Etowah County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Etowah County?

Inmate records in Etowah County are official government documents maintained by the Etowah County Sheriff's Office and Detention Center that track and document individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional system. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration history from initial booking through release.

Pursuant to Alabama Code § 36-12-40, these records are maintained as part of the state's public records requirements, though with specific limitations regarding certain sensitive information. Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

• Court records document judicial proceedings, hearings, and case dispositions
• Inmate records document the physical custody and daily management of incarcerated individuals
• Court records are maintained by the Etowah County Circuit Court or District Court
• Inmate records are maintained by the Etowah County Sheriff's Office

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:

• Initial creation occurs during booking/intake when an individual is first taken into custody
• Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
• Documentation includes housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
• Records are finalized upon release but maintained according to state retention schedules

The Etowah County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records, maintaining them in accordance with Alabama state law and departmental policies.

Are Inmate Records Public In Etowah County?

Inmate records in Etowah County are generally considered public records under Alabama law, with certain limitations to protect privacy and security. The Alabama Public Records Law establishes that "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."

Under current law, the following inmate information is typically available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information and intake date
• Charges filed against the inmate
• Mugshot photographs
• Bond/bail amounts when applicable
• Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
• Current housing facility

However, pursuant to Alabama Code § 41-13-1, certain information within inmate records may be restricted from public disclosure, including:

• Medical and mental health information
• Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Information that would compromise institutional security
• Juvenile records (subject to additional confidentiality protections)
• Information related to ongoing investigations

The Etowah County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search system that provides public access to basic inmate information in accordance with these legal parameters. More detailed information may require formal records requests and may be subject to redaction of confidential information.

What's Included Inmate Records in Etowah County

Inmate records in Etowah County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. 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
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Booking number and inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking/intake
• Arresting agency
• Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, held for other jurisdiction)
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
• Disciplinary records during incarceration

Charge Information:

• Current charges (felony or misdemeanor designation)
• Case numbers associated with charges
• Warrant information if applicable
• Arresting agency and officer

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond type (cash, property, surety)
• Bond amount
• Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
• Bond conditions if applicable

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction (District or Circuit)
• Judge assigned to case
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court case numbers

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Length of sentence
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Good time/work time credits earned
• Parole eligibility date if applicable

Release Information:

• Scheduled release date
• Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
• Post-release supervision requirements
• Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions

The comprehensiveness of these records ensures proper management of the inmate population and provides necessary documentation for legal proceedings and public safety purposes.

Etowah County Prison System

The Etowah County correctional system operates under the authority of the Etowah County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals arrested within the county. The system is structured to accommodate both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders serving terms of up to 12 months.

Etowah County's correctional system is distinct from the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC), which operates state prisons for individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year. The county facilities primarily house:

• Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
• Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to 12 months
• Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state facilities
• Federal detainees held through intergovernmental agreements
• Immigration detainees through contracts with federal agencies

The Etowah County Detention Center serves as the central facility within this system, operating under the direct supervision of the Sheriff's Office. The facility accommodates both male and female inmates with varying security classifications.

Etowah County Sheriff's Office
827 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone: (256) 546-2825
Etowah County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains operational oversight of all detention facilities within the county and coordinates with the courts, district attorney's office, and other law enforcement agencies to manage the inmate population effectively.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Etowah County

Etowah County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various inmate populations and security needs. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's overall correctional system.

Etowah County Detention Center
827 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone: (256) 549-5404
Etowah County Sheriff's Office

The Detention Center serves as the primary correctional facility in Etowah County with the following characteristics:

• Maximum-security facility housing both male and female inmates
• Capacity for approximately 900 inmates
• Houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced misdemeanants, and felony offenders awaiting transfer
• Contains specialized housing units for various classification levels
• Includes medical facilities for inmate healthcare needs
• Features visitation areas, administrative offices, and intake processing

Etowah County Community Corrections
829 Forrest Avenue
Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone: (256) 549-5452
Etowah County Community Corrections

The Community Corrections program provides alternative sentencing options:

• Non-residential supervision programs for low-risk offenders
• Work release programs allowing inmates to maintain employment
• Drug court and specialized court program supervision
• Electronic monitoring and home detention options
• Substance abuse treatment programs
• Community service coordination

Etowah County Juvenile Detention Center
3200 West Meighan Boulevard
Gadsden, AL 35904
Phone: (256) 549-5466
Etowah County Juvenile Detention

This specialized facility handles juvenile offenders:

• Secure detention for juveniles awaiting court proceedings
• Separate from adult populations as required by federal law
• Educational programs for detained youth
• Counseling and rehabilitation services
• Limited capacity facility designed specifically for juvenile needs

These facilities operate in coordination with the Etowah County court system and other law enforcement agencies to manage the county's incarcerated population according to appropriate security classifications and legal requirements.

Who's in Prison In Etowah County

The Etowah County Detention Center houses a diverse inmate population that reflects the various stages of the criminal justice process. The facility accommodates several distinct categories of detainees and inmates:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested but not yet convicted
• Those who have not posted bail or were denied bail
• Persons awaiting court appearances, hearings, or trial dates
• Approximately 60-70% of the jail population typically consists of pre-trial detainees

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

• Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses
• Serving sentences of up to 12 months as prescribed by Alabama law
• May include DUI offenders, petty theft, simple assault, and other lower-level offenses
• Often participate in work programs within the facility

Felony Offenders Awaiting Transfer:

• Convicted of felony crimes and sentenced to state prison terms
• Temporarily housed while awaiting transfer to Alabama Department of Corrections facilities
• May remain in county custody for extended periods due to state prison overcrowding

Federal Detainees:

• Held through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies
• May include individuals facing federal charges in the Northern District of Alabama
• Federal inmates generate per-diem payments to the county

Immigration Detainees:

• Held under contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• Awaiting immigration proceedings or deportation
• Etowah County has historically maintained significant contracts for immigration detention

Specialized Populations:

• Mental health detainees requiring specialized supervision
• Protective custody inmates separated from general population
• Disciplinary segregation for rule violations
• Medical detainees requiring ongoing healthcare

According to data from the Alabama Department of Corrections, the demographic composition of Etowah County's incarcerated population generally reflects statewide trends, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups consistent with broader criminal justice system patterns.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Etowah County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Etowah County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Etowah County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems for public access to basic inmate data.

Online Inmate Search:

1. Visit the Etowah County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Detention Center" section
3. Enter the required search criteria (typically name, booking number, or date of birth)
4. Review the results, which generally include:
   • Inmate name and booking photo
   • Current charges
   • Booking date
   • Bond information
   • Housing location (general)
   • Next court date if applicable

In-Person Records Request:

1. Visit the Etowah County Sheriff's Office Records Division

   Etowah County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   827 Forrest Avenue
   Gadsden, AL 35901
   Phone: (256) 546-2825

2. Complete a public records request form

3. Provide specific information about the inmate record being requested

4. Present valid identification

5. Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction

6. Allow processing time as required by department policy

Written Records Request:

1. Submit a formal written request to:

   Etowah County Sheriff's Office
   Attn: Records Division
   827 Forrest Avenue
   Gadsden, AL 35901

2. Include specific details about the requested records

3. Provide contact information for response

4. Enclose any required fees for document reproduction

5. Allow 7-10 business days for processing under current procedures

Telephone Information:

1. Contact the Etowah County Detention Center at (256) 549-5404
2. Provide the name of the inmate
3. Basic information may be provided, including:
   • Confirmation of custody status
   • General information about visitation
   • Bond amounts
   • Court dates

Pursuant to Alabama Code § 36-12-40, certain information may be redacted from inmate records to protect privacy and security interests. Requestors should be prepared to provide proper identification when requesting records.

How To Find an Inmate in Etowah County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Etowah County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information to the public without requiring payment.

Etowah County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Access the Etowah County Sheriff's Office website
2. Locate and click on the "Inmate Roster" or "Current Inmates" link
3. Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
4. Review search results showing current inmates
5. This free service provides basic information including:
   • Inmate name and identification number
   • Booking date
   • Current charges
   • Bond information
   • Housing status (general location)

Alabama Victim Notification System (VINE):

1. Visit the Alabama VINE website
2. Select "Alabama" from the state dropdown menu
3. Choose "Find an Offender"
4. Enter the inmate's name or identification number
5. This statewide system provides custody status and location information
6. VINE also offers free notification services for custody status changes

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Call the Etowah County Detention Center directly at (256) 549-5404
2. Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
3. Request confirmation of their custody status
4. Basic information is typically provided without charge
5. Available during normal business hours

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the Etowah County Detention Center during regular business hours

   Etowah County Detention Center
   827 Forrest Avenue
   Gadsden, AL 35901

2. Speak with staff at the information desk

3. Provide the name of the individual you are seeking

4. Basic custody information will be provided without charge

Alabama Department of Corrections Inmate Search:

1. For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody, visit the Alabama DOC Inmate Search
2. Enter the inmate's name or AIS (Alabama Institutional Serial) number
3. This database includes all state prisoners, including those recently transferred from county facilities

These free resources provide the public with basic information about an inmate's custody status, while protecting sensitive information in accordance with Alabama law.

How To Visit an Inmate In Etowah County

Visitation with inmates at the Etowah County Detention Center follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family connections. All visitors must comply with facility rules and regulations.

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 a parent/guardian
• Maximum of two adults and two children per visit
• Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• All visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility
• Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

• General Population: Wednesday through Sunday
• Male inmates: Last name A-M: Wednesday and Saturday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Male inmates: Last name N-Z: Thursday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Female inmates: Friday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• Maximum security and special management inmates: Schedule varies, contact facility
• No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
• Visits limited to 30 minutes per session

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
• If bringing children, birth certificates may be required to verify relationship
• Medication required during visit (must be declared and approved)
• Small clear plastic bag for authorized items

What NOT to Bring:

• Cell phones or electronic devices
• Weapons of any kind
• Tobacco products or lighters
• Food or beverages
• Purses, backpacks, or large bags
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20
• Cameras or recording devices
• Medications not approved in advance

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire required
• No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts, etc.)
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No law enforcement or security-type uniforms
• Shoes and shirts required at all times
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)

Visit Types:

• Non-contact visits through glass partitions (standard)
• Video visitation available for certain classifications
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) in designated areas
• Special visits may be approved by administration for exceptional circumstances

Visit Restrictions:

• Pursuant to Alabama Administrative Code 257-X-1, visitation is a privilege that may be restricted
• Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
• Disruptive behavior will result in termination of visit
• Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
• Visitors with felony convictions require special approval

For current visitation information, contact the Etowah County Detention Center at (256) 549-5404 or visit the Etowah County Sheriff's Office website.

How To Send Money to a Etowah County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Etowah County Detention Center have several approved methods for sending funds. These systems are designed to maintain security while providing inmates access to commissary and other authorized services.

Approved Money Transfer Methods:

1. TouchPay Kiosk (On-site)

   • Located in the Etowah County Detention Center lobby
   • Available during normal business hours
   • Accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards
   • Provides immediate deposit to inmate accounts
   • Transaction fees apply (typically $2.00-$5.00 depending on amount)

2. Online Deposits via TouchPay

   • Visit TouchPay Direct
   • Create an account or proceed as guest
   • Select "Etowah County Detention Center"
   • Enter inmate information and payment details
   • Transaction fees apply (typically $2.50-$7.95 based on amount)

3. Telephone Deposits

   • Call TouchPay service at 1-866-232-1899
   • Follow automated prompts
   • Provide inmate information and payment details
   • Higher fees apply for telephone transactions
   • Available 24/7

4. Money Order by Mail

   • Make money order payable to the inmate's full name

   • Include inmate's booking number on money order

   • Mail to:

     Etowah County Detention Center
     Inmate Accounts
     827 Forrest Avenue
     Gadsden, AL 35901

   • No personal checks accepted

   • Processing time: 3-5 business days

   • No fee for money orders

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Weekly deposit limit: $500.00 per inmate
• Monthly deposit limit: $1,500.00 per inmate
• Special approval required for larger amounts

Transaction Fees:

• On-site kiosk: $2.00-$5.00 depending on amount
• Online deposits: $2.50-$7.95 depending on amount
• Telephone deposits: $4.00-$9.95 depending on amount
• Money orders: No fee

Prohibited Funding Methods:

• Personal checks
• Cash sent through mail
• Cashier's checks
• Third-party payment services not listed above
• Cryptocurrency
• Wire transfers

Authorized Uses of Inmate Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
• Telephone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Approved educational materials
• Release funds

Prohibited Uses of Inmate Funds:

• Transfer to other inmates
• Payment for services from other inmates
• Gambling or betting activities
• Purchase of contraband items
• Payment of fines or court costs (requires separate process)

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Alabama Department of Corrections Administrative Regulation 303 governing inmate funds.

How To Send Jail Mail In Etowah County

Correspondence with inmates at the Etowah County Detention Center must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.

General Mail Guidelines:

• All incoming mail must include:

  • Inmate's full name (as booked)

  • Inmate's booking number (if known)

  • Complete facility address:

    Etowah County Detention Center
    Inmate Name, Booking #
    827 Forrest Avenue
    Gadsden, AL 35901

• Return address must include sender's full name and complete mailing address
• Mail without proper addressing will be returned to sender
• All mail is opened and inspected for contraband and prohibited content
• Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate

Acceptable Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages, standard white paper)
• Greeting cards (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
• Money orders (must follow money sending procedures)
• Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
• Approved magazines and newspapers (must come directly from publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages of any kind
• Hardcover books
• Personal checks or cash
• Stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or labels
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Polaroid photographs
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related content
• Materials depicting violence or weapons
• Perfumed or scented items
• Construction paper or cardstock
• Items containing glitter, glue, or tape
• Plastic or laminated items

Book and Publication Rules:

• Books must be paperback only
• Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
• Maximum of 3 books per mailing
• Subject to content review by facility staff
• Religious texts subject to same mailing requirements

E-Communications:

• The Etowah County Detention Center utilizes the SmartJailMail system
• Create an account on the SmartJailMail website
• Purchase credits for electronic messages
• Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
• Photos may be attached according to system guidelines
• All electronic communications are monitored and archived

Mail Rejection Procedures:

• Mail violating policies will be rejected

• Sender will receive notification of rejection when possible

• Contraband items may be destroyed or held as evidence

• Appeals of mail rejection may be submitted in writing to:

  Etowah County Detention Center
  Mail Review Officer
  827 Forrest Avenue
  Gadsden, AL 35901

All mail procedures comply with Alabama Sheriff's Association Guidelines and Alabama Department of Corrections Administrative Regulation 448 regarding inmate mail.

Lookup Inmate Records in Etowah County