visit inmate sarasota county jail

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Sarasota County FL (Site ID 203)

LOCATION FL

SERVICES AdvancePay Phone Visitation Scheduling Video Visitation

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• How do I register in the visitation scheduling system?
• Why do I have to provide my e-mail address?
• Why do I have to provide my phone number?
• What if the Security Code is not accepted?
• What if I do not receive the confirmation e-mail containing my password?
• What if I forgot my password? What if my password does not work?
• How do I update my account information?
• How do I set up My Inmates?
• How do I schedule a visit with another non-registered adult visitor?
• How do I request another registered adult visitor to become part of My Visitors list?
• How do I accept a request from another visitor to become part of their My Visitors list?
• How do I add a minor visitor?
• Can I bring my child to a visit?
• How do I schedule a visit?
• Why are there no visitation times available?
• How do I cancel a future visit?
• Why has my visit been canceled?
• How do I view past scheduled and/or canceled visits?

Note: Online visitor registration is not allowed at all facilities. If you are not allowed to register online, please register in person at the facility.

• From the Log On page, click the "Register Today" button.
• On the Log On Information page, enter a valid e-mail address in the fields provided.
• Click the "Next" button.
• On the Personal Information page, enter the required information in the fields provided.
• On the Personal Identification page, choose an identification type from the drop down list.
• Enter the required information in the fields provided.
• On the Verify Information page, review your Personal Information.
• If the information is correct, click to check the box "I verify the above information is correct." If the information is not correct, click a navigation link on the right side of the page to return to a previous page (example: Personal Information). Continue through the pages until you return to the Verify Information page.
• Do not use spaces.
• All characters are UPPERCASE or numbers.
• Do not use the letter "O"; use 0 (zero) instead.
• Click the "Finish" button. You will receive a confirmation e-mail containing your password.
• Why do I have to provide my e-mail address? Back to top The e-mail address is one of your unique identifiers in the visitation scheduling system. The email address can be used to log into the system to schedule visits, to send your initial password, and to notify you of a canceled visitation.
• Why do I have to provide my phone number? Back to top The phone number may be used to notify you of a canceled visitation.
• Do not use the letter "O"; use the number 0 (zero) instead.

If you continue to have trouble with the security code, you may generate a new code by refreshing the page.

• Make sure you completed registration. If you did not see the Visitor Added page, your registration was not completed and you will not receive a confirmation e-mail.
• The confirmation e-mail is sent out immediately after you register; however, it may take up to several hours for an e-mail to be received.
• Check your SPAM, BULK or JUNK folder for the e-mail.
• Make sure that you entered the correct e-mail address.

If you do not receive your e-mail, please contact the facility for assistance.

Note: Passwords are case sensitive.

• From the Log On page, click the "Forgot your Password?" link.
• On the Reset Password page, enter the e-mail address you have saved in the visitation scheduling system.
• Enter the Security Code displayed within the colorful box in the field provided.
• Click the "Reset Password" button. You will also receive a confirmation e-mail containing your new password.
• Click the "Return to Login" link to access the visitation scheduling system.
• Log on to the visitation scheduling system.
• From any page, hover your mouse cursor over the My Account tab.
• Click the link that corresponds to the information you wish to update.
• Click the "Update" button. A message will display stating your information has been successfully updated.
• From any page, hover your mouse cursor over the My Account tab, click on the Manage Inmates option.
• On the Manage Inmates page, click the "Add to My Inmates" link.
• If you know the Inmate ID, enter the Inmate ID in the field provided and click the "Add Inmate" button; or,
• If you do not know the Inmate ID, search for the inmate by name. Enter at least the first two letters of the first and last name and click the "Search" button. Inmates that match the search criteria entered will appear in a list. Click the "Add" link that corresponds to name of the person you wish to visit.

A message will display that the inmate has been successfully added.

On the Manage My Inmates page, the inmate has been added and is available for visits. You may edit or remove the inmate from here.

Note: If the facility uses an approval process, approved inmates may appear in your My Inmates list without any action from you. Also, inmates you have added to your My Inmates list may appear as "Not Approved". You must be an approved visitor of an inmate before you can select them for a visit. Please contact the inmate to be added to his/her approval list.

If the adult visitor will never visit the facility without you it is recommended to register them through this process. Proceed to Step 1 below.

If the adult visitor may visit the facility without you it is recommended that they register themselves in the visitation scheduling system. Please see: How do I register in the visitation scheduling system? One of the visitors will need to request scheduling privileges and the second visitor must accept the invitation to appear in each other's My Visitors list. Please see: How do I request another visitor become part of My Visitors list?

• From any page, hover your mouse cursor over the My Account tab, click on the Manage Visitors option.
• On the Manage Visitors page, under Add to My Visitors or Minor Visitors, click the link to create/register a new adult visitor.
• Enter and/or edit the information.
• Click the "Add" or "Add Minor" button.

You may edit or remove the Visitor/Minor from here.

Note: If you entered an email address in for the visitor, they will receive a registration notification.

Note: Both you and the other visitor must be registered in the visitation scheduling system separately.

• From the Manage Visitors page, click the link to request another visitor to become part of your My Visitors list.
• Enter the Visitor ID in the field provided. Visitor ID's are located under the main heading to the right of the visitor's name on the right hand side of the page.
• Click the "Make Request" button.

The visitor will be notified of your request via e-mail. The visitor will have the option to Accept, Reject or Block your request. On your Manage My Visitors page, you will see your request under Waiting for Response. If approved, the visitor will appear in your My Visitor list and on the Manage Visitors page. You may now schedule visits with that visitor.

• On the top of the page, under the main menu, a red icon with a number will appear over the user notification icon indicating that you have a pending visitor request. You may also see pending requests by going to the My Visitors page.
• Under Waiting for Response, click the "Accept", "Reject", or "Block" link next to the visitor's name.

Note: If the minor has already been registered in the system by another user, contact the facility to have the minor added to your "My Visitors" list.

Note: The facility selects the age at which a minor must be registered as an adult.

Note: A minor visitor cannot schedule a visit with an inmate. They must be scheduled with a registered adult.

• From any page, hover your mouse cursor over the My Account tab, click on the Manage Visitor option.
• On the Manage Visitors page, under Minor Visitors, click the link to register and add a new minor visitor to your My Visitors list.
• Enter the required information.
• Click the "Register and Add" button.
• On the Manage Visitors page, the Minor has been added and is available for visits. You may edit or remove the Minor from your My Visitors list.
• Your child must first be added to the visitation scheduling system as a minor visitor. If you have not yet added your child, please see: How do I add a minor visitor?
• Once your child has been added to the visitation scheduling system as a minor visitor, please see: How do I schedule a visit?

Note: There are several scheduling shortcuts on the homepage that allow you to select only one additional visitor. These shortcuts are not recommended for planning a visit in which there are more than two visitors.

• From any page, click on the Visitation tab.

On the Choose Visitor page, select additional visitors you would like to take part in the visit by checking the box next to their name. Click Next.

If you have not added the visitor to your My Visitors list, click the "Add a New Visitor" link. Follow the steps in Questions 10-13 to add a visitor to your My Visitors list.

On the Choose Inmate page, select the inmate you wish to visit from the list of inmates in the dropdown. Click Next.

If you haven't added inmates to your My Inmates, click the "Search for an Inmate" link.

Enter the required search criteria and click the "Search" button. Inmates that match the search criteria entered will appear in a list at the bottom. Click the "Select" link that corresponds to the name of the person you wish to visit.

Note: The selected inmate will be automatically added to your My Inmates list.

Note: If the facility uses an approval process, you must be an approved visitor of an inmate before you can select them for a visit.

On the Choose the Date/Time/Location page, select a date by clicking on the calendar icon and selecting the date or by entering the date for the visit by typing it in the field provided.

Note: Certain days might not be available for selection based upon facility scheduling policies, special events (Holidays, weather closures, etc.), and/or facility established restrictions.

• OPTIONAL. Choose a Visitation Center from the dropdown list. If you do not have a preference, choose No Preference.
• OPTIONAL. Choose a Time of Day range from the dropdown list. If you do not have a preference, choose No Preference.
• Click the "Search" button.
• If no visitation times are available based upon your selection, a message will display. Change your selection criteria and click "Search" again. See question: Why are there no visitation times available?
• Click the "Select" link that corresponds to the desired visitation time.
• Choose the Relationship the visitor(s) has with the inmate from the dropdown list.

Review your selections. If you wish to make changes to your selections, click the "Change" link next to the item you wish to change. If you wish to add additional visitors to the visit, click the "Add Additional" link.

Note: As a result of adding visitors to the visit, you may be directed to the Choose the Date/Time/Location page to reselect your desired visitation time. Follow steps 4 through 19.

• Click the checkbox to confirm that you agree to the Facility's Visitation Policy.
• When the information displayed is correct, click the "Confirm" button.

On the Summary page, a message will display stating your visitation has been confirmed and the status of the visit will change to Confirmed. You will also receive a confirmation via e-mail. If you do not receive confirmation back, it may be necessary to reselect the date, time and/or location of the visit.

If you do not receive confirmation and the visit status changes to Conflict, click "Change" next to the Time and Date section. You will be directed to the Choose the Date/Time/Location page to reselect your desired visitation time. Follow steps 4 through 19.

There may not be any visitation times available due to any of the following conditions:

• All available time slots have been taken.
• The facility does not allow visitation during the chosen time period. This may be a temporary or permanent change to the visitation schedule.
• The inmate already used up their allowed number of visits during the chosen time period.
• The visitor already used up their allowed number of visits during the chosen time period.
• The inmate has a restriction or event that does not allow scheduling during the chosen time period.
• The visitor has a restriction that does not allow them to schedule a visit with the inmate for the chosen time period.

On the Home Page for the visit, click the red "X" that coincides with the visit you would like to cancel, or click on any part of the visit information to access the Summary Page. On the Summary Page, in the right hand column click "Cancel Visit".

Note: The facility may restrict when a visit may be canceled.

A pop-up message will display asking you to confirm that you want to cancel the visit. Click the "Yes" button to cancel.

• This visit will be removed from Upcoming Visits and will appear under the heading Canceled Visits until the originally schedule time has passed.

An automated email and/or phone notification will be sent if the visit was canceled by the facility. If you did not receive a notification, you may need to update your account information on file. To update your account information, see question: How do I update my account information?

A visit may be canceled by the facility due to the following reasons:

• The inmate has been moved to a different location and the visit cannot be rescheduled.
• The inmate has been released.
• One or more of the visitation stations has become unavailable.
• The facility has changed the visitation schedule. This may be a temporary or permanent change.
• The inmate or visitor has been placed on restriction.
• From any page, hover your mouse cursor over the Visitation tab.
• Click "View Visit History".

From the View Visit History page, click on any part of the visit information to view the originally scheduled visit information.

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Sarasota County Correctional Facility (SCCF)

SCCF is for County Jail offenders sentenced up to twenty four months.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork , to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are seeking to send your inmate money for commissary, one recommended for this facility is AccessCorrections There is a fee for sending money, see their rates and limitations.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Basic Facility Information

's basic information for you, and their direct contact number:, you can support your loved ones at sccf on inmateaid , if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 941-861-4601 ..

When someone you care about gets locked up, it's tough to figure out all the ins and outs of jail life. From sending mail to visiting, there are a lot of things to sort out. And getting info about the arrest? Not always easy. That's where this webpage comes in handy . It's here to help you get a handle on how things work here so that you can stay connected and support your loved one behind bars.

The SCCF is a detention center located at 2020 Main St Sarasota, FL which is operated locally by the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office and holds inmates awaiting trial or sentencing or both. Most of the sentenced inmates are here for less than two years. Sarasota County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, Sarasota Police Department , and the US Marshal's Service.

New detainees arrive at the jail regularly, with some being released on bail, placed under pretrial services caseloads, supervised by probation agencies, or released on recognizance with a court appearance agreement. Those who are not released await their court appearances at the jail, receiving accommodations including bedding and meals.

You can see all the arrest records for Florida here .

The Sarasota County Jail's Corrections staff is divided into two bureaus: Operations and Services. This team includes two Captains, eight Lieutenants, twenty Sergeants, 171 Corrections Deputies, and 69 civilian employees. Daily operations necessitate the presence of 140 deputies assigned to housing duties, overseeing the care, custody, and control of an average inmate population of 950, who require three meals each day. The facility handles significant daily laundry duties, processing 20 commercial-size loads of clothing, which are cleaned and distributed daily.

The jail has a rated capacity of 1,026 and a classification capacity of 827, ensuring appropriate separation of inmates and adequate program space. In 2013, the facility processed 15,149 inmates. In 2009, a new “open” booking area was introduced, enhancing the transition process into custody and creating a safer environment for both arrestees and staff.

Some of the history of the Sarasota Corrections goes back to July 1956, when Sheriff Ross Boyer oversaw the construction of a modern jail, which included an apartment for his family on the second floor. They lived there until 1962 when increased staffing made it unnecessary. Today, after renovations, this building, known as the “Old Courthouse,” houses the Clerk of the Court, various offices, and several courtrooms, designed to reflect its original character. In August 1975, under Sheriff Jim Hardcastle, a second jail, the “West Wing,” was built to accommodate 214 inmates. It currently houses female inmates and new arrivals and includes areas for programs, inmate property, classification, and supervisory offices. In June 1987, Sheriff Geoffrey Monge opened the “East Wing” jail, adding bed space for 540 inmates. This wing includes housing for males, juveniles, segregated inmates, and special management inmates, with a rooftop recreation area. In November 2002, the “North Wing” was added, providing bed space for 288 inmates, a medical housing floor for 32 inmates, a new kitchen, inmate video visitation, and administrative offices. Officers in this wing maintain direct contact with inmates 24/7, requiring specialized training in supervision and inmate management.

SCCF collaborates with community providers and benefits from the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, whose commitment is crucial to the success of these programs. Key programs include:

Recovery Pod : This program provides a recovery-focused environment for individuals struggling with substance abuse, including AA and NA meetings and additional classes such as Recovery Curriculum, available for both men and women.

Salvation Army : Offers a six-week course addressing substance abuse, relapse prevention, and life management skills.

Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous : These meetings support individuals in recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction through the Twelve-Step program.

C.A.R.E. Pod : Addresses the needs of individuals with chronic and persistent mental health conditions, focusing on medication compliance, coping strategies, and communication skills. Licensed Mental Health Counselors provide group counseling and individualized treatment sessions.

Veterans Housing Unit : Supports incarcerated veterans by reestablishing connections to veteran services, providing evaluations, job opportunities, and support from Sarasota County’s Veterans Services Officers.

Reentry Pod : This aims to reintegrate individuals into the community, reduce recidivism, and improve public safety. It offers CBT, motivational interviewing, job skill training, job fairs, peer-to-peer groups, and life skills education, including resume writing, interview techniques, relationship building, and financial management.

Financial Literacy : Teaches basic money management skills to help individuals achieve financial stability.

Parenting : Jewish Family and Children Services offer a fatherhood class to help fathers improve relationships with their children and support their economic stability and employment objectives.

Employment Skills : CareerSource Suncoast provides training in soft skills, interview techniques, and resume building, with vocational scholarships available.

Prisoner Reentry and Recidivism Course : University of South Florida students and inmates collaborate on projects to improve reentry programming.

Vocational Pre-Apprentice Training : Vaupal Electric and Suncoast Technical College offer NCCER Core certification training leading to pre-apprenticeships in electrical, HVAC, or plumbing.

Horticulture : Partnering with Master Gardeners from the University of Florida Extension, students learn plant care and can obtain state certifications in fertilization.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy : The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office personnel teach Decision Points, a program helping participants examine their thinking and actions.

Reentry Navigators : Assist individuals nearing release with reentry and recovery, addressing barriers such as housing, employment, and transportation, and providing ongoing advocacy and guidance. For more information, contact [email protected].

Table of Contents for SCCF

• Sarasota County Correctional Facility (SCCF) Information
• Free Sarasota County Inmate Search in Sarasota, FL
• What Are the Visitation Rules for County Jail
• What Are the Visitation Hours for SCCF
• How does the discount phone service work with Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork.
• InmateAid – Inmate Search, Find,& Connect With Our Inmate Services

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in Florida. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at Sarasota County Correctional Facility (SCCF).

The second section features the InmateAid Inmate Search tool, providing a user-generated database of inmates. You can access this resource to utilize any of InmateAid's services. If you require assistance in creating an inmate profile to maintain communication, please contact us at [email protected], and we'll gladly help you locate your loved one.

As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason, they charge to access it.

Visitation Information

Visitation hours, internet visits: 8:30 am – 11:00 am and 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm | available seven days a week., on-site visits: 9:00 am – 11:00 am and 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm | available seven days a week..

Inmates who have not yet been classified (typically less than 3 days in jail) or are under special medical observation may not receive personal visits unless approved by the administration. Legal visits will be allowed but may be subject to certain restrictions based on the client’s condition. Regulations concerning dress and conduct for all visitors are posted at the entrance to the facility. Failure to follow visitor rules and regulations may result in loss of visitation privileges for the visitor. Visits shall be terminated without notice for any violation of visitation rules.

In addition to on-site visits, friends and family members can choose to schedule a video visit from the comfort of home. Each Internet video visitation session will be $12.00 per 25-minute visit . On-site video visits will continue to be free. Visits can be scheduled and canceled using either the website or the App. Refunds for internet visits will not be issued. Friends and Family members can schedule an on-site or internet video visit by visiting https://sarasotafl.gtlvisitme.com/app or by downloading the Android app " GTL Vismobile. "

The purpose of visitation is to encourage family contact and provide opportunities for association beneficial to the inmate's overall adjustment.

Appointments can now be made online in the Quick Links section of this Web site's home page or on this page. A kiosk is also available in the Sarasota County Jail lobby for those without internet access. Visits may be scheduled two weeks in advance and up to 24 hours before your desired visit. Visits may be canceled up to 48 hours before the visit. If a visit is canceled in less than the required time frame visitation staff may do so; however the inmate may lose that time block for the week except in special circumstances. Assistance is also available by phone if needed, 941.861.4601.

Inmates are allowed three (3) fifty-minute visitations per week. The maximum number of visitors allowed at each visit is three (3).

How to 'aid your inmate' at Sarasota County Correctional Facility (SCCF)

• How to send an Inmate Money in Florida
• How do I send money using MoneyGram
• How to Buy Inmate Commissary Care Packages Online
• What is Inmate Commissary
• What is an Inmate trust accout?
• How to send stuff to your inmate
• How to send Greeting Cards and Postcards
• How to send selfies and pictures
• How to send magazines
• How to send Books
• How to Save Money on Inmate Calls

HOW TO SEND THINGS

How to contact an inmate at Sarasota County Jail

A friendly help guide for Sarasota County Jail. Learn how to find an inmate and send letters, photos, and more.

This help guide will walk you through how to connect with an inmate. Follow the steps below to find an inmate and send letters and photos:

• How to find an inmate online

How to message an inmate

• Sending photos and postcards

Frequently asked questions about Sarasota County Jail

Overview of sarasota county jail.

• Inmate services at Sarasota County Jail

Here's a short video on how to contact an inmate at Sarasota County Jail:

Sarasota County Jail inmate search

To contact a person start by searching for the person on the facility website . Perform a search by following these steps:

• Step 1: Enter their first name and last name into the search form and click "Search"
• Step 2: Locate their inmate record
• Step 3: Write down their Inmate ID and any housing information provided

Important! Be sure to enter the persons full name. Nicknames should not be used.

After finding the person you are looking for you can then create a messaging account to send letters and photos.

You can use your phone or computer to send emails letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send an message, start by searching for an inmate at Sarasota County Jail .

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to loved one at Sarasota County Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Sarasota County Jail.

How long does it take to deliver a message?

If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Sarasota County Jail.

How much does it cost to send a message to Sarasota County Jail?

You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

What services can I use to contact an inmate at Sarasota County Jail?

You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's a easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

Securus messaging

Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Sarasota County Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

Some county jails and state prisons may support for sending messages with JPay . You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

Smart Jail Mail

You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Sarasota County Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

What is the mailing address of Sarasota County Jail?

Mailing address:.

Sarasota County Jail 2020 Main St Sarasota , FL 34237 (941) 861-4601

Business hours:

• Monday: Open 24 hours
• Tuesday: Open 24 hours
• Wednesday: Open 24 hours
• Thursday: Open 24 hours
• Friday: Open 24 hours
• Saturday: Open 24 hours
• Sunday: Open 24 hours

Sarasota County Jail is a correctional facility located in Sarasota, Florida. The jail is home to hundreds of inmates who have been charged with criminal offenses ranging from minor crimes to serious felonies. The facility is operated and maintained by the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, who work diligently to ensure that all inmates are safe and secure during their stay.

The Sarasota County Jail is designed to house a maximum of 1,026 inmates, though the number of inmates actually varies depending on a range of factors. The facility provides a range of services and programs designed to help inmates improve their lives, including education, vocational training, drug and mental health treatment, and more. The facility also has a fully equipped medical unit staffed by licensed healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive medical care to inmates.

The Sarasota County Jail is committed to the safety and security of not only the inmates but also of the correctional officers and staff. The facility has implemented extensive safety measures, including video surveillance, secured entrances and gates, and a strictly enforced visitation policy, to prevent violent incidents and contraband from entering the facility. The staff is experienced, well-trained, and committed to treating every inmate with dignity and respect while enforcing all rules and regulations.

Overall, Sarasota County Jail provides professional and secure correctional services to the Sarasota community and surrounding areas, ensuring that inmates are fairly and safely detained while awaiting trial or serving their sentences.

What services are provided by Sarasota County Jail?

Sarasota County Jail offers a variety of programs and services for its inmates. One of the primary services provided by the jail is medical and mental health care. Inmates have access to medical appointments, medication administration, and mental health resources such as group therapy and one-on-one counseling. Additionally, the jail provides dental care and on-site specialists for inmate healthcare needs.

The jail also offers educational programming for its inmates, including GED classes and vocational training programs. These programs are designed to provide inmates with the knowledge and skills they need to secure employment upon release from the jail, thus reducing the likelihood of recidivism and improving outcomes once they enter the workforce.

Sarasota County Jail also offers substance abuse treatment programming for inmates struggling with drug or alcohol addictions. These programs are designed to help inmates address the underlying issues that led to their substance abuse and provide them with the tools and strategies they need to maintain their recovery once they leave the jail. By addressing these issues, the jail hopes to reduce the likelihood of relapse and recidivism, ultimately improving outcomes for both inmates and the community. Overall, the programs and services offered by Sarasota County Jail are intended to support the well-being and success of its inmates, both while they are incarcerated and after their release.

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Reach out to us if you need help communicating with incarcerated family and friends..

Our team will be happy to help you get in touch with loved ones in county, state, or federal correctional facilities.

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• Sarasota County

Sarasota County Jail in Sarasota, Florida

The jail houses an average of 950 inmates, employs 140 deputies, offers on-site and video visitation, commissary deposits via kiosk, and provides inmate property and payment information online.

Government Law Enforcement Correctional Facility Jail Detention Center

Contact Information

About sarasota county jail.

Sarasota County Jail, located in Sarasota, Florida, houses an average of 950 inmates and employs 140 deputies for housing duties. Visitation can be scheduled on-site or through video calls, and commissary deposits can be made at a kiosk in the jail lobby. Inmate property and payment information are available on the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office website.

Sarasota County Jail

Location: Sarasota, Florida

Average Inmate Population: 950

Number of Deputies Assigned to Housing Duties: 140

Visitation:

• On-site or internet video visits can be scheduled through the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office website or the Android app "GTL Vismobile."

Commissary Services:

• Deposits can be made at an automated kiosk in the jail lobby.

Inmate Property:

• Information can be found on the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office website.
• Can be made online through the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office website.

Sarasota County Jail Services

Helpful resources.

Sarasota Sheriff's Office https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/corrections/whos_in_jail/arrest-reports/index.php Information on inmates currently in jail, including arrest reports, jail programs, booking procedures, PREA reports, victim notification, visitation and mail guidelines, inmate property, and online payment options.

Sarasota County Jail Make Payments Online https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/corrections/make_payments_online/index.php Information on how to deposit money into inmate commissary accounts, either in person at the jail lobby kiosk or online.

Sarasota County Jail Visitation & Mail https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/corrections/visitation_and_mail/index.php Information on scheduling visits and sending mail to inmates.

Sarasota County Jail History https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/corrections/history_of_the_jail/index.php Information about the history of the jail, including the construction of the North Wing, which can accommodate up to 288 inmates.

Sarasota Sheriff's Office https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/arrest-reports/index.php Information on arrests and inmates, including a search function and a disclaimer about the accuracy of the information.

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Website https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/ Information about the Sheriff's Office, including its mission, vision, values, and how it serves the community.

Sarasota County Jail https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/corrections/index.php Information about the Sarasota County Correctional Facility, including its location, lobby hours, and contact information.

Sarasota County Animal Services https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/programs_and_amp_services/animal_services/index.php Information about the location, hours of operation, and services offered by the animal shelter, including adoptions, lost and found pets, and administrative services.

Other Jails & Prisons Nearby

Sarasota County Main Jail North Wing Main Street, Sarasota, FL The Sarasota County Jail offers visitation opportunities, commissary services, and information about inmate population and visitation scheduling.

Bradenton Bridge 63rd Avenue East, Bradenton, FL - 6.4 miles A non-profit organization in Manatee County, Florida, providing comprehensive substance abuse treatment and therapy for prisoners and their families.

Manatee Regional Juvenile Detention Center 5th Street West, Bradenton, FL - 10.4 miles A secure facility in Bradenton, Florida, housing up to 60 youth detained by various circuit courts, providing education, counseling, and medical care to help youth rehabilitate and prepare for their return to the community.

Sarasota County Juvenile Detention Services 5th Street West, Bradenton, FL - 10.4 miles

Desoto County Juvenile Detention Services 5th Street West, Bradenton, FL - 10.4 miles

Sarasota County South Jail West Wing Ridgewood Avenue, Venice, FL - 17.7 miles A prison in Venice, Florida, with a capacity of 288 inmates, offering 24/7/365 lobby hours and a records section reachable at 941.861.4025.

Map of Sarasota County Jail in Sarasota, Florida

Related Sarasota Public Records

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• All Sarasota Public Records

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Jails & Prisons in Nearby Cities

• Sarasota, FL
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• Palmetto, FL
• Wimauma, FL
• St. Petersburg, FL
• Gulfport, FL
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Jails & Prisons in Nearby Counties

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• All Jails & Prisons in Florida

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Sarasota County Jail Inmate Search

Search for an Inmate in Sarasota County

Sarasota county jail inmate search and jail roster, how do you find someone who is in jail in sarasota county, search for information about an inmate in the sarasota county jail and view their jail mugshot:.

• Review the Jail Roster, or
• Call the Sarasota County Jail at 941-861-4165
• Look up the offender's criminal charges
• Find out their bond, and
• View their public mugshot in the roster.

If you cannot find the mugshot of the offender that has been arrested, it is because Sarasota County or the state of Florida has recently changed their policy regarding publicly posting them in the jail roster. However, you can write the jail at the following address and request a copy of an inmate's mugshot be mailed or sent by email to you. Make sure to include your email address in all correspondence.

Sarasota County Jail 2020 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34237 Attention: Media Relations - Inmate Mugshot Request

Mail, click on the link below, or call the facility at 941-861-4165 for the information you are looking for. 

How do I find out if someone was arrested in Sarasota County?

There are five ways to find out if someone was arrested in Sarasota County: 1.     Look them up on the official jail inmate roster. 2.     Look them up on vinelink.com, a national inmate tracking resource. 3.    Call the jail at 941-861-4165 . This is available 24 hours a day. 4.    Write or visit the jail and request information.   You can reach them at: Sarasota County Jail 2020 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34237 5.    Do a search online using this person’s name, the town or city you think they were arrested in, and the crime you think they were arrested for. Sometimes the local newspaper, police department or sheriff’s office will have a daily police blotter published on their website.

What information is included in jail booking records and the jail roster?

Jail booking records , also known as the jail roster, typically include the following information: •    Full name of the inmate •    Inmate's physical characteristics (age, sex, height, weight, etc.) •    Inmate’s mugshot(s) •    Booking number, Inmate ID#, Jacket #, etc. •    Booking date and time •    Charges or offense details – the applicable statute •    Bond or bail amount, if applicable •    Court date, if set, plus the court name and location •    Previous arrests in this jurisdiction, conviction details, and sentence

• Note that not all this information will be included. Most booking records and jail inmate rosters contain only the basic information such as name, date of arrest and the criminal charge.
• The amount and quality of the information depends on the state’s laws and the jail’s policies.

How often are jail booking records and rosters updated?

Most jails update their records at least once per day. Some booking information is updated as often as every 15 minutes in the roster. From the time a person is first arrested until when they are booked in the jail, it can be as short as a couple of hours, up to 24 hours, or even longer if they were arrested during a major event such as a protest or riot in which hundreds of people were arrested at the same time.

How do I find an inmate in the Sarasota County Jail?

There are seven ways to find an inmate in Sarasota County or the Sarasota County Jail: 1.     Look them up on the official jail inmate roster. 2.     Look them up on vinelink.com, a national inmate tracking resource. 3.    Call the jail at 941-861-4165 . This is available 24 hours a day. 4.    Call local police departments in Sarasota County. Sometimes the local jails will hold recent arrestees for up to 72 hours before transporting them the Sarasota County Jail. 5.    Check with the jails in neighboring counties and look up their rosters. It is always possible they were arrested there instead of Sarasota County. 6.    Write or visit the jail and request information.   Sarasota County Jail 2020 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34237 7.    Do a search online using this person’s name, the town or city you think they were arrested in, and the crime you think they were arrested for. Sometimes the local newspaper, police department or sheriff’s office will have a daily police blotter published on their website as well.

How do I find an inmate in a Florida state prison?

You can find an inmate in the Florida Department of Corrections by searching for them on the State Prison Locator , Vinelink.com (a nationwide inmate locator resource), or by calling the Department of Corrections.

How do I find an inmate in federal prison?

• The United States Bureau of Prisons maintains an up-to-date inmate locator  where you can look up any inmate that has been in federal prison from 1982 to the present day. 
• If they are currently in custody, you can see what institution they are in.
• If they are in transport, meaning they are being shuttled from one prison to another, that information will not be available. If they are no longer in custody, it will list their discharge date.
• Other information provided is their BOP Registry Number (inmate ID#), their race, age and release date.
• If they are in custody, there are links to how to visit them, send them money, communicating with them and sending the prison a concern you may have about them.

How do I find a detainee in an ICE facility?

• The US Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement maintains an up-to-date online detainee locator of all foreign detainees aged 18 and older that are in the custody of ICE. 
• When searching by name, a detainee's first and last names are required and must be an exact match. When inputting a hyphenated last name into the Online Detainee Locator System, include the hyphen for the locator to find the individual (e.g., Doe-Smith).
• You can also search by using an A-number (Alien Registration Number) if you have it at the same link. The A-Number must be exactly nine digits long. If the A-Number has fewer than nine digits, add zeros at the beginning.
• You are also required to select the detainee's correct Country of Birth from the drop-down menu provided on the page.

NOTE: If an alien is arrested for a state crime, you will still be able to locate them in the police jail or the county jail where they were arrested. If it was a misdemeanor crime, they would do their time in the Sarasota County Jail or the county jail where they were arrested and convicted. If they were convicted of a Florida state felony and sent to state prison, and not deported, then you can locate them in the Florida state prison system.

How do I find an inmate in juvenile detention?

In the United States, a juvenile is a person under the age of 18. If a juvenile is arrested for a crime, it is unlikely that their name will be publicly listed on an inmate search page or detention center roster, or will be released to the public. Only the juvenile’s parents or legal guardians will be given that information.

If the crime is a serious felony such as Capital Murder, some states will release their name to the public, either when they are first arrested or after they are convicted. However, in general, it is unlikely that an inmate who is a juvenile will have their name released in any public way.

How can I see if someone is in jail or prison in Sarasota County or the state of Florida?

For online searches, if you want to see if someone is in jail in Sarasota County .

If you want a list of all the other county jail inmate searches in Florida .

If you want a list of all the county jails in the United States . 

If you want to look up an inmate in any of the Florida state prisons . To look up the prisons in Florida.

How do I get information on someone in jail in Sarasota County?

If you want detailed information on a particular inmate in in jail in Sarasota County, and you can’t find it online in the jail inmate roster, your only other option is to either call the jail at 941-861-4165 , go to the jail in person and ask, or write them at:   Sarasota County Jail 2020 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34237 That said, most jails will limit the amount of information that they give to the public about an inmate in their roster because the offender is considered innocent until proven guilty, and thus is afforded a certain amount of privacy.

Once an offender is convicted, you are far more likely to find out information about them.

If you are good at using Google, you can dig into a person’s past and learn as much information about anyone as someone in the media can. 

You can also search a website that has all the public records about people . One of the best online websites we found will cost you only $1.00.

Who can I call to find an inmate in Sarasota County?

To find an inmate in custody or ask about their roster in Sarasota County call 941-861-4165 24 hours a day.

Does the jail or prison have to keep the inmate in the county or state where they are charged or convicted?

No.  Even though 99.9% of all pre-trial and convicted inmates are kept in the state where they were arrested and/or convicted, they can be kept in any US jail or prison that will have them. This is seen in circumstances where a jurisdiction is overcrowded, or an inmate is moved for their safety. That said, a person must stand trial where they were arrested unless the presiding judge or prosecuting attorney agrees to move the offender’s trial to a different jurisdiction if it is likely they will not get a fair trial.

What if I can’t find an inmate and I know they are in custody in Sarasota County?

If you know an inmate is in custody in Sarasota County, and you can’t find them, it can mean one of several things: 1.    Either you or the jail has the spelling of the inmate’s name inputted incorrectly. 2.    The jail has not yet updated their booking information or roster. 3.    The inmate has already been released. 4.    The inmate has either been arrested or is being housed in another jail. 5.    The inmate is underage; therefore, it is illegal to post their information, or the inmate you are trying to find had their age incorrectly listed as someone under age 18.

I know the person was arrested and in jail, but my search in the roster comes back as “no record found.” What happened?

Same answer as that above. If you know an inmate is in custody in Sarasota County, but your search comes back in the roster as “no record found.”, it can mean one of several things: 1.    Either you or the jail has the spelling of the inmate’s name wrong. 2.    The jail has not yet updated their booking information or roster. 3.    The inmate has already been released. 4.    The inmate has either been arrested or is being housed in another jail. 5.    The inmate is underage; therefore it is illegal to post their information, or the inmate you are trying to find had their age incorrectly listed as someone under age 18.

I was released from jail in Sarasota County, but my record still shows. When will it go away?

If your record of arrest and booking is still showing online, even though you were released, it is because some jails allow that information to remain public indefinitely. Unfortunately, even though the charges against you may have been dropped, many jails will not erase that information from their public records voluntarily.

In a situation like this your only option will be to get an attorney and request they petition the court to force the jail to remove this information. That said, if you were in fact found guilty of the crime you were arrested for, it is unlikely they will remove the information surrounding your arrest and conviction.

An inmate’s family member just died; how can I let them know right away?

The death of a family member is one of the few times, if not the only time, that a jail will take a message for an inmate. Because of the sensitivity of the tragic news, when a family member has died, the news will be transmitted by a member of the clergy, a counselor or someone who is very high ranking within the jail. 

Jail management understands that a sudden death of a loved one could cause a violent emotional response that jeopardizes the safety of staff or other inmates.

An inmate’s family member just died; will they be allowed to attend the funeral?

The death of a family member is one of the few times, if not the only time, that a jail will allow an inmate, whether it pre-trial or post-conviction, to be allowed outside of the jail. Even if they are allowed outside the jail, they will have to have at least two armed escorts. An inmate attending a funeral is an extraordinary cost, use of staff and potential danger to the public. That is why it is rarely allowed.

This is not always the case though, and whether an inmate can attend a funeral depends on the inmate’s security classification, whether the jail has the staff to handle it, official jail policy, whether or not the inmate has an attorney that can push the right people, including the judge overseeing the inmate’s case, etc.

What determines whether an inmate is placed in low or high security facilities?

An inmate’s security classification depends on the following: 1.    The inmate’s current crime. 2.    The inmate previous crimes. 3.    The inmate’s history for violence within the walls of the facility. 4.    The inmate’s gang affiliation. 5.    The jail's current distribution of inmates.

What information is available about an inmate?

The information that a jail or court releases publicly about an inmate depends on the laws in the state, the policy of the jail, and the sheriff’s or warden’s individual decision.

Jail booking records and rosters can include more or less, the following information: •    Full name of the inmate •    Inmate's physical characteristics (age, sex, height, weight, etc.) •    Inmate’s mugshot(s) •    Booking number, Inmate ID#, Jacket #, etc. •    Booking date and time •    Charges or offense details – the applicable statute •    Bond or bail amount, if applicable •    Court date, if set, plus the court name and location •    Previous arrests in this jurisdiction, conviction details, and sentence

What is vinelink.com?

Vinelink, which you will see referenced when discussing public information about offenders and inmates, is a national public roster that both allows the public to look up and see the person’s status, plus be able to track their movements, whether it involves being transferred from one facility to another or being released from custody.

The tracking feature is especially helpful for those who are victims of, or witnesses to, a crime and fear that the release of an offender may be dangerous to them or someone close to them.

Anyone can register with Vine to receive automated notifications via email, text or phone. It is available in 48 states and 2,900 jails and prisons.

Here is a short video explaining why it started and how it works.

How do I find old Sarasota County jail and inmate records from years ago?

To find jail records that go back many years really depends on how far you want to go back, however you would need to send a written request to the county sheriff as follows: Sarasota County Sheriff Att: Jail Records 2020 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34237

Let them know the inmate’s name, any aliases, date of birth, the date range that the inmate may have been incarcerated, the crime they were charged with/convicted of, and any other helpful information you can think of.

How can I have my jail record sealed?

To have your jail records sealed, you will have to have the crime you were convicted of expunged. You should know up front that not all crimes are eligible for expungement. 1.    Hire a lawyer that specializes in expungement. 2.    If your crime is eligible, they will contact the District Attorney's office in the judicial district where you were charged or convicted.  3.    They will file a petition with the court where you were charged or convicted. 4.    The entire process may take 1-2 years.

Where can I get Prison records from the state of Florida?

To get prison records from the state of Florida, you will need to send a written request to the state prison system in Florida.

Let them know the inmate’s name, any aliases, date of birth, the date range that the inmate may have been incarcerated, the crime they were charged with/convicted of, the name of the facility you believe they were incarcerated in, plus any other helpful information you can think of.

For inmate services and facility information such as:

• Booking Process
• Visiting an Inmate
• Sending Money
• Emailing or Texting
• Receiving phone calls
• Bail Bond Information
• Court Information

Click the links above, or the button below.

Sarasota County Jail Inmate Services Information

Phone: 941-861-4165

Physical Address: 2020 Main St. Sarasota, FL 34237

Mailing Address (personal mail): Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID Number Smart Communications - SCCF PO Box 700 Pinellas Park, FL 33781

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions): Inmate's Full Name & Inmate ID Number Sarasota County Correctional Facility 2020 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34237

Every year Sarasota County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain 18,380 offenders, and maintain an average of 919 inmates (county-wide) in their custody on any given day.

The weekly turnover rate of inmates is approximately 55%, meaning that every week more than half of these inmates are released and then replaced with new offenders being booked into jail.

The charts below break down the men, women, races, ethnicities and the types of crimes that people are arrested and incarcerated for in both Sarasota County and state prisons throughout the country. This information is compiled from local police and the Sarasota County Sheriff's Department, as well as the state of Florida and the United States Department of Justice and Census Bureau.

If you are looking for a prisoner in Florida or Federal custody, click on the appropriate institution below.

If you are searching for an inmate being held in another county in Florida, click below.

STATE OF Florida COUNTY JAILS

If you are searching for a prisoner in a Florida State Prison click below.

Florida Prison Inmate Search

If you are searching for a United States Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate click below.

Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Search

For ICE Detainees (Immigration) being held at a detention facility in the United States, click below.

ICE Detainee Search

Sarasota County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 8/28/2024

Sarasota county inmate criminal charges - 8/28/2024.

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Sarasota County Inmate Sex - 8/28/2024

Sarasota county inmate age - 8/28/2024.

• Jail (Main): 941-861-4165
• Juvenile: 941-741-3023
• Public Defender: 941-747-6436
• Sarasota Jail Booking: 941-861-4601
• Sarasota Police: 941-366-8000
• Sheriff: 941-316-1201
• Venice Police: 941-486-2444

Inmate Search Sarasota County & City of Sarasota

Inmate search state of florida and federal lockups.

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Inmate dies at Dane County Jail

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — An inmate has died at the Dane County Jail, the Dane County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) confirmed Monday.

DCSO deputies and jail medical staff responded to the intake housing unit in the public safety building portion of the Dane County Jail at about 1 a.m. Monday morning, when an inmate in that unit was found unresponsive.

DCSO said deputies and jail medical staff tried life-saving measures on the inmate. The Madison Fire Department reported to the scene. The fire department’s paramedics took over medical care upon arrival. Despite these attempts, the inmate died.

“The safety, security and well-being of those in our care is a priority that we take very seriously. A death in our facility, regardless of the cause, is thoroughly investigated to the high expectations set by this community,” Sheriff Kalvin Barrett said. “Our condolences go out to the person’s family and loved ones as they mourn this loss.”

The deceased inmate’s name has not been released by officials at this time.

DCSO detectives and the Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office said they are investigating the death. 

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St. Clair Co. judge dismisses lawsuit over lack of contact visits in jail

A St. Clair County judge has dismissed a lawsuit against the county that alleged the sheriff's department conspired with a telecommunications company to force jail inmates to use costly video conference and phone calls to visit with family by banning in-person contact visits.

In dismissing the lawsuit against the county, Sheriff Mat King, the county jail's telecommunications company and other parties, Circuit Judge Michael West ruled "no constitutional rights are implicated in this case, fundamental or otherwise."

Meanwhile, a Genesee County circuit judge has yet to decide on a similar lawsuit in that county, where in June Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson announced the reinstatement of in-person contact visits at the county lockup.

"The judge in St. Clair County decided that children and parents have no constitutional right to visit each other. We plan to appeal this cruel decision because we think it is plainly wrong," Cody Cutting, an attorney with Civil Rights Corps in Washington, D.C., one of the law firms representing the plaintiffs in the cases, wrote in an email to the Free Press.

Cutting said the plaintiffs intend to appeal the St. Clair County decision, but had not done so as of Friday.

The crux of the lawsuits, reported by the Free Press in March, is the plaintiffs alleged the defendants conspired to prohibit in-person family contact as part of a scheme for the counties and the companies to make money, which the plaintiffs claimed violates Michigan law. They alleged St. Clair County allowed in-person visits until 2017 and Genesee County allowed them until 2014.

The lawsuits requested class-action status for all individuals with a parent or child detained in jails in St. Clair and Genesee counties at any point since March 15, 2021.

The St. Clair County lawsuit named the county; Sheriff King; Securus Technologies LLC and Platinum Equity LLC, a private equity firm that purchased Securus, of which Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores  is chairman and CEO. The complaint also named Gores as well as Mark Barnhill, a partner at Platinum Equity, and David Abel, president and CEO of Securus and Aventiv Technologies, Securus' parent company.

It alleged Securus pays St. Clair County 50% of the $12.99 price tag for every 20-minute video call and 78% of the 21 cents per minute cost of every phone call. The lawsuit stated the contract promised the county a revenue stream as well as a minimum guaranteed annual payment of $190,000 paid up front. The 21 cents per phone call is the maximum allowed under law, according to the lawsuit.

It alleged Securus paid the county $154,130 in 2017 in phone call commissions and the next year, with the addition of the new guaranteed payment, video call revenue, and the elimination of in-person visitation, "that number almost tripled as it climbed to $404,752. Those gains have steadily continued, reaching nearly $500,000 in 2022."

Attorney Richmond Moore released a statement Saturday on behalf of Platinum Equity LLC.

"Although the litigation in this case is without merit, Platinum wholeheartedly supports efforts to reform business practices in the corrections services industry and has invested heavily in making connections more affordable and accessible through its investment in Securus and its parent company Aventiv," it read. "Platinum believes that the company's telephone and video products provide an important connection between the incarcerated and their friends and families, but those products are not intended as a replacement for in-person visitation."

Securus Technologies responded in a statement that it "creates connections and is committed to bridging the digital divide in correctional facilities, ensuring incarcerated individuals stay in touch with loved ones while providing law enforcement with the tools to uphold their commitment to public safety."

"The court's dismissal of the case against us in Michigan affirms it was without merit. Our focus remains — creating meaningful and positive outcomes for the consumers we serve," the Securus response said. "We will continue to tailor our services to the requirements of each correctional facility, offering phone and video calling services, text connections, and access to education, training, and reentry support, to encourage better outcomes for families and communities when incarcerated individuals come home."

Todd Shoudy, an attorney representing St. Clair County and King, wrote in an email Friday: "The claim that inmates or their families have a Constitutional right to contact visits has been rejected by the United States Supreme Court and Michigan Courts for the past 30 to 40 years, and the Circuit Court Judge’s ruling was an obvious one given this legal precedent. The arguments of Plaintiffs in this case are really seeking changes in the law that are better directed to the legislative branch of government."

Shoudy stated it was "ironic" the plaintiffs brought the lawsuit this year "at a time where the St. Clair County Jail offers, through the use of modern technology more means of communication for inmates and friends and family outside of the jail than ever before.

"Today, not only can inmates communicate with individuals outside of the jail by traditional means such as written letters and telephone calls, but inmates of the St. Clair County Jail are also given an electronic tablet upon entry into the jail," Shoudy wrote. "Inmates can use that tablet to communicate with jail correctional officers and jail medical staff, as well as access jail policies and the law library, and rent movies and music. Those same tablets also permit inmates and those outside of the jail to communicate by text message and emails. Inmates can also receive photographs and videos of their family members to store on their tablet."

Shoudy wrote video visitation "actually offers an easier and more reliable means of conducting free onsite visits than the old system of visits previously conducted through a glass partition."

Under the old system, he stated, visits were limited to one visit per week supervised by a jail visitation officer, and many were cancelled because a visitor was a no-show or arrived too late. Under the new system, Shoudy wrote, the number of missed visitations has dropped dramatically.

The technology allows "an unlimited number of remote visits, for a fee, where visitors can conduct the visits literally from anywhere," he wrote, adding inmates can remotely attend birthday parties or visit loved ones in the hospital.

Shoudy wrote the new technology also "increases the safety of inmates by restricting the flow of contraband into the jail at a time where the threat of deadly fentanyl is higher than ever before."

The lawsuits alleged the in-person contact prohibition ensured parents and children couldn't hug each other or look each other in the eyes and the phone and video calls cost high rates and were low quality.

Judges in the circuit courts in St. Clair and Genesee counties previously heard arguments by the plaintiffs for preliminary injunctions and motions by defendants to dismiss the lawsuits.

"In this Court's view, no constitutional rights are implicated in this case, fundamental or otherwise. There is no liberty interest or family integrity right to association in a penal institution under the Michigan Constitution," Judge West wrote in a July 19 opinion, adding "even if such a right were to exist and because Plaintiffs have claimed it exits, this court finds there is still no violation of Plaintiffs' alleged constitutional rights because the jail's policy is reasonably related to legitimate penological interests."

The Genesee County circuit judge had not issued an opinion in that case as of Friday. A motion hearing is set for Oct. 7 in that case.

In Genesee County, Swanson announced the jail would resume in-person contact visits in July, starting with inmates and their children who were age 12 and younger, then expand to older children and adults. He also announced that he was going to look to reduce the cost of telephone calls and video visitation.

Swanson, in June, said the telephone revenue was $15,000 a month, or $180,000 a year, and was a flat revenue. For video visitation, he had said, it was around $400,000, including a tech grant.

Swanson previously said  the jail  had been doing in-person visits through various programs, but years ago "the in-person visits were ended and video visitations were the new norm." He said "the family connection and the family unification is vital" and the lawsuit got his attention to move quicker.

Swanson said video visitation  would continue as it is a good supplement for people who are homebound, out of state or have transportation concerns to be able to visit with their loves ones in the jail.

Contact Christina Hall: [email protected]. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter.

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Sheriff’s office welcomes 6 new custody deputies.

Posted August 27, 2024

During his keynote speech, Sheriff Brown encouraged the graduates to guard their careers by living up to the standards and expectations set by the Sheriff’s Office. He said, “Don’t sacrifice a thousand tomorrows for a few todays, and don’t settle for a little life. Live with purpose and for significance.”

The class of recruits completed 260 hours of instruction. Some of the instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, classification of inmates, contraband detection, arrest and control, physical training, and Direct Supervision training.

If you are interested in career in law enforcement or know someone who is, please visit our website at SBSheriff.org to apply.

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AVOID. DENY. DEFEND.— Surviving an Active Shooter Event

Sbso twitter feed, mail theft suspect apprehended using airtag.