Jails Nearby

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Franklin County?

Franklin Pickaway Fairfield Licking Delaware Madison Union
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US State Prison Population Demographics

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 973,343 93.26%
Female 70,362 6.74%
Total 1,043,705 100.0%

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 327,300 35.27%
Black 345,500 37.23%
Hispanic 226,800 24.44%
American Indian / Alaska Native 15,900 1.71%
Asian 12,500 1.35%
Total 928,000 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 622,200 95.46%
Female 31,700 4.86%
Total 653,900 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 178,600 29.23%
Black 234,500 38.38%
Hispanic 179,500 29.38%
American Indian / Alaska Native 9,600 1.57%
Asian 8,800 1.44%
Total 611,000 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 147,500 93.95%
Female 10,000 6.37%
Total 157,500 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,600 26.04%
Black 63,000 43.63%
Hispanic 39,100 27.08%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,300 1.59%
Asian 2,400 1.66%
Total 144,400 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 16,000 86.02%
Female 2,600 13.98%
Total 18,600 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 5,400 43.90%
Black 3,600 29.27%
Hispanic 2,900 23.58%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.63%
Asian 200 1.63%
Total 12,300 100.0%

Violent Rape & Sexual Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 159,800 98.95%
Female 2,200 1.36%
Total 162,000 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 125,800 96.18%
Female 5,400 4.13%
Total 131,200 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 18.64%
Black 66,800 56.85%
Hispanic 26,500 22.55%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,200 1.02%
Asian 1,100 0.94%
Total 117,500 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 137,000 94.74%
Female 8,100 5.60%
Total 145,100 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,500 23.28%
Black 53,300 33.09%
Hispanic 65,300 40.53%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,800 1.74%
Asian 2,200 1.37%
Total 161,100 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 36,100 91.86%
Female 3,300 8.40%
Total 39,400 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 12,200 32.45%
Black 14,200 37.77%
Hispanic 9,700 25.80%
American Indian / Alaska Native 800 2.13%
Asian 700 1.86%
Total 37,600 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 127,900 90.64%
Female 13,600 9.64%
Total 141,500 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 60,500 50.46%
Black 37,800 31.53%
Hispanic 18,100 15.10%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,100 1.75%
Asian 1,400 1.17%
Total 119,900 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 75,900 95.11%
Female 4,200 5.26%
Total 80,100 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 30,500 44.40%
Black 24,200 35.23%
Hispanic 12,300 17.90%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,100 1.60%
Asian 600 0.87%
Total 68,700 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 22,300 84.47%
Female 4,200 15.91%
Total 26,500 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 13,800 58.97%
Black 6,800 29.06%
Hispanic 2,200 9.40%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 1.28%
Asian 300 1.28%
Total 23,400 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,400 91.43%
Female 600 8.57%
Total 7,000 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,500 48.08%
Black 1,500 28.85%
Hispanic 1,000 19.23%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.92%
Asian 100 1.92%
Total 5,200 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 9,800 75.97%
Female 3,200 24.81%
Total 13,000 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,900 63.30%
Black 2,600 23.85%
Hispanic 900 8.26%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 2.75%
Asian 200 1.83%
Total 10,900 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,600 90.67%
Female 1,400 9.33%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 6,700 58.26%
Black 2,700 23.48%
Hispanic 1,700 14.78%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.74%
Asian 200 1.74%
Total 11,500 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 114,600 87.08%
Female 17,400 13.22%
Total 132,000 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 49,500 47.50%
Black 37,300 35.80%
Hispanic 14,600 14.01%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,700 1.63%
Asian 1,100 1.06%
Total 104,200 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 28,500 84.57%
Female 5,300 15.73%
Total 33,800 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 14,800 56.27%
Black 7,900 30.04%
Hispanic 3,000 11.41%
American Indian / Alaska Native 400 1.52%
Asian 200 0.76%
Total 26,300 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 86,100 88.04%
Female 12,000 12.27%
Total 98,100 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 34,700 44.54%
Black 29,400 37.74%
Hispanic 11,600 14.89%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 1.67%
Asian 900 1.16%
Total 77,900 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 102,500 93.95%
Female 6,900 6.32%
Total 109,400 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 35,900 40.84%
Black 34,500 39.25%
Hispanic 13,800 15.70%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,500 2.84%
Asian 1,200 1.37%
Total 87,900 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 37,800 97.93%
Female 900 2.33%
Total 38,700 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 7,200 22.86%
Black 16,900 53.65%
Hispanic 6,500 20.63%
American Indian / Alaska Native 500 1.59%
Asian 400 1.27%
Total 31,500 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,400 89.33%
Female 1,600 10.67%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,800 59.65%
Black 2,000 17.54%
Hispanic 1,800 15.79%
American Indian / Alaska Native 700 6.14%
Asian 100 0.88%
Total 11,400 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 51,200 92.25%
Female 4,400 7.93%
Total 55,600 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 48.45%
Black 15,700 34.73%
Hispanic 5,600 12.39%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 2.88%
Asian 700 1.55%
Total 45,200 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 4/23/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,100 89.71%
Female 800 11.76%
Total 6,900 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 4/23/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,700 52.94%
Black 1,500 29.41%
Hispanic 700 13.73%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.96%
Asian 100 1.96%
Total 5,100 100.0%
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