Charleston County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Charleston County?
Inmate records in Charleston County are official documents maintained by the Charleston County Sheriff's Office that contain information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. These records are created and maintained pursuant to South Carolina Code of Laws § 24-21-10, which mandates the proper documentation of all persons in custody. The records serve multiple administrative, legal, and public safety purposes within the criminal justice system.
The Charleston County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of its statutory obligation to document the status and whereabouts of individuals in custody. Records typically begin at the time of booking and continue throughout an individual's period of incarceration. The Sheriff's Office utilizes a computerized management system to track inmate information, which allows for efficient record-keeping and retrieval.
Charleston County Sheriff's Office 3691 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: (843) 554-2230 Charleston County Sheriff's Office Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Are Inmate Records Public In Charleston County?
Inmate records in Charleston County are considered public records in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), S.C. Code Ann. § 30-4-10 et seq. This legislation establishes the public's right to access government records, including certain information about individuals in custody. The law is designed to promote transparency in government operations while balancing privacy concerns.
Members of the public may access basic inmate information through several methods:
- Online inmate search portal provided by the Charleston County Sheriff's Office
- In-person requests at the Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
- Written requests submitted to the Records Division
It should be noted that while basic information is publicly accessible, certain portions of inmate records may be redacted or restricted due to:
- Privacy protections under S.C. Code Ann. § 30-4-40
- Security concerns related to facility operations
- Ongoing investigations
- Medical information protected under HIPAA
- Juvenile records, which are subject to different confidentiality standards
The Charleston County Sheriff's Office processes all requests for inmate records in compliance with applicable state and federal laws governing public access and privacy protections.
What's Included Inmate Records in Charleston County
Inmate records maintained by Charleston County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. Pursuant to South Carolina Department of Corrections Policy OP-21.04, these records must include specific elements to ensure proper identification and processing of inmates. The following information is typically included in Charleston County inmate records:
- Demographic information (name, date of birth, gender, race)
- Booking number and date of intake
- Physical description including height, weight, and identifying marks
- Mugshot photographs
- Fingerprint data
- Current charges and case numbers
- Court dates and appearances
- Custody status (pretrial, sentenced, etc.)
- Bond information, if applicable
- Scheduled release date for sentenced inmates
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Disciplinary records from current incarceration
- Visitor logs
Records may also contain administrative information related to the inmate's custody, including classification assessments, property inventories, and program participation. Medical information, while collected, is maintained separately and subject to stricter confidentiality requirements under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
The Charleston County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in both electronic and physical formats, with the electronic system serving as the primary method of record-keeping for current inmates.
Charleston County Prison System
The Charleston County prison system operates under the authority of the Charleston County Sheriff's Office and in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-5-10, which establishes county responsibility for maintaining detention facilities. The system is designed to house individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process, from initial arrest through sentencing.
Charleston County's correctional infrastructure consists of:
- The Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center, which serves as the primary facility
- Work release programs for eligible inmates
- Electronic monitoring programs for qualified offenders
The Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center, named after former Sheriff Al Cannon, is a modern facility designed to house both male and female inmates. The facility operates under the direct supervision model and is accredited by the American Correctional Association, demonstrating compliance with national standards for correctional operations.
Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center 3841 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: (843) 554-2214 Charleston County Detention Center Hours for Public Services: 24 hours daily
The Charleston County prison system works in coordination with the South Carolina Department of Corrections, which assumes custody of inmates sentenced to terms exceeding 90 days. This coordination is governed by interagency agreements and state regulations regarding the transfer and housing of inmates.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Charleston County
Charleston County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations as required by South Carolina Code § 24-3-20. These facilities operate under the jurisdiction of the Charleston County Sheriff's Office and are designed to meet specific security and programmatic needs.
The county's correctional infrastructure includes:
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Maximum Security Detention - Located within the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center, this section houses individuals charged with serious offenses or those who present significant security risks. Features include enhanced supervision, restricted movement, and specialized housing units.
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Medium Security Detention - Also within the main detention center, this level houses the majority of the inmate population. Inmates in medium security typically have more movement within the facility and access to programs.
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Minimum Security Work Camp - This facility houses low-risk, sentenced inmates who participate in work details throughout the county. These inmates perform various community service functions under supervision.
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Juvenile Detention - A separate facility operated in conjunction with the Department of Juvenile Justice for offenders under 18 years of age, located at:
Charleston County Juvenile Detention Center 4350 Headquarters Road North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: (843) 740-0420 Charleston County Government Hours: 24 hours daily
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Work Release Center - A specialized facility for inmates nearing release who are permitted to work in the community while returning to custody during non-working hours.
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and staffing patterns appropriate to the classification level of the inmates housed there. All facilities are subject to regular inspections and must comply with state standards for correctional operations.
Who's in Prison In Charleston County
The inmate population in Charleston County detention facilities consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. As mandated by South Carolina Code § 24-21-30, the Sheriff's Office maintains detailed demographic information on all persons in custody. The population typically includes:
- Pretrial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences of less than 90 days for misdemeanor offenses
- Inmates awaiting transfer to South Carolina Department of Corrections facilities
- Federal detainees housed under intergovernmental agreements
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations
- Persons detained on immigration holds
Demographic analysis of the Charleston County inmate population reveals:
- The majority of inmates are male (approximately 85%)
- The average age range is 25-40 years
- The population reflects diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds
- Most inmates are residents of Charleston County or surrounding areas
- A significant percentage have prior involvement with the criminal justice system
The Sheriff's Office publishes quarterly statistical reports on inmate population trends, which are available for public review through the Charleston County Sheriff's Office website or by written request to the Records Division.
The average daily population fluctuates but typically ranges between 1,000-1,200 inmates across all facilities, with the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center housing the majority of this population.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Charleston County in 2025
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Charleston County may utilize several official methods to access these records. Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 30-4-30, which governs public access to government records, the following search options are available:
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Online Inmate Search Portal: The Charleston County Sheriff's Office maintains a comprehensive inmate search database that provides real-time information on current inmates. Users may search by name, booking number, or date of birth. The system is updated continuously as individuals enter or exit custody.
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Public Index Search: Court records related to criminal cases may be accessed through the Public Index Search portal maintained by the Charleston County Clerk of Court. This system provides case information, including charges, court dates, and disposition information.
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In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the Records Division at the Sheriff's Office headquarters to request inmate information during regular business hours:
Charleston County Sheriff's Office Records Division 3691 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: (843) 554-2230 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
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Written Requests: Written requests for inmate information may be submitted by mail to the Records Division address above. Requests should include the inmate's full name, date of birth if known, and the specific information being requested.
For inmates who have been transferred to state custody, the South Carolina Department of Corrections maintains a separate inmate search system. Additionally, information about individuals on probation or parole may be available through the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services.
How To Find an Inmate in Charleston County for Free?
Charleston County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals in custody, in accordance with South Carolina's public records laws. These free resources are designed to provide basic information about an inmate's status and location without requiring payment or subscription fees.
The following methods are available at no charge:
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Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator: The most direct method is through the official Charleston County inmate search portal. This database is updated regularly and provides information on current inmates, including booking date, charges, and bond information. Users can also search for recently released inmates by selecting the appropriate option.
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Telephone Information Line: The Sheriff's Office maintains a dedicated information line for inmate status inquiries:
Inmate Information: (843) 554-2409 Hours: 24 hours daily
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Judicial System Public Index: The Charleston County Public Index provides free access to court records, which can help determine if an individual has pending cases or court appearances scheduled.
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State-Level Resources: For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody, the South Carolina Department of Corrections offers a toll-free inmate information line at 1-866-727-2846, as well as an online inmate search system.
When using these resources, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including the individual's full legal name and date of birth. Aliases or nicknames may not produce accurate results. The information provided through these free services is limited to basic custody status and does not include detailed criminal history or case information.
How To Visit an Inmate In Charleston County
Visitation with inmates in Charleston County detention facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. In accordance with South Carolina Department of Corrections Policy OP-22.09, the following guidelines apply to all visitors:
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Visitation Schedule: The Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center conducts visitation on a rotating schedule based on inmate housing assignments. Current schedules are available by calling (843) 554-2214 or visiting the facility's information desk.
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Registration Requirements: All visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance through the online visitation system or by calling the visitation office at (843) 554-2219. First-time visitors must complete a visitor application form.
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Identification Requirements: Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, military ID, or passport) at each visit.
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Visitor Limitations: Inmates are permitted two 30-minute visits per week. A maximum of two adults and one child may visit at one time.
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Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code that prohibits revealing clothing, gang-related attire, and clothing resembling inmate uniforms. Specific guidelines are posted at the facility and on the Sheriff's Office website.
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Contraband Restrictions: Visitors may not bring personal items into the visitation area. Lockers are provided for storing personal belongings during visits.
Visitation Office Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center 3841 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: (843) 554-2219 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Professional visits by attorneys, clergy, and other authorized individuals follow separate protocols and may occur outside regular visitation hours by prior arrangement with facility administration.
How To Send Money to a Charleston County Inmate
Charleston County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Charleston County Sheriff's Office Policy 3.8.5 regarding inmate funds.
Authorized methods for sending money include:
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Online Deposits: The most efficient method is through the TouchPay system, accessible via the Charleston County Sheriff's Office website. This service accepts major credit and debit cards and processes deposits within 24 hours.
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Kiosk Deposits: Self-service kiosks are available in the lobby of the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center. These kiosks accept cash and credit/debit cards and process deposits immediately.
Kiosk Location: Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center Lobby 3841 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405 Hours: 24 hours daily
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Money Orders: Money orders may be mailed to the facility. They must be made payable to the inmate with their booking number clearly indicated.
Mailing Address for Money Orders: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center 3841 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405
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Telephone Deposits: Funds may be added via telephone by calling (866) 232-1899. This service requires credit/debit card payment and charges a processing fee.
All deposits are subject to a service fee that varies by method and amount. A portion of all incoming funds may be applied to any outstanding debts the inmate has within the facility, including medical co-pays, property damage, or court-ordered restitution, in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-13-80.
For security reasons, cash cannot be sent through the mail, and personal checks are not accepted through any method.
How To Send Jail Mail In Charleston County
Correspondence with inmates in Charleston County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines established by the Sheriff's Office in accordance with South Carolina Department of Corrections Policy OP-22.11. All mail is subject to inspection for contraband and compliance with facility regulations.
The following procedures apply to sending mail to inmates:
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Addressing Requirements: All mail must be properly addressed with the inmate's full name, booking number (if known), and the complete facility address:
Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center 3841 Leeds Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405
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Permitted Items: Inmates may receive:
- Letters on plain paper (no cardstock, construction paper, or colored paper)
- Photographs (maximum size 4"x6", limit of 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (as described in the previous section)
- Self-addressed stamped envelopes
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Prohibited Items: The following items are not permitted:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Greeting cards or postcards with glitter, stickers, or embellishments
- Books or magazines (these must be sent directly from publishers)
- Food items or clothing
- Any items containing adhesives, perfumes, or unknown substances
- Polaroid photographs
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Legal Mail: Correspondence from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" on the envelope. This mail receives special handling and is opened only in the presence of the inmate.
All incoming non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates. Outgoing mail from inmates is also subject to inspection, with the exception of legal mail to attorneys or courts. Mail that violates facility policies will be returned to sender or placed in the inmate's property to be released upon discharge.
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