Dorchester County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Dorchester County?
Inmate records in Dorchester County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office that document individuals who are in custody. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained within the county's correctional system. Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 24-21-5, these records are maintained as part of the state's correctional information management system.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the South Carolina Judicial Branch, document the legal proceedings, charges, and dispositions of cases, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within detention facilities. The Dorchester County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records that begin at the moment of booking and intake into the facility.
The creation of an inmate record follows a standardized process:
- Initial creation occurs during the booking and intake process
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Records are finalized upon the individual's release from custody
According to the South Carolina Department of Corrections, inmate records serve multiple purposes including ensuring proper identification, facilitating appropriate housing assignments, and maintaining security within correctional facilities. These records also enable the tracking of an inmate's location, status, and projected release date.
Are Inmate Records Public In Dorchester County?
Inmate records in Dorchester County are generally considered public information under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), specifically pursuant to § 30-4-30. This statute establishes that records produced by public bodies, including correctional facilities, are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
The South Carolina Department of Corrections and county detention facilities maintain certain inmate information that is accessible to the public. According to § 24-3-550 of the South Carolina Code, the Department of Corrections must maintain a record of all prisoners, which includes specific information that is available for public inspection.
Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:
- Current inmate roster showing individuals currently in custody
- Booking and arrest records with date and time of arrest
- Charges filed against the individual
- Mugshots (booking photographs)
- Bond or bail amounts set by the court
- Expected release dates for sentenced individuals
- Current housing facility location
However, certain information within inmate records may be restricted from public access due to privacy concerns, security considerations, or other statutory exemptions. Information that may be restricted includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Information that could compromise facility security
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records in Dorchester County may submit requests through established channels, including the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office or the detention facility directly.
What's Included Inmate Records in Dorchester County
Inmate records in Dorchester County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. These records are maintained in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-21-10, which establishes requirements for record-keeping in correctional facilities. The following information is typically included:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of arrest and booking
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
Charge Information:
- Current charges with statute citations
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Prior criminal history if applicable
- Warrant information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond or bail amount set by the court
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond hearing date and outcome
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction (magistrate, circuit, etc.)
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
- Name of assigned judge
- Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date and charges
- Sentence length and terms
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time or earned time credits
- Probation or supervised release conditions
Release Information:
- Scheduled or actual release date
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Conditions of release
These records are maintained electronically in the Dorchester County jail management system and are updated regularly to reflect changes in an inmate's status, location, or case progression.
Dorchester County Prison System
The Dorchester County prison system operates within the broader framework of South Carolina's correctional infrastructure. The system is primarily administered by the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the operation of the county detention center. This facility primarily houses individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities.
It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Dorchester County Detention Center houses individuals who are:
- Awaiting trial on charges filed in Dorchester County
- Serving sentences of less than one year for misdemeanor convictions
- Temporarily held pending transfer to South Carolina Department of Corrections facilities
- Detained on probation or parole violations
By contrast, the South Carolina Department of Corrections operates state prison facilities that house individuals convicted of felonies and serving sentences longer than one year. Individuals convicted of serious offenses in Dorchester County courts will typically be transferred to state custody after sentencing.
The primary agency responsible for the county detention system is:
Dorchester County Sheriff's Office
212 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483
Phone: (843) 832-0300
Dorchester County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains operational control of the detention center and is responsible for inmate supervision, facility security, and record-keeping in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-5-10, which establishes the sheriff's authority and responsibility regarding county jails.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Dorchester County
Dorchester County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security requirements. Each facility serves a specific function within the county's correctional system:
Dorchester County Detention Center
300 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483
Phone: (843) 832-0100
Dorchester County Detention Center
This is the primary facility for housing adult inmates in Dorchester County. The detention center accommodates both male and female inmates and provides various security levels. The facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The detention center includes:
- Intake and booking areas
- General population housing units
- Administrative segregation units
- Medical facilities
- Visitation areas
- Program spaces for rehabilitation services
Dorchester County Juvenile Detention
Juveniles arrested in Dorchester County are typically housed at regional juvenile detention facilities through agreements with the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, as Dorchester County does not maintain its own juvenile detention facility. The Department of Juvenile Justice operates according to South Carolina Code § 63-19-1440, which governs the detention of juveniles.
Work Release Center
As part of its correctional programming, Dorchester County operates a work release program for qualifying low-risk inmates. This program allows eligible inmates to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants return to secure housing during non-working hours. This program operates under the authority of the Sheriff's Office and in accordance with state regulations.
Alternative Sentencing Programs
Dorchester County also utilizes alternative sentencing options, including:
- Home detention with electronic monitoring
- Weekend confinement programs
- Community service programs
- Day reporting centers
These alternative programs are designed to reduce jail overcrowding while maintaining public safety and providing appropriate supervision for low-risk offenders.
Who's in Prison In Dorchester County
The Dorchester 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 charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail due to the nature of their charges
- Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial dates
- Individuals deemed flight risks or dangers to the community
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of less than one year
- Individuals serving weekend sentences or intermittent confinement
- Those participating in work release programs while serving their sentences
- Offenders completing short-term sentences before release or probation
Temporary Holds:
- Individuals awaiting transfer to South Carolina Department of Corrections facilities
- Persons detained on probation or parole violations
- Those held on behalf of other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, or states)
- Individuals awaiting mental health evaluations or transfers to treatment facilities
Special Populations:
- Veterans with specific programming needs
- Individuals with substance abuse issues
- Persons with mental health conditions requiring specialized supervision
- First-time offenders separated from more experienced offenders
According to data from the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the most common offenses resulting in incarceration in county facilities include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Simple assault and battery
- Drug possession
- Theft and shoplifting
- Probation violations
- Failure to appear for court proceedings
- Domestic violence
The demographic composition of the Dorchester County inmate population generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with considerations for age, gender, and offense type determining housing assignments and programming options.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Dorchester County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Dorchester County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that allow for efficient searching of inmate data. Individuals may conduct searches through the following channels:
Online Inmate Search Portal:
- Visit the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" or "Detention Center" section
- Select the "Inmate Search" function
- Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
- Review the results, which typically include current custody status, charges, and bond information
- Note that some information may be restricted due to privacy laws or ongoing investigations
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours
- Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Allow processing time as required by South Carolina FOIA regulations
South Carolina Department of Corrections Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Access the South Carolina Department of Corrections Inmate Search
- Enter the inmate's name or SCDC number
- Review the results for custody status, location, and projected release date
- Note that this system only contains information on state prisoners, not county detainees
Written Request:
- Prepare a written request citing the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act
- Include specific information about the inmate (full name, approximate booking date)
- Provide contact information for response
- Mail the request to:
Dorchester County Sheriff's Office Records Division
212 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483
Phone: (843) 832-0300
- Allow up to 10 business days for a response as permitted under § 30-4-30(C) of the South Carolina Code
When requesting inmate records, it is important to note that certain information may be redacted or withheld pursuant to exemptions under state law. Additionally, requests for voluminous records may incur reasonable fees for research, retrieval, and copying services.
How To Find an Inmate in Dorchester County for Free?
Dorchester County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody. These free resources are available to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public:
Dorchester County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the Detention Center section
- Use the online inmate search function
- Enter the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Next court date (if available)
- Housing location (general information only)
Telephone Information Line:
- Call the Dorchester County Detention Center at (843) 832-0100
- Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
- Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
- Basic information about custody status may be provided
- Note that detailed information may require verification of identity
South Carolina Statewide Resources: For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody, the South Carolina Department of Corrections provides a free online inmate search and a toll-free information line at 1-866-727-2846.
Judicial System Resources: The South Carolina Judicial Branch maintains public access terminals at courthouse locations where case information can be accessed at no charge. This may help determine if an individual has pending court dates related to their incarceration.
Victim Notification System: South Carolina's VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system provides free custody status information to registered victims and concerned citizens. This automated service provides notifications about changes in an inmate's custody status.
When using these free resources, users should be prepared to provide:
- Correct spelling of the inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
It is important to note that while basic custody information is available at no cost, obtaining copies of detailed records or documents may incur fees in accordance with South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act fee schedule.
How To Visit an Inmate In Dorchester County
Visitation with inmates at Dorchester County detention facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits are subject to the regulations established by the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-3-80, which addresses visitation rights.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance of planned visits
- Proper identification (government-issued photo ID) is required
- All visitors are subject to security screening and searches
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied entry at the discretion of facility staff
Visit Schedule:
- General population inmates are typically allowed two 30-minute visits per week
- Visitation days and hours vary by housing unit and security classification
- Visits must be scheduled in advance through the online visitation system
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may be arranged during expanded hours
- Special visits for exceptional circumstances require advance approval from facility administration
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
- Documents for legal visits (attorneys only)
- Infant necessities for approved child visits (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products or smoking materials
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20 for vending machines (where available)
- Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Dress Code:
- Conservative, appropriate attire is 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
- No uniforms resembling those worn by correctional staff
- Shoes must be worn at all times
- Hats and head coverings are prohibited (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- In-person contact visits (limited based on security classification)
- Non-contact visits through glass partitions
- Video visitation services
- Special visits for family emergencies (with approval)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social services)
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visits
- Passing contraband will result in criminal charges and permanent visitation ban
- Visitors with active warrants will be subject to arrest
- Violation of any facility rules may result in suspension of visitation privileges
For current visitation schedules and to register for visits, contact:
Dorchester County Detention Center
300 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483
Phone: (843) 832-0100
How To Send Money to a Dorchester County Inmate
Dorchester County 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. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with facility policies and South Carolina Department of Corrections guidelines.
Methods for Sending Money:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the approved third-party payment processor website
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Select the deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit card, debit card, or electronic check
- Print or save the confirmation receipt
- Funds are typically available within 24-48 hours
-
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the kiosk located in the detention center lobby during regular business hours
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Enter the inmate's information
- Insert cash or use a debit/credit card
- Obtain a receipt for your transaction
- Funds are usually available within 24 hours
-
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from an approved provider (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make the money order payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Include the sender's full name and return address
- Mail to:
Dorchester County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts
300 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
Amount Limits:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
- Maximum monthly deposit total: $1,000
- Minimum deposit amount: $5
Transaction Fees:
- Online deposits: $2.50-$7.95 (varies by amount and payment method)
- Kiosk deposits: $2.00-$5.00 (varies by amount)
- Money orders: No fee from the facility (provider may charge for money order)
What the Money Can Be Used For:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone account funding
- Tablet rentals and services where available
- Medical co-pays for non-emergency services
- Haircuts and other personal services
- Educational materials and program fees
What the Money Cannot Be Used For:
- Payment of fines or court costs
- Bond or bail payments
- Transfers to other inmates
- Outside purchases or bill payments
- Legal services
Restrictions:
- Deposits from individuals with criminal histories may be subject to review
- Excessive or suspicious deposits may be investigated
- Funds may be subject to collection for outstanding debts, including restitution, child support, or facility damages
- Upon release, remaining funds will be returned to the inmate via debit card or check
For questions regarding inmate accounts or money transfers, contact:
Dorchester County Detention Center Inmate Accounts
Phone: (843) 832-0120
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
How To Send Jail Mail In Dorchester County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Dorchester County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations established pursuant to South Carolina Code § 24-3-550, which addresses inmate correspondence.
General Mail Guidelines:
-
All incoming mail must include the sender's complete name and return address
-
Address mail using the inmate's full committed name, ID number, and facility address:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Dorchester County Detention Center
300 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483 -
Mail lacking proper identification may be returned to sender
-
All mail is opened and inspected for contraband and prohibited content
-
Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and will be opened in the presence of the inmate
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters on plain white, lined, or unlined paper
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope)
- Maximum size: 4" x 6"
- No Polaroid photos
- No sexually explicit or gang-related images
- No photos of current or former inmates
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Money orders (following the guidelines in the previous section)
- Legal documents and court papers
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Subscription magazines sent directly from the publisher
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind without prior approval
- Hardcover books (softcover books must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)
- Cash, personal checks, or traveler's checks
- Stamps, envelopes, or blank stationery
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive materials
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented papers
- Cards with glitter, pop-ups, or electronic components
- Pornographic or obscene materials
- Gang-related content or symbols
- Information regarding criminal activities
- Items containing biohazards or unknown substances
E-Messages and Digital Communication: Dorchester County utilizes a digital messaging system that allows for electronic communication with inmates. To use this service:
- Create an account on the approved vendor's website
- Add the inmate to your contact list using their ID number
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages through the secure platform
- Messages are typically reviewed before delivery
- Responses from inmates will be delivered to your account
Mail Restrictions:
- Correspondence may be rejected if it contains threats, criminal plans, escape plots, or other security concerns
- Mail between inmates at different facilities requires special approval
- Excessive mail volume may be limited at the discretion of facility administration
- Violation of mail rules may result in suspension of mail privileges
For questions regarding mail policies or to report issues with inmate correspondence, contact:
Dorchester County Detention Center
Mail Room Supervisor
300 Deming Way
Summerville, SC 29483
Phone: (843) 832-0100
Lookup Inmate Records in Dorchester County
Inmate Search through South Carolina Department of Corrections
South Carolina Department of Corrections Incarcerated Inmate Search