Forrest County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Forrest County?
Inmate records in Forrest County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Forrest County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody.
Pursuant to Mississippi Code § 25-61-3, which defines public records, inmate records are official documents created and maintained by government entities responsible for corrections and law enforcement. These records are distinct from court records, which document judicial proceedings and are maintained by the court system. While court records focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document an individual's custody status and institutional history.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where the following occurs:
- Collection of personal identifying information
- Documentation of arrest circumstances
- Recording of charges
- Assignment of booking numbers
- Capture of booking photographs (mugshots)
- Collection of biometric data (fingerprints)
Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Medical information
- Program participation
- Court appearances
- Changes in custody status
The Forrest County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of inmate records for individuals held in the Forrest County Adult Detention Center, maintaining these records in accordance with state retention schedules and information management protocols.
Are Inmate Records Public In Forrest County?
Inmate records in Forrest County are generally considered public information under the Mississippi Public Records Act, which establishes the public's right to access government records. According to Mississippi Code § 25-61-5, all public records are available for inspection by any person during regular business hours, subject to reasonable procedures established by public bodies.
However, not all information contained within inmate records is publicly accessible. The following information is typically available to the public:
- Inmate's full name
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Current charges
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
- Current housing facility
Certain information within inmate records is exempt from public disclosure under Mississippi Code § 25-61-12, which protects:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers
- Personal contact information
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations
The Forrest County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster that provides basic information about currently incarcerated individuals, allowing for public transparency while protecting sensitive information in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Forrest County
Inmate records in Forrest County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county's detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Participation in work programs or educational activities
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge codes and descriptions
- Arresting circumstances
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Warrant information (if applicable)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, property, etc.)
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Jurisdiction of case(s)
- Assigned judge
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court outcomes and dispositions
- Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length and terms
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Good time/earned time credits
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Scheduled or actual release date
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
These records are maintained in compliance with Mississippi Code § 47-5-118, which governs record-keeping requirements for correctional facilities in the state.
Forrest County Prison System
The Forrest County correctional system operates within a tiered structure that distinguishes between local detention facilities and state prisons. The county maintains the Forrest County Adult Detention Center, which primarily houses individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors, or serving sentences for felonies with terms of one year or less.
The Forrest County correctional system functions as part of the broader Mississippi correctional framework, which includes:
- County jails (operated by county sheriff's offices)
- Regional correctional facilities (operated through inter-local agreements)
- State prisons (operated by the Mississippi Department of Corrections)
- Private correctional facilities (contracted by state or federal agencies)
The Forrest County Adult Detention Center operates under the authority of the Forrest County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the facility's administration, staffing, and daily operations. The facility houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates, with separate housing units based on classification, gender, and security requirements.
Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year for felony convictions are typically transferred to the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections to serve their sentences in state prison facilities, rather than remaining in the county jail.
Forrest County Sheriff's Office
400 Forrest Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone: (601) 544-7800
Forrest County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Forrest County
Forrest County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:
Forrest County Adult Detention Center
316 Forrest Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone: (601) 545-6000
Forrest County Sheriff's Office
The Adult Detention Center serves as the primary correctional facility in Forrest County, housing:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions
- Individuals serving sentences for felony convictions with terms of one year or less
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Federal detainees held under contract with U.S. Marshals Service
The facility provides various security levels and specialized housing units, including:
- General population housing
- Maximum security housing
- Medical observation units
- Segregation units for disciplinary or protective custody
- Work release housing (for qualifying low-risk inmates)
Forrest County Juvenile Detention Center
400 Forrest Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone: (601) 545-6150
Forrest County Youth Court
The Juvenile Detention Center is a separate facility designed specifically for the temporary detention of juveniles who have been taken into custody. This facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities, with an emphasis on:
- Separation from adult offenders
- Educational services
- Counseling and rehabilitation programs
- Family visitation
- Coordination with youth court services
Forrest County Work Center
5 Sullivan Drive
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone: (601) 544-5116
Forrest County Sheriff's Office
The Work Center houses minimum-security inmates who participate in:
- Community work programs
- Roadside cleanup crews
- Maintenance of county properties
- Other public service projects
These facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Mississippi Department of Corrections and are subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding inmate housing, care, and supervision.
Who's in Prison In Forrest County
The Forrest County detention facilities house diverse populations of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system at various stages. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not afford bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
- Individuals deemed flight risks or dangers to the community
Misdemeanor Offenders:
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions
- Typical offenses include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Simple assault
- Petty theft
- Trespassing
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor drug possession
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals serving sentences of one year or less for felony convictions
- Those awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Persons convicted of non-violent felonies who qualify for local incarceration
Specialized Populations:
- Work release participants
- Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment recipients
- Weekenders (serving sentences on weekends only)
- Probation/parole violators
Contract Inmates:
- Federal detainees held under agreement with federal agencies
- Inmates from other counties held due to overcrowding
- State inmates awaiting transfer or court appearances
According to data from the Mississippi Department of Corrections, the demographic composition of Forrest County's inmate population generally reflects broader trends in Mississippi's correctional system, with disproportionate representation of:
- Males (approximately 85-90% of the population)
- Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
- Persons with histories of substance abuse
- Individuals with mental health challenges
- Racial and ethnic minorities
The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors, with the facility typically operating near its rated capacity of approximately 300 inmates.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Forrest County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Forrest County currently have several methods available to access this information. The following procedures are established for conducting inmate record searches:
Online Inmate Roster Search:
- Visit the Forrest County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" or "Detention Center" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically last name, first name)
- Review the results, which generally include:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Mugshot (if available)
Mississippi Department of Corrections Inmate Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Access the MDOC Inmate Search portal
- Enter either the inmate's name or MDOC identification number
- Submit the search request
- Review the results for custody status and location information
In-Person Record Request:
- Visit the Forrest County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
- Complete a public records request form
- Provide identifying information about the inmate
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Allow processing time as specified by staff
Written Record Request:
- Prepare a written request including:
- Requestor's contact information
- Specific records being requested
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Mail the request to:
Forrest County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
400 Forrest Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401 - Include payment for any applicable fees
- Allow 7-14 business days for processing
Telephone Inquiry: For basic custody status information only:
- Call the Forrest County Adult Detention Center at (601) 545-6000
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
- Request current custody status information
All record searches are conducted in accordance with the Mississippi Public Records Act, which establishes procedures for accessing government records while protecting confidential information.
How To Find an Inmate in Forrest County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Forrest County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Forrest County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Roster:
- Visit the Forrest County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" section
- Use the search function to enter the inmate's name
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
Mississippi Department of Corrections Online Inmate Search: For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Access the Mississippi Department of Corrections inmate search tool
- Enter the inmate's name or MDOC number
- Review the results for current location and custody status
Mississippi Statewide Inmate Search Portal:
- Visit the MS.gov inmate search portal
- Enter search criteria (name or ID number)
- Review comprehensive results from connected facilities
Forrest County Circuit Clerk's Office:
- Visit the public access terminals at:
Forrest County Circuit Clerk's Office
630 Main Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone: (601) 545-6110
Forrest County Circuit Clerk - Search court records to determine case status and potential custody information
- Request assistance from clerk staff if needed
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Forrest County Adult Detention Center at (601) 545-6000
- Provide the full name of the person you're seeking
- Request basic custody status information
These free search methods provide access to publicly available information in compliance with Mississippi Code § 25-61-5, which establishes the public's right to inspect government records during regular business hours without charge. While document copies may incur reproduction fees, basic custody status information is available at no cost.
How To Visit an Inmate In Forrest County
Visitation with inmates at the Forrest County Adult Detention Center follows established protocols to ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines govern inmate visitation:
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
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors are subject to security screening, including metal detection
- Personal belongings must be secured in provided lockers
- Visitors must register at least 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Maximum Security: Thursday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Work Release: Wednesday, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Visitation sessions are typically limited to 30 minutes
- Inmates are allowed two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in lockers)
- Quarters for vending machines (maximum $10 in change)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, two diapers, small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products or lighters
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Medications (unless medically necessary and approved)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts, etc.)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits are not permitted at the Forrest County Adult Detention Center
- All visits are conducted through secure visitation booths
- Video visitation may be available for certain housing units
- Special visits (clergy, attorneys, etc.) are arranged separately
Visit Rules:
- Physical contact is prohibited
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
- Passing items to inmates is strictly prohibited
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence will be denied
- Children must be supervised at all times
- Visitors may be subject to criminal charges for rule violations
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
- Persons on probation/parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
- Individuals with pending criminal charges may be restricted
- Visitors who have previously violated rules may be permanently banned
These visitation policies are established in accordance with Mississippi Code § 47-5-142, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish reasonable visitation regulations. For the most current visitation information, contact the Forrest County Adult Detention Center at (601) 545-6000.
How To Send Money to a Forrest County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Forrest County Adult Detention Center have several approved methods for sending funds. These funds are deposited into the inmate's commissary account for purchasing approved items and services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay payment portal
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Forrest County Detention Center" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using credit/debit card
- Print or save the confirmation receipt
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Forrest County Adult Detention Center lobby during business hours
- Locate the TouchPay kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt for your records
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to the inmate (full legal name)
- Write the inmate's ID number on the money order
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
Forrest County Adult Detention Center
Inmate Accounts
316 Forrest Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Amount Limits and Fees:
- Online deposits: $5.00 minimum, $300.00 maximum per transaction
- Kiosk deposits: $5.00 minimum, $300.00 maximum per transaction
- Money orders: No minimum, $300.00 maximum
- Transaction fees apply to online and kiosk deposits (typically $2.50-$7.95 depending on amount)
- Money orders have no processing fee but require postage
- Monthly deposit limits of $900 per inmate may apply
What You Cannot Send:
- Cash through the mail
- Personal checks
- Cashier's checks
- Third-party checks
- Foreign currency
- Cryptocurrency
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, etc.)
- Phone account funding
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Approved educational materials
- Release funds
Restricted Uses:
- Funds cannot be transferred between inmates
- Money cannot be used for bail or bond payments
- Funds cannot purchase prohibited items
- Money cannot be withdrawn by the inmate while incarcerated
All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Mississippi Code § 47-5-158, which governs inmate welfare funds and commissary operations. Deposits are typically available in the inmate's account within 24-48 hours of receipt, though money orders may require additional processing time.
How To Send Jail Mail In Forrest County
Correspondence with inmates at the Forrest County Adult Detention Center must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. The following procedures govern mail services for incarcerated individuals:
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked, no nicknames)
- Inmate ID number (if known)
- Facility name and address:
Forrest County Adult Detention Center
316 Forrest Street
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
- Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
- Mail without a return address will not be delivered
- All mail is inspected for contraband and prohibited content
- Personal mail is limited to standard white envelopes
Approved Mail Items:
- Letters (on plain white or lined paper)
- Greeting cards (simple cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following financial guidelines)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Lipstick marks or other cosmetics
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Blank paper, cards, or envelopes
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Coded messages
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come from an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the inmate's presence
- Is not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
- Should include attorney bar number when applicable
Mail Delivery Schedule:
- Mail is processed Monday through Friday, excluding holidays
- Delivery times vary based on housing unit
- Outgoing mail is collected daily during evening count
- Legal mail is processed with priority
E-Messaging (if available):
- Create an account on the approved vendor platform
- Add the inmate to your contacts using their ID number
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages following system guidelines
- Attachments and photos may be subject to additional fees
Publications and Subscriptions:
- Must come directly from the publisher or authorized retailer
- Paperback books only (no hardcover)
- Magazines must be new and addressed to the specific inmate
- Subject to content review and approval
- Limited to a specific number per inmate (typically 3-5 items)
All mail procedures are implemented in accordance with Mississippi Code § 47-5-124, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish reasonable mail regulations. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges for the inmate.