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South Dakota Public Records /Search South Dakota Inmate Records Online

Search South Dakota Inmate Records Online

Are South Dakota Inmate Records Open to the Public?

Yes. Under the South Dakota Sunshine Law, public records include documents and records generated and maintained by state departments and agencies, including inmate records. However, according to South Dakota Codified Laws, records concerning an inmate’s disciplinary matters and health records are not open for public inspection. These records can only be disclosed to eligible persons and for specific reasons, such as aiding in the apprehension of an escaped inmate.

South Dakota Inmate Search

Inmate records in South Dakota contain details about individuals held in correctional facilities. These records typically include the inmate's full name, birth date, physical description, mugshot, charges, sentencing information, maximum release date, and current status. These records are maintained by various law enforcement agencies and detention facilities across the state.

Both governmental agencies and third-party websites provide access to inmate records. While third-party sites may offer easier search options without geographical limitations, the accuracy of the information may vary compared to official sources. To obtain inmate records, requestors generally need to provide the name of the person listed in the record and the location where the inmate resides.

How to Conduct a South Dakota Jail Inmate Search

To find someone in a South Dakota jail, individuals need to determine the specific county, city, or town where the subject was taken into custody. Most county sheriff's offices maintain online databases of incarcerated individuals. By providing the inmate's name, users can access information such as intake details, custody status, and charges. Alternatively, contacting the county sheriff’s office directly can also provide the necessary information.

Differences Between South Dakota State Prisons and County Jails

South Dakota has both state prisons and county jails, each serving different purposes. State prisons, managed by the South Dakota Department of Corrections, house offenders sentenced to longer terms for more serious crimes. These facilities offer various rehabilitation programs, including education and substance abuse treatment.

County jails, operated by county sheriff's offices, typically hold individuals awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences for lesser offenses. There are 26 county jails in South Dakota, each responsible for the custody of offenders within its jurisdiction. The primary difference lies in the length of incarceration and the types of programs available to inmates.

Sending Money to an Inmate in South Dakota Prisons or Jails

Inmates in South Dakota correctional facilities can receive funds from approved individuals. Eligible persons include those on the inmate's visiting list, their attorney, or individuals approved by the facility's warden. Funds can be sent via mail using money orders or cashier's checks, electronic transfers, or deposit kiosks at the institution.

Online deposits through services like JailATM may also be available. It is advisable to contact the specific institution for detailed instructions. Personal checks are not accepted, ensuring that only secure forms of payment are used.

How to Contact Inmates in South Dakota Prisons and Jails

To contact an inmate in South Dakota, individuals can use several methods. Written correspondence is commonly used, with mail sent to the facility where the inmate is housed. It is important to follow the facility's guidelines on acceptable mail content and address formatting.

Phone calls are another option, though inmates can only call approved numbers. Facilities may also offer email services through specific providers, allowing for electronic communication. Each facility has its own rules and procedures, so it is essential to verify the requirements beforehand.

Getting Approved for Inmate Visitation in South Dakota Prisons and Jails

To visit an inmate, individuals must be approved on the inmate's visiting list. This process involves completing a visitation form, which can be obtained from the South Dakota Department of Corrections website or directly from the facility. The completed form must be submitted to the institution where the inmate is serving time.

There are two types of visits: Class I and Class II. Class I visits allow limited physical contact and occur in designated areas, while Class II visits involve no physical contact, with inmates separated by a glass partition. Visitors must adhere to the facility's visitation policy, including dress code and ID requirements.

How to Locate Someone Incarcerated in South Dakota

To locate an incarcerated individual in South Dakota, individuals can use online inmate search tools provided by the South Dakota Department of Corrections. By entering the inmate's full name or DOC number, users can access information such as the inmate's biodata, sentence details, and current facility.

County sheriff's offices also maintain online databases for locating inmates in county jails. By visiting the sheriff's official website and accessing the inmate search section, users can find details about current inmates, including custody status and charges.

Finding a County Inmate Roster in South Dakota

County inmate rosters in South Dakota can be found on the respective county sheriff's office websites. These rosters may be labeled under various names, such as inmate listing or current inmate. For example, the Minnehaha County and Pennington County sheriff's offices provide online portals to access their inmate rosters.

By navigating to the appropriate section on the county website, users can view details about inmates, including their names, intake dates, and charges. This information helps in identifying and locating individuals held in county jails.

How to Conduct a South Dakota Prison Inmate Search

To perform a prison inmate search in South Dakota, individuals can use the South Dakota Department of Corrections' online search tool. By entering the inmate's full name or DOC number, users can access information such as the inmate's biodata, sentence date, correctional status, and facility of incarceration.

This search tool allows users to locate both current and past offenders. It provides a comprehensive overview of the inmate's status, helping interested persons stay informed about the inmate's situation.

How to Find an Inmate’s Release Date in South Dakota

To find an inmate's release date, individuals can use the South Dakota Department of Corrections' Offender Locator page. This tool provides information on the inmate's status and proposed release dates. Publicly available release dates typically show only the month and year, with exact dates restricted for safety reasons.

Immediate family members, crime victims, attorneys, and authorized criminal justice officials may access exact release dates. This ensures that sensitive information is protected while still providing necessary details to eligible parties.

Facilities Managed by the South Dakota Department of Corrections

The South Dakota Department of Corrections manages several correctional facilities, including:

  • South Dakota State Penitentiary
  • Jameson Annex
  • South Dakota Women's Prison
  • Rapid City Community Work Center
  • Mike Durfee State Prison
  • Yankton Community Center

These facilities are responsible for the custody and rehabilitation of offenders, offering various programs and services to support inmate development and reduce recidivism.

Search Inmate Records in South Dakota