Scioto County Public Records /Scioto County Inmate Search

Scioto County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Scioto County?

Inmate records in Scioto County are official government documents maintained by the Scioto County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document individuals who are in custody within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial entry into the correctional system through their release or transfer to other facilities.

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43, inmate records are classified as public records maintained by county law enforcement agencies. These records differ significantly from court records in both content and purpose. While court records document legal proceedings, judgments, and case dispositions, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within correctional facilities.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where the following occurs:

Documentation of personal identifying information
Recording of arrest circumstances
Assignment of booking numbers
Collection of biometric data including fingerprints and photographs
Medical screening information
Personal property inventory

Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:

Housing assignments
Disciplinary actions
Visitation logs
Medical treatments
Program participation
Court appearances

Upon release, the inmate record is completed with discharge information but remains on file with the Scioto County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Ohio's records retention schedules.

Scioto County Sheriff's Office
612 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662
740-355-8261
Scioto County Sheriff's Office

Are Inmate Records Public In Scioto County?

Inmate records in Scioto County are generally considered public records under Ohio law, with certain specific exceptions. The Ohio Public Records Act establishes that records kept by any public office, including county sheriff's offices and correctional facilities, are public records unless specifically exempted by law.

According to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(A)(1), public records are defined as "records kept by any public office, including, but not limited to, state, county, city, village, township, and school district units." This broad definition encompasses inmate records maintained by the Scioto County Sheriff's Office.

The following inmate record information is typically accessible to the public:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information
Charges filed
Mugshot photographs
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Current housing facility

However, certain components of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under Ohio law, including:

Medical and mental health information
Social Security numbers
Information that would jeopardize an ongoing investigation
Records that would create a security risk for the facility or individuals
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Confidential informant information

The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction maintains that "the public has a right to know who is incarcerated in state and local facilities, the charges for which they are being held, and other basic information related to their custody status." This principle guides the disclosure practices for inmate records in Scioto County.

What's Included Inmate Records in Scioto County

Inmate records in Scioto County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency
Booking officer information
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification status (minimum, medium, maximum security)
Disciplinary records during incarceration
Participation in jail programs or work assignments

Charge Information:

Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Warrant information
Case numbers
Arresting agency
Incident reports related to the arrest
Prior booking history within the county

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, not posted)
Conditions of release if applicable

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Scheduled court appearances
Court case numbers
Name of assigned judge
Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Length of sentence
Conviction date
Sentencing judge
Credit for time served
Probation/parole eligibility dates
Good time/earned credit calculations

Release Information:

Scheduled release date
Actual release date and time
Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
Post-release supervision requirements
Agency assuming custody if transferred

The Scioto County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code 5120:1-8, which establishes minimum standards for jails in Ohio, including requirements for record-keeping and information management.

Scioto County Prison System

The Scioto County correctional system operates under a tiered structure that distinguishes between local detention facilities and state prison facilities. The Scioto County Sheriff's Office has primary responsibility for operating the county jail, which serves as the main detention facility for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of less than one year.

The county jail system primarily houses:

Individuals awaiting arraignment or trial who have not posted bail
Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Individuals held on probation or parole violations
Detainees awaiting extradition to other jurisdictions

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system. The Scioto County Jail is designed for short-term incarceration and pre-trial detention, while the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction operates state prisons for individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.

The Scioto County jail system operates under the authority granted by Ohio Revised Code § 341.01, which establishes that "the sheriff shall have charge of the county jail and all persons confined therein."

Scioto County Sheriff's Office
612 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662
740-355-8261
Scioto County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains operational policies in compliance with the minimum standards for jails established by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's Bureau of Adult Detention.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Scioto County

Scioto County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system.

Scioto County Jail
612 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662
740-355-8261
Scioto County Sheriff's Office

The main county jail facility serves as the primary detention center for adult offenders in Scioto County. This facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The jail provides various services including medical care, commissary, and limited programming.

Scioto County Juvenile Detention Center
526 5th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662
740-354-6672
Scioto County Juvenile Court

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are awaiting adjudication or serving sentences for juvenile offenses. The juvenile detention center operates separately from adult facilities in compliance with federal and state regulations requiring sight and sound separation between adult and juvenile populations.

Southern Ohio Correctional Facility
1724 State Route 728
Lucasville, OH 45699
740-259-5544
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

While not operated by Scioto County, this maximum-security state prison is located within county boundaries and houses adult male felony offenders serving longer sentences. This facility is operated by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction rather than county authorities.

STAR Community Justice Center
4578 Gallia Pike
Franklin Furnace, OH 45629
740-354-9026
STAR Community Justice Center

This community-based correctional facility serves multiple counties including Scioto County. It provides an alternative to prison for eligible non-violent offenders, offering intensive treatment programs, education, and rehabilitation services for sentences typically ranging from 4-6 months.

Each facility maintains its own specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options based on the population served and security requirements. All facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction and applicable state laws governing correctional operations.

Who's in Prison In Scioto County

The Scioto County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The county jail population primarily consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
Persons who have not posted bail or bond
Those deemed flight risks or dangers to the community by the courts
Individuals awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings

Misdemeanor Offenders:

Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
Common offenses include disorderly conduct, petty theft, driving under the influence, and simple assault
Individuals serving multiple consecutive misdemeanor sentences

Short-term Felony Offenders:

Individuals convicted of lower-level felonies serving sentences in county facilities rather than state prisons
Persons serving the final portion of longer sentences who have been transferred back to county custody

Probation and Parole Violators:

Individuals who have violated terms of community supervision
Those awaiting revocation hearings or serving sanctions for violations

Transfer Detainees:

Persons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
Individuals being temporarily housed during court proceedings
Federal detainees held under contract with federal agencies

According to data from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, the demographic composition of Scioto County's incarcerated population generally reflects statewide trends, with disproportionate representation of certain demographic groups.

The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors. The Scioto County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate rosters that are updated regularly to reflect the dynamic nature of the jail population.

Individuals housed in the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, located within Scioto County but operated by the state, typically include those convicted of more serious felony offenses serving longer sentences, including violent offenders and those with extensive criminal histories.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Scioto County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Scioto County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of inmate status and basic custody information.

Online Inmate Search:

Visit the official Scioto County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" or "Jail Information" section
Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or booking number)
Review the results, which generally include current custody status, charges, and booking date
Note that online records typically display only current inmates, not historical records

In-Person Records Request:

Visit the Scioto County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
Complete a public records request form, available at the front desk
Provide specific information about the inmate record being requested
Present valid identification
Pay any applicable copying fees (typically $0.05-$0.25 per page)

Written Records Request:

Prepare a written request clearly stating the specific records being sought
Include contact information for response
Mail the request to:

Scioto County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
612 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662

Telephone Inquiry:

Call the Scioto County Sheriff's Office at 740-355-8261
Request to speak with the records division or jail administrator
Provide the name and date of birth of the individual
Note that limited information may be provided by telephone due to verification constraints

For state prison inmates housed at the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Lucasville, inquiries should be directed to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's Offender Search portal.

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(1), public offices must promptly prepare and make available public records for inspection upon request, during regular business hours. Copies must be provided within a reasonable period of time.

How To Find an Inmate in Scioto County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Scioto County without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:

Scioto County Sheriff's Online Inmate Roster:

Access the Scioto County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Current Inmates" or "Jail Roster" section
Use the search function to locate individuals by name
View basic information including booking date, charges, and custody status
This service is available 24/7 and requires no registration or fees

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Offender Search:

Visit the ODRC Offender Search portal
Enter the inmate's name or number in the search fields
Review results for inmates housed in state facilities, including the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Lucasville
Access information including current location, admission date, and expected release date

Vinelink/Ohio VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday):

Visit the Ohio VINE website or call 1-800-770-0192
Enter the inmate's name or identification number
Receive current custody status and facility location
Register for free notifications regarding changes in custody status
This service is particularly useful for victims seeking updates on offender status

In-Person Inquiry at Sheriff's Office:

Visit the Scioto County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
Request inmate status information from the reception desk
Provide the name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
Receive basic custody information at no charge

Court Records Search:

Access the Scioto County Clerk of Courts website
Search court records by defendant name
Review case information, which often includes custody status
Note that while court records are free to search, they may not provide real-time custody information

When utilizing these free resources, members of the public should be prepared to provide accurate spelling of the inmate's name and, when possible, additional identifying information such as date of birth to ensure accurate results. Information available through these free services is typically limited to basic custody status, charges, and facility location, with more detailed records requiring formal public records requests.

How To Visit an Inmate In Scioto County

Visitation with inmates housed in Scioto County correctional facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. Individuals planning to visit inmates should familiarize themselves with the following procedures and requirements:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial processing
Changes to visitation lists are typically processed on a monthly basis
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors with criminal histories may require special approval

Visit Schedule:

General population: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Maximum security: Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Special housing units: Monday, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Visits are typically limited to 30 minutes
Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time
Holiday schedules may vary; contact the facility for current information

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Vehicle information including license plate number
Small clear plastic bag or container for authorized items
Locker key deposit (typically $5, returned after visit)
Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, mobility devices)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Food or beverages
Purses, backpacks, or large bags
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $20
Medications without prior approval

Dress Code:

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

Visit Types:

Contact visits: Available for minimum and medium security inmates
Non-contact visits: Required for maximum security inmates
Professional visits: Attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
Special visits: May be arranged for exceptional circumstances with administrative approval

Visit Restrictions:

Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
Visitors with outstanding warrants may be subject to arrest
Violation of rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
Pursuant to Ohio Administrative Code 5120:1-8-06, visitation may be restricted for security or disciplinary reasons

For current visitation information, contact:

Scioto County Sheriff's Office
612 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662
740-355-8261
Scioto County Sheriff's Office

How To Send Money to a Scioto County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Scioto County correctional facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access various services within the facility.

Methods for Sending Money:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay or JailATM website
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on amount)
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the Scioto County Sheriff's Office lobby during business hours
- Use the automated kiosk located in the public area
- Follow on-screen instructions to identify the inmate
- Insert cash or use credit/debit card
- Obtain and retain receipt
- Lower service fees than online deposits (typically $1.50-$5.00)
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase money order from post office or authorized vendor
- Make payable to "Scioto County Inmate Trust Account"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
  
  Scioto County Sheriff's Office
  Inmate Accounts
  612 6th Street
  Portsmouth, OH 45662
In-Person Deposits:
- Visit the Scioto County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
- Complete deposit form at reception desk
- Provide cash or money order (no personal checks)
- Receive receipt for deposit
- No service fee for this method

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Special approval required for larger amounts

Deposit Fees:

Online deposits: 3-8% of deposit amount
Kiosk deposits: $1.50-$5.00 flat fee
Money orders: No fee
In-person cash deposits: No fee

Prohibited Uses of Funds:

Direct payment for legal services
Purchase of contraband items
Transfer to other inmates' accounts
Payment of fines or court costs (separate process required)
Bail or bond payments

Authorized Uses of Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
Telephone calls
Electronic messaging where available
Medical co-pays
Haircuts and other personal services
Educational materials

Funds deposited into inmate accounts are typically available within 24-48 hours for online and kiosk deposits, and 3-5 business days for money orders. Upon release, any remaining balance is returned to the inmate via debit card or check.

For current information regarding inmate accounts, contact the Scioto County Sheriff's Office at 740-355-8261.

How To Send Jail Mail In Scioto County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Scioto County correctional facilities must adhere to specific guidelines established to maintain security while facilitating communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following procedures apply to all mail sent to inmates in Scioto County:

General Mail Guidelines:

All incoming mail is opened, inspected, and screened before delivery to inmates
Mail must be addressed with the inmate's full legal name and inmate ID number
Sender's full name and return address must appear on the envelope
Mail without proper identification may be returned to sender
All mail should be addressed to:

Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Scioto County Jail
612 6th Street
Portsmouth, OH 45662

Permitted Mail Items:

Letters on plain white or light-colored paper
Greeting cards (plain, no musical or electronic components)
Photographs (maximum 4"x6", limit of 5 per envelope)
Legal documents
Religious materials (subject to review)
Money orders (following proper procedure)
Subscriptions to approved publications sent directly from publisher

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages or padded envelopes
Plastic, metal, or other non-paper items
Stickers, labels, or tape
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
Perfumed or scented items
Polaroid photographs
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes
Cards larger than 8"x10"
Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
Content related to criminal activity, gangs, or violence
Any items that pose a security threat

Legal Mail:

Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
Must come from an identifiable legal source (attorney, court, legal agency)
Is opened in the presence of the inmate
Requires proper identification of sender including bar number
Is not subject to content review but is inspected for contraband

Publications:

Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or authorized retailer
Hardcover books are prohibited
Publications containing prohibited content will be rejected
Limited to 3 publications per mailing
Subject to review by facility staff

E-Communications (where available):

Available through approved vendor terminals
Requires account creation and inmate approval
Subject to monitoring and review
Fees apply for messages and attachments
Visit the Scioto County Sheriff's website for current vendor information

All mail procedures are established in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code 5120:1-8-06, which governs inmate communication in county detention facilities. The Scioto County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to reject any mail that violates established guidelines or poses a threat to facility security.

For current information regarding mail policies, contact the Scioto County Sheriff's Office at 740-355-8261.