Alachua County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Alachua County?
Inmate records in Alachua County are official government documents maintained by the Alachua County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records document an individual's entire custody history from initial booking through release and are distinct from court records maintained by the judicial system.
Pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.071(2), inmate records are created at the time of booking and intake processing when an individual is first taken into custody. The record creation process includes:
- Collection of biographical information
- Documentation of criminal charges
- Recording of physical characteristics
- Assignment of inmate identification numbers
- Photographic documentation (mugshots)
- Fingerprinting and biometric data collection
Throughout an individual's period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information. Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document.
It is important to note that inmate records differ from court records in several key aspects. While court records focus on case proceedings, legal arguments, and judicial decisions, inmate records specifically document the physical custody and management of individuals within correctional facilities. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of their statutory responsibility to document all aspects of inmate custody and care.
Are Inmate Records Public In Alachua County?
Inmate records in Alachua County are generally considered public records under Florida's Public Records Law, Chapter 119, which provides that most government records, including those related to inmates, are accessible to the public. However, certain exemptions and restrictions apply to protect sensitive information.
The Florida Department of Corrections operates under Florida Statute § 945.10, which specifically addresses the public nature of inmate records while establishing certain exemptions. Under current law, the following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster and custody status
- Basic biographical information (name, age, gender)
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed and case numbers
- Mugshots (booking photographs)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court appearances
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
Certain categories of information within inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Information that would compromise security
- Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information about victims of certain crimes
- Records related to juvenile offenders
The Alachua County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides public access to basic information about currently incarcerated individuals. This service allows members of the public to verify custody status and obtain general information about inmates without submitting formal records requests.
What's Included Inmate Records in Alachua County
Inmate records in Alachua County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county's correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender and race
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Custody classification and security level
- Current housing assignment
- Previous housing history within the facility
- Disciplinary records and incident reports
- Visitation logs and approved visitor lists
Charge Information:
- Current charges (felony or misdemeanor designation)
- Statute numbers of alleged violations
- Arresting agency case numbers
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Prior booking history and charges
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, property)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, pending, denied)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
- Bond hearing dates and outcomes
Court Information:
- Case numbers for pending charges
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction charges and dates
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Probation or parole conditions
- Good time/gain time calculations
- Projected release date
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-601.901, which establishes standards for inmate record management throughout the state.
Alachua County Prison System
The Alachua County correctional system operates under the authority of the Alachua County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanors and certain felonies. The system primarily consists of the Alachua County Department of the Jail, which houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system. The Alachua County jail facilities typically house:
- Individuals awaiting trial who have not been released on bail
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanors (typically up to one year)
- Individuals serving sentences for certain felonies with terms less than one year
- Persons temporarily held for transfer to other jurisdictions
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison after sentencing
By contrast, the Florida Department of Corrections state prison system houses individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year. Once sentenced to state prison, inmates are transferred from county custody to state facilities.
The Alachua County jail system operates under the direct supervision of the elected Sheriff and adheres to standards established by the Florida Model Jail Standards as well as the Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission.
Alachua County Sheriff's Office
2621 SE Hawthorne Road
Gainesville, FL 32641
(352) 367-4000
Alachua County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Alachua County
Alachua County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Alachua County Department of the Jail (Main Facility)
3333 NE 39th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32609
(352) 491-4444
Alachua County Department of the Jail
This is the primary detention facility in Alachua County, housing both male and female inmates across various security classifications. The facility includes:
- Intake and booking areas
- Maximum security housing units
- Medium security housing units
- Minimum security housing units
- Medical and mental health units
- Administrative segregation units
- Program areas for rehabilitation services
Alachua County Work Release Center
3371 NE 39th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32609
(352) 491-4456
Alachua County Work Release Program
This facility houses minimum security inmates who qualify for work release programs. Inmates housed here typically:
- Maintain employment in the community during daytime hours
- Return to secure custody during non-working hours
- Participate in educational and vocational programs
- Are approaching their release dates
- Have demonstrated good behavior during incarceration
Alachua County Juvenile Detention Center
(Operated by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice)
3440 NE 39th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32609
(352) 955-2100
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice
This facility houses juvenile offenders who are awaiting adjudication or have been adjudicated and are awaiting placement. The facility operates separately from adult facilities in compliance with federal and state laws requiring sight and sound separation between juvenile and adult offenders.
Each facility operates according to specific security protocols and programming appropriate to the population served, with oversight provided by the Alachua County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Florida Statute § 951.23, which establishes standards for county and municipal detention facilities.
Who's in Prison In Alachua County
The Alachua County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals who fall into several distinct categories based on their legal status and the nature of their charges. Currently, the jail population consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Persons who have not posted bail or were denied bail
- Those awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations pending hearings
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences up to one year
- Individuals serving consecutive misdemeanor sentences
- Those serving sentences for contempt of court
- Persons convicted of certain municipal ordinance violations
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of certain felonies with sentences less than one year
- Persons serving the final portion of longer sentences prior to release
- Those participating in specialized treatment programs at the county level
Temporary Holds:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison after sentencing
- Persons held for other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, other states)
- Probation/parole violators awaiting disposition
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
Special Populations:
- Persons with mental health needs requiring specialized housing
- Individuals with medical conditions requiring enhanced care
- Veterans participating in specialized veterans' programs
- Participants in drug court and other specialty court programs
The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects patterns seen throughout the Florida correctional system, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors.
All individuals housed in Alachua County correctional facilities, regardless of legal status, are afforded rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution, Florida law, and facility policies, including access to medical care, legal resources, and basic necessities.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Alachua County in 2026
Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in Alachua County have several methods available to access inmate records. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate record searches:
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Alachua County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search portal
- No login or account creation is required for basic searches
- Enter search criteria (at least one of the following):
- Inmate's full or partial name
- Booking number (if known)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Housing facility
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Select an individual record to view more detailed information
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Alachua County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Alachua County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2621 SE Hawthorne Road
Gainesville, FL 32641
(352) 367-4041 - Complete a public records request form (available at the counter)
- Provide specific information about the inmate and records sought
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable fees for document reproduction (currently $0.15 per page for standard copies)
- Allow processing time as required by Florida law
Written Record Requests:
- Submit a written request via mail or email to:
Alachua County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2621 SE Hawthorne Road
Gainesville, FL 32641
Email: records@acso.us - Include in your request:
- Your full name and contact information
- Specific information about the inmate (full name, date of birth if known)
- Detailed description of records sought
- Preferred method of receiving records
- Include payment for applicable fees (contact Records Division for current fee schedule)
- Allow processing time as required by Florida Statute § 119.07(1)(a)
Telephone Inquiries:
- Call the Alachua County Department of the Jail at (352) 491-4444
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Note that basic information (confirmation of incarceration, charges, bond amounts) may be provided by phone
- Detailed records typically require formal written requests
All record searches are conducted in accordance with Florida's Public Records Law and applicable exemptions. Certain information may be redacted or withheld as required by law.
How To Find an Inmate in Alachua County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Alachua County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Alachua County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Search:
- Access the Alachua County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search website
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Review search results showing current inmates
- View basic information including:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Facility location
VINELink Notification System:
- Visit the VINELink website
- Select Florida from the state dropdown menu
- Enter the inmate's name
- Review custody information for inmates in participating facilities
- Register for free notifications about changes in custody status (optional)
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Alachua County Department of the Jail at (352) 491-4444
- Request information during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday)
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Receive basic custody information from jail staff
In-Person Inquiry at Jail Lobby:
- Visit the Alachua County Department of the Jail lobby
Alachua County Department of the Jail
3333 NE 39th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32609 - Speak with the reception staff during regular business hours
- Provide the inmate's name and other identifying information
- Receive current custody status and basic information
Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search:
- For inmates who may have been transferred to state prison, visit the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Information Search
- Enter the inmate's name or DC number (if known)
- Review results to determine if the individual is in state custody
These free search methods provide basic information about an inmate's custody status. For more detailed records, formal public records requests may be necessary, which could involve processing fees as permitted under Florida law.
How To Visit an Inmate In Alachua County
Visitation with inmates housed in Alachua County correctional facilities is governed by established policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following information outlines current visitation procedures:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted up to 8 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday through Sunday
- Morning sessions: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Evening sessions: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Wednesday and Friday only)
- Special Housing Units: Modified schedules apply
- Maximum of two 60-minute visits per inmate per week
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance via the online visitation scheduling system
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
- Required medical items (with prior approval)
- Baby supplies for infant visitors (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20 (for vending machines)
- Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections attire
- Shoes must be worn at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for minimum and medium security inmates
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition): Required for maximum security inmates
- Video visitation: Available for all security levels
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Available during extended hours
Visit Rules:
- Physical contact limited to brief embrace at beginning and end of visit
- Visitors must remain seated throughout the visit
- Children must be supervised at all times
- No passing of items between visitors and inmates
- Disruptive behavior will result in termination of visit
- All areas are subject to audio and video monitoring
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons with felony convictions within the past five years may be denied
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Persons on probation or parole must provide written permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
- Visitors who violate rules may have visiting privileges suspended or revoked
All visitation policies are established pursuant to Florida Administrative Code 33-601.722 and may be modified based on facility needs and security considerations.
How To Send Money to a Alachua County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Alachua County correctional facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
Online Deposits:
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Select "Florida" and "Alachua County Department of the Jail"
- Enter the inmate's name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment via credit/debit card
- Fees: $2.95 for deposits up to $50; $3.95 for deposits $50.01-$100; $4.95 for deposits $100.01-$300
- Funds typically available within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Alachua County Department of the Jail lobby
Alachua County Department of the Jail
3333 NE 39th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32609 - Use the automated kiosk located in the lobby
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Accept cash, credit, or debit cards
- Fees: $2.00 per transaction
- Funds typically available within 1-2 hours
Phone Deposits:
- Call 1-866-345-1884
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Accept credit or debit card payments
- Fees: $4.95 per transaction
- Funds typically available within 24 hours
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Alachua County Inmate Trust Fund"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number on money order
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
Alachua County Department of the Jail
Inmate Accounts
3333 NE 39th Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32609 - No fee for money orders
- Funds typically available within 5-7 business days
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit per inmate: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit per inmate: $1,500.00
What Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls and video visitation sessions
- Electronic messaging (where available)
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts and other personal services
- Release funds (money remaining in account upon release)
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Payment of fines or court costs (separate system required)
- Bond payments (must be arranged through bail bondsman or clerk of court)
- Payments to other inmates
- Purchases from outside vendors
- Payment for prohibited services
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Florida Statute § 944.516, which governs the management of inmate trust funds. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially declined.
How To Send Jail Mail In Alachua County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Alachua County correctional facilities is permitted but subject to specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following procedures apply to all mail sent to inmates:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
- Address mail clearly with inmate's full name and inmate ID number:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number Alachua County Department of the Jail 3333 NE 39th Avenue Gainesville, FL 32609 - Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Letters must be written on plain white, lined, or unlined paper
- Use standard white envelopes only
- All mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery to inmates
- Mail containing contraband or unauthorized items will be rejected
- Mail may be photocopied, with copies provided to inmates and originals stored in their property
Prohibited Mail Content:
- Sexually explicit materials or photographs
- Gang-related content or symbols
- Content that threatens security or safety
- Information related to criminal activity
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, glitter, lipstick, or perfume
- Blank cards, stationery, or envelopes
- Cash, personal checks, or stamps
- Hardcover books or magazines (unless sent directly from publisher)
- Items larger than 8.5" x 11"
- More than 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4" x 6")
Authorized Mail Items:
- Personal letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Up to 5 photographs (no Polaroids, no explicit content)
- Legal correspondence (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Soft-cover books and magazines (sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)
- Money orders (following proper procedures)
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must include attorney's name, title, and bar number
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
- Must comply with Florida Administrative Code 33-210.102
E-Messages (where available):
- Available through Access Corrections
- Create an account and purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
- Messages are subject to screening and review
- Fees apply (currently $0.25 per message)
- Responses from inmates require additional fees
Packages:
- Packages are not accepted unless pre-approved
- Only authorized vendors may send packages
- All packages must have prior authorization
- Unauthorized packages will be returned to sender at sender's expense
All mail procedures are established in accordance with Florida Statute § 944.09, which authorizes the development and implementation of rules regarding inmate mail. These procedures are subject to change based on security needs and administrative requirements.