Barrow County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Barrow County?
Inmate records in Barrow County are official government documents maintained by the Barrow County Sheriff's Office and detention facilities that chronicle an individual's history within the correctional system. These comprehensive records document the custody, care, and control of persons who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within Barrow County's jurisdiction. Pursuant to Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70, these records constitute official documentation of governmental functions.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations maintained by the judicial system, inmate records specifically document an individual's physical custody status and institutional history. The Barrow County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records, whereas the Barrow County Clerk of Superior Court maintains case files related to criminal proceedings.
The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into the detention facility. During this initial phase, personal identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge information are collected and documented. Throughout the period of incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, visitation logs, and other relevant custody details. Upon the individual's release from custody, the record is completed with discharge information but remains maintained according to Georgia's records retention requirements.
Under Georgia Code § 42-5-36, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate and complete records of all persons committed to their custody.
Are Inmate Records Public In Barrow County?
Inmate records in Barrow County are generally considered public records under the Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70 et seq., which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is not unlimited and certain portions of inmate records may be exempt from disclosure based on privacy concerns, security considerations, or ongoing investigations.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information including full name and aliases
- Mugshot photographs
- Charges filed and their status
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates (for sentenced inmates)
- Current housing facility
Members of the public may access this information through the Barrow County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal or by submitting a formal records request. The Georgia Department of Corrections also maintains a searchable database for inmates housed in state facilities.
It is important to note that certain information within inmate records is explicitly protected from public disclosure under Georgia Code § 42-5-36(d), including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary reports containing confidential informant information
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
- Victim information
The Barrow County Sheriff's Office is the custodian of records for the county detention center and processes public records requests in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Barrow County
Inmate records in Barrow County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county 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
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of arrest
- Booking date and time
- Arresting agency and officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary incidents and actions taken
- Participation in jail programs or work details
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute numbers)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant numbers
- Case numbers
- Arresting jurisdiction
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, property, surety)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- 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
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer to another facility)
- Release conditions (probation, parole)
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in compliance with Georgia Code § 42-4-7, which mandates record-keeping requirements for county jails and detention facilities.
Barrow County Prison System
The Barrow County prison system operates under a hierarchical structure that distinguishes between local detention and state incarceration facilities. The primary correctional facility in Barrow County is the Barrow County Detention Center, which is operated by the Barrow County Sheriff's Office. This facility primarily houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than 12 months for misdemeanor offenses.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system in Georgia. The Barrow County Detention Center is a county facility that houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences for misdemeanor convictions, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. In contrast, state prisons, operated by the Georgia Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than 12 months.
The Barrow County Sheriff's Office is responsible for the administration and operation of the county detention center, including inmate supervision, facility maintenance, and record-keeping.
Barrow County Sheriff's Office
233 E. Broad Street
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 307-3080
Barrow County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains custody of inmates, processes arrests, conducts bookings, and manages inmate records in accordance with state regulations and local policies. The facility operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with administrative offices open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM for public inquiries and records requests.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Barrow County
Barrow County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system:
Barrow County Detention Center
652 Barrow Park Drive
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 307-3080
Barrow County Detention Center
The Detention Center is the primary correctional facility in Barrow County, housing both male and female inmates. This medium-security facility accommodates pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences (typically under 12 months), and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The center has a capacity of approximately 400 inmates and provides various services including medical care, commissary, and limited educational programs.
Barrow County Work Release Center
652 Barrow Park Drive
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 307-3080
Barrow County Work Release Program
The Work Release Center is a minimum-security facility that houses non-violent offenders who qualify for work release programs. Inmates in this facility are permitted to leave during the day for employment and return to custody during non-working hours. This program aims to facilitate rehabilitation and reintegration while allowing inmates to maintain employment and support their families.
Barrow County Diversion Center
233 E. Broad Street
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 307-3080
Barrow County Sheriff's Office
The Diversion Center provides alternative sentencing options for non-violent offenders, focusing on rehabilitation rather than incarceration. Programs may include substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and educational opportunities. This facility operates under the supervision of the Sheriff's Office in collaboration with the county court system.
In addition to these county facilities, inmates sentenced to terms exceeding 12 months for felony convictions are typically transferred to state prisons operated by the Georgia Department of Corrections. The nearest state facilities to Barrow County include:
Lee Arrendale State Prison
2023 Gainesville Highway
Alto, GA 30510
(706) 776-4700
Georgia Department of Corrections
Phillips State Prison
2989 West Rock Quarry Road
Buford, GA 30519
(770) 932-4500
Georgia Department of Corrections
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and visitation policies in accordance with Georgia Code § 42-5-56, which establishes standards for correctional facilities throughout the state.
Who's in Prison In Barrow County
The Barrow County Detention Center houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of the following categories:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These detainees are held in custody while awaiting trial, either because they could not post bail, were denied bail, or had bail revoked. Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the jail population.
Misdemeanant Offenders: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of 12 months or less. Common misdemeanor offenses include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Simple assault
- Petty theft
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor drug possession
- Probation violations for misdemeanor offenses
Short-term Felony Offenders: Some individuals convicted of felonies may be temporarily housed in the county jail while awaiting transfer to state prison facilities. These inmates typically remain in county custody for processing periods ranging from a few days to several weeks.
Probation/Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole may be held in the county jail pending revocation hearings or as a sanction for the violation.
Federal Detainees: In some cases, the Barrow County Detention Center may house federal detainees through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Weekend Confinement: Some offenders may serve their sentences on weekends only, allowing them to maintain employment and family responsibilities during the week.
Work Release Participants: Qualified non-violent offenders may participate in work release programs, allowing them to work in the community during the day while returning to custody during non-working hours.
The demographic composition of the Barrow County inmate population generally reflects trends in the criminal justice system, with variations in age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status. The facility maintains separate housing units for male and female inmates, as well as classification systems to separate inmates based on security risk, special needs, and other factors in accordance with Georgia Code § 42-4-31.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Barrow County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Barrow County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Barrow County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate records and provides multiple avenues for public access:
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the official Barrow County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" or "Detention Center" section
- Select the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" option
- Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is typically required)
- Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number for more precise results
- Review the search results, which typically display basic information including name, booking date, charges, and bond information
- For more detailed information, note the inmate's booking number for reference in further inquiries
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Barrow County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
- Complete an inmate records request form, providing as much identifying information as possible
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay any applicable fees for record reproduction (fees are established in accordance with the Georgia Open Records Act)
- Records staff will process the request and provide available information in accordance with state law
Written Records Request:
- Prepare a written request including the inmate's full name, date of birth (if known), approximate booking date, and your contact information
- Address the request to:
Barrow County Sheriff's Office Records Division
233 E. Broad Street
Winder, GA 30680
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return correspondence
- Enclose any applicable fees for record reproduction (contact the Records Division for current fee schedule)
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing of routine requests
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Barrow County Detention Center at (770) 307-3080
- Request information about a specific inmate's custody status
- Be prepared to provide the inmate's full name and date of birth
- Note that telephone inquiries typically provide limited information such as confirmation of custody status, next court date, and visiting hours
All records requests are processed in accordance with the Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-71, which allows government agencies up to three business days to respond to records requests. Complex requests may require additional processing time.
How To Find an Inmate in Barrow County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Barrow County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Barrow County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Search:
- Access the Barrow County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" section
- Enter the inmate's last name (first name optional but recommended for common surnames)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Mugshot (if available)
- Housing facility
This online database is updated regularly and provides the most current information on individuals in custody at the Barrow County Detention Center.
Georgia Department of Corrections Offender Search:
- Visit the Georgia Department of Corrections Offender Search portal
- Enter the inmate's name or GDC ID number
- Review search results for current custody status and location
- This database includes individuals who have been transferred from county custody to state facilities
Barrow County Clerk of Superior Court Records:
- Visit the Barrow County Clerk of Superior Court website
- Access the public case search function
- Enter the individual's name to locate criminal case information
- Case records may indicate custody status and facility location
Telephone Inquiry to Detention Center:
- Call the Barrow County Detention Center at (770) 307-3080
- Provide the full name and date of birth (if known) of the person you are trying to locate
- Request confirmation of their custody status
- Basic information such as confirmation of incarceration, next court date, and visiting hours is typically provided without charge
In-Person Inquiry at Sheriff's Office:
- Visit the Barrow County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
Barrow County Sheriff's Office
233 E. Broad Street
Winder, GA 30680
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Request information about an inmate's custody status from the front desk personnel
- Provide the full name and date of birth of the individual you are seeking
- Basic custody information is provided without charge
These free resources provide access to fundamental inmate information in compliance with Georgia Code § 42-4-7(a), which requires sheriffs to maintain and make available certain inmate records. While detailed records may require formal requests and associated fees, basic custody information remains accessible at no cost to facilitate family communication and public transparency.
How To Visit an Inmate In Barrow County
Visitation with inmates at the Barrow County Detention Center follows specific protocols established to maintain security while facilitating important family connections. All visits must comply with facility regulations and Georgia Code § 42-5-56, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish visitation policies.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor request forms during their first week of incarceration
- Each inmate is permitted up to 5 approved visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled visitation time for processing
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before being approved for visitation
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Work Release Inmates: Wednesday, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Maximum Security Inmates: Thursday, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Visitation periods are typically limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are allowed two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medication required during visit (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
- Letters, photos, or documents for inmates (must be sent through approved mail procedures)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- No see-through or tight-fitting clothing
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats, bandanas, or head coverings (religious head coverings permitted with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- In-person non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
- Video visitation available for certain housing units
- Special visits may be approved for out-of-state visitors (requires 7-day advance request)
- Attorney visits occur during designated hours separate from regular visitation
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied (case-by-case determination)
- Visitors on probation or parole must provide written permission from their supervising officer
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
- Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
- Maximum of two adult visitors per inmate per session
For current visitation information or to schedule a visit, contact:
Barrow County Detention Center
652 Barrow Park Drive
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 307-3080
Barrow County Sheriff's Office
How To Send Money to a Barrow County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Barrow County Detention Center have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other approved services.
Approved Money Transfer Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the TouchPay payment portal through the Barrow County Sheriff's Office website
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
- Select payment amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Processing fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount)
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours
-
Kiosk Deposits
- Visit the TouchPay kiosk located in the Barrow County Detention Center lobby
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Enter the inmate's information on the touchscreen
- Insert cash or credit/debit card
- Obtain receipt for transaction
- Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
- Lower processing fees than online deposits
-
Money Order by Mail
- Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make payable to the inmate's full name and booking number
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
Barrow County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts
652 Barrow Park Drive
Winder, GA 30680
- Include sender's full name and return address
- Funds are typically available within 3-5 business days
- No processing fees from the detention center (only cost is money order purchase)
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Transaction Fees:
- Online deposits: $2.50-$10.00 (fee varies based on deposit amount)
- Kiosk deposits: $1.50-$8.00 (fee varies based on deposit amount)
- Money orders: No fee from detention center (only cost is money order purchase)
What Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Bond or bail payments (must be processed separately through the court)
- Payment of fines or court costs
- Attorney fees
- Outside purchases or bill payments
- Transfers to other inmates' accounts
Approved Inmate Expenditures:
- Commissary items (hygiene products, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls and video visitation sessions
- Electronic messaging where available
- Medical co-pays for non-emergency services
- Haircuts and other personal services
- Educational materials and program fees
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Georgia Code § 42-5-2, which governs the management of inmate accounts and funds. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially rejected. For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact the Barrow County Detention Center at (770) 307-3080.
How To Send Jail Mail In Barrow County
Correspondence with inmates at the Barrow 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 established under Georgia Code § 42-5-18, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish mail policies.
General Mail Guidelines:
- Addressing Requirements
- Clearly print the inmate's full name and booking number
- Include the facility address:
Inmate Name, Booking Number
Barrow County Detention Center
652 Barrow Park Drive
Winder, GA 30680
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Mail without proper addressing may be returned to sender
-
Acceptable Mail Items
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, no padding)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
- Money orders (see money transfer section for details)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
-
Prohibited Mail Items
- Personal checks or cash
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Polaroid photographs
- Laminated items or plastic-coated cards
- Items containing glitter, stickers, lipstick, or unknown substances
- Sexually explicit or obscene materials
- Gang-related content
- Correspondence containing threats or criminal conspiracy
- Postage stamps or envelopes for the inmate's use
- Any items that pose a security threat
Book and Publication Delivery:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
- Publications must be new and delivered through USPS
- Hardcover books are prohibited
- Religious texts are permitted but subject to security screening
- Educational materials may be approved with prior authorization
Legal Mail:
- Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Must include attorney bar number or court/agency letterhead
- Legal documents may exceed the standard page limit
E-Messages (where available):
- Electronic messaging may be available through approved vendors
- Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
- Fees apply for electronic communication services
- Messages may be printed and delivered to inmates without email access
Mail Inspection Process:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
- Mail containing prohibited items will be rejected
- Sender will be notified of rejected mail when possible
- Contraband items may be destroyed or returned to sender at the facility's discretion
- Mail suspected of containing illegal materials may be forwarded to law enforcement
Mail Delivery Schedule:
- Mail is processed Monday through Friday, excluding holidays
- Delivery to inmates typically occurs within 24-48 hours after processing
- Volume of mail may affect processing times
For questions regarding mail policies or to inquire about the status of sent correspondence, contact:
Barrow County Detention Center
Mail Room
652 Barrow Park Drive
Winder, GA 30680
(770) 307-3080
Barrow County Sheriff's Office