New York State Division of Parole Inmate Chronological Records

The series consists of chronological records of convicts received and evaluated at the Elmira Prison Reception Center, documenting the accompanying transfer and program recommendations to state prison. Each record includes inmate's consecutive number and name; signature of official (director or acting director of the reception center) submitting the transfer/program recommendations, and date of submission; and a number of detailed reports analyzing inmate behavior and condition. How or by whom this supposed sample of records (May 1956-March 1957) was prepared is unknown.

Introductory information includes personal data and history of convictions, sentencing, and prior offenses; list of relatives; warrants on file; a case analysis by reception center officials of offenses and maladjusted behavior; social background notes; institutional adjustment findings; and recommendations and overall evaluation and future outlook. A medical report includes personal medical history; notes on examination and periods of observation/reexamination(s); summary; and recommendations. A psychiatric report includes diagnosis (classification for mental health purposes); prognosis; recommendations; and a detailed psychologist's examination report.

Also included in the analysis are reports on general, vocational, and physical education; a chaplain's report; and a report on custodial adjustment, which includes a summary of disciplinary actions, aberrant behavior, results of interviews with the inmate, and conclusions as to what treatment the next institution might adopt with the inmate.

Summary information on adult inmates is disclosable under law. State Archives staff will review records containing probation, parole, medical, and juvenile criminal history data and disclose information pursuant to the Freedom of Information Law and Personal Privacy Protection Law. The identity of victims of sex crimes is not disclosable. Unless a specific law forbids disclosure indefinitely, all records must be disclosed after 75 years.