How do I request a public record?
All requests for copies or review of public records in the custody of the Department of Corrections must be made in writing. All requests can be emailed to correctionsopenrecords@ky.gov.
Individuals submitting an open records request may utilize the Standardized Open Records Request Form. However, it is not required.
Note: The provided email will receive records requests only, and will not respond to requests for information or statuses of requests. Please include a mailing address on all requests for any further correspondence.
Additionally, you may mail or fax your requests.
For records related to offenders*, please mail or fax your request to the following:
Department of Corrections
Offender Information Services
Attn: Open Records Coordinator
P.O. Box 2400
Frankfort, KY 40602
Fax: 502-564-9575
*Please include the full name of the offender, as well as the date of birth or offender identification number.
For all other open records requests, please mail or fax your request to the following:
Department of Corrections
Communications Office
Attn: Keesha Solomon
P.O. Box 2400
Frankfort, KY 40602
Fax: 502-564-9836
What is the Kentucky Open Records Act?
In 1976, the General Assembly enacted the Open Records Act, KRS 61.870 to KRS 61.884, which establishes a right of access to public records. The General Assembly recognized that free and open examination of public records is in the public interest. All public records, whether they are stored in a computer or on paper, must be open for inspection unless the records are exempted by one or more of the fourteen exemptions found in the Act. For more information on the act, visit the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General website.
What are public records?
Public records are those materials prepared, owned, used, possessed, maintained or retained by state and local government agencies that must be open for public inspection unless the records are excluded by any of the 14 exemptions in the Kentucky Open Records Act. Public agencies are not required to compile information or to answer questions, but to provide only specific records responsive to a request. For more information on the 14 exemptions and other related information, visit the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General website.
Is there a cost for records?
The Kentucky Department of Corrections charges 10 cents per released page. For electronic documents placed on a compact disc the charge is $1, plus postage. For electronic documents places on a USB flash drive, the cost is approximately $2.50, plus postage. The open records coordinator will send a letter requesting payment prior to the release of records.
What is the timeframe for a response to my request?
The Kentucky Department of Corrections has five business days to issue a response by statute. Pursuant to KRS 197.025, KRS 61.870 to 61.884 to the contrary notwithstanding, upon receipt of a request for any records, the department shall respond to the request within five (5) days after receipt of the request, excepting Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, and state whether the record may be inspected or may not be inspected, or that the record is unavailable and when the record is expected to be available.