Vigo County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Vigo County?
Inmate records in Vigo County are official government documents maintained by the Vigo County Sheriff's Office that chronicle an individual's incarceration within the county correctional system. These comprehensive records document the custody, care, and control of persons who have been arrested, detained, or sentenced to serve time in the Vigo County Jail. Pursuant to Indiana Code § 5-14-3-4(b)(8), these records constitute official documentation of individuals in the custody of law enforcement and correctional agencies.
Inmate records are distinct from court records, though they may contain overlapping information. While the Vigo County courts maintain case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and judicial decisions, the Sheriff's Office maintains custody records documenting the physical detention and daily management of inmates. This separation reflects the distinct responsibilities of the judicial and correctional systems within county government.
The creation of an inmate record begins at booking, when an individual is processed into the Vigo County Jail. During this intake procedure, personal information is collected, photographs taken, and initial assessments conducted. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical care, visitation logs, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains maintained according to Indiana's records retention schedules.
The Vigo County Sheriff's Office Jail Division is responsible for creating and maintaining these records in accordance with state law and professional correctional standards.
Are Inmate Records Public In Vigo County?
Inmate records in Vigo County are partially accessible to the public under Indiana's Access to Public Records Act (IC § 5-14-3). This statute establishes the presumption that government records are available for public inspection and copying unless specifically exempted by law. However, the statute also contains specific provisions regarding law enforcement and correctional records that limit full disclosure.
Under current Indiana law, certain basic information about inmates is considered public information. Members of the public may access:
- Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
- Basic booking information (name, date of birth, charges)
- Mugshot photographs
- Arrest information
- Charges filed
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Facility housing location (general)
However, other portions of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under IC § 5-14-3-4(b)(23), which protects certain law enforcement records. Information that is typically restricted includes:
- Detailed medical records
- Mental health evaluations
- Disciplinary reports
- Personal identifying information (Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers)
- Security-related information
- Victim information
- Informant information
The Vigo County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides public access to allowable information while protecting confidential data in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Vigo County
Inmate records in Vigo County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's time in custody. 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)
- Booking number and other identification numbers
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer
- Reason for arrest
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification status (security level)
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Grievances filed
- Property inventory
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting circumstances
- Court of jurisdiction
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, not posted)
- Bond conditions
- Bond hearing dates
Court Information:
- Court appearance dates
- Court orders
- Attorney information
- Court of jurisdiction
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned credit calculations
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Post-release supervision requirements
This information is maintained in accordance with Indiana Code § 11-8-5, which governs correctional record-keeping requirements.
Vigo County Prison System
The Vigo County correctional system operates under the authority of the Vigo County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county jail facility. This system functions as part of the broader Indiana correctional framework, which distinguishes between county jails and state prisons based on jurisdiction, sentence length, and facility purpose.
The Vigo County Jail primarily houses individuals who are:
- Awaiting trial or court appearances (pre-trial detention)
- Serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Temporarily held for other jurisdictions
Unlike state prisons, which are operated by the Indiana Department of Correction and house individuals serving longer sentences for felony convictions, the Vigo County Jail focuses on short-term incarceration and pre-trial detention. This distinction reflects the division of responsibilities between county and state authorities in the criminal justice system.
The Vigo County Sheriff's Office maintains operational control of the jail facility:
Vigo County Sheriff's Office
600 West Honey Creek Drive
Terre Haute, IN 47802
(812) 462-3226
Vigo County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office Jail Division operates according to standards established by Indiana state law and professional correctional associations, with oversight from county government authorities.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Vigo County
Vigo County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around its primary detention facility. The county's correctional infrastructure includes:
Vigo County Jail
600 West Honey Creek Drive
Terre Haute, IN 47802
(812) 462-3226
Vigo County Jail Information
The Vigo County Jail is a modern facility that opened in 2022 with an inmate capacity of over 400. This facility replaced the previous jail, which had faced overcrowding issues and operational challenges. The current jail incorporates contemporary correctional design principles and technology to enhance security, efficiency, and inmate management.
The jail complex includes:
- General population housing units
- Special management units for inmates requiring separation
- Medical facilities for basic healthcare services
- Intake/booking area
- Visitation areas
- Administrative offices
- Kitchen and laundry facilities
- Program spaces for rehabilitation services
While Vigo County does not operate separate specialized correctional facilities such as work release centers or minimum-security facilities, the main jail does incorporate different security classifications and housing arrangements based on inmate needs and risk assessments.
It should be noted that Vigo County is also home to the Federal Correctional Complex Terre Haute, which includes United States Penitentiary Terre Haute and Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute. However, these are federal facilities operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, not by Vigo County authorities, and house federal inmates rather than county detainees.
Who's in Prison In Vigo County
The Vigo County Jail houses a diverse population of individuals who have entered the local criminal justice system. The facility's population primarily consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees: The majority of individuals housed in the Vigo County Jail are awaiting trial or court proceedings. These individuals have been charged with crimes but have not been convicted, and are either being held without bond or have been unable to post the required bail amount. Under Indiana Code § 35-33-7, these individuals are entitled to an initial hearing within a reasonable time after arrest.
Misdemeanant Offenders: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses in Vigo County typically serve their sentences in the county jail rather than state prison. In Indiana, misdemeanors may result in sentences of up to one year of incarceration, which are served at the county level.
Short-term Felony Offenders: Some individuals convicted of low-level felonies may serve their sentences in the county jail rather than being transferred to state facilities, particularly if they have short sentences or if arrangements have been made through plea agreements.
Individuals Awaiting Transfer: Persons who have been sentenced to state prison for felony convictions may be temporarily housed in the Vigo County Jail while awaiting transfer to Indiana Department of Correction facilities.
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 a sanction for the violation.
Individuals Held for Other Jurisdictions: The jail may house individuals being held on behalf of other counties, state authorities, or federal agencies through intergovernmental agreements.
The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects patterns of arrest and prosecution within Vigo County, with variations in age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status. The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and sentencing practices.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Vigo County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Vigo County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains systems that allow for both online and in-person searches of publicly available inmate data.
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Vigo County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
- Enter the required search criteria (typically last name, first name, or booking number)
- Review the results, which generally include:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Mugshot (if available)
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Vigo County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding holidays)
- Complete a public records request form, specifying the information sought
- Provide identification as required
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction (currently $0.10 per page for standard copies)
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to: Vigo County Sheriff's Office Records Division 600 West Honey Creek Drive Terre Haute, IN 47802
- Include specific information about the inmate (full name, approximate booking date)
- Provide contact information for response
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
For individuals seeking information about inmates who have been transferred to state facilities, the Indiana Department of Correction Offender Search provides a separate database of state prisoners.
Pursuant to Indiana's Access to Public Records Act (IC § 5-14-3-3), the Sheriff's Office must respond to records requests within specified timeframes, though some information may be redacted or withheld based on statutory exemptions.
How To Find an Inmate in Vigo County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Vigo County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods that provide basic custody information to the public. These resources are maintained as part of the county's commitment to transparency while balancing security and privacy concerns.
Vigo County Sheriff's Online Inmate Lookup: The most direct method for locating an inmate is through the Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool:
- Access the Vigo County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Lookup" option from the main navigation menu
- Enter the individual's name (last name is required, first name is recommended for more precise results)
- Review the search results, which display current inmates matching the search criteria
- Select an individual record to view additional details, including booking date, charges, and bond information
This online system is updated regularly and provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody at the Vigo County Jail.
Telephone Inquiry: For those without internet access, basic inmate information can be obtained by calling:
- Vigo County Jail: (812) 462-3226
- Be prepared to provide the full name and, if possible, the date of birth of the individual
- Staff can confirm if a person is in custody and provide limited information about their status
Jail Lobby Kiosk: The Vigo County Jail lobby contains a public access kiosk that allows visitors to:
- Search for current inmates
- View basic custody information
- Access visitation schedules and policies
- Obtain information about bail procedures
The lobby is accessible during regular business hours at 600 West Honey Creek Drive, Terre Haute, IN 47802.
Indiana Department of Correction Search: If an individual has been transferred from county custody to state prison, they can be located through the Indiana Department of Correction Offender Locator, which provides a free search tool for state inmates.
These free resources provide basic custody information in accordance with Indiana Code § 5-14-3-5, which governs the provision of public information.
How To Visit an Inmate In Vigo County
Visitation with inmates at the Vigo County Jail is governed by established procedures designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmates' connections with family and community. All visits must comply with the following guidelines:
Visit Types:
- On-site video visitation: Conducted through video terminals in the jail lobby
- Remote video visitation: Available through approved devices from any location with internet access
- Professional visits: Attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals may arrange contact visits
Visit Schedule:
- On-site video visits: Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Remote video visits: Available seven days a week, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Professional visits: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (by appointment)
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must register in the Vigo County Sheriff's Office visitation system at least 24 hours before the intended visit
- Visitors must provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two on-site visits per week
- Remote visits may be scheduled more frequently (fees apply)
Visitor Dress Code:
- Appropriate attire is required for all visitors
- Prohibited items include:
- Revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
- Clothing with offensive language or images
- Gang-related attire or symbols
- Hats or head coverings (except religious items)
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitation confirmation number
- Payment method for any applicable fees
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Drugs or alcohol
- Food or beverages
- Cameras or recording devices
- Cell phones (must be stored in provided lockers)
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
Visit Restrictions:
- Individuals with active warrants or on probation/parole may be denied visitation privileges
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be denied entry
These procedures are established in accordance with Indiana Code § 11-11-5, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish reasonable visitation policies.
How To Send Money to a Vigo County Inmate
Individuals in the Vigo County Jail are permitted to maintain inmate trust accounts for purchasing commissary items and services. Several methods are available for depositing funds into these accounts:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Vigo County Sheriff's Office inmate services page
- Select the "Inmate Commissary" link
- Create an account or log in to the third-party payment processor
- Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 5-8% of the deposit amount)
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Vigo County Jail lobby during regular business hours
- Use the automated kiosk to make a deposit
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards are accepted
- Reduced service fees compared to online deposits
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Vigo County Jail" with the inmate's name and booking number in the memo line
- Mail to: Vigo County Jail Inmate Accounts 600 West Honey Creek Drive Terre Haute, IN 47802
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No personal checks or cash accepted through mail
- No service fees, but processing takes 3-5 business days
Deposit Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Fund Usage Regulations: Inmates may use funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Phone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Release funds
Funds may not be used for:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fees or fines (separate payment systems apply)
- Transfers to other inmates
- Outside purchases
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Indiana Code § 11-11-3-6, which governs inmate personal property and funds. Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release or can be transferred to the facility where the inmate is transferred.
How To Send Jail Mail In Vigo County
Correspondence with inmates at the Vigo County Jail must follow established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.
Regular Mail Guidelines:
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Address envelopes precisely as follows: Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number Vigo County Jail 600 West Honey Creek Drive Terre Haute, IN 47802
-
Include a complete return address with sender's full name
-
Letters must be written on plain white or lined paper
-
Envelopes must be standard white or manila
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Content restrictions:
- Maximum of 5 pages per letter
- No stickers, glitter, lipstick marks, or perfume
- No drawings or markings in crayon or marker
- No polaroid photographs
- No cards larger than 5"x7"
- No plastic or laminated items
Photograph Guidelines:
- Maximum of 5 photographs per envelope
- Photos must be 4"x6" or smaller
- No Polaroid or self-developing photos
- No explicit or suggestive content
- No gang symbols or signs
- Photos of children must include clothed images only
Publications and Books:
- Books must be paperback and shipped directly from the publisher or approved vendor
- Magazines must be new and sent directly from the publisher
- Newspapers must be mailed directly from the newspaper office
- Religious materials must be soft-cover only
Prohibited Items:
- Hardcover books
- Personal checks or cash
- Stamps or envelopes
- Food items or candy
- Clothing or fabric items
- Greeting cards with electronic components
- Any items with adhesive backing (including tape or labels)
- Any items containing metal, plastic, or wood
Legal Mail: Mail clearly marked as "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication" from verified legal representatives will be opened in the presence of the inmate but still inspected for contraband.
All mail procedures are implemented in accordance with Indiana Code § 11-11-3-2, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish reasonable mail policies. The Vigo County Sheriff's Office maintains detailed mail regulations that balance inmates' communication rights with facility security requirements.
Lookup Inmate Records in Vigo County
Inmate Lookup and Commissary Services