Chatham County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Chatham County?

Inmate records in Chatham County are official government documents maintained by the Chatham County Sheriff's Office and detention facilities that chronicle an individual's history within the county's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks persons in custody from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Georgia Code § 42-4-7, sheriffs and jailers are required to maintain detailed records of all persons committed to county correctional facilities.

Inmate records differ substantially from court records in both purpose and content. While court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions, inmate records specifically track custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior. The Chatham County Sheriff's Office creates these records at the moment of booking, when an arrestee is processed into the detention facility.

The record creation process begins with intake documentation, including:

• Biographical information
• Photographs (mugshots)
• Fingerprints
• Medical screening results
• Personal property inventory

Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and visitation logs. Upon release, the records are finalized with discharge information but remain in the system as historical documentation of the incarceration period.

The Chatham County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and information management protocols established by the Georgia Department of Corrections.

Are Inmate Records Public In Chatham County?

Inmate records in Chatham County are generally considered public information under the Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, access is subject to specific limitations and exemptions designed to protect certain sensitive information.

The following inmate record components are typically available for public access:

• Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
• Basic booking information
• Charges filed
• Mugshots
• Bond/bail amounts
• Court dates
• Expected release dates
• Facility location

Certain portions of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under Georgia Code § 50-18-72, including:

• Medical and mental health information
• Social Security numbers
• Personal identifying information that could lead to identity theft
• Information that would compromise institutional security
• Records pertaining to juveniles
• Information that would endanger an individual if released

Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic details through the Chatham County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal or by submitting a formal records request. Law enforcement agencies, court officials, and legal representatives may have expanded access to inmate records through proper channels and with appropriate authorization.

What's Included Inmate Records in Chatham County

Inmate records maintained by Chatham County detention facilities contain comprehensive documentation across several categories. These records serve administrative, security, and legal purposes throughout an individual's incarceration.

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
• Booking photographs (mugshots)
• Fingerprints and other biometric data
• State identification numbers and booking ID

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking/intake
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer information
• Housing assignment and classification status
• Custody level designation
• Cell/unit assignments and transfers
• Special housing requirements (if applicable)

Charge Information:

• Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
• Warrant information and numbers
• Arresting agency case numbers
• Charge severity classifications
• Prior booking history within the county system

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond type (cash, property, surety)
• Bond amount
• Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
• Bonding company information (if applicable)
• Bond conditions

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction (Municipal, State, Superior)
• Case numbers
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court orders pertaining to custody
• Attorney of record

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction details
• Sentence length and terms
• Credit for time served
• Probation/parole eligibility dates
• Good time/work time credits
• Participation in alternative sentencing programs

Release Information:

• Scheduled or actual release date
• Release type (time served, bond, transfer)
• Post-release supervision requirements
• Conditions of release
• Receiving agency (if transferred)

These records are maintained in compliance with Georgia Sheriff's Records Retention Schedule and are subject to regular audits to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Chatham County Prison System

The Chatham County prison system operates under a tiered structure that distinguishes between local detention and state incarceration facilities. The system primarily consists of the Chatham County Detention Center, which serves as the main facility for housing pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of 12 months or less for misdemeanor offenses.

The Chatham County Sheriff's Office has statutory responsibility for operating the county detention facilities. This authority is derived from Georgia Code § 42-4-4, which establishes the sheriff's duties regarding jail operations and inmate custody.

It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Chatham County Detention Center houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. In contrast, Georgia Department of Corrections state prisons house felony offenders serving sentences longer than 12 months.

The county system interfaces with multiple criminal justice agencies, including the courts, district attorney's office, public defender's office, and probation services to coordinate inmate management, court appearances, and release planning.

Chatham County Sheriff's Office
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
912-652-7600
Chatham County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Chatham County

Chatham County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's criminal justice system.

Chatham County Detention Center
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
912-652-7700
Chatham County Detention Center

The Detention Center is the primary incarceration facility in Chatham County, with a capacity of approximately 2,000 inmates. This maximum-security facility houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to 12 months. The facility includes specialized housing units for:

• General population
• Administrative segregation
• Disciplinary segregation
• Medical observation
• Mental health services
• Juvenile offenders (in separate housing)
• Female inmates

Chatham County Work Release Center
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
912-652-7760
Chatham County Work Release Program

This minimum-security facility houses non-violent offenders who qualify for work release programs. Inmates reside at the facility but are permitted to leave for employment during specified hours. Participants typically include:

• Low-risk offenders nearing release
• Individuals serving sentences for non-violent offenses
• Those demonstrating good institutional behavior

Chatham County Diversion Center
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
912-652-7760
Chatham County Diversion Programs

This specialized facility provides alternative sentencing options focused on rehabilitation rather than incarceration. Programs include:

• Substance abuse treatment
• Mental health services
• Educational programming
• Life skills development
• Community service coordination

Each facility operates under specific security protocols and staffing models appropriate to its mission and the classification level of its inmate population. All facilities adhere to standards established by the Georgia Sheriffs' Association and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Who's in Prison In Chatham County

The Chatham County detention facilities house a diverse inmate population that reflects various stages of the criminal justice process. The majority of individuals in custody fall into several distinct categories based on their legal status and sentence classification.

Pre-trial detainees constitute approximately 60-70% of the inmate population. These individuals:

• Have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
• Are awaiting court proceedings
• May be held due to inability to post bail
• Have been denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
• Are awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions

Sentenced misdemeanants make up roughly 20-25% of the population. These individuals:

• Have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses
• Are serving sentences of 12 months or less
• May be participating in work release or other alternative sentencing programs
• Include those convicted of offenses such as DUI, simple assault, petty theft, and minor drug possession

Temporary holds account for approximately 5-10% of inmates. This category includes:

• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Those held on behalf of other counties or municipalities
• Federal detainees awaiting transfer to federal facilities
• Probation/parole violators awaiting hearings

Specialized populations constitute the remaining percentage, including:

• Mental health detainees awaiting competency evaluation or treatment
• Individuals in protective custody
• Those in administrative segregation due to institutional behavior
• Juveniles charged as adults (housed separately from adult population)

According to data from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the demographic composition of Chatham County's inmate population generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals and racial minorities.

The average length of stay varies significantly based on case complexity, charge severity, and court scheduling. Pre-trial detainees may remain in custody from several days to many months, while sentenced misdemeanants typically serve terms ranging from 30 days to 12 months.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Chatham County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Chatham County may utilize several methods to access these records. The county currently maintains multiple search options to accommodate different information needs and technological preferences.

The most efficient method for locating inmate records is through the Chatham County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal. To conduct an online search:

1. Navigate to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office website
2. Select the "Inmate Search" option from the main navigation menu
3. Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
4. Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number for more precise results
5. Submit the search request
6. Review the results, which typically include current custody status, charges, bond information, and next court date

For individuals without internet access, telephone inquiries are accepted at the Chatham County Detention Center:

1. Call the Detention Center's main information line at 912-652-7700
2. Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth
3. Staff will provide basic custody information, including confirmation of incarceration, charges, and bond amounts
4. Note that telephone inquiries are limited to basic information due to verification constraints

In-person record requests can be submitted at:

Chatham County Sheriff's Office Records Division
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
912-652-7690
Chatham County Sheriff's Records

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

For formal written requests under the Georgia Open Records Act:

1. Submit a completed Open Records Request Form, available on the Sheriff's Office website
2. Include specific information about the inmate and records sought
3. Provide requestor contact information
4. Submit via email, mail, or in person to the Records Division
5. Allow up to three business days for processing, as permitted under Georgia Code § 50-18-71
6. Pay applicable fees for document reproduction ($0.10 per page for standard copies)

Attorneys of record and legal representatives may request expanded record access by providing proper identification and case documentation when submitting their requests.

How To Find an Inmate in Chatham County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Chatham County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The county provides multiple no-cost options for basic inmate location and status verification.

The Chatham County Sheriff's Office maintains a free online inmate locator system accessible to the public. To use this resource:

1. Visit the Chatham County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
2. No account creation or login is required
3. Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (optional)
4. For more precise results, include additional identifiers such as date of birth if known
5. The system returns basic custody information including current housing location, booking date, and charges
6. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

For those without internet access, the Detention Center provides free telephone verification:

Chatham County Detention Center Information Line
912-652-7700
Hours: 24 hours daily

When calling, be prepared to provide:

• Inmate's full legal name
• Date of birth (if known)
• Approximate booking date (if known)

The Georgia Department of Corrections also maintains a statewide Offender Search database that includes some Chatham County inmates who are state prisoners housed in the county facility or awaiting transfer to state institutions.

For in-person inquiries, the public can visit:

Chatham County Sheriff's Office Lobby
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Staff at the information desk can confirm if an individual is in custody and provide basic status information at no charge. While detailed record copies may incur fees, simple custody verification is provided without cost.

These free services provide sufficient information for most basic needs, including confirming incarceration status, identifying current facility location, and obtaining visitation eligibility information.

How To Visit an Inmate In Chatham County

Visitation with inmates at Chatham County detention facilities follows structured protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with established procedures and regulations.

Visit Rules and Procedures

The Chatham County Detention Center currently utilizes a video visitation system for most inmate contacts. To schedule a visit:

1. Register for an account through the Chatham County Sheriff's Office Visitation Portal
2. Complete the required visitor application with accurate personal information
3. Schedule visits at least 24 hours in advance
4. Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled visitation time
5. Present valid, government-issued photo identification at check-in

Visit Schedule

Visitation hours are organized by housing unit to ensure orderly facility operations:

• General Population: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Special Management Units: Thursday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• Work Release Inmates: Saturday-Sunday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week. Attorneys and clergy may arrange professional visits outside standard hours by contacting the facility directly.

What to Bring

Visitors should bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
• Visitation confirmation number
• Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicles or lockers)
• Medical necessities (with prior approval)

What NOT to Bring

The following items are prohibited:

• Weapons of any kind
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches)
• Cameras or recording devices
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code

All visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:

• No revealing or provocative clothing
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• Shirts and shoes required
• No hats, hoods, or head coverings (religious head coverings permitted with verification)
• No excessively baggy clothing
• No law enforcement or security-type uniforms

Visit Types

The facility accommodates several visitation formats:

• Standard video visitation (on-site)
• Remote video visitation (fee-based service from approved locations)
• Contact visits (limited to certain classifications with prior approval)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
• Special visits (compassionate circumstances with administrative approval)

Visit Restrictions

Visitation privileges may be restricted under certain circumstances:

• Inmates on disciplinary status
• Facility lockdown or emergency situations
• Visitor's failure to comply with regulations
• Visitor's criminal history (particularly drug or violent offenses)
• Court-ordered no-contact provisions

All visitation is subject to monitoring and recording except for privileged attorney-client communications. Any attempt to introduce contraband or engage in inappropriate behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit and possible criminal charges under Georgia Code § 42-4-13.

How To Send Money to a Chatham County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Chatham County detention facilities have several authorized methods for transferring funds. All transactions are subject to verification and processing protocols.

Approved Deposit Methods

Online Deposits The Chatham County Sheriff's Office contracts with TouchPay for electronic deposits:

1. Visit the TouchPay website
2. Create an account or log in as a guest
3. Select "Chatham County Detention Center" from the facility list
4. Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit/debit card
6. Retain the confirmation number for your records

Lobby Kiosk Self-service payment kiosks are available in the Detention Center lobby:

Chatham County Detention Center
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
Hours: 24 hours daily

Kiosk transactions accept:

• Cash (bills only, no coins)
• Credit/debit cards
• No personal checks

Money Orders Money orders may be mailed to:

Chatham County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts Department
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405

Money order requirements:

• Made payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
• Sender's full name and address on the money order
• No personal checks accepted
• Maximum amount per money order: $300

Transaction Limits and Fees

The following limits and fees currently apply:

• Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
• Maximum single transaction: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
• Online transaction fee: $2.95 for amounts up to $20.00; $6.95 for amounts $20.01-$300.00
• Lobby kiosk fee: $2.50 for any amount
• Money order processing: No fee (standard mail delivery time applies)

Inmate Account Restrictions

Funds deposited into inmate accounts are subject to the following conditions:

• Automatic deductions for outstanding debts, including court costs, restitution, and medical co-pays
• Commissary spending limits of $100.00 per week for general population
• Restricted spending privileges for inmates on disciplinary status
• Funds remain on books during temporary transfers and are returned upon release
• Unclaimed funds after release are subject to forfeiture after 90 days

Authorized Expenditures

Inmates may use account funds for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Educational materials
• Release preparation expenses (e.g., ID cards, birth certificates)

Funds cannot be used for:

• Bail or bond payments
• Transfer to other inmates' accounts
• Payment for services not approved by facility administration
• Purchase of prohibited items

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review. Attempts to circumvent financial regulations may result in disciplinary action and possible criminal charges under Georgia Code § 42-5-18.

How To Send Jail Mail In Chatham County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Chatham County detention facilities must follow established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All incoming mail undergoes inspection procedures before distribution to inmates.

Mailing Address Format

All mail must be addressed in the following format:

Inmate's Full Name and ID Number
Chatham County Detention Center
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405

The sender's complete name and return address must appear in the upper left corner of the envelope. Mail without a return address will not be delivered.

Acceptable Mail Items

The following items are permitted:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages, single-sided)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6", no Polaroids)
• Money orders (see financial services section for details)
• Legal documents (marked as "Legal Mail" on the envelope)
• Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
• Approved periodicals (must be sent directly from the publisher)

Prohibited Items

The following items will be rejected:

• Packages of any kind
• Hardcover books
• Personal checks or cash
• Stamps or envelopes
• Stickers or labels
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or lipstick-marked items
• Polaroid photographs
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related content
• Items larger than 8.5"x11"
• Laminated or cardboard items
• Food or clothing items
• Handmade crafts or artwork

Mail Inspection Procedures

All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Mail may be read to ensure it does not contain:

• Escape plans
• Criminal activity coordination
• Threats or intimidation
• Coded messages
• Contraband introduction plans

Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the inmate's presence to inspect for contraband but is not read by staff.

Electronic Messaging Option

The Chatham County Detention Center offers a secure electronic messaging system through SmartJailMail:

1. Create an account on the SmartJailMail website
2. Purchase message credits
3. Compose messages (text only, no attachments)
4. Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
5. Fees apply per message (currently $0.50 per message)

Publication Delivery

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be:

• Sent directly from the publisher or approved vendor
• Soft-cover only
• Free of contraband or security threats
• Subject to content review by facility staff

Religious and educational materials receive priority consideration but remain subject to security screening.

All mail procedures are governed by facility regulations in accordance with Georgia Sheriff's Association Standards and relevant case law establishing inmates' correspondence rights while maintaining institutional security.

Lookup Inmate Records in Chatham County