Decatur County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Decatur County Jail, GA, is a detention facility located in Decatur County, Georgia, that houses individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for various offenses. The facility is dedicated to maintaining the security, health, and welfare of both its staff and detainees.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

The Decatur County Jail maintains a detailed inmate roster, allowing the public to locate and get information about individuals incarcerated in the facility. This information includes the Booking Number, Last Name, First Name, Date of Birth, Release Date, and Criminal Charges.

Searching for an Inmate

To conduct an inmate search at the Decatur County Jail, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Decatur County Jail Inmate Roster website. This site is regularly updated with the latest information regarding inmates detained in the facility.

2. Use the search bar. Here, you can input the Last Name or First Name of the inmate you're trying to locate.

3. Scan through the provided results. The database will display all the individuals in custody matching your search criteria. Each entry will have detailed information about the inmate.

Please note that the search function works best when you have the correct spelling of the inmate's name. If you're unsure, it's recommended to only input the first few letters of the inmate's name for a broader search.

Understanding the Inmate Roster

The Decatur County Jail inmate roster provides detailed information about each inmate. The data includes:

• Booking Number: This unique identifier is given to each inmate upon their admission into the detention center.

• Last Name and First Name: The full legal name of the inmate.

• Date of Birth: The birthdate of the inmate, used for identification purposes.

• Release Date: The scheduled release date of the inmate from the detention facility.

• Criminal Charges: The charges for which the inmate is being held at the detention center.

It's essential to remember that the release date might be subject to changes due to various reasons, such as additional charges, court decisions, or other legal procedures. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Decatur County Jail Inmate Roster website.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

The Decatur County Jail, GA, recognizes the importance of maintaining relationships while serving time and therefore offers visitation options. However, these visits must be conducted following the established guidelines and scheduled times to ensure the security and orderliness of the detention facility.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

1. Check Inmate Eligibility: Not all inmates may be eligible for visitation, depending on their behavioral record or the nature of their charges. It's best to confirm the inmate's eligibility before scheduling a visit.

2. Schedule a Visit: Visits must be scheduled in advance. Contact the jail directly at (229) 248-3034 to arrange a visitation.

3. Arrive Early: Visitors should arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled visit to allow time for check-in procedures. Late arrivals may result in the cancellation of the visit.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

1. Visitor Identification: All visitors must provide a valid government-issued photo ID.

2. Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to the jail's dress code. Clothing that is too revealing or contains offensive symbols or language is not permitted.

3. Searches: All visitors are subject to a search before entering the visitation area.

4. Contraband: Bringing contraband into the facility is strictly prohibited. This includes weapons, drugs, and electronics, among other items.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours vary and are subject to change. It is advised to contact the jail directly at (229) 248-3034 to confirm the current visitation schedule.

Inmate Communications

Inmates at Decatur County Jail, GA, are permitted to make outgoing phone calls to maintain their relationships with friends, family, and their legal team. However, these calls are subject to monitoring and recording, except when placed to an inmate's attorney.

Inmate Call System and Regulations

1. Collect Calls: Inmates can place outgoing calls as collect calls. The receiving party will be responsible for all charges associated with the call.

2. Prepaid Accounts: Alternatively, prepaid accounts can be set up through the jail's phone service provider. These accounts allow inmates to make calls even if the recipient cannot accept collect calls.

3. Call Monitoring: All calls, except those to legal representatives, are subject to monitoring and recording.

4. Call Duration: Calls may be limited in duration to ensure all inmates have an opportunity to use the phones.

Jail Phone Number and Usage Guidelines

The main phone number for the Decatur County Jail is (229) 248-3034. This number can be used to inquire about visitation schedules, inmate information, and to set up prepaid accounts for inmate calls.

Keep in mind that incoming calls for inmates are not allowed. Any emergency messages for inmates should be directed to the jail staff, who will relay the information as deemed appropriate.

Inmate Mail

Keeping in touch with friends and family through letters can significantly help an inmate's morale. The Decatur County Jail has specific procedures and guidelines for sending mail to inmates.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

1. Addressing the Mail: The mail must be addressed with the inmate's full legal name and booking number, followed by the jail's address:

[Inmate's Full Name]
[Inmate's Booking Number]
Decatur County Jail
912 Spring Creek Road 
Bainbridge, GA 39817

2. Content: Only letters, money orders (for commissary deposit), and approved photos can be sent. Any other items will be considered contraband.

3. Delivery: Once the mail arrives at the facility, it will be inspected for contraband and then delivered to the inmate.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

1. No Explicit Content: Letters containing explicit content or discussing illegal activities will be confiscated.

2. No Contraband: The inclusion of contraband is strictly prohibited. This includes drugs, weapons, or any item that could compromise the safety and security of the jail.

3. Approved Photos: Photos should not contain nudity, violence, or gang-related content. Polaroids are not allowed due to their ability to hide contraband.

Sending Money to Inmates

Funds can be added to an inmate's commissary account for purchasing snacks, stationery, and personal hygiene items. The Decatur County Jail offers several ways to send money to inmates.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

1. Mail: Money orders can be mailed to the jail using the same address as inmate mail. Be sure to include the inmate's full legal name and booking number.

2. Online: You can use the jail's approved online service to deposit money into an inmate's account.

3. In-Person: Money can be deposited directly at the jail using the provided kiosk in the lobby.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

1. Amount: There may be a limit on the amount of money you can send at one time or in a given week. Check with the facility for specific limits.

2. Refunds: Money will not be returned if you send it to the wrong inmate or if the inmate is released.

3. Transfer of Funds: Inmates cannot transfer money between accounts.

4. Service Fee: Online and kiosk deposits may incur a small service fee.

Inmate Commissary

Inmate commissary is essentially a store within the detention facility where inmates can purchase items not provided by the jail, such as snacks, stationery, and hygiene products.

Purpose of the Commissary

The commissary serves a number of purposes:

1. Additional Supplies: It allows inmates to purchase additional items that they may need or want beyond what is supplied by the jail.

2. Inmate Morale: It can boost inmate morale by offering them the opportunity to shop for comfort items.

3. Self-Responsibility: By managing their commissary account, inmates can learn or maintain skills in personal finance and responsibility.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

To make purchases from the commissary, inmates must have funds in their account. These funds can be added by the inmates themselves from their work in the facility or by friends and family from outside. Once the funds are in their account, inmates can order items from the commissary.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

1. Spending Limits: The facility may impose spending limits per day or week.

2. Purchasable Items: The items available for purchase are determined by the jail. Some items may be restricted based on an inmate's behavior or nature of their charges.

3. Delivery Schedule: Commissary orders are typically delivered once a week, but the schedule may vary by facility.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Incarceration records and mugshots are part of the public record and can be accessed under certain circumstances.

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records can be requested through the Sheriff's Office or the Clerk of Courts in the county where the individual was incarcerated. A formal request may need to be made, and there may be a fee for obtaining these records. Some jurisdictions may also have these records available online.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

A mugshot is a photographic portrait taken after an individual is arrested. The photo includes a front-view and side-view of the individual. These images are used as a record of the individual's appearance at the time of the arrest.

The availability of mugshots can vary. While they are part of the public record, some jurisdictions may restrict access due to privacy concerns. To obtain a mugshot, a formal request may need to be submitted to the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. There may also be a fee associated with obtaining these photos.

Security Level

Decatur County Jail operates under high-security standards to ensure the safety and well-being of both staff and inmates. It accommodates offenders of different categories, ensuring a secure environment that aligns with the type of offense committed.

The security measures at the jail include round-the-clock surveillance, metal detectors, routine searches, and strict visitation and communication rules. These measures aim to prevent the smuggling of contraband, escape attempts, and to maintain a peaceful and safe environment within the jail.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The facility houses both pre-trial detainees and inmates serving sentences for a variety of offenses, ranging from minor misdemeanors to more serious felonies.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers at the Decatur County Jail play a crucial role in maintaining security. Their responsibilities include supervising inmates, enforcing rules, preventing disturbances, and responding to emergencies. They also provide services to support the rehabilitation of the inmates, such as managing educational programs and facilitating counseling services. They work in shifts to ensure the facility is supervised 24/7.

Location and Contact Details

The Decatur County Jail can be contacted through various channels for inquiries, complaints, or information regarding an inmate. Here are the official contact details:

Official Mailing Address

Decatur County Jail
912 Spring Creek Road 
Bainbridge, GA 39817

Official Phone Number

(229) 248-3034

Official Website

Decatur County Sheriff's Office

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How can I search for an inmate in the system?

You can usually search for an inmate through online databases provided by specific county or state department of corrections websites. If you know which facility the inmate is held in, go to the respective website, look for the inmate locator or inmate search function, and enter the required information. For federal inmates, use the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator.

2. Is there a nationwide database for inmate search?

Yes, the Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator is a nationwide database for inmates incarcerated in federal prisons. However, this won't include inmates at county jails or state prisons. For those, you would need to check respective state or county databases.

3. What information do I need to search for an inmate?

To search for an inmate, you typically need the person's full legal name, and possibly their date of birth or inmate ID number. The specifics may vary based on the database you're using.

4. Can I locate an inmate by their crime?

Usually, you cannot search for an inmate specifically by their crime in public databases. Information about their offense may be available after locating them in the system, subject to the discretion of the specific institution and the privacy laws of the jurisdiction.

Arrests Lookup

5. How can I find information about recent arrests?

Information about recent arrests can often be found on local law enforcement agency websites, some of which maintain a searchable database or a booking log. Local newspapers or news websites might also provide information about recent arrests.

6. Is it possible to look up arrest records online?

Yes, arrest records can often be looked up online. This can be done via local law enforcement websites, county courthouse websites, or through third-party public record databases. However, availability varies by state and jurisdiction due to different laws and regulations about data privacy.

7. What information is included in an arrest record?

An arrest record typically includes information such as the individual's name, date of birth, physical descriptors, arrest date, arresting agency, charges filed, and any associated case or booking numbers. Photos, or mugshots, may also be included.

Jail Bookings

8. How can I find out if someone has been booked into jail?

You can find out if someone has been booked into jail by checking jail booking logs or inmate rosters, which are often available online through the website of the relevant law enforcement agency or jail. These resources typically allow you to search by name and/or booking date.

9. What does a jail booking process entail?

The jail booking process typically involves:

• Collection of personal information (name, date of birth, physical descriptors)
• A criminal background check
• Fingerprinting and mugshots
• Confiscation and inventory of personal property
• A health screening
• Setting of bail (for eligible offenses)

10. How frequently is the jail bookings information updated?

The frequency of updates to jail booking information varies by institution. Some facilities update their inmate rosters multiple times per day, while others may update them less frequently.

Inmate Calls

11. Can inmates make phone calls?

Yes, inmates are typically allowed to make outgoing calls, but they cannot receive incoming calls. The specific policies and limitations vary by institution.

12. What are the rules and regulations for inmate phone calls?

Rules for inmate phone calls typically include:

• Calls may only be made at designated times.
• Calls are usually subject to monitoring and recording (except legal calls).
• There may be restrictions on the length of calls.
• There is often a charge for calls, which is usually borne by the inmate or the recipient of the call.

13. Is there a cost associated with receiving calls from an inmate?

Yes, there is usually a cost associated with receiving calls from an inmate. Rates can vary widely based on the facility, the phone service provider, and whether the call is local, long-distance, or international.

Inmate Mail

14. How can I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, you generally need the inmate's full legal name, their inmate ID number, and the address of the facility where they are incarcerated. Mail should be addressed using the format provided by the institution.

15. Are there any restrictions on what can be sent to an inmate through mail?

Yes, there are usually many restrictions on what can be sent to an inmate. Common prohibitions include:

• Drugs, alcohol, or any substance considered contraband
• Cash or personal checks
• Stamps, envelopes, or paper
• Any form of weapon
• Obscene or sexually explicit material
• Polaroid photos
• Metal or hard plastic items

It's best to check the specific facility's mail rules as they can vary.

16. What happens if I send prohibited items in the inmate's mail?

If you send prohibited items in the inmate's mail, the mail will likely be returned or destroyed, and the inmate could face disciplinary action. Depending on the item, it may also result in criminal charges.

Visitation

17. What is the process for visiting an inmate in jail?

To visit an inmate, you typically need to:

1. Check the visiting hours and rules for the specific institution.
2. Schedule a visit in advance, if required.
3. Be on the approved visitor list for the inmate, if such a list is used.
4. Provide a valid ID upon arrival at the facility.

18. Are there any restrictions on who can visit an inmate?

Yes, there may be restrictions. These can include:

• Convicted felons or individuals with outstanding warrants may be prohibited.
• Visitors might need to be on an inmate's approved visitor list.
• Some institutions restrict visits from individuals who are not immediate family.
• Children may need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

19. What are the hours and rules for inmate visitation?

Visitation hours and rules vary widely by institution. Some common rules include:

• Visitors must arrive during specified visiting hours.
• Visitors may be subject to a search.
• Certain types of clothing may be prohibited.
• Visitors must follow all instructions from staff.

Sending Money

20. How can I send money to an inmate?

You can usually send money to an inmate using a money order, cashier's check, or through a service like JPay or Western Union. You generally need the inmate's ID number and the correct facility code.

21. Are there restrictions on how much money I can send to an inmate?

Yes, most institutions limit the amount of money that an inmate can receive. The specific amount can vary, so it's best to check the institution's rules.

22. Can an inmate use the money I send for any purchases?

Money sent to an inmate is typically added to their commissary account, which they can use to purchase items such as snacks, toiletries, stationery, and other approved items. They cannot use this money for purchases outside the facility.

Posting Bond

23. How can I post bond for an inmate?

To post bond for an inmate, you generally need to:

1. Determine the bond amount, which can usually be obtained from the jail or local court clerk.
2. Choose the method of payment. This could be a cash bond, surety bond (through a bail bondsman), or property bond. The available methods will depend on the jurisdiction.
3. Pay the bond to the court clerk or appropriate official.

24. What methods of payment are accepted for posting bond?

The methods of payment accepted for posting bond vary by jurisdiction. Common methods include cash, cashier's checks, property bonds, and surety bonds (through a bail bondsman).

25. Can the bond amount be negotiated or reduced?

The bond amount is usually set according to a schedule based on the crime for which the individual was arrested. A defense attorney may request a bond reduction during a bail hearing, but it is ultimately up to the judge to decide whether to reduce the bond amount.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

26. How can an inmate obtain legal assistance while in jail?

An inmate can obtain legal assistance through a public defender if they cannot afford a private attorney. They can also hire a private attorney or seek help from legal aid organizations that assist inmates.

27. What rights do inmates have regarding legal representation?

Inmates have the right to legal representation under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. If they cannot afford an attorney, one must be provided for them in cases where the potential penalty includes jail time.

28. Are free legal services available to inmates?

Yes, free legal services are often available to inmates who cannot afford an attorney. These are typically provided by public defenders' offices or non-profit legal aid organizations.

Release

29. How can I find out when an inmate will be released?

Release dates are typically not publicly available for security and privacy reasons. However, you can often find out the length of an inmate's sentence from court records, which can give an approximate release date.

30. What is the process when an inmate is released from jail?

Upon release from jail, the inmate typically goes through a release process that includes returning any personal property, settling any financial obligations, and receiving any funds remaining in their commissary account. They may also receive resources or referrals for reentry services like job placement, housing assistance, or substance abuse treatment.

31. What resources are available for inmates upon release?

Resources for released inmates can include transitional housing, job placement services, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and probation or parole supervision. Some jurisdictions also have reentry programs designed to help former inmates reintegrate into society.

Criminal Records Lookup

32. How can I access someone's criminal records?

Criminal records can usually be accessed through local, state, or federal court records. Some jurisdictions also provide online access to criminal records through the clerk of court's website or public records databases.

33. Are criminal records public information?

In most jurisdictions in the U.S., criminal records are considered public information and can be accessed by anyone. However, some information may be redacted for privacy reasons, and rules can vary by state.

34. What type of information is included in a criminal record?

A criminal record typically includes information such as the individual's identifying details, a list of all arrests and charges, court case information, the final disposition of each case (convicted, acquitted, dismissed, etc.), and any sentence imposed.

Background Check

35. How do I conduct a background check on someone?

Background checks can be conducted through online services, which typically require the person's full name and often other identifying information like their date of birth or address. You can also request a background check through local law enforcement agencies or the FBI, although these may have more stringent requirements.

36. What information is typically included in a background check?

A background check can include a wide range of information, such as:

• Criminal records (arrests, convictions, incarcerations, etc.)
• Civil records (lawsuits, liens, judgements, bankruptcies, etc.)
• Driving records
• Employment history
• Education verification
• Credit history

37. Is it legal to conduct a background check without someone's permission?

In general, it is legal to conduct a background check without someone's permission if the information is obtained from public records. However, for certain types of background checks, such as those conducted by employers or landlords, written consent is often required under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).