Paulding County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Paulding County?
Inmate records in Paulding County are official government documents maintained by the Paulding County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. Pursuant to Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70, these records document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals throughout their period of incarceration.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the Paulding County Clerk of Superior Court, document legal proceedings, charges, and case dispositions, inmate records specifically track an individual's status within the correctional system. The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process when an individual is first taken into custody. These records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information.
As defined by Georgia Code § 42-5-36, inmate records include documentation of an individual's entry into the correctional system, their status while incarcerated, and their eventual release. The Paulding County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state regulations governing records retention and public access.
Are Inmate Records Public In Paulding County?
Inmate records in Paulding County are considered public records under the Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70 et seq., which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, access to certain information within these records may be restricted in accordance with privacy laws and security considerations.
The following inmate information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking and arrest information
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshots (booking photographs)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates (for sentenced inmates)
- Current housing facility
Certain information within inmate records may be redacted or restricted from public access pursuant to Georgia Code § 42-5-36(d), which protects sensitive information such as:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social security numbers
- Personal identifying information that could compromise security
- Information related to ongoing investigations
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records in Paulding County may utilize the online inmate search portal provided by the Paulding County Sheriff's Office or submit a formal records request in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Paulding County
Inmate records maintained by the Paulding County Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks (such as tattoos or scars)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Unique inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute numbers)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant information
- Arresting agency
- Prior booking history (if applicable)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, property, etc.)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bonding company information (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction (Magistrate, State, Superior)
- Case numbers
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Projected release date
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Good time/work time credits earned
Release Information:
- Release date and time (if released)
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer, etc.)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
- Agency assuming custody (if transferred)
This information is maintained in accordance with Georgia Code § 42-4-7, which establishes requirements for record-keeping in county detention facilities.
Paulding County Prison System
The Paulding County correctional system operates under the authority of the Paulding County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of the county's detention facilities. The system primarily consists of the Paulding County Detention Center, which houses both pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to 12 months as prescribed by Georgia law.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Georgia's correctional system. The Paulding County Detention Center, as a county facility, primarily houses individuals awaiting trial, those convicted of misdemeanors with sentences of 12 months or less, and individuals temporarily held for transfer to other jurisdictions. In contrast, state prisons, operated by the Georgia Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than 12 months.
The Paulding County Sheriff's Office maintains oversight of all detention operations within the county:
Paulding County Sheriff's Office
247 Industrial Way North
Dallas, GA 30132
770-443-3010
Paulding County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office operates in accordance with standards established by the Georgia Sheriffs' Association and complies with state regulations governing detention facilities as outlined in Georgia Code § 42-4-1 et seq..
Types of Correctional Facilities In Paulding County
Paulding County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around its primary detention facility:
Paulding County Detention Center
2779 Watson Government Complex
Dallas, GA 30132
770-443-3030
Paulding County Jail Division
The Paulding County Detention Center is a modern facility completed in 2020, located on the Watson Government Complex in Dallas, Georgia. This facility serves multiple functions within the county's correctional system:
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Main Detention Facility: Houses the majority of inmates in custody, including both male and female detainees across various security classifications. The facility has a capacity of approximately 500 inmates and includes specialized housing units for different populations.
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Intake and Processing Center: All individuals arrested in Paulding County are processed through this facility, where booking, fingerprinting, and initial assessments occur.
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Bonding and Visitation Center: A dedicated area where the public can arrange for inmate visitation and process bond payments.
The facility operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and employs trained correctional officers and support staff who manage daily operations, including inmate supervision, facility security, and administrative functions.
Paulding County does not operate separate work release centers or minimum-security facilities; however, the main detention center incorporates different security levels and housing classifications within its structure to accommodate varying custody requirements.
Who's in Prison In Paulding County
The Paulding County Detention Center houses several categories of individuals under the jurisdiction of the Paulding County Sheriff's Office:
Pre-trial Detainees: The largest population consists of individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are held pending trial because they:
- Have not posted bail or bond
- Have been denied bail due to the nature of their charges
- Are awaiting their initial court appearance
Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses with sentences of 12 months or less serve their time in the county facility. Common misdemeanor convictions include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Simple assault
- Petty theft
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor drug possession
Probation/Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole may be held in the county jail pending hearings or as part of a short-term sanction.
Temporary Holds: The facility may temporarily house individuals who are:
- Awaiting transfer to state prison after felony conviction
- Being held for other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, or states)
- Serving weekend sentences as part of alternative sentencing arrangements
State Inmates: In some cases, due to overcrowding in state facilities, the county may house some state inmates under contract with the Georgia Department of Corrections.
According to data from the Paulding County Sheriff's Office, the average daily population fluctuates between 350-450 inmates, with approximately 70% being pre-trial detainees and 30% serving sentences. The demographic composition generally reflects the county's population, with variations in age, gender, and offense types.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Paulding County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Paulding County may utilize several methods to access these records:
Online Inmate Search Portal:
- Visit the Paulding County Sheriff's Inmate Inquiry system
- Enter search criteria in at least one of the available fields:
- Inmate's full or partial name
- Subject number (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Select additional search parameters if desired:
- "In Custody" status (Yes/No/All)
- Booking date range
- Click "Search" to view results
- Select an individual record to view detailed information
The online system is updated regularly and provides current information on individuals currently in custody, including charges, booking date, and bond information.
In-Person Records Request:
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Visit the Paulding County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours:
Paulding County Sheriff's Office Records Division
247 Industrial Way North
Dallas, GA 30132
770-443-3010
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM -
Complete a records request form, providing as much identifying information as possible
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Present valid government-issued photo identification
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Pay applicable fees for record copies (currently $5.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page)
Written Records Request:
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Submit a written request pursuant to the Georgia Open Records Act to:
Paulding County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Records Custodian
247 Industrial Way North
Dallas, GA 30132 -
Include in your request:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Booking number or approximate dates of incarceration (if known)
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Allow up to three business days for a response as permitted under Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-71(b)(1)(A)
How To Find an Inmate in Paulding County for Free?
Paulding County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody:
Online Inmate Lookup: The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the Paulding County Sheriff's Inmate Inquiry system. This free online database allows searches by:
- Inmate's name (last name, first name)
- Booking number
- Subject number
- Custody status
- Booking date range
The system provides real-time information on current inmates and is accessible 24/7 without charge.
Telephone Inquiry: Members of the public may contact the Paulding County Detention Center directly:
- Call the main jail information line at 770-443-3030
- Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth
- Request basic custody information (confirmation of incarceration, charges, bond amount)
Note that telephone operators can only provide limited information and may direct callers to use the online system for more detailed records.
Jail Lobby Kiosk: The Paulding County Detention Center provides public access computer kiosks in the lobby area:
- Visit the Detention Center during regular lobby hours (8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily)
- Use the self-service kiosk to search for inmate information
- No fee is required to use this service
Court Records Cross-Reference: For cases that have progressed to court proceedings, the Paulding County Clerk of Courts maintains public access terminals where court records can be searched at no cost:
- Visit the Clerk's Office during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
- Use the public access terminals to search by name
- Court records will indicate if an individual is in custody
These free resources provide basic information about an inmate's custody status, charges, and bond information. More detailed records may require a formal records request and associated fees.
How To Visit an Inmate In Paulding County
The Paulding County Sheriff's Office facilitates inmate visitation through a structured process designed to maintain security while allowing inmates to maintain community connections:
Visit Rules and Procedures: Visitation at the Paulding County Detention Center is conducted exclusively through video visitation services as outlined on the Jail Visitation and Bonding page. The process works as follows:
- Register for an account through the video visitation system
- Schedule a visit at least 24 hours in advance
- Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled visit time
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Complete security screening procedures
Visit Schedule:
- On-site video visitation hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- No visitation on Mondays (reserved for facility maintenance)
- Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance but no more than 7 days ahead
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
- Confirmation of scheduled visit
- Minor visitors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proper documentation
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal substances or alcohol
- Electronic devices (including cell phones, tablets, laptops, cameras)
- Food or beverages
- Bags, purses, or backpacks (small lockers are available)
- Excessive cash (over $50)
Dress Code: All visitors must adhere to the following dress requirements:
- No revealing or provocative clothing
- No gang-related attire or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- Shirts and shoes required at all times
- No hats, bandanas, or head coverings (religious exceptions may apply)
- No excessively baggy clothing
Visit Types:
- On-site Video Visitation: Conducted at the Bonding and Visitation Center using facility-provided equipment
- Remote Video Visitation: Available from any internet-connected device for a fee
- Professional Visits: Attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals may arrange contact visits through the facility administration
Visit Restrictions:
- Individuals with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied visitation privileges
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Visitors who attempt to bring contraband may face criminal charges under Georgia Code § 42-4-13
All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations. Visitors are advised to verify current procedures by calling 770-443-3030 before planning a visit.
How To Send Money to a Paulding County Inmate
The Paulding County Sheriff's Office provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account:
Lobby Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the Paulding County Detention Center lobby during operating hours (8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily)
- Use the automated kiosk machine located in the lobby
- Follow on-screen instructions to deposit funds using cash or credit/debit card
- Retain the receipt for your records
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 1-2 hours
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Paulding County Inmate Trust Fund portal
- Create an account or log in to an existing account
- Select the inmate by name and ID number
- Enter the deposit amount and payment information
- Complete the transaction and save the confirmation number
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Phone Deposits:
- Call the automated system at 1-866-345-1884
- Follow voice prompts to complete the transaction
- Have the inmate's full name and ID number ready
- Provide credit/debit card information as requested
- Record the confirmation number provided
Mail Money Orders:
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Purchase a money order payable to "Paulding County Inmate Trust Fund"
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Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
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Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
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Mail to:
Paulding County Detention Center
Inmate Trust Fund
2779 Watson Government Complex
Dallas, GA 30132 -
Allow 7-10 business days for processing
Amount Limits and Fees:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
- Lobby kiosk fee: $2.50 per transaction
- Online/phone deposit fee: 3.5% of deposit amount ($1.95 minimum)
- Money order deposits: No fee
Funds Usage Regulations: Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls and video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays for requested services
- Release funds upon discharge
Funds may not be used for:
- Posting bond or bail
- Paying court fines or fees while incarcerated
- Transferring money to other inmates
- Purchasing prohibited items or services
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Georgia Code § 42-4-4, which governs inmate accounts and commissary operations.
How To Send Jail Mail In Paulding County
The Paulding County Detention Center maintains specific procedures for sending mail to inmates in accordance with security protocols and Georgia Code § 42-5-18, which governs inmate communications:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
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Address all mail exactly as follows:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Paulding County Detention Center
2779 Watson Government Complex
Dallas, GA 30132 -
Include your complete return address on the envelope
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Use standard white envelopes only (colored envelopes will be rejected)
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All mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery to inmates
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Mail without proper addressing or return address will be returned to sender
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 5 pages, single-sided)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
- Money orders (as described in the previous section)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive materials
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented papers
- Cash, checks, or stamps
- Sexually explicit or obscene materials
- Gang-related content
- Information regarding criminal activities
- Excessive mail (more than 5 pages per letter)
Legal Mail: Mail from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives receives special handling:
- Clearly mark "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Include attorney bar number or court information
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Contents are inspected for contraband but not read by staff
Electronic Messaging: The Paulding County Detention Center offers a secure electronic messaging system:
- Create an account through the inmate communication portal
- Purchase message credits through the online system
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
- Messages are subject to review and monitoring
- Fees apply for each electronic message sent
Mail Restrictions and Monitoring:
- All non-legal mail is subject to being read by detention staff
- Mail containing threats, escape plans, or criminal activity will be confiscated
- Violation of mail rules may result in disciplinary action for the inmate
- Attempting to send contraband through mail may result in criminal charges
- Mail volume may be limited based on security and storage considerations
Inmates are typically allowed to keep approved mail items in their possession, subject to facility storage limitations. Excessive accumulation of mail may require inmates to send items home or discard them to maintain compliance with fire and safety regulations.
Lookup Inmate Records in Paulding County
Search for inmates in the Paulding County Detention Center
Learn about the Paulding County Jail Division and its operations
Find information about jail visitation and communication with Paulding County inmates