Jacksonville Inmate Information
Jacksonville is unique in Florida because it has a consolidated government. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office handles both law enforcement and the county jail. This means booking records for Jacksonville come from one agency instead of separate city police and county sheriff offices like in most other Florida cities. JSO operates the Pre-Trial Detention Facility and processes all bookings for Duval County. You can search for inmate names, booking dates, charges, and release times through JSO online tools. These records help track who is in jail and when they might get out.
Jacksonville Quick Facts
Where Jacksonville Booking Records Are Kept
The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office serves as both the city police force and the county sheriff. This unified system means JSO manages all law enforcement and detention operations for Jacksonville and Duval County. When someone gets booked into jail in Jacksonville, JSO processes them at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility. This consolidated structure makes it easier to access booking and release information because you only need to contact one agency instead of multiple departments.
You can reach JSO at (904) 630-0500 for general questions or (904) 630-5747 for jail information. The main office is at 501 East Bay Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. If you need to request records in person, that is where you go. JSO also provides online tools for inmate searches and public records requests, which are faster than phone or mail for most people.
| Agency | Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) |
|---|---|
| Address | 501 East Bay Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 |
| Phone | (904) 630-0500 |
| Jail Info | (904) 630-5747 |
Search Jacksonville Inmates Online
The fastest way to find booking releases in Jacksonville is through the JSO online inmate search. The web portal lets you type in a name or booking number and see results. The database updates often, so you get current information on who is in jail and who was released recently. JSO refreshes its roster every few hours to keep the data accurate.
To search for Jacksonville booking records, go to www.jaxsheriff.org/Resources/inmates.aspx. This is the official JSO inmate search portal. You can search by first name, last name, or booking number if you have it. The results show booking date, charges, bond amount, and custody status. If someone was released, you will see the release date too.
Some searches return multiple results if the name is common. You may need to check birth dates or case numbers to find the right person. The online tool is free to use. You do not need to create an account or pay a fee for basic searches. This makes it easy to look up booking releases in Jacksonville anytime you have internet access.
Note: Inmate rosters may not include juveniles or individuals in protective custody due to privacy rules.
How to Request Records
If you need more than what the online search shows, you can request detailed booking records from JSO. Under Florida public records law, you have the right to ask for copies of arrest reports, booking sheets, and related documents. JSO must provide these records unless they fall under a legal exemption.
JSO offers a public records portal at www.jaxsheriff.org/Resources/Public-Records.aspx. You can submit requests online and track their status. Most requests get responses within a few days. Simple requests like booking sheets are usually quick, while complex requests may take longer.
Florida law allows agencies to charge for copies and staff time. Under Section 119.07, F.S., the standard copy fee is $0.15 per page. If your request requires extensive research, JSO can charge for the time it takes to locate and review records. Always ask for a cost estimate before they start work on a large request.
The Clerk of Court also keeps court records related to criminal cases in Duval County. If you need case files, judgments, or sentencing information, check with the clerk's office. They maintain a separate database from the jail roster.
Here are steps to request booking records in Jacksonville:
- Identify what records you need and gather any case or booking numbers
- Submit your request through the JSO portal or by email
- Wait for a response with a cost estimate if applicable
- Pay any fees and receive your records
Jacksonville Law Enforcement Resources
The consolidated government structure in Jacksonville means JSO handles most criminal justice functions. Understanding which resources are available can save time when you need booking or arrest data. Below are the main resources for accessing information in Jacksonville.
Each of these resources serves a different purpose. The inmate search shows current jail status. The arrest reports section provides recent booking activity. The clerk maintains court case files. Using the right resource for your specific need will get you results faster.
Florida Public Records Law
Florida has some of the strongest public records laws in the nation. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes guarantees public access to government records, including booking and arrest information. This law applies to JSO and all agencies in Jacksonville and Duval County.
Under Section 119.011, F.S., the time, date, location, and nature of a reported crime are public information. The name, sex, age, and address of an arrested person are also public. These details cannot be withheld as confidential criminal intelligence or investigative information. This means booking data is public by default.
You do not need to explain why you want booking records. The law does not require you to state a purpose for your request. Agencies cannot ask why you need the information or deny your request based on how you plan to use it. This protects your right to access public records without interference.
Some information is exempt from public records. Section 119.071, F.S., lists specific exemptions. Active criminal intelligence and ongoing investigations may be withheld temporarily. Social security numbers and certain addresses are redacted. However, basic booking data like names, charges, and booking dates are almost never exempt.
If JSO denies your request, they must cite a specific statute that allows the exemption. You have the right to appeal or seek legal help if you believe a denial is improper. Many legal aid organizations in Florida assist with public records disputes at no cost.
Note: Agencies must respond to public records requests promptly, but Florida law does not set a specific deadline.