Highlands County Public Records /Highlands County Inmate Search

Highlands County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Highlands County?

Inmate records in Highlands County are official government documents maintained by the Highlands County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county detention facilities. These records document the entire custodial history of an individual from initial booking through release or transfer to another facility.

Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 119.071(2)(h), inmate records are distinct from court records, which are maintained separately by the judicial system. While court records focus on case proceedings, charges, and legal outcomes, inmate records specifically document:

Booking and intake information
Physical custody details
Behavioral incidents
Visitation logs
Commissary transactions
Medical screening information (with certain privacy protections)
Release or transfer documentation

The creation of inmate records begins at the moment of booking when an individual enters the Highlands County Detention Center. These records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information. Upon release, these records are archived according to Florida's records retention schedules but remain accessible as public records with certain exceptions for protected information.

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state regulations and professional standards established by the Florida Department of Corrections and the Florida Sheriffs Association.

Are Inmate Records Public In Highlands County?

Yes, inmate records in Highlands County are generally considered public records under Florida law. The Florida Public Records Act, Chapter 119, establishes that most government records, including inmate records, are available for public inspection and copying unless specifically exempted by statute.

According to Florida Statutes § 119.07, members of the public have the right to access inmate records maintained by the Highlands County Sheriff's Office. However, certain information within these records may be exempt from disclosure or subject to redaction, including:

Medical and mental health information
Information that would jeopardize facility security
Social Security numbers
Information about minors
Victim information in certain cases

The following inmate information is typically available to the public:

Full name and booking photograph (mugshot)
Current custody status and location
Booking date and time
Charges filed and their status
Bond/bail amounts
Scheduled court appearances
Expected release date (if sentenced)
Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)

The Florida Department of State provides guidance on accessing inmate records throughout Florida counties, including Highlands County.

What's Included Inmate Records in Highlands County

Inmate records in Highlands 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 and age
Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Last known address
Gender

Custody Information:

Booking date and time
Arresting agency
Booking number and inmate identification number
Current housing assignment
Custody classification level
Disciplinary records while in custody
Visitation logs

Charge Information:

Current charges (felony/misdemeanor designation)
Warrant information
Arresting agency case numbers
Statute citations for alleged violations
Charge status (pending, dismissed, etc.)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (cash, surety, etc.)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
Conditions of release if applicable

Court Information:

Case numbers
Assigned court
Scheduled court appearances
Court outcomes and dispositions

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Sentence length and terms
Credit for time served
Projected release date
Probation/parole eligibility dates
Special conditions imposed by the court

Release Information:

Release date and time
Type of release (bond, completion of sentence, transfer)
Release conditions
Agency assuming custody if transferred

These records are maintained in electronic and physical formats by the Highlands County Sheriff's Office in compliance with Florida's records management requirements and law enforcement standards.

Highlands County Prison System

The Highlands County correctional system operates under the jurisdiction of the Highlands County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of the county's detention facilities. This system primarily focuses on pre-trial detention and the incarceration of individuals serving sentences of less than one year, as prescribed by Florida Statutes § 951.23.

It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Highlands County Detention Center houses individuals who:

Are awaiting trial or court proceedings
Have been sentenced to terms of less than one year
Are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Are being held on probation violations
Are detained on behalf of other agencies

Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year for felony convictions are typically transferred to facilities operated by the Florida Department of Corrections, not the county.

The Highlands County detention system is administered by:

Highlands County Sheriff's Office
400 S Eucalyptus St
Sebring, FL 33870
(863) 402-7200
Highlands County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains operational policies and procedures in accordance with standards established by the Florida Model Jail Standards and applicable state regulations governing county detention facilities.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Highlands County

Highlands County maintains a consolidated correctional system with facilities designed to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations. The primary facilities include:

Highlands County Detention Center
434 Fernleaf Avenue
Sebring, FL 33870
(863) 402-7238
Highlands County Detention Facility

This is the main detention facility in Highlands County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility includes:

Maximum security housing units
Medium security housing units
Minimum security housing units
Special housing for protective custody
Medical observation units
Intake and booking area
Visitation areas
Administrative offices

The Detention Center has a rated capacity of approximately 512 beds and provides various inmate programs including:

Educational services
Religious services
Substance abuse counseling
Work programs for eligible inmates
Medical and mental health services

Highlands County Work Release Center
434 Fernleaf Avenue
Sebring, FL 33870
(863) 402-7238

This facility operates as part of the main detention center and houses minimum security inmates who qualify for work release programs. These inmates are typically:

Serving sentences for non-violent offenses
Nearing the end of their incarceration period
Demonstrating good behavior while in custody
Participating in community service or employment programs

All facilities operate under the direct supervision of the Highlands County Sheriff's Office and adhere to the standards established by the Florida Sheriff's Association and the Florida Model Jail Standards.

Who's in Prison In Highlands County

The Highlands County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment
Defendants who have been arraigned but are awaiting trial
Persons who have not posted bail or were denied bail
Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions

Sentenced Offenders:

Persons serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions
Individuals serving sentences for county ordinance violations
Offenders awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
Persons serving split sentences (partial incarceration followed by probation)

Specialized Populations:

Individuals held on probation or parole violations
Persons detained on civil commitments
Individuals held on contempt of court charges
Federal detainees held under interagency agreements
Immigration detainees held under contract with federal authorities

According to data from the Highlands County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population fluctuates between 350-450 inmates, with approximately:

70% male and 30% female inmates
60% pre-trial detainees and 40% sentenced offenders
Varying offense categories including drug offenses, property crimes, violent crimes, and public order offenses

The demographic composition of the inmate population generally reflects the broader demographics of Highlands County, with variations based on socioeconomic factors and law enforcement patterns. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 30 days, while sentenced offenders typically serve terms ranging from several days to one year.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Highlands County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Highlands County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Highlands County Sheriff's Office provides multiple options for conducting inmate searches:

Online Search Portal:

Visit the Highlands County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search webpage
Enter the required search criteria (at least one field is required):
- Inmate's first and/or last name
- Booking number (if known)
- Date of birth (if known)
Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate's full name
- Booking photograph
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Housing location
- Expected release date (if applicable)

Mobile Application:

Download the Highlands County Sheriff's Office mobile application from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
Navigate to the "Inmate Search" feature
Enter search criteria as described above
View inmate information directly on your mobile device

In-Person Request:

Visit the Highlands County Sheriff's Office Records Division 400 S Eucalyptus St Sebring, FL 33870
Complete a public records request form
Provide identification and any applicable fees for copies
Records staff will process your request according to Florida public records laws

Written Request:

Submit a written public records request to: Highlands County Sheriff's Office Records Division 400 S Eucalyptus St Sebring, FL 33870
Include specific information about the inmate you are searching for
Provide your contact information for response
Include payment for any applicable fees (currently $0.15 per page for copies)

Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 119.07(4), the Sheriff's Office must acknowledge requests promptly and respond within a reasonable timeframe. Standard processing time for inmate record requests is typically 3-5 business days, though online searches provide immediate results.

How To Find an Inmate in Highlands County for Free?

Highlands County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals currently in custody. These free resources are designed to assist family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties in determining an inmate's location and status:

Official Sheriff's Office Website:

Navigate to the Highlands County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search page
Enter the inmate's name or other identifying information
Review the results, which include current custody status and facility location
This service is available 24/7 and provides real-time information

Telephone Information System:

Call the Highlands County Detention Center at (863) 402-7238
Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
Provide the inmate's name or booking number when prompted
Basic information about custody status will be provided
This service is available during regular business hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday)

Florida Department of Corrections Website:

For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody, visit the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search
Enter the inmate's name or DC number
Review custody status and location information
This service is particularly useful for individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year

Florida Department of State Resources: The Florida Department of State maintains a comprehensive directory of county jail inmate search resources throughout Florida, including Highlands County.

When using these free search methods, it is advisable to have as much identifying information as possible, including:

Full legal name (including middle name if known)
Date of birth
Approximate booking date
Case number (if available)

Information obtained through these free resources is limited to publicly available data and excludes confidential or protected information that may require formal public records requests.

How To Visit an Inmate In Highlands County

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office maintains specific policies and procedures for inmate visitation to ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with Florida Administrative Code 33-601.722 regarding correctional facility visitation standards.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be the inmate's child, stepchild, grandchild, or sibling
Maximum of two adults and two children per visit

Visit Schedule:

General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Maximum Security: Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Special Housing Units: By appointment only
No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
Medications needed 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
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Food or beverages
Tobacco products or vaping devices
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

Conservative attire required
No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
No clothing with offensive language or images
No gang-related colors or symbols
Shoes and shirts required at all times
No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)

Visit Types:

On-site video visitation (primary method)
Remote video visitation (available for a fee through approved service provider)
Contact visits (limited to special circumstances with prior approval)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) during designated hours

Visit Restrictions:

Former inmates must wait 6 months after release before visiting
Persons with felony convictions require special approval
Visitors may be subject to search
Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
Three missed visits in 30 days may result in visitation privileges suspension

For current visitation information and to schedule visits, contact:

Highlands County Detention Center Visitation Office
434 Fernleaf Avenue
Sebring, FL 33870
(863) 402-7238
Jail Information

How To Send Money to a Highlands County Inmate

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office 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 during incarceration.

Approved Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the Highlands County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Funds" option
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
- Accepted payment methods include credit/debit cards
- Processing fees apply (typically 5-8% of deposit amount)
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Kiosk Deposits:
- Located in the Highlands County Detention Center lobby
- Available 24/7
- Accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Nominal service fee applies
- Funds available immediately
Money Order by Mail:
- Make payable to "Highlands County Sheriff's Office Inmate Trust"
- Include inmate's full name and booking number on money order
- Mail to: Highlands County Detention Center Inmate Accounts 434 Fernleaf Avenue Sebring, FL 33870
- No personal checks accepted
- No service fee
- Processing time: 3-5 business days
Mobile Application:
- Download the approved mobile app (available on Sheriff's Office website)
- Create an account and link payment method
- Select inmate by name and booking number
- Complete transaction
- Service fees apply
- Funds typically available within 24 hours

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00

Fee Structure:

Online deposits: 5-8% of total deposit amount
Kiosk deposits: $2.50 flat fee for transactions under $100; $5.00 for transactions over $100
Money orders: No fee
Mobile app: 5-8% of total deposit amount plus $0.99 transaction fee

Prohibited Items:

Personal checks
Cash sent through mail
Cashier's checks
Third-party checks
Foreign currency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls
Video visitation fees
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Release funds

Restricted Uses:

Payments to other inmates
Payments to outside vendors
Bond payments
Court fees (unless specifically authorized)
Restitution payments

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-203.201 regarding inmate trust fund operations.

How To Send Jail Mail In Highlands County

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office maintains specific procedures for sending mail to inmates in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-210.101. All correspondence must adhere to these guidelines to ensure delivery to the intended recipient.

Mailing Address Format:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Highlands County Detention Center
434 Fernleaf Avenue
Sebring, FL 33870

Approved Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 5 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
Money orders (made payable to the inmate with booking number noted)
Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
Legal documents from attorneys (clearly marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to security review)
Soft-cover books and magazines (must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)

Mail Restrictions:

No packages from family or friends
No hardcover books
No plastic, metal, or wooden items
No food or clothing items
No perfumed or stained paper
No stickers, glitter, crayon, marker, or colored pencil
No cash or personal checks
No sexually explicit materials
No gang-related content
No publications advocating violence or illegal activity

Mail Processing Procedures:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
Mail may be photocopied, with copies provided to inmates and originals destroyed
Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
Contraband items are returned to sender or disposed of according to policy
Mail is typically delivered within 24-48 hours of receipt and processing

Electronic Messaging: The Highlands County Detention Center also offers a secure electronic messaging system:

Create an account on the approved messaging platform (available through the Sheriff's Office website)
Purchase messaging credits
Compose and send messages to inmates
Messages are subject to review and monitoring
Service fees apply (typically $0.25-$0.50 per message)
Character limits apply to electronic messages

Mail Monitoring Notice: All non-privileged mail is subject to opening, inspection, and reading by detention facility staff. This policy is enforced for security purposes and to detect contraband or communications that could threaten the safety and security of the facility.

For questions regarding mail policies or to report issues with mail delivery, contact:

Highlands County Detention Center Mail Room
434 Fernleaf Avenue
Sebring, FL 33870
(863) 402-7238