Houston County Inmate Search
How To Search for Inmate Records in Houston County in 2026
HoustonCountyRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to inmate records in Houston County, Alabama. Members of the public may find booking records, custody status, charge information, bond amounts, and facility location data through this resource. The following record categories are available for search:
- Current inmate rosters
- Booking and arrest records
- Charge and bond information
- Court case references
- Custody and release status
Records may be searched through official government resources, clerk offices, public access terminals, and online tools maintained by county and state agencies.
1. County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
The Houston County Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible inmate listing on its official website, allowing members of the public to search for individuals currently held at the Houston County Jail. To conduct a search, members of the public should navigate to the inmate listing page, select a search type — by name, booking number, or date — enter the relevant criteria, and review the results displayed. Selecting an individual record provides additional detail.
Information displayed in search results includes:
- Full legal name and booking photograph
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Bond amount and bond type
- Facility location and housing status
- Booking date and expected release date (when available)
The inmate roster is updated on a continuous basis; however, recent bookings may require several hours to appear in the online system. No mobile application is currently offered by the Sheriff's Office for inmate searches.
Houston County Sheriff's Office
411 N Foster Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4882 / (334) 677-4808
Houston County Sheriff's Office
2. State Department of Corrections Inmate Search
For individuals who have been transferred from the county jail to a state correctional facility, the Alabama Department of Corrections inmate search provides a searchable database of currently incarcerated state prisoners. Members of the public may search by name or Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) number. The database returns information including the inmate's current facility, sentence details, and projected release date.
It is important to distinguish between county jail custody and state prison custody. Individuals held pre-trial or serving short sentences remain under the jurisdiction of the Houston County Sheriff's Office. Those convicted of felonies and sentenced to more than one year are transferred to ADOC custody, a process that occurs within weeks of sentencing. The ADOC database does not contain historical records for individuals who have been released.
Alabama Department of Corrections
301 S. Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: (334) 353-3883
Alabama Department of Corrections
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator
For individuals charged with federal offenses and held in federal custody, the Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate locator provides a free search tool. This resource is appropriate when an individual is known to be facing federal charges or has been sentenced in federal court. The locator returns the inmate's current facility, register number, age, and projected release date.
Phone Search:
- Phone: (334) 677-4882 or (334) 677-4808 for inmate information
- Staff are available to assist with inmate inquiries during regular business hours
- Callers should have the inmate's full legal name and date of birth available
In-Person Inquiry:
Members of the public may visit the Houston County Sheriff's Office at 411 N Foster Street, Dothan, AL 36303, during regular business hours. Valid government-issued photo identification is required. Staff at the front desk can provide current custody status, facility location, and basic booking information.
By Mail:
Written requests for inmate information may be directed to the Houston County Sheriff's Office at 411 N Foster Street, Dothan, AL 36303. Requests should include the inmate's full legal name, date of birth, and the specific information sought. Processing times vary based on request volume.
Search Tips:
- Use the inmate's full legal name as it appears on government-issued identification
- Attempt name variations, including nicknames, maiden names, and alternate spellings
- Include the date of birth to narrow results
- Search by booking number if that information is available
- Check both current and recently released inmate records
- Recent bookings may take several hours to appear in the online system
- Inmates who have been transferred to state or federal custody may not appear in the county roster
What If You Can't Find an Inmate:
- The individual may have been transferred to state prison — search the Alabama Department of Corrections inmate database
- The individual may be in federal custody — search the Federal Bureau of Prisons locator
- The individual may have been released
- The individual may be held in another jurisdiction
- A recent booking may not yet be reflected in the online system
- Name spelling variations may affect search results
- Contact the jail directly at (334) 712-0762 for assistance
Are Inmate Records Public in Houston County?
Inmate records maintained by the Houston County Sheriff's Office are public records under Alabama law. Pursuant to the Alabama Open Records Act, Ala. Code § 36-12-40, all citizens of Alabama have a right to inspect and copy public writings of every public officer, unless otherwise provided by law. Booking records, custody status, charge information, and bond data are among the categories of information accessible to members of the public without a formal records request.
Information That Is Public:
- Current inmate roster and population
- Booking information and booking photographs
- Criminal charges and charge descriptions
- Bond and bail amounts
- Custody status and facility location
- Expected release date (when available)
- Scheduled court dates
Information With Restricted Access:
- Medical records and health conditions
- Mental health evaluations and treatment information
- Prescription medication records
- Detailed disciplinary records (may be restricted)
- Visitor contact lists (may be restricted)
- Confidential informant status
- Juvenile detention records
- Witness protection participant information
- Specific cell assignments for security reasons
Why Inmate Records Are Public:
The public nature of inmate records serves several governmental and civic functions. Government transparency requires that the public be able to verify who is held in custody and under what authority. Public safety considerations allow community members to be informed of individuals charged with serious offenses. Family members and legal representatives rely on booking records to locate individuals following arrest. The bail bond industry depends on timely access to bond information to perform its licensed functions. Court proceedings also require that custody status be verifiable by attorneys, judges, and parties to litigation.
Privacy Considerations:
Alabama law recognizes a balance between the public's right to access government records and the privacy interests of individuals. Sensitive personal information — including medical history, mental health status, and information pertaining to minors — is protected from disclosure under applicable state and federal law. The release of certain information may also be restricted where disclosure would compromise facility security or ongoing investigations.
What Is Inmate Records in Houston County?
Inmate records are official government documents created and maintained by correctional authorities to document the custody, charges, and status of individuals held in detention. These records serve as the authoritative source of information regarding an individual's presence within the correctional system and are created at the time of booking by the arresting or receiving agency.
In Houston County, inmate records are created and maintained by the Houston County Sheriff's Office for individuals held at the county jail. The Alabama Department of Corrections maintains records for individuals serving state sentences in state facilities. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains records for individuals in federal custody.
The principal categories of inmate records include:
- Booking records: Created at the time of arrest and intake, documenting the individual's identity, charges, and initial custody information
- Custody records: Ongoing documentation of an individual's housing, classification, and status within the facility
- Incarceration history: A cumulative record of all prior bookings and custody periods within the jurisdiction
- Release records: Documentation of the circumstances and date of an individual's release from custody, including the basis for release
The distinction between county jail records and state or federal prison records is significant. County jail records pertain to individuals held pre-trial or serving sentences of one year or less. State prison records pertain to individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year, who are transferred to ADOC custody. Federal prison records pertain to individuals convicted of federal offenses and sentenced in federal court.
What's Included in Inmate Records in Houston County
Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Inmate or booking number
- Date of birth and age
- Sex and gender
- Race and ethnicity
- Height, weight, and physical description
- Booking photograph
- Identifying marks, scars, and tattoos
Custody Information:
- Current facility location
- Housing unit or cell block (subject to security restrictions)
- Custody date and booking date
- Expected release date (when available)
- Actual release date (following release)
- Custody status: in custody, released, or transferred
Charges and Legal Information:
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Case numbers and court jurisdiction
- Arrest date and arresting agency
- Warrant information
Bond and Bail Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Bond type: cash, surety, or no bond
- Bond status: posted or pending
- Bail bondsman information (when applicable)
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates and hearing types
- Court location and division
- Attorney information (in some cases)
Sentence Information (for sentenced inmates):
- Conviction charges and sentence length
- Sentence start date and projected release date
- Parole eligibility date (when applicable)
- Good time credits applied
Previous Custody History:
- Prior bookings within the county
- Previous charges and historical custody dates
Administrative Information:
- Classification level: minimum, medium, or maximum security
- Special housing needs
- Work assignments and program participation (in some cases)
What's NOT Typically Included in Public Records:
- Medical history or conditions
- Mental health information and evaluations
- Prescription medications
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Visitor contact information
- Inmate account balances
- Phone call logs
- Specific cell assignments for security reasons
Houston County Prison System
The Houston County jail system is operated by the Houston County Sheriff's Office under the authority of the elected Sheriff. The Houston County Jail serves as the primary detention facility for the county, housing pre-trial detainees, individuals serving short sentences, and individuals awaiting transfer to state custody.
The Sheriff's Office administers all aspects of jail operations, including inmate classification, medical care coordination, programming, and facility security. The administrative office is located at 411 N Foster Street, Dothan, AL 36303, and may be reached at (334) 677-4882.
Facility Operations:
The Houston County Jail houses a population that includes pre-trial detainees, individuals sentenced to misdemeanor terms, felony holdovers awaiting transfer to ADOC, and individuals held on detainers from other jurisdictions. Classification is conducted at intake and determines housing assignment and security level.
Inmate Services:
- Medical care and health screenings
- Mental health services and referrals
- Substance abuse programming
- Educational programs including GED preparation
- Religious services and chaplaincy
- Library access and legal materials
- Recreation and physical activity
Legal Services:
Inmates retain the right to access legal counsel. Attorney visitation is available during designated hours. The facility coordinates with the public defender's office to ensure representation for eligible individuals. A law library or equivalent legal resource access is maintained in accordance with constitutional requirements under Bounds v. Smith, 430 U.S. 817 (1977).
Reentry Programs:
The Sheriff's Office coordinates pre-release planning to assist individuals transitioning out of custody. The Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles provides supervision and reentry support for individuals released on parole, including assistance with housing, employment, and substance abuse treatment continuation.
Oversight and Accountability:
The Houston County Jail is subject to oversight by the Alabama Department of Corrections and applicable state standards for county detention facilities. Grievance procedures are available to inmates through the facility's administrative process.
Types of Correctional Facilities in Houston County
Houston County Jail
The Houston County Jail is the primary correctional facility serving Houston County, Alabama. It is operated by the Houston County Sheriff's Office and serves as the point of intake for all individuals arrested within the county.
Houston County Sheriff's Office / Houston County Jail
411 N Foster Street
Dothan, AL 36303
Phone: (334) 677-4882 / Houston County Jail: (334) 712-0762
Houston County Sheriff's Office Inmate Listing
The facility houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced misdemeanor offenders, felony holdovers awaiting transfer to state custody, and individuals held on detainers from other agencies. Security classifications range from minimum to maximum, with housing assignments determined at intake.
Alternative Custody Programs
Home Detention and Electronic Monitoring
Eligible individuals may be placed on home detention with electronic monitoring as an alternative to incarceration. Eligibility is determined by the court and the Sheriff's Office based on the nature of the offense, criminal history, and assessed risk level.
Work Release
A work release program may be available for qualifying sentenced individuals, allowing participation in employment in the community while serving a sentence. Eligibility is subject to review by the Sheriff's Office and the sentencing court.
State Prison Facilities
Individuals convicted of felonies in Houston County and sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to the custody of the Alabama Department of Corrections. State correctional facilities are operated by ADOC and are distinct from county jail operations. The Ventress Correctional Facility, located in Clayton, Alabama (Barbour County), is among the state facilities that may receive transfers from Houston County.
Federal Detention Facilities
Individuals charged with federal offenses in the Middle District of Alabama may be held in federal custody. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains jurisdiction over federally sentenced inmates. No federal detention facility is currently located within Houston County; federal detainees from the area are held at designated federal facilities in the region.
Facility Contact Information Summary:
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Houston County Jail | 411 N Foster Street, Dothan, AL 36303 | (334) 712-0762 |
| Sheriff's Office | 411 N Foster Street, Dothan, AL 36303 | (334) 677-4882 |
| Alabama DOC | 301 S. Ripley Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 | (334) 353-3883 |
How To Find an Inmate in Houston County for Free?
Members of the public may locate an inmate in Houston County at no cost through several official government resources. No registration, subscription, or payment is required to access basic inmate information through official channels.
1. Official County Inmate Roster
The Houston County Sheriff's Office inmate listing is a free, publicly accessible online resource requiring no registration. The roster includes current inmates, booking information, charges, bond amounts, facility location, and booking photographs. The roster is updated continuously, with new bookings appearing within hours of intake.
2. State Department of Corrections Free Search
The Alabama Department of Corrections inmate search is a free resource for locating individuals currently incarcerated in state facilities. The database is searchable by name or ADOC number and returns current facility, sentence information, and projected release date. As noted by the Alabama Department of Corrections, "this database only contains currently incarcerated inmates. Historical data is not available on-line at this time."
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
The Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate locator provides a free search tool for individuals in federal custody. The locator is searchable by name or federal register number and returns current facility and projected release date.
4. Court Records Search
The Houston County Circuit Court and the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts provide access to state trial court records, which may be used to verify custody status and upcoming court dates. Court records may reflect case status, scheduled hearings, and disposition information relevant to an inmate's legal proceedings. Pursuant to Ala. Code § 12-21-3.1, court records are public unless sealed by court order.
Free Phone Information:
Members of the public may call (334) 677-4882 or (334) 712-0762 for inmate information. Basic custody status and location information is available by phone during regular business hours. Callers should have the inmate's full legal name and date of birth available to facilitate the inquiry.
Free In-Person Search:
Members of the public may visit the Houston County Sheriff's Office at 411 N Foster Street, Dothan, AL 36303, during regular business hours. Staff at the front desk can provide current custody status and basic booking information at no charge. Valid government-issued photo identification is required.
What's Free vs. What Costs Money:
The following services are provided at no cost:
- Online inmate search through official government websites
- Current custody status and basic inmate information
- Phone inquiry for basic information
- In-person information at the Sheriff's Office
- Court records access through the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts
The following services involve fees:
- Sending money to an inmate's commissary account
- Video visitation services (fees set by service provider)
- Phone calls placed by inmates to outside numbers
- Certified copies of booking or court records
- Comprehensive background check reports
Members of the public are advised to use official government websites for inmate searches. Numerous third-party websites charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official sources. Members of the public should verify that any website used for inmate searches displays a .gov domain before providing personal information or payment.