Blackford County Jail Inmate Lookup

Blackford County Jail, IN, is a medium-security detention center located in Hartford City, Indiana. Run by the Blackford County Sheriff's Department, this correction facility houses both male and female inmates serving short sentences or awaiting trial or sentencing. The jail has provisions for visitation, mail exchange, and monetary assistance for inmates.

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Inmate Search and Prison Roster

Inmate Search

Locating an inmate at the detention center involves a simple search process. Use the official Blackford County Jail Inmate Search page to conduct your search. Inputting the inmate's details such as their first and last names can quickly yield the needed results.

However, be aware that the database might not immediately reflect recent arrests or releases. It may take up to a day for new information to become available.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

On successful search, the information available includes:

Booking Number: This unique number identifies each inmate in the facility and is critical for inmate search and communication.
Last Name and First Name: The inmate's legal names for proper identification.
Date of Birth: This is included to distinguish between inmates with similar names.
Release Date: The expected date of the inmate’s release from the jail.
Criminal Charges: This section details the alleged offenses leading to the inmate's incarceration.

Tips for Inmate Search

Ensure you have the correct spelling of the inmate's name, and make use of the 'Booking Number' if available, for a more precise search. It is advisable to wait for at least 24 hours after an arrest before attempting a search, to allow for database updates.

If the online search fails, or you have other queries, you can contact the jail directly at (765) 348-0930. Be ready with relevant information to aid their assistance. Please note that there are restrictions on the type of information that can be given over the phone. For detailed information, a formal request may be required, following the guidelines set by the Blackford County's Department of Records.

Always adhere to the rules and regulations outlined by the detention facility when making inquiries or requests to ensure smooth communication and avoid any potential issues.

Detailed Guide for Inmate Search

To further expand the process of inmate search in Blackford County Jail, it's important to understand a few details:

New Arrests: As the online database is not real-time, if the arrest has occurred recently (within the last 24 hours), the inmate's information might not yet be updated on the site.
Past Inmates: Information about individuals previously incarcerated in the Blackford County Jail might not be accessible via the online database. Past inmate information often needs to be requested directly from the jail or from the Blackford County's Department of Records.
Search by Booking Number: If you have the inmate's booking number, this is the most direct way to find the inmate in question. The booking number is a unique identifier for every inmate and is not subject to changes like name spellings or birthdates.
Inmate Search Assistance: If you face challenges during the search process, the correction facility staff can provide assistance. However, they will not disclose certain sensitive information over the phone due to security and privacy policies.

More about the Jail Roster

The jail roster is a dynamic document that continually updates as inmates are booked in and released. Here's additional insight about the information available:

Booking Number: Each inmate is assigned a unique booking number upon their arrest. This number is critical for tracking the inmate's status, setting up visitation, sending mail, or adding money to the inmate's account.
Names: The use of proper and full names ensures proper identification, especially in cases where there may be individuals with similar names in the facility.
Date of Birth: DOB is another layer of identification, and it also helps in cases of common names.
Release Date: The inmate's expected release date can be subject to changes based on court rulings, good behavior allowances, or other factors. As such, the release date should be considered a tentative date.
Criminal Charges: The nature of the criminal charges against the inmate is made available for public knowledge. However, remember this section includes alleged offenses, and all inmates are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Additional Tips for Inmate Search

Patience is Key: Database updates might take a while, particularly for new arrests or recent releases. Checking back after some time can yield more accurate results.
Direct Communication: If the online search proves challenging, you can always contact the jail directly. However, be prepared for potential limitations on the information the jail staff can disclose.
Legal Counsel: If you're an attorney seeking information about an inmate, you might be entitled to more detailed information about your client. In such cases, having proof of your legal credentials ready can streamline the process.
Compliance: Compliance with the detention center's rules and regulations at all times ensures smooth communication and aids in your search.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

Visitation at the Blackford County Jail, IN, is a privilege and not a right, hence there are certain procedures to follow:

To arrange for a visit, you must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Inmates provide the names of potential visitors shortly after booking.
Once your name is on this list, you can schedule a visit by calling the jail at (765) 348-0930. Please note that visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
Be prepared to provide your full name, a valid ID, and your relationship to the inmate when scheduling the visit.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

Visitors must adhere to the following rules and regulations:

All visitors are subject to a search upon entering the facility. Any attempt to bring prohibited items into the jail will result in immediate suspension of visitation privileges and potential criminal charges.
Visitors must be appropriately dressed, adhering to the jail's dress code. Clothing deemed inappropriate or offensive will not be permitted.
All visits are no-contact visits. There will be a partition between you and the inmate.
Visitors must behave appropriately at all times. Disruptive behavior will result in the termination of the visit.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours are subject to change, and it is advisable to verify the current schedule with the jail prior to your visit. However, typically, visits are allowed during the following times:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Inmate Communications

Inmate Call System and Associated Regulations

Inmates at the Blackford County Jail, IN, are permitted to make outgoing calls only, and the ability to receive incoming calls is typically not granted. Here's what you need to know:

Calls are made collect, which means the receiving party will be responsible for the cost of the call.
Inmates also have the option to purchase phone cards from the jail's commissary to make calls.
All calls, except for those to legal counsel, are recorded and may be monitored for security reasons.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The phone number for the Blackford County Jail is (765) 348-0930. If an inmate attempts to call you collect from the jail, this is the number that will appear on your caller ID.

As a recipient, you should be aware of the following guidelines:

Always accept collect calls from the jail. If you refuse a collect call from the jail, you might not be able to receive any future calls.
Calls are limited in duration to ensure all inmates have equal access to the phones.
Any attempt to engage in criminal activity over the phone will result in the termination of phone privileges.

Please note that specific details regarding the call system, such as the duration of calls, costs, and limits on phone card purchases, may vary. It's always best to contact the jail directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Inmate Mail

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate

To send mail to an inmate housed in the Blackford County Jail, follow these steps:

All mail should be sent via the US Postal Service. Other carriers are generally not accepted.
Clearly write the inmate's full name and booking number on the envelope.

Address the envelope as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Blackford County Jail
225 North High Street
Hartford City, IN 47348

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates

All mail sent to inmates is inspected before it is delivered. The following guidelines are set by the correction facility:

Do not send contraband or prohibited items, such as weapons, drugs, or explicit material. Any mail containing such items will be confiscated, and the sender may face legal action.
Photos are generally permitted but must be appropriate and must not be Polaroids, as these can be manipulated to hide contraband.
All letters must be written in pencil or blue or black ink. No glitter, stickers, or other embellishments are permitted.
Legal mail must be clearly marked and will be opened in the presence of the inmate.
Do not include any personal information you do not want read by jail staff, as all mail is inspected before delivery.

Sending Money to Inmates

Approved Methods for Sending Money

Inmates in the Blackford County Jail may need funds for various jail commodities. There are several approved methods for sending money:

Money Order: A money order can be mailed to the jail with the inmate's full name and booking number written on it. Use the same address as listed above for mailing letters.
Online Deposits: You can also deposit money into an inmate's account online via JailATM. This method may involve a processing fee.
Jail Lobby Kiosk: If you prefer to deposit money in person, a kiosk is available in the jail's lobby where you can deposit cash or use a credit or debit card.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money

The jail may limit the amount of money an inmate can receive or have in their account at any one time. It's advisable to check with the jail for their specific limitations.
Funds sent to inmates are non-refundable. If an inmate is released or transferred, the money will follow them to their next location or be given to them upon release.
If an inmate owes fines, fees, or restitution, a portion of the money deposited may be used to settle these debts.

Inmate Commissary

The inmate commissary at the Blackford County Jail is a store within the correction facility where inmates can purchase items that are not provided by the institution. Its main purpose is to enhance the quality of life for inmates by allowing them to buy products such as snacks, personal hygiene items, stationery, and more.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can use the funds in their jail accounts to purchase items from the commissary. Commissary orders are typically placed once a week, and the items are delivered to the inmates after processing. The facility may also allow inmates to purchase phone cards from the commissary to make calls.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

There are restrictions on the use of the commissary to maintain security within the facility:

There's a spending limit imposed on each inmate to ensure fair access to the commissary.
Not all items are available to all inmates. Availability may depend on the inmate's behavior, health needs, and other factors.
Some items, such as food, must be consumed within a specific time frame to maintain cleanliness and prevent infestations.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

Incarceration records for inmates at Blackford County Jail can be obtained through a formal request to the Blackford County's Department of Records. You may need to provide the inmate's full name, booking number, and date of birth. The processing time and potential fees for these records can vary, so it's best to check with the department directly.

It's also important to note that certain information may be restricted due to privacy laws or ongoing investigations.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

Mugshots are photographs taken of individuals at the time of their arrest. They typically consist of two parts: a front-facing photo and a profile photo.

Mugshots serve several purposes, including helping law enforcement identify criminals, track criminal activity, and aid in investigations.

In general, mugshots are considered public records and can be requested from the relevant law enforcement agency. However, the Blackford County Jail may have specific rules regarding the release of mugshots. It's always best to contact the jail or the county's Department of Records to inquire about their policies concerning mugshot availability.

Inmate Population

Current Population Statistics

As of the latest update, the Blackford County Jail houses approximately 75 inmates. This number fluctuates regularly due to the continuous intake and release of inmates. The jail has a capacity of 84 inmates, housing both male and female detainees.

Average Inmate Stay Duration

The average stay duration for an inmate in the Blackford County Jail is approximately 45 days. However, this figure can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the crime, legal processes, and potential waiting time for transfer to state or federal facilities for longer-term sentences.

Racial, Age, and Gender Demographics

The inmate population at Blackford County Jail is diverse, reflecting the demographic mix of Blackford County. It comprises individuals from different racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, and age groups. Due to privacy restrictions and fluctuating populations, specific percentages for each demographic group are not typically disclosed.

Security Level

The Blackford County Jail operates as a medium-security detention facility, equipped with multiple security measures to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff. These measures include electronic surveillance, physical barriers, controlled movement procedures, and strict visitation and communication policies.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The facility houses individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors, or waiting for transfer to state or federal prison for more serious offenses. Some inmates are also held due to parole or probation violations.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining order and safety within the Blackford County Jail. Their duties include supervising inmate activities, conducting regular cell inspections, managing inmate movements, and intervening during conflicts or emergencies.

Additionally, correctional officers are responsible for performing intake procedures for new inmates, which involves searching, fingerprinting, and photographing the inmates, and maintaining detailed records of these processes. Officers also oversee visitation, mail, and commissary procedures to prevent the introduction of contraband into the facility.

Location and Contact Details

Official Mailing Address

Inquiries, requests, or other forms of correspondence to the Blackford County Jail should be addressed as follows:

Blackford County Jail
225 North High Street
Hartford City, IN 47348

Official Phone Number

You can reach the Blackford County Jail by phone at the following number: (765) 348-0930.

Official Website

For additional information or to access online resources, you can visit the official Blackford County Sheriff's Office website at https://blackfordcountysheriff.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search & Arrests Lookup

1. How can I search for an inmate?

You can search for an inmate by using online databases provided by local, state, or federal correctional institutions. Many of these databases have an online inmate locator or search feature where you can enter the inmate's name or identification number. Websites such as VINELink also provide this service across various states.

2. Can I find the inmate's current location?

Yes, the online inmate search feature usually provides the current location of the inmate, unless there are safety or legal reasons to withhold this information.

3. How frequently is the inmate database updated?

The frequency of updates to an inmate database varies by jurisdiction and facility. Some databases are updated in real-time, while others are updated daily or weekly. It's best to check with the specific facility for the most accurate information.

4. How can I perform an arrest lookup?

Arrest records can be found in public databases managed by local law enforcement agencies or through third-party websites. Some states have statewide databases for arrest records, while others may require searching county or city records.

5. Can I find information about past arrests?

Yes, most arrest records databases include information about past arrests. These records are usually public unless sealed or expunged for legal reasons.

Jail Bookings

6. How can I find information about jail bookings?

Jail booking information is often found on the same online databases where you can perform an inmate search. This information is also often available through the local law enforcement agency's website.

7. How soon after arrest is booking information available?

Booking information is usually made available shortly after the booking process is completed. This can be a few hours to a day after the arrest, depending on the jurisdiction and individual circumstances.

8. Does the booking information include charges against the inmate?

Yes, booking information generally includes the charges against the inmate. It also often includes details such as the inmate's personal information, mugshot, booking number, and bail amount.

Inmate Calls & Mail

9. Can inmates make phone calls?

Yes, most correctional facilities allow inmates to make monitored phone calls, but there may be restrictions on call duration and the times of day when calls are permitted.

10. How can I receive calls from an inmate?

To receive calls from an inmate, you'll typically need to set up a prepaid account with the phone service provider used by the correctional facility. You will also need to be on the inmate's approved call list.

11. What are the restrictions on inmate calls?

Restrictions on inmate calls vary by facility, but typically include limits on call duration, the time of day when calls can be made, and the number of calls an inmate can make per day. All calls are usually recorded and may be monitored for security reasons.

12. How can I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, address your envelope using the inmate's full name, inmate ID number, and the facility's address. Keep in mind that all mail is inspected for security reasons.

13. What are the guidelines for sending mail to an inmate?

Each correctional facility has its own guidelines for sending mail to inmates, but in general, you should avoid including anything that could be considered contraband. Explicit content, polaroid photos, and cash are usually not allowed.

Visitation

14. How can I visit an inmate?

To visit an inmate, you typically need to be on the inmate's approved visitation list. You will also need to schedule your visit in advance, either by calling the facility or using an online scheduling system, if available. You should familiarize yourself with the facility's rules, including dress code, allowed items, and behavior during visitation.

15. What are the visitation rules?

Visitation rules vary by facility, but typically include restrictions on dress code, allowed items, and the behavior of visitors. Visitors may also be subject to a background check. It's best to check the specific rules of the facility where the inmate is housed.

16. Can I schedule a visitation online?

Some facilities offer online visitation scheduling. You'll need to check with the specific correctional facility to find out what options are available.

17. Can children visit inmates?

Children are usually allowed to visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The visitation rules for children can vary by facility, so it's best to check in advance.

18. Can inmates refuse visitation?

Yes, inmates have the right to refuse visitation.

Sending Money & Posting Bond

19. How can I send money to an inmate?

You can send money to an inmate by using a money transfer service approved by the correctional facility, such as JPay, Western Union, or MoneyGram. You can usually send money online, over the phone, or at a physical location.

20. Are there limits on how much money I can send?

Yes, there are typically limits on how much money can be sent to an inmate, and these limits can vary by facility. It's best to check with the specific correctional facility for the most accurate information.

21. How can I post bond for an inmate?

You can post bond for an inmate by paying the full amount of the bail in cash or using a bail bond service, which typically charges a fee of 10-15% of the bail amount. You will need to provide the inmate's full name, booking number, and the bail amount.

22. What are the methods available for posting bond?

Methods for posting bond can include paying the full bail amount in cash, using a bail bond service, or in some cases, using property as collateral. The specific options available can vary by jurisdiction.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

23. Can inmates get legal assistance?

Yes, inmates have the right to legal representation. If an inmate cannot afford a private attorney, they are entitled to a court-appointed attorney or public defender.

24. How can I help an inmate get legal assistance?

You can help an inmate get legal assistance by contacting a lawyer or legal aid organization on their behalf. Many states also have programs that provide legal assistance to inmates.

25. Are there any free legal assistance programs available for inmates?

Yes, many jurisdictions offer free legal assistance programs for inmates. These typically include public defenders and legal aid societies.

Inmate Release

26. How can I find out the release date of an inmate?

Inmate release dates are often available through the same online inmate search or locator used to find their booking information. However, in some cases, for privacy or security reasons, the exact release date may not be publicly available.

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