Craighead County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Craighead County?
Inmate records in Craighead County are official government documents maintained by the Craighead County Sheriff's Office and detention facilities that chronicle an individual's incarceration history. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system tracking persons in custody within county correctional facilities. Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 12-41-508, county jails must maintain specific records of all persons committed to custody.
It is important to distinguish inmate records from court records:
- Court records document legal proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document physical custody, housing, behavior, and institutional management
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Documentation includes institutional movements, disciplinary actions, and program participation
- Records are administratively closed upon release, though maintained according to retention schedules
The Craighead County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in county detention facilities.
Are Inmate Records Public In Craighead County?
Inmate records in Craighead County are generally considered public information under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). According to Arkansas Code § 25-19-105, public records include those maintained by any agency of the state or local government, which encompasses detention facilities operated by the county.
The following inmate record components are typically accessible to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information and intake photographs ("mugshots")
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Bond/bail amounts set by the court
- Scheduled court appearances
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility location
However, certain information may be redacted or restricted, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
- Information that would interfere with ongoing investigations
- Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
The Craighead County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster that provides basic public information about current detainees. For more comprehensive records, formal requests may be submitted to the records division.
What's Included Inmate Records in Craighead County
Inmate records in Craighead County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's period of incarceration. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Assigned inmate identification number
- Fingerprint records
- Last known address
Custody Information:
- Date and time of admission to facility
- Booking officer information
- Custody classification level
- Housing assignment within facility
- Cell/unit transfers during incarceration
- Special housing assignments (medical, disciplinary, protective)
- Disciplinary incidents and outcomes
- Participation in work programs or educational activities
Charge Information:
- Arresting agency
- Arrest date and location
- Criminal charges (initial and any subsequent)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor/felony classification)
- Case numbers associated with charges
- Warrant information if applicable
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount set by court
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bondsman information if applicable
- Bond conditions imposed by court
Court Information:
- Jurisdiction of case(s)
- Assigned judge
- Court dates and appearances
- Court outcomes and continuances
- Attorney of record information
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date and charges
- Sentence length and terms
- Credit for time served
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Projected release date calculations
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions if applicable
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Property returned upon release
These records are maintained in compliance with Arkansas Code § 12-41-508, which requires county jails to maintain detailed records of all persons committed to custody.
Craighead County Prison System
The Craighead County correctional system operates under the authority of the Craighead County Sheriff's Office, which maintains primary responsibility for the detention of individuals within county jurisdiction. The county operates a detention center designed primarily for pre-trial detention and the incarceration of individuals serving sentences of one year or less, as prescribed by Arkansas law.
It is important to distinguish between the county detention system and the Arkansas Department of Corrections:
- County detention facilities house pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year), and those awaiting transfer to state facilities
- State prisons, operated by the Arkansas Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences
The Craighead County Detention Center serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice system:
- Secure holding of individuals awaiting court appearances
- Incarceration of sentenced misdemeanants
- Temporary housing of felony offenders awaiting transfer to state custody
- Detention of individuals held on federal charges under intergovernmental agreements
- Housing of probation/parole violators awaiting hearings
The primary detention facility is administered by:
Craighead County Sheriff's Office
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: (870) 933-4551
Craighead County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff, as the chief law enforcement officer of the county, oversees all detention operations with a dedicated staff of corrections officers, medical personnel, and administrative support. The facility operates in accordance with state detention standards and undergoes regular inspections to ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Craighead County
Craighead County maintains a structured correctional system with facilities designed to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. The county's detention infrastructure includes:
Craighead County Detention Center
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: (870) 933-4551
Craighead County Detention Center
This is the primary detention facility in the county with a capacity of approximately 300 inmates. The facility features:
- Maximum, medium, and minimum security housing units
- Dedicated female housing section
- Medical observation cells
- Intake/booking area
- Video visitation capabilities
- Administrative segregation units
Craighead County Juvenile Detention Center
711 South Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: (870) 972-5510
Craighead County Juvenile Services
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18) and operates separately from the adult detention center. The facility includes:
- Age-appropriate housing units
- Educational classrooms
- Counseling spaces
- Recreation areas
- Separate intake procedures designed for juveniles
Craighead County Work Release Center
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: (870) 933-4551
Craighead County Sheriff's Office
This minimum-security facility houses non-violent offenders who qualify for work release programs. Features include:
- Dormitory-style housing
- Separate entrance/exit for work program participants
- Reduced security protocols
- Transitional programming spaces
Each facility operates under specific security protocols appropriate to its population and purpose. All facilities adhere to standards established by the Arkansas Criminal Detention Facilities Review Committee and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Who's in Prison In Craighead County
The Craighead 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 awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
- Persons unable to post bail or denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
- Defendants undergoing competency evaluations
- Individuals awaiting transfer to mental health facilities
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Weekend or intermittent sentence servers (individuals permitted to serve time on weekends)
- Those serving time for contempt of court
- Individuals serving time for probation violations on misdemeanor cases
Felony Offenders:
- Recently sentenced felons awaiting transfer to Arkansas Department of Corrections facilities
- Individuals serving short portions of felony sentences in county facilities per agreements with the state
- Felony probation violators awaiting revocation hearings
Special Populations:
- Federal detainees housed under intergovernmental agreements
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Out-of-county inmates housed due to overcrowding in other jurisdictions
- Persons held on fugitive warrants from other jurisdictions
Work Release/Program Participants:
- Low-risk offenders participating in work release programs
- Trustees performing services within the facility
- Individuals in educational or vocational programs
The demographic composition of the Craighead County inmate population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in Arkansas. According to data from the Arkansas Department of Corrections, the county detention system typically houses between 250-300 inmates daily, with an average stay of approximately 45 days for pre-trial detainees and 90-180 days for sentenced misdemeanants.
Population management remains a significant challenge, with the facility occasionally operating near or at capacity. The Sheriff's Office works in coordination with local courts and prosecutors to implement population management strategies when necessary.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Craighead County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Craighead County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains multiple access points for inmate record searches:
Online Inmate Roster:
- Visit the Craighead County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" section
- Search using the individual's name (last name, first name)
- Review basic information including charges, booking date, and bond amount
- Note that the online roster typically only displays current inmates, not historical records
In-Person Records Request:
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Visit the Craighead County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Craighead County Sheriff's Office
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401 -
Complete a public records request form (available at the front desk)
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Provide specific information about the inmate (full name, approximate dates of incarceration)
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Present valid government-issued photo identification
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Pay applicable copying fees if requesting physical copies
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Records staff will process the request according to current timelines
Written Records Request:
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Submit a formal written request to:
Craighead County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401 -
Include in your request:
- Your full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Approximate dates of incarceration
- Purpose of request (optional)
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Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
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Include payment for any applicable fees (contact the Records Division for current fee schedule)
Arkansas VINE System:
- Access the Arkansas VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system
- Register for an account or continue as guest
- Search by offender name
- Receive basic custody information and notification options
- Note that VINE provides limited information focused on custody status
When requesting records, be aware that processing times vary based on the complexity of the request and current workload. Standard requests typically require 3-5 business days for processing, while more extensive historical searches may take longer. All requests are processed in accordance with the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.
How To Find an Inmate in Craighead County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Craighead County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods available to the public. These resources provide basic custody information without requiring payment:
Craighead County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Roster:
- Visit the Craighead County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Roster" or "Current Inmates" link
- Enter the individual's last name in the search field
- Review results showing current inmates only
- Access basic information including:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond amount (if applicable)
- Housing location (general information)
- Mugshot/booking photo
Telephone Inquiry:
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Contact the Craighead County Detention Center directly:
Craighead County Detention Center
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: (870) 933-4551 -
Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
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Request basic custody status information
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Note that detailed information may require a formal records request
Arkansas VINE System:
- Access the Arkansas VINE system online
- Call the VINE hotline at 1-800-510-0415
- Enter or speak the inmate's name
- Receive automated information about custody status
- Register for free notifications about changes in custody status
Arkansas Department of Corrections Website:
- Visit the Arkansas Department of Corrections Inmate Search
- Enter the inmate's name or ADC number
- Useful for determining if an inmate has been transferred from county to state custody
- Provides information on sentenced felons only
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Craighead County Sheriff's Office during business hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Request basic inmate location information at the front desk
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
When utilizing these free resources, be aware that information is typically limited to current custody status and basic case information. More detailed records may require a formal request through the Sheriff's Office Records Division. Additionally, information about recently arrested individuals may not be immediately available in online systems until the booking process is complete.
How To Visit an Inmate In Craighead County
Visitation with inmates at Craighead County detention facilities follows structured protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections. All visitors must adhere to established guidelines:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be 18 years of age or older with valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors may only visit when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Pre-registration is required at least 24 hours before the intended visit
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or on probation/parole must receive advance approval
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before being permitted to visit
Visit Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Maximum Security: Thursday and Sunday only, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Work Release: Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle information (make, model, license plate) for parking registration
- Quarters for vending machines (maximum $10 in change)
- Necessary medical items (must be approved in advance)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products or electronic cigarettes
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Video visitation is the primary method used at the facility
- Contact visits are limited to attorney-client meetings and special circumstances
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) occur during designated hours
- Special visits may be arranged for out-of-state visitors with advance approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
- Visitors attempting to pass contraband face criminal prosecution
- Three visit rule violations may result in permanent visitation restriction
Registration Process:
- Pre-register online through the Craighead County Sheriff's Office website
- Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
- Present identification at the visitor check-in desk
- Submit to security screening procedures
- Follow officer instructions for proceeding to visitation area
All visitation policies are established in accordance with Arkansas Administrative Code § 004.00.2-800 regarding detention facility standards and may be modified based on security considerations.
How To Send Money to a Craighead County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Craighead County detention facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items and pay for services within the facility.
Approved Deposit Methods:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Create an account or continue as guest
- Select "Craighead County Detention Center" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Kiosk Deposits:
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Visit the lobby kiosk at the Craighead County Detention Center
Craighead County Detention Center
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401 -
Available 24/7 in the facility lobby
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Follow on-screen instructions
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Insert cash or credit/debit card
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Obtain receipt as proof of deposit
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Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
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Lower service fees than online deposits
Money Order by Mail:
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Purchase a money order payable to "Craighead County Detention Center"
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Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
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Do not send cash or personal checks
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Mail to:
Craighead County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts 901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401 -
Include sender's full name and return address
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No service fees, but processing takes 3-5 business days
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Money orders must be in U.S. dollars
Deposit Limits and Restrictions:
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
- Maximum account balance allowed: $1,000
- Deposits from individuals on probation/parole require approval
- Deposits from other inmates or former inmates are prohibited
- All deposits are subject to verification before posting
Fund Usage Guidelines:
- Approved uses include commissary purchases, medical co-pays, and phone time
- Funds cannot be used for bond payments
- Inmates cannot transfer funds to other inmates
- A percentage of deposits may be applied to outstanding debts or fees
- Remaining funds are returned to the inmate upon release or can be transferred to another facility
Commissary Purchasing Schedule:
- Orders placed: Monday and Wednesday
- Delivery: Tuesday and Thursday
- Weekly purchase limit: $125
- Special purchase requests require administrative approval
All financial transactions are monitored and recorded in accordance with facility policies. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and reported to appropriate authorities. The detention center reserves the right to refuse any deposit that violates facility policies or appears suspicious in nature.
How To Send Jail Mail In Craighead County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Craighead County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with established protocols.
Mailing Address Format:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Craighead County Detention Center
901 Willett Road
Jonesboro, AR 72401
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include a complete return address
- Use standard white envelopes only (maximum size 9" x 12")
- Write clearly using blue or black ink only
- Include the inmate's booking number if known
- Mail lacking proper addressing will be returned to sender
- Personal mail is limited to 10 pages per envelope
- Greeting cards must be plain paper cards only (no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
Approved Mail Items:
- Personal letters
- Plain paper photographs (maximum 4" x 6", limit 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (following financial deposit guidelines)
- Legal correspondence (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Newspaper clippings (limit 3 per envelope, no larger than 8.5" x 11")
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Cash, personal checks, or currency
- Stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or labels
- Polaroid photographs
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Greeting cards with electronic components
- Plastic, metal, or wooden items
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Items depicting weapons or violence
- Correspondence containing threats or extortion
- Materials with unknown substances or stains
Legal Mail Procedures:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come directly from an attorney, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
- Legal credentials may be verified before delivery
Mail Inspection Process:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery
- Contraband items will be confiscated and documented
- Mail containing unauthorized items will be rejected
- Senders of rejected mail will be notified when possible
- Repeated violations may result in mail restrictions
Electronic Messaging Option:
- Visit the SmartJailMail website
- Create an account and purchase credits
- Compose message (2,000 character limit)
- Attach up to 2 photos if desired (additional fee applies)
- Submit for review and delivery
- Messages typically delivered within 24 hours
- Fees apply per message
Mail delivery occurs Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Inmates are typically allowed to possess up to 10 personal letters and 10 photographs at any time, with excess items required to be sent home or discarded. All mail procedures comply with Arkansas Administrative Code § 004.00.2-815 regarding inmate correspondence in detention facilities.