Seminole County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Seminole County?
Inmate records in Seminole County are official government documents maintained by the Seminole 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 custody status, criminal charges, and other pertinent information related to their incarceration.
Pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.071, these records are created and maintained as part of the county's responsibility to document all aspects of an individual's time in custody. The record creation process begins at booking when an individual is first taken into custody and processed into the correctional system. Information collected during this initial intake includes:
- Biographical data
- Photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprints
- Criminal charges
- Arrest information
- Medical screening results
Unlike court records, which are maintained by the Seminole County Clerk of Court and focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document an individual's custody status and are maintained by correctional authorities. Court records contain legal documents related to criminal proceedings, while inmate records track the physical custody and management of the individual within the correctional system.
Throughout an individual's incarceration, their inmate record is continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Program participation
- Medical treatments
- Court appearances
- Release information
The John E. Polk Correctional Facility is the primary facility responsible for maintaining these records in Seminole County, operating under the authority of the Seminole County Sheriff's Office.
Are Inmate Records Public In Seminole County?
Inmate records in Seminole County are generally considered public records under Florida's Public Records Law, commonly known as the Sunshine Law. According to Florida Statute § 119.01, all records made or received by any public agency in the course of its official business are available for inspection, unless specifically exempted by law.
The Florida Constitution under Article I, Section 24 establishes the public's right to access government records and meetings. This constitutional provision is implemented through Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, which governs public records.
Information that is typically available to the public includes:
- Current inmate roster
- Booking information
- Arrest records
- Mugshots
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release dates
- Facility location
However, certain information within inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure under specific provisions of Florida law. These exemptions typically include:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers
- Information about minors
- Victim information in certain cases
- Information that would jeopardize ongoing investigations
- Records related to inmates who are or were previously law enforcement officers
The Seminole County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides public access to basic information about currently incarcerated individuals, in compliance with state public records laws.
What's Included Inmate Records in Seminole County
Inmate records in Seminole County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name
- Aliases or known nicknames
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height and weight
- Distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records while in custody
- Participation in jail programs or work assignments
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Case numbers
- Warrant information
- Arresting agency
- Offense dates
- Criminal history information
- Prior bookings in Seminole County
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, property)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release
- Bond hearing dates
Court Information:
- Court case numbers
- Assigned judge
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders
- Attorney information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/gain time calculations
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole requirements
- Agency assuming custody if transferred
This information is maintained in accordance with Florida Statute § 951.23, which establishes standards for county and municipal detention facilities, including record-keeping requirements.
Seminole County Prison System
The Seminole County correctional system operates under the authority of the Seminole County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody, care, and control of individuals arrested in Seminole County. The system primarily consists of the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, which serves as the main detention center for the county.
Unlike state prisons, which house individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year, the Seminole County jail system primarily holds:
- Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanors (typically up to one year)
- Individuals serving short-term felony sentences (typically less than one year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions
The Seminole County correctional system operates under the guidelines established by the Florida Model Jail Standards and is subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Seminole County Sheriff's Office
100 Eslinger Way
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-6600
Seminole County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains administrative oversight of all correctional operations in the county, including inmate records, facility management, and coordination with the courts and other law enforcement agencies.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Seminole County
Seminole County's correctional system is primarily centered around one main facility, with specialized units and programs to accommodate different inmate populations and security needs.
John E. Polk Correctional Facility
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-1200
John E. Polk Correctional Facility
This facility serves as the main detention center for Seminole County and includes:
- Main Housing Units: Multiple housing pods with varying security classifications (minimum, medium, and maximum security)
- Intake and Release Center: Where booking, processing, and discharge procedures occur
- Medical Unit: Provides healthcare services to inmates, including basic medical care, mental health services, and medication management
- Special Housing Units: For inmates requiring protective custody, disciplinary segregation, or special monitoring
- Program Areas: Spaces dedicated to educational programs, substance abuse treatment, religious services, and other rehabilitative activities
Work Release Center
Located within the John E. Polk Correctional Facility
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-1200
The Work Release program allows qualifying low-risk inmates to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants typically:
- Leave the facility during the day for approved employment
- Return to the facility during non-working hours
- Pay room and board from their earnings
- Save money for their eventual release
- Maintain family and community ties
Juvenile Detention Center
Operated by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, not Seminole County
5979 County Road 46A
Sanford, Florida 32771
Phone: (407) 708-7640
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice
While not operated by Seminole County, this facility houses juveniles who have been detained pending court proceedings or who have been adjudicated delinquent. Juveniles are not housed in the adult facilities operated by Seminole County.
All facilities operate in accordance with Florida Statute § 951.23, which establishes standards for county detention facilities, including requirements for housing, supervision, and inmate welfare.
Who's in Prison In Seminole County
The Seminole County correctional system houses a diverse population of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals:
- Are presumed innocent under the law
- May be held because they could not afford bail
- May be denied bail due to the severity of charges
- Are awaiting court proceedings
- Represent approximately 60-70% of the jail population at any given time
Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are serving their sentences in county custody. These include:
- Misdemeanor offenders serving sentences up to one year
- Felony offenders serving sentences less than one year
- Individuals serving sentences for probation violations
- Inmates participating in work release or other alternative sentencing programs
Special Population Inmates: Individuals with specific needs or circumstances, including:
- Those with mental health conditions requiring specialized care
- Individuals with medical conditions requiring ongoing treatment
- Veterans participating in specialized veterans' programs
- Individuals participating in substance abuse treatment programs
- Inmates in protective custody due to safety concerns
Temporary Holds: Individuals being temporarily housed in Seminole County facilities, including:
- Inmates awaiting transfer to state prison after sentencing
- Individuals held on behalf of other counties or jurisdictions
- Federal detainees awaiting transfer to federal facilities
- Immigration detainees held under agreements with federal authorities
According to data from the Florida Department of Corrections, the average daily population of the Seminole County jail system fluctuates between 900-1,200 inmates, with variations based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity.
The demographic composition of the inmate population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in Florida, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups, particularly young adult males and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Seminole County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Seminole County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Seminole County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of inmate records through multiple channels.
Online Inmate Search Portal:
The most direct method for accessing basic inmate information is through the official Seminole County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal:
- Visit the Seminole County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter search criteria (at least one is required):
- Inmate's full or partial name
- Date of birth
- Booking number
- Inmate ID number
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Facility location
- Mugshot
In-Person Records Request:
For more comprehensive inmate records or historical information not available online:
-
Visit the Seminole County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Seminole County Sheriff's Office Records Division
100 Eslinger Way
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-6600
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays) -
Complete a public records request form
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Provide specific information about the inmate and records sought
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Present valid identification
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Pay applicable fees for record reproduction (currently $0.15 per page for standard copies)
Written Records Request:
Written requests may be submitted by mail or email:
-
Prepare a written request including:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Booking number or approximate dates of incarceration (if known)
- Purpose of request (optional)
-
Submit the request to:
Seminole County Sheriff's Office Records Division
100 Eslinger Way
Sanford, Florida 32773
Email: records@seminolesheriff.org -
Include payment for applicable fees or request a fee estimate
Florida Department of Corrections Website:
For inmates who have been transferred to state prison:
- Visit the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search
- Enter the inmate's information
- Review results for current location and status
All record requests are processed in accordance with Florida Statute § 119.07, which governs the inspection and copying of public records.
How To Find an Inmate in Seminole County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Seminole County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic information about an individual's incarceration status and location.
Seminole County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:
The primary resource for locating inmates in Seminole County is the Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool:
- Access the Seminole County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
- Enter search criteria:
- First and last name (partial names accepted)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Review results showing:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date (if scheduled)
This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides real-time information about currently incarcerated individuals.
Telephone Information Service:
For those without internet access, basic inmate information is available by phone:
Seminole County Sheriff's Office Detention Bureau
Phone: (407) 665-1200
Hours: 24 hours daily
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate booking date (if known)
Florida Department of Corrections Offender Information Search:
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Information Search
- Enter the individual's name or DC number
- Review results for current location and custody status
Vinelink Service:
The Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) service provides custody information and notification services:
- Visit VINELink
- Select Florida from the state dropdown
- Enter the offender's name
- Review custody information
County Clerk of Court Records:
Court records may provide information about an individual's case status and potential incarceration:
- Visit the Seminole County Clerk of Court Records Search
- Search by name or case number
- Review case information for custody status indicators
These free resources provide basic information in compliance with Florida's public records laws, though more detailed records may require formal requests and associated fees.
How To Visit an Inmate In Seminole County
Visitation with inmates at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility in Seminole County follows specific procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with established protocols.
Visit Types:
The facility currently offers two primary visitation methods:
-
Video Visitation:
- Primary method of visitation
- Conducted via video terminals at the facility or remotely
- Must be scheduled in advance
- Remote visits require payment of a fee
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Professional Visits:
- Available for attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
- Conducted in designated areas
- Require proper identification and credentials
Visit Schedule:
On-site video visitation hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Remote video visitation is available daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
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Registration Requirements:
- All visitors must register in the visitation system
- First-time visitors must create an account at least 24 hours before the intended visit
- Visitors must provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
-
Scheduling:
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Each inmate is allowed up to two 30-minute visits per week
- Visits can be scheduled online through the Seminole County Sheriff's Office Visitation Portal or by calling (407) 665-1200
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Visitor Dress Code:
- Appropriate attire is required for all visitors
- Prohibited items include:
- Revealing clothing
- Gang-related attire
- Clothing with offensive language or images
- Excessively baggy clothing
- Hats or head coverings (except religious items)
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Items Permitted During Visits:
- Valid identification
- Vehicle keys
- Payment method for vending machines (where available)
-
Prohibited Items:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Bags, purses, or backpacks
- Cameras or recording devices
- Tobacco products
- Medications (unless medically necessary)
Visit Restrictions:
Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended for:
- Violation of facility rules
- Security concerns
- Disciplinary actions against the inmate
- Facility lockdowns or emergencies
- Court orders prohibiting contact
All visitation policies are established in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-601.722, which governs visitation procedures in Florida correctional facilities.
For the most current visitation information, contact:
John E. Polk Correctional Facility Visitation Office
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-1200
Seminole County Sheriff's Office
How To Send Money to a Seminole County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Seminole County facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.
Approved Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Access Corrections website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Seminole County" as the facility
- Enter the inmate's information
- Follow prompts to complete the transaction using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
-
Mobile App Deposits:
- Download the "Access Corrections" app from App Store or Google Play
- Create an account or log in
- Follow the same process as online deposits
- Service fees apply
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Telephone Deposits:
- Call 1-866-345-1884
- Follow automated prompts
- Provide inmate information and payment details
- Service fees apply
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Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the kiosk in the John E. Polk Correctional Facility lobby
- Available 24/7
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, or debit cards accepted
- Lower service fees than remote options
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Money Order by Mail:
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Purchase a money order payable to the inmate (full name and inmate ID)
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Do not send personal checks or cash
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Mail to:
Inmate's Full Name and ID Number
John E. Polk Correctional Facility
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
-
Deposit Limits and Restrictions:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Fund Usage Guidelines:
Inmates may use funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Phone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Release funds
Funds cannot be used for:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fees or fines (unless specifically authorized)
- Payments to other inmates
- Purchases from outside vendors
Additional Information:
- Funds are typically available in inmate accounts within 24-48 hours of receipt
- Money orders may take 3-5 business days to process
- All deposits are subject to verification
- Suspicious transactions may be investigated and rejected
- Refunds for released inmates are processed according to facility policy
All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Florida Model Jail Standards and Seminole County Sheriff's Office policies.
For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:
Seminole County Inmate Accounts Office
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-1200
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
How To Send Jail Mail In Seminole County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Seminole County correctional facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.
Mailing Address Format:
All mail must be addressed as follows:
Inmate's Full Name and Inmate ID Number
John E. Polk Correctional Facility
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
Acceptable Mail Items:
-
Letters:
- Must be written on plain white or light-colored paper
- Standard envelope size (No larger than 9" x 12")
- Blue or black ink only
- No perfume, lipstick, stickers, glitter, or other substances
- No drawings or markings that could be interpreted as gang-related
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Photos:
- Maximum size: 4" x 6"
- Maximum quantity: 5 photos per envelope
- No Polaroid photos
- No sexually explicit or suggestive content
- No gang-related imagery
- No photos of other inmates or correctional facilities
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Greeting Cards:
- Plain cards only (no musical, pop-up, or oversized cards)
- No glitter, confetti, or embedded items
- Maximum size: 5" x 7"
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Publications:
- Must come directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Paperback books only (no hardcover)
- Magazines must be new and unaltered
- Religious materials subject to same restrictions
- Content restrictions apply (no sexually explicit or security threat content)
Prohibited Items:
The following items are prohibited and will result in the entire mail item being rejected:
- Cash, checks, or money orders (must be sent through approved financial channels)
- Stamps, envelopes, or pre-stamped postcards
- Stationery or blank paper
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Newspaper clippings
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Plastic, metal, or wooden items
- Adhesive labels or stickers
- Bookmarks or laminated items
- Artwork using multiple colors or layers
- Any items containing biohazards or unknown substances
Legal Mail:
Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and include the sender's name, title, and return address. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate but is still inspected for contraband.
E-Messages:
The facility offers a secure electronic messaging system through Access Corrections:
- Create an account on the Access Corrections website
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages to inmates
- Messages are subject to review before delivery
- Fees apply per message
All mail procedures comply with Florida Administrative Code 33-210.101, which establishes standards for inmate mail in Florida correctional facilities.
For questions regarding mail policies, contact:
John E. Polk Correctional Facility Mail Room
211 Bush Boulevard
Sanford, Florida 32773
Phone: (407) 665-1200
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Lookup Inmate Records in Seminole County
Seminole County Corrections Department
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