logo
ManateeRecords.us
Search Public Records
Manatee Public Records /Manatee County Inmate Search

Manatee County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Manatee County?

Inmate records in Manatee County are official government documents maintained by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated in county correctional facilities. These records document an individual's custody status, criminal charges, and other pertinent information related to their incarceration.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

  • Court records are maintained by the Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court and contain case files, hearing schedules, and judicial decisions
  • Inmate records are maintained by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and focus specifically on custody information
  • Court records document the legal proceedings, while inmate records document the physical custody and management of the individual

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.071, which governs public records in Florida. The record creation process includes:

  • Initial creation during booking/intake when an individual is first taken into custody
  • Documentation of personal information, charges, and initial assessment
  • Regular updates throughout the period of incarceration
  • Notation of all movements, disciplinary actions, and program participation
  • Closure upon release, though records remain in the system

The Manatee County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Florida Statute § 951.23, which establishes standards for county and municipal detention facilities.

Are Inmate Records Public In Manatee County?

Inmate records in Manatee County are generally considered public records under Florida's Public Records Law, specifically Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. This law establishes that most government records, including inmate records, are available for public inspection and copying.

However, certain portions of inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure under specific provisions of Florida law. These exemptions typically include:

  • Medical and mental health information
  • Information that would compromise security
  • Social Security numbers and other personal identifying information
  • Information about minors in custody
  • Victim information in certain cases

The following inmate information is typically available to the public:

  • Current inmate roster
  • Booking and arrest records
  • Criminal charges
  • Mugshots
  • Bond/bail amounts
  • Expected release dates
  • Current housing facility

The Manatee County Sheriff's Office provides public access to basic inmate information through their online inmate search portal, in compliance with Florida's commitment to government transparency while balancing privacy and security concerns.

What's Included Inmate Records in Manatee County

Manatee County inmate records contain comprehensive information organized into several categories:

Basic Identifying Information:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Race/ethnicity
  • Height, weight, and identifying marks
  • Booking photograph (mugshot)
  • Booking number/inmate ID

Custody Information:

  • Date and time of booking
  • Arresting agency
  • Current custody status
  • Housing location within facility
  • Classification level
  • Scheduled court appearances
  • Disciplinary records (may be partially restricted)

Charge Information:

  • Current charges
  • Charge classification (misdemeanor/felony)
  • Charge status (pending, sentenced)
  • Warrant information, if applicable
  • Case numbers

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond amount
  • Bond type
  • Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
  • Conditions of release, if applicable

Court Information:

  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Judge assigned
  • Next court date
  • Court case numbers
  • Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

  • Conviction date
  • Sentence length
  • Sentence start date
  • Projected release date
  • Good time/gain time calculations
  • Probation/parole eligibility dates

Release Information:

  • Release date (if released)
  • Release type (time served, bond, transfer)
  • Post-release supervision requirements
  • Conditions of release

These records are maintained in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-601.901, which establishes standards for inmate records management.

Manatee County Prison System

The Manatee County correctional system operates under the authority of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of the county's detention facilities. This system is distinct from the Florida Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons.

The Manatee County jail system primarily houses:

  • Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
  • Those convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences of less than one year
  • Individuals serving sentences for certain low-level felonies
  • Those awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
  • Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions

By contrast, Florida state prisons, operated by the Florida Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year.

The Manatee County jail system operates under the guidelines established in Florida Statute § 951.23, which sets standards for county detention facilities.

Manatee County Sheriff's Office
600 301 Boulevard West, Suite 202
Bradenton, FL 34205
(941) 747-3011
Manatee County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Manatee County

Manatee County operates several correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations:

Manatee County Central Jail
14470 Harlee Road
Palmetto, FL 34221
(941) 747-3011 ext. 2250
Manatee County Central Jail

This is the main detention facility in Manatee County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility accommodates pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of less than one year. The Central Jail includes various security classifications and specialized housing units.

Manatee County Jail Annex
14470 Harlee Road
Palmetto, FL 34221
(941) 747-3011 ext. 2250
Manatee County Jail Annex

The Jail Annex serves as an extension of the Central Jail, providing additional housing capacity. This facility typically houses minimum to medium security inmates and those participating in work release programs.

Manatee County Juvenile Detention Center
1803 5th Street West
Bradenton, FL 34205
(941) 714-3400
Manatee County Juvenile Detention Center

This facility is operated by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice rather than the Sheriff's Office. It houses juvenile offenders awaiting court proceedings or placement in longer-term juvenile programs.

Each facility maintains specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options based on the population served and security requirements.

Who's in Prison In Manatee County

The Manatee County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically includes:

Pre-trial Detainees:

  • Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial
  • Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
  • Persons awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

  • Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses
  • Those serving sentences of less than one year
  • Persons convicted of offenses such as DUI, petty theft, simple assault, or trespassing

Short-term Felony Offenders:

  • Certain low-level felony offenders serving short sentences
  • Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
  • Those participating in county-level rehabilitation programs

Specialized Populations:

  • Individuals in work release programs
  • Those in substance abuse treatment programs
  • Mental health treatment participants
  • Veterans in specialized veterans' units

Other Categories:

  • Individuals held on immigration detainers
  • Those held for probation or parole violations
  • Persons held on behalf of other jurisdictions
  • Weekenders (serving sentences on weekends only)

According to data from the Florida Department of Corrections, the daily population of the Manatee County jail system fluctuates but typically houses between 900-1,200 inmates at any given time. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 25 days, while sentenced inmates may remain in custody for up to one year.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Manatee County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Manatee County may utilize several methods to access this information:

Online Inmate Search:

  1. Visit the Manatee County Sheriff's Office website
  2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Jail Information" section
  3. Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
  4. Review the results, which typically include basic custody information
  5. Print or save the information as needed

In-Person Records Request:

  1. Visit the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Records Division

    Manatee County Sheriff's Office Records Division
    600 301 Boulevard West, Suite 202
    Bradenton, FL 34205
    (941) 747-3011 ext. 2113

  2. Complete a public records request form

  3. Provide identification and specify the records sought

  4. Pay any applicable fees for copies (currently $0.15 per page for standard copies)

  5. Allow time for processing as required by Florida law

Written Records Request:

  1. Prepare a written request including:

    • Inmate's full name
    • Date of birth or booking number (if known)
    • Specific records requested
    • Your contact information

  2. Mail the request to:

    Manatee County Sheriff's Office Records Division
    600 301 Boulevard West, Suite 202
    Bradenton, FL 34205

  3. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting return by mail

  4. Enclose payment for any applicable fees

Phone Inquiry (Limited Information):

  1. Call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011
  2. Request to be connected to the jail information line
  3. Provide the name of the inmate
  4. Receive basic custody status information (limited details available by phone)

All records requests are processed in accordance with Florida Statute § 119.07, which requires agencies to respond to records requests within a reasonable time.

How To Find an Inmate in Manatee County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Manatee County without incurring costs is straightforward through several free resources:

Manatee County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Locator:

  1. Access the Manatee County Sheriff's Office website
  2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
  3. Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
  4. Review the search results, which include:
    • Current custody status
    • Booking date
    • Charges
    • Bond information
    • Expected release date (if available)
    • Facility location

Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search:

  1. Visit the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Information Search
  2. Enter the inmate's name or DC number
  3. This database includes state prisoners who may have been transferred from Manatee County

Telephone Information:

  1. Call the Manatee County Jail at (941) 747-3011 ext. 2250
  2. Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
  3. Request basic custody information
  4. Operating hours for phone inquiries: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

In-Person Inquiry:

  1. Visit the Manatee County Jail lobby

    Manatee County Central Jail
    14470 Harlee Road
    Palmetto, FL 34221

  2. Speak with the reception staff

  3. Provide the inmate's name and identifying information

  4. Receive current custody status and basic information

  5. Lobby hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week

VINELink Notification System:

  1. Access the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) website
  2. Select Florida as the state
  3. Enter the inmate's name
  4. Receive custody status and facility information
  5. Optional: Register for free notifications regarding changes in the inmate's status

These free resources provide basic custody information in compliance with Florida's public records laws while protecting sensitive information that may be exempt from disclosure.

How To Visit an Inmate In Manatee County

Visiting an inmate at Manatee County correctional facilities requires adherence to specific procedures established by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

  • All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
  • Inmates may have up to 5 approved visitors
  • Visitors must be 18 years or older with valid government-issued photo ID
  • Minors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
  • Registration for visitation must be completed at least 24 hours in advance
  • Video visitation is the primary method for non-professional visits

Visit Schedule:

  • Video visitation hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week
  • On-site video visitation: Tuesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Each inmate is allowed two 30-minute visits per week

What to Bring:

  • Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
  • Visiting registration confirmation
  • Attorney credentials (for legal visits)
  • Religious credentials (for clergy visits)
  • Medical documentation (if requesting accommodations)

What NOT to Bring:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Drugs or alcohol
  • Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches)
  • Cameras or recording devices
  • Food or beverages
  • Purses, bags, or backpacks
  • Excessive jewelry or accessories

Dress Code:

  • Conservative attire required
  • No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
  • 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 head coverings)

Visit Types:

  • Remote video visitation (from home computer or mobile device)
  • On-site video visitation (at jail facility)
  • Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
  • Special visits (approved on case-by-case basis)

Visit Rules:

  • Visitors must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visit time
  • Disruptive behavior will result in termination of visit
  • No passing of items during in-person visits
  • Conversations may be monitored and recorded (except attorney visits)
  • Visitors under the influence will be denied visitation

Visit Restrictions:

  • Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
  • Persons with active warrants will be subject to arrest
  • Individuals on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
  • Visitors with prior visitation violations may be permanently banned

All visitation policies are established pursuant to Florida Administrative Code 33-601.722, which governs visitation at correctional facilities.

For current visitation information, contact:

Manatee County Jail Visitation Office
14470 Harlee Road
Palmetto, FL 34221
(941) 747-3011 ext. 2260
Manatee County Sheriff's Office Visitation Information

How To Send Money to a Manatee County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates in Manatee County have several approved methods for sending funds:

Online Deposits:

  1. Visit the Access Corrections website
  2. Create an account or log in
  3. Select "Florida" and "Manatee County Jail"
  4. Enter the inmate's name and ID number
  5. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
  6. Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)

Mobile App Deposits:

  1. Download the Access Corrections mobile app
  2. Create an account or log in
  3. Select the facility and inmate
  4. Complete the transaction using credit/debit card
  5. Service fees apply

Lobby Kiosk Deposits:

  1. Visit the Manatee County Jail lobby

    Manatee County Central Jail
    14470 Harlee Road
    Palmetto, FL 34221

  2. Use the self-service kiosk

  3. Follow on-screen instructions

  4. Cash, credit, or debit accepted

  5. Minimal service fees apply

  6. Available 24/7

Phone Deposits:

  1. Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
  2. Provide inmate information
  3. Complete transaction with credit/debit card
  4. Higher service fees apply for phone transactions

Money Order by Mail:

  1. Purchase a money order payable to "Manatee County Sheriff's Office"

  2. Write inmate's full name and ID number on money order

  3. Do not send cash or personal checks

  4. Mail to:

    Manatee County Sheriff's Office Inmate Accounts
    14470 Harlee Road
    Palmetto, FL 34221

  5. No service fees, but processing takes 7-10 business days

Amount Limits:

  • Minimum deposit: $1.00
  • Maximum single deposit: $300.00
  • Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
  • Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00 per inmate

Deposit Fees:

  • Online/mobile deposits: 3-5% of deposit amount
  • Lobby kiosk: $2.00 flat fee
  • Phone deposits: $6.95 flat fee
  • Money orders: No fee

What Money Can Be Used For:

  • Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
  • Phone calls
  • Tablet rentals
  • Educational materials
  • Medical co-pays
  • Release funds

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

  • Bail or bond payments
  • Restitution payments
  • Court fees or fines
  • Transfers to other inmates
  • Outside purchases

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 33-203.201, which governs inmate trust fund operations.

How To Send Jail Mail In Manatee County

Corresponding with inmates in Manatee County requires adherence to specific guidelines established by the Sheriff's Office:

Regular Mail Guidelines:

  1. Address envelopes correctly: 
    Inmate's Full Name, Inmate ID Number
Manatee County Jail
14470 Harlee Road
Palmetto, FL 34221
  2. Include your complete return address
  3. Send only white paper letters, cards, or photos
  4. All mail must be sent through the U.S. Postal Service
  5. Mail is inspected and screened before delivery to inmates

Acceptable Items:

  • Letters on white paper (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
  • Commercially printed greeting cards (no musical or oversized cards)
  • Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
  • Money orders (following financial guidelines)
  • Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)

Prohibited Items:

  • Packages or padded envelopes
  • Colored paper or envelopes
  • Stickers, labels, or tape
  • Perfumed or scented items
  • Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
  • Polaroid photos
  • Laminated items
  • Cash or personal checks
  • Stamps or envelopes
  • Any contraband or unauthorized items

Electronic Messaging:

  1. Create an account on SmartJailMail.com
  2. Select Manatee County Jail as the facility
  3. Add the inmate to your contacts list
  4. Purchase credits for messages
  5. Compose and send messages
  6. Fees apply per message (typically $0.50 per message)
  7. Messages are subject to monitoring and screening

Legal Mail Requirements:

  1. Clearly mark envelope "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
  2. Include attorney bar number on envelope
  3. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
  4. Must be from licensed attorney, court, or legal agency

Publications and Books:

  1. Books must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
  2. Soft-cover books only (no hardcover)
  3. Maximum of 3 books per mailing
  4. Subject to content review and approval
  5. Religious texts are generally permitted

Mail Restrictions:

  • Mail containing threats, criminal activity, escape plans, or contraband will be rejected
  • Correspondence between inmates at different facilities requires prior approval
  • Excessive mail may be limited (over 10 letters per week)
  • Mail from individuals with criminal history may require approval

All mail procedures comply with Florida Administrative Code 33-210.101, which establishes standards for inmate correspondence.

For questions regarding mail policies, contact:

Manatee County Jail Mail Room
14470 Harlee Road
Palmetto, FL 34221
(941) 747-3011 ext. 2280

Lookup Inmate Records in Manatee County

Other Categories in Florida
Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records