Baldwin County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Baldwin County?
Inmate records in Baldwin County are official government documents maintained by the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county 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 Alabama Code § 36-12-40, these records are considered public writings and are maintained for administrative, security, and legal purposes. The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge details are collected and entered into the county's records management system.
Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Changes in custody status
- Disciplinary actions
- Court appearances
- Medical information (subject to privacy restrictions)
- Visitation logs
- Release information
The Baldwin County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in county facilities, while the Alabama Department of Corrections maintains records for those serving sentences in state prisons.
Are Inmate Records Public In Baldwin County?
Inmate records in Baldwin County are generally considered public information under Alabama's public records law. According to the Alabama Public Records Law § 36-12-40, "every citizen has a right to inspect and take a copy of any public writing of this state, except as otherwise expressly provided by statute." This statute establishes the presumption of openness for government records, including most inmate records.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Full name and booking photograph (mugshot)
- Current charges and case numbers
- Booking date and time
- Bond/bail amount (if applicable)
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
- Current housing facility
However, certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure due to privacy concerns and security considerations. Restricted information typically includes:
- Social Security numbers
- Medical and mental health records (protected under HIPAA)
- Juvenile records (protected under Alabama Code § 12-15-133)
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Victim information in certain cases
The Open Baldwin portal provides public access to various county records, including inmate information, as part of Baldwin County's commitment to government transparency.
What's Included Inmate Records in Baldwin County
Inmate records in Baldwin County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Incident reports
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, property)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders
- Attorney of record
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits earned
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (completed sentence, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
This information is maintained in the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office records management system and portions are made available through the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office arrest search portal.
Baldwin County Prison System
The Baldwin County correctional system operates under the authority of the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office and is designed to house individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of up to one year. The system is distinct from the Alabama Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons housing individuals convicted of more serious offenses serving longer sentences.
The Baldwin County correctional system primarily consists of the Baldwin County Corrections Center, which serves as the main detention facility for the county. This facility houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving misdemeanor sentences. The facility operates under the direct supervision of the Sheriff and adheres to standards established by the Alabama Jail Association and the Alabama Sheriff's Association.
For individuals requiring juvenile detention, the county operates the Baldwin County Regional Juvenile Detention Center, which provides secure custody for minors alleged to be delinquent.
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office
310 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507
(251) 937-0202
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office is responsible for the administration, security, and operations of the county's correctional facilities. This includes inmate intake, housing, transportation, medical care, and release processing. The office also maintains all inmate records and coordinates with the courts, probation services, and other law enforcement agencies.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Baldwin County
Baldwin County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various inmate populations and security needs:
Baldwin County Corrections Center
200 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507
(251) 972-6800
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office
This is the primary adult detention facility in Baldwin County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility accommodates:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Inmates serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prisons
- Federal inmates housed under contract with U.S. Marshals Service
The facility provides various security levels from minimum to maximum and offers programs including work release, substance abuse treatment, and educational services.
Baldwin County Regional Juvenile Detention Center
43405 Nicholsville Road
Bay Minette, AL 36507
(251) 580-2520
Baldwin County Juvenile Detention
This specialized facility provides secure custody for juvenile offenders under 18 years of age. The center offers:
- Separate housing from adult populations as required by Alabama Code § 12-15-208
- Educational services in partnership with the Baldwin County School System
- Counseling and rehabilitation programs
- Medical and mental health services
Baldwin County Work Release Center
200 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507
(251) 972-6800
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office
This minimum-security facility houses non-violent offenders who qualify for work release programs. Inmates in this facility:
- Maintain employment in the community during daytime hours
- Return to secure custody during non-working hours
- Pay room and board from their earnings
- May participate in educational and vocational training programs
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and administrative procedures designed to maintain safety while providing appropriate services to the inmate population.
Who's in Prison In Baldwin County
The Baldwin County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- These individuals comprise approximately 60-70% of the county jail population
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences up to one year
- Common offenses include DUI, simple assault, petty theft, and minor drug possession
- Many participate in work release or other rehabilitative programs
Temporary State Inmates:
- Individuals recently sentenced to state prison awaiting transfer to Alabama Department of Corrections facilities
- Those returned from state custody for court appearances
- Individuals serving split sentences (part in county jail, part on probation)
Special Populations:
- Female inmates (housed in separate units)
- Individuals with medical or mental health needs requiring specialized housing
- Veterans with specific programming needs
- Youthful offenders (ages 18-21) who may qualify for specialized programs
Federal Detainees:
- Individuals held under contract with federal agencies such as U.S. Marshals Service
- Immigration detainees awaiting proceedings or deportation
According to data from the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office, the daily population averages between 300-350 inmates, with fluctuations based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 23 days, while sentenced inmates typically serve 4-6 months.
The demographic composition generally reflects the county's population, though with disproportionate representation of certain groups consistent with national incarceration trends. All inmates undergo classification upon intake to determine appropriate housing and programming based on security risk, medical needs, and other factors.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Baldwin County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Baldwin County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county provides multiple platforms for conducting inmate searches:
Online Search Portal:
- Visit the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office arrest search portal
- Select either "Current Inmates" or "24 Hour Bookings" based on search needs
- Enter the inmate's information in at least one search field:
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional but recommended)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Click "Search" to view results
- Select an individual record to view detailed information
- Note that the system displays only currently incarcerated inmates or recent bookings
In-Person Records Request:
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Visit the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office
310 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507 -
Complete a public records request form
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Provide identification and specify the records being requested
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Pay applicable fees for copies (currently $5 for first page, $1 for each additional page)
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Records staff will process the request according to current Alabama public records law
Written Request:
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Submit a formal written request to:
Records Division
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office
310 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507 -
Include in the request:
- Full name of the inmate
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate dates of incarceration
- Specific information requested
- Your contact information
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Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
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Include payment for applicable fees (call ahead to confirm current fee schedule)
For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody, the Alabama Department of Corrections inmate search provides information on individuals currently incarcerated in state facilities.
How To Find an Inmate in Baldwin County for Free?
Baldwin County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated in county facilities:
Baldwin County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office arrest search portal
- No account creation or login is required
- Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
- Add first name or date of birth if available to narrow results
- Review the list of matching records
- Select the specific inmate to view details including:
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Booking date
- Housing location
- Court dates (if scheduled)
Open Baldwin Portal:
- Visit the Open Baldwin transparency website
- Navigate to the "Sheriff's Office" section
- Select "Baldwin County Corrections Center - Inmate Search"
- Follow the search prompts using available information
- This portal provides access to current inmate information as part of the county's public transparency initiative
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Baldwin County Corrections Center at (251) 972-6800
- Request inmate information from the records division
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
- Basic information about an inmate's custody status can be provided over the phone
- Available during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Court Records Search:
-
Visit the Baldwin County Courthouse
Baldwin County Courthouse
312 Courthouse Square
Bay Minette, AL 36507 -
Use public access terminals to search court records
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Court records will indicate if an individual is in custody
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This method is particularly useful if you know the case number
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Alabama Department of Corrections provides a free online inmate locator service that can be accessed without registration or fees.
How To Visit an Inmate In Baldwin County
Visitation with inmates at Baldwin County correctional facilities is governed by strict policies to ensure security and orderly operations. Individuals planning to visit an inmate should be aware of the following procedures and requirements:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- Maximum of two adults and two children permitted per visit
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- All visitors are subject to search prior to entering the visitation area
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or on probation/parole may be denied entry
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday
- Morning sessions: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Maximum Security: Thursday only, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Work Release: Sunday only, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time for processing
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication required during visit time (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (clear bottles, single diaper, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
- Tobacco products or vaping devices
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
- Letters, photos, or items for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above knee, 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 staff
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions may be granted with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Non-contact visits through glass partition with telephone communication (standard)
- Contact visits for certain classifications (requires prior approval)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) in designated areas
- Virtual visits via video conferencing system (schedule through Baldwin County Sheriff's Office)
Visit Restrictions:
- Pursuant to Alabama Administrative Code 257-X-1-.03, visitation is a privilege that may be restricted for security or disciplinary reasons
- Inmates in disciplinary segregation have limited visitation privileges
- Visitors who violate rules may be permanently banned from the facility
- Special visits outside regular hours require advance approval from the facility administrator
How To Send Money to a Baldwin County Inmate
Baldwin County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay payment portal through the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office website
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select payment amount
- Enter credit/debit card information
- Complete transaction and retain confirmation number
- Fees: $2.50 for transactions up to $100; $3.50 for transactions $100.01-$200
Kiosk Deposits:
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Visit the payment kiosk located in the lobby of the Baldwin County Corrections Center
Baldwin County Corrections Center
200 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507 -
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
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Touch screen will guide through the deposit process
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Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
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Provide receipt for all transactions
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Fees: $2.00 for cash deposits; $2.50 for card transactions
Money Order by Mail:
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Purchase a money order payable to "Baldwin County Corrections Center"
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Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
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Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
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Mail to:
Inmate Accounts
Baldwin County Corrections Center
200 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507 -
No fee for money order deposits
-
Processing time: 3-5 business days
Amount Limits:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500
- Maximum account balance: $1,000
- Larger deposits require approval from facility administration
Funds Usage Regulations:
- Approved uses include:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
- Prohibited uses include:
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Gambling activities
- Purchase of contraband
- Transfer to other inmates' accounts
Upon release, remaining funds are returned to the inmate via debit card or check. Unclaimed funds are held according to Alabama Code § 41-14-1 governing abandoned property.
How To Send Jail Mail In Baldwin County
Correspondence with inmates in Baldwin County correctional facilities must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following procedures apply to all mail sent to individuals incarcerated in Baldwin County:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
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Address envelopes with complete information:
Inmate's Full Name and ID Number
Baldwin County Corrections Center
200 Hand Avenue
Bay Minette, AL 36507 -
Include your full name and return address on the envelope
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All incoming mail is opened and inspected for contraband
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Letters must be written on plain white or lined paper
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Envelopes must be standard white or manila
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Maximum 10 pages per envelope (including photos)
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Photos must be 4x6 or smaller (maximum 5 photos per envelope)
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No polaroid photos, photo paper, or cardstock allowed
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No perfumed or stained paper
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No stickers, glitter, lipstick marks, or crayon/marker writing
Prohibited Items:
- Cash, checks, or money orders (send through approved financial channels)
- Stamps or envelopes
- Greeting cards with musical, electronic, or pop-up components
- Hardcover books or magazines (must come directly from publisher)
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Materials depicting violence, weapons, or gang symbols
- Puzzles, games, or craft items
- Food items or clothing
- Any items with adhesive backing (labels, tape, etc.)
Legal Mail:
- Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Must be clearly identifiable as coming from a legal source with letterhead
- Subject to inspection for contraband but content is not read by staff
Books and Publications:
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Paperback books only (hardcover not permitted)
- Maximum of 3 books per package
- Subject to review for appropriate content
- Religious materials subject to same guidelines
E-Messages:
- Available through the inmate communication system accessible via the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office website
- Create an account and purchase credits
- Messages limited to 2,000 characters
- All e-messages are subject to monitoring and review
- Photos may be attached for additional fee (subject to same content restrictions)
All correspondence is subject to monitoring except privileged legal mail. Any mail containing threats, criminal activity planning, escape plans, or other security concerns may be forwarded to appropriate authorities pursuant to Alabama Administrative Code 257-X-1-.04.