Lake County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Lake County?
Inmate records in Lake County, Florida, are official documents maintained by the Lake County Sheriff's Office and the Florida Department of Corrections that contain information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. These records serve as the official documentation of an individual's time in custody, including their booking information, charges, court proceedings, and release information.
Pursuant to Florida Statutes Chapter 119, commonly known as Florida's Public Records Law, these records are generally considered public information with certain exceptions for protected data. The records management system tracks inmates from their initial booking through their release or transfer to other facilities.
Inmate records typically include:
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Personal identifying information
- Current charges and case numbers
- Court dates and hearing schedules
- Custody status and housing location
- Bond information
- Scheduled release dates (when applicable)
The Lake County Sheriff's Office maintains these records for individuals housed in the Lake County Detention Center, while state-level inmate information is managed by the Florida Department of Corrections for those serving sentences in state facilities.
Lake County Sheriff's Office 360 W Ruby Street Tavares, FL 32778 Phone: (352) 343-9500 Lake County Sheriff's Office
Are Inmate Records Public In Lake County?
Inmate records in Lake County are generally considered public information in accordance with Florida's Public Records Law (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes). This statute establishes the presumption that all government records, including inmate records, are open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
Members of the public may access basic inmate information through several methods:
- Online inmate search tools provided by the Lake County Sheriff's Office
- In-person requests at the Lake County Detention Center
- Public records requests submitted to the appropriate agency
However, certain information contained within inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure pursuant to § 119.071, Florida Statutes. Protected information typically includes:
- Social Security numbers
- Medical and mental health records
- Information related to ongoing investigations
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
- Victim information in certain cases
- Information that would compromise facility security
The custodian of records is required to redact exempt information before releasing records to the public. Requests for inmate records may be subject to reasonable fees for duplication and staff time as permitted under § 119.07(4), Florida Statutes.
What's Included Inmate Records in Lake County
Inmate records maintained by Lake County correctional facilities contain comprehensive documentation regarding an individual's incarceration. These records are maintained pursuant to Florida Administrative Code Rule 33-601.901 and include several categories of information.
Demographic and identification information includes:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number and/or booking number
Case-related information typically contains:
- Current charges and associated statute numbers
- Arrest date and arresting agency
- Court case numbers and jurisdiction
- Sentencing information and term of incarceration
- Parole or probation status
- Scheduled court appearances
- Bond amount and status
Custody management records document:
- Current housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level and custody status
- Disciplinary records from current incarceration
- Visitation logs (who visited and when)
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Prior incarceration history within Lake County
The Lake County Clerk of Circuit & County Courts maintains related court records that may provide additional context to an inmate's case, including charging documents, court proceedings, and disposition information. These records can be accessed through the Lake County Clerk's online record search portal.
Lake County Prison System
The Lake County correctional system operates under a multi-tiered structure that includes county-level detention facilities managed by the Lake County Sheriff's Office and state-level facilities operated by the Florida Department of Corrections. This system is designed to house individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process.
The primary county-level facility is the Lake County Detention Center, which serves as the central booking and holding facility for individuals arrested within Lake County. This facility processes approximately 8,000 bookings annually and has a capacity of approximately 960 inmates. The detention center houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving sentences of less than one year, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities.
Lake County Detention Center 551 W Main Street Tavares, FL 32778 Phone: (352) 742-4000 Lake County Sheriff's Office Detention Bureau
The Florida Department of Corrections operates state prison facilities that house Lake County offenders sentenced to terms exceeding one year. These facilities are categorized by security levels ranging from minimum to maximum security. Lake County inmates serving state sentences may be housed at various facilities throughout Florida based on classification, security needs, and available space.
The Lake County Probation Services Division, operating under the Board of County Commissioners, provides supervision for offenders sentenced to county probation. This division works in conjunction with the court system to monitor compliance with court-ordered conditions.
Lake County Probation Services 315 W Main Street, Suite 233 Tavares, FL 32778 Phone: (352) 742-6565 Lake County Probation
Types of Correctional Facilities In Lake County
Lake County's correctional system encompasses several types of facilities designed to accommodate different inmate populations based on security requirements, sentence length, and specialized needs. These facilities operate under the authority of either the Lake County Sheriff's Office or the Florida Department of Corrections.
The Lake County Detention Center serves as the primary county-level facility and includes:
- Pre-trial detention units for individuals awaiting court proceedings
- Minimum security housing for low-risk inmates and those serving short sentences
- Medium security housing for general population inmates
- Maximum security units for high-risk inmates and those with disciplinary issues
- Medical housing units for inmates requiring specialized healthcare
- Mental health units for inmates with psychiatric needs
Work release programs are available for qualifying inmates who meet specific criteria. These programs allow inmates to maintain employment in the community while returning to secure housing during non-working hours. The work release facility provides a transitional environment for inmates nearing release.
Lake County does not operate juvenile detention facilities directly. Juvenile offenders from Lake County are typically housed at regional juvenile detention centers operated by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, with the nearest facility located in neighboring Marion County.
For inmates requiring specialized treatment, Lake County utilizes:
- Court-ordered substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health diversion programs
- Veterans' treatment court programs
Inmates sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to state prison facilities operated by the Florida Department of Corrections. The Florida Department of Corrections inmate search provides information on Lake County residents housed in state facilities.
Who's in Prison In Lake County
The Lake County detention population consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. As of the most recent available data, the Lake County Detention Center houses approximately 700-800 inmates on an average day, representing approximately 85% of its total capacity.
The inmate population demographics include:
- Approximately 85% male and 15% female inmates
- Age distribution ranging primarily from 18 to 55 years
- Racial composition generally reflecting county demographics with some disproportionality
Inmates are categorized by legal status as follows:
- Pre-trial detainees (approximately 65% of the population)
- County-sentenced inmates serving terms of less than one year (approximately 25%)
- State inmates awaiting transfer to Department of Corrections facilities (approximately 5%)
- Inmates held on behalf of other jurisdictions or agencies (approximately 5%)
The most common offense categories for Lake County inmates include:
- Drug-related offenses (possession, trafficking)
- Property crimes (burglary, theft, fraud)
- Violent offenses (assault, battery, domestic violence)
- Driving under the influence and other traffic offenses
- Probation violations
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case type and legal status. Pre-trial detainees may remain in custody for periods ranging from days to months depending on case complexity and bond status. County-sentenced inmates typically serve terms ranging from 30 days to 12 months.
Statistical information regarding the Lake County inmate population is updated regularly and may be obtained through formal public records requests to the Lake County Sheriff's Office Records Division.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Lake County in 2025
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Lake County have several methods available to access these records. The Lake County Sheriff's Office provides multiple platforms for conducting inmate searches, each offering varying levels of detail and accessibility.
The primary method for searching inmate records is through the Lake County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal. This system is accessible 24 hours a day and provides real-time information on currently incarcerated individuals. To utilize this system:
- Navigate to the Lake County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Search" or "Detention" section
- Enter search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
- Review the results, which typically include booking photo, charges, and custody status
For more comprehensive information not available through the online portal, individuals may submit a public records request to the Lake County Sheriff's Office Records Division. These requests may be submitted:
- In person at the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- By mail with appropriate forms and identification
- Through the county's online public records request system
The Lake County Clerk of Circuit Court maintains related court records that may provide additional context to an inmate's case. Their online search system allows users to search by:
- Case number
- Party name
- Citation number
- Date range
For inmates who have been transferred to state custody, the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search provides information on individuals housed in state facilities. This database includes:
- Current location and custody status
- Sentence information and projected release date
- Supervision status for released offenders
How To Find an Inmate in Lake County for Free?
Lake County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals in custody within the county detention system. These resources are available to the general public without requiring payment or subscription fees.
The most accessible method is the Lake County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup tool, which provides basic custody information at no charge. This resource:
- Updates information in near real-time
- Requires only basic identifying information such as name or booking number
- Displays current housing location, charges, and bond information
- Is accessible via computer or mobile device with internet access
Individuals may also contact the Lake County Detention Center directly by telephone at (352) 742-4000. When calling:
- Be prepared to provide the full name of the person being sought
- Have additional identifying information available if possible (date of birth, approximate booking date)
- Understand that basic information such as confirmation of custody status and visiting hours is typically provided
- Be aware that detailed information may require a formal records request
The Lake County Clerk of Circuit Court's online records system provides free access to court records related to criminal cases. This system allows users to:
- Search for case information by defendant name
- View court dates and hearing schedules
- Access public court documents related to the case
- Monitor case progression through the court system
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Florida Department of Corrections inmate search provides free statewide inmate location information. This database includes all individuals currently incarcerated in Florida state prisons.
How To Visit an Inmate In Lake County
Visitation with inmates housed at the Lake County Detention Center is conducted according to established procedures designed to maintain facility security while facilitating important family connections. All visits must comply with Florida Model Jail Standards and Lake County Sheriff's Office policies.
The Lake County Detention Center utilizes a video visitation system for most inmate visits. This system operates as follows:
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Scheduling is available through the online visitation portal or by calling (352) 742-4000
- Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
- Visiting hours are 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday
- Proper identification (government-issued photo ID) is required for all visitors
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) follow different protocols:
- Attorneys may visit during extended hours (8:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily)
- Professional visitors must present proper credentials
- Contact visits may be arranged for certain professional consultations
Visitors should be aware of facility regulations:
- Appropriate attire is required (no revealing clothing, gang-related attire, or clothing resembling inmate uniforms)
- Personal items are restricted (only car keys and identification are permitted in the visitation area)
- All visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility
- Disruptive behavior may result in termination of visits and possible suspension of visitation privileges
Special visits for exceptional circumstances (out-of-state visitors, family emergencies) may be arranged with prior approval from the Detention Center administration. Requests should be submitted in writing at least 72 hours in advance.
Lake County Detention Center 551 W Main Street Tavares, FL 32778 Phone: (352) 742-4000 Lake County Sheriff's Office
How To Send Money to a Lake County Inmate
Lake County Detention Center provides multiple methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds may be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Florida Model Jail Standards and Lake County Sheriff's Office policies.
The following options are available for depositing funds:
Kiosk deposits can be made in person at the Lake County Detention Center lobby:
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Accepts cash and credit/debit cards
- Provides immediate posting to inmate accounts
- Requires the inmate's name and booking number
- Maximum deposit amount of $300 per transaction
Online deposits may be made through the approved third-party service provider:
- Accessible via computer or mobile device
- Requires creation of an account with the service provider
- Accepts major credit/debit cards
- Processing fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds generally post within 24 hours
Money orders may be mailed to the facility:
- Must be made payable to "Lake County Detention Center" with inmate's name and booking number in memo line
- Should be sent to: Lake County Detention Center, Inmate Accounts, 551 W Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778
- Personal checks are not accepted
- Processing time is typically 3-5 business days
Telephone deposits can be made by calling the approved service provider:
- Available 24 hours daily at (888) 988-4768
- Requires credit/debit card payment
- Service fees apply
- Funds typically post within 24 hours
Depositors should be aware that:
- All funds received are subject to collection of court-ordered financial obligations
- A percentage of deposits may be applied to outstanding debts
- Refunds of unused funds upon release are processed by check within 14 business days
- Maximum account balances may be limited by facility policy
How To Send Jail Mail In Lake County
Correspondence with inmates housed at the Lake County Detention Center must follow established guidelines to ensure facility security and efficient mail processing. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-210.101 and Lake County Sheriff's Office policies.
Letters and cards sent to inmates must:
- Be addressed with the inmate's full name and booking number
- Include a complete return address with sender's full name
- Be sent via U.S. Postal Service to: Inmate Name and Booking Number, Lake County Detention Center, 551 W Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778
- Contain correspondence on plain white, lined, or colored stationery
- Be free of stains, perfumes, lipstick, or unknown substances
- Not exceed 10 pages per envelope (excluding photographs)
Photographs may be sent according to these guidelines:
- Maximum of 5 photos per envelope
- Size not to exceed 4" x 6"
- No Polaroid-type photos
- No sexually explicit or gang-related content
- No photos of other inmates or correctional facilities
Publications and books must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor:
- Paperback books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
- Magazines must have subscriber's name and address visible
- Content must comply with facility regulations regarding appropriate material
- Religious materials are subject to the same mailing and content restrictions
Prohibited items that will result in rejection include:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Greeting cards larger than 5" x 7"
- Cards with electronic components, pop-ups, or glitter
- Cash, checks, or contraband
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Photocopied materials exceeding 10 pages
Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies receives special handling:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not subject to content inspection, only contraband screening
Lookup Inmate Records in Lake County
Florida Department of Corrections inmate search
Lake County public records request portal
Lake County Clerk court records search