Houston County Jail Roster Dothan AL is the official public record system that shows current inmates, booking details, mugshots, charges, bond amounts, and housing locations. The roster updates every 15 minutes and is managed by the Houston County Sheriff’s Office at 411 North Foster Street, Dothan, Alabama. Sheriff Donald Valenza oversees the facility, which holds up to 150 inmates and operates a 24-hour intake desk. Families, attorneys, and the public can search the roster online or call (334) 712‑0762 for inmate status, visitation scheduling, or bond information during business hours, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The system supports transparency and quick access to public safety records.
How to Search the Houston County Jail Roster
Anyone can search the Houston County Jail Roster Dothan AL using a free online portal. The search tool lets users enter an inmate’s full name, date of birth, or booking number to find current records. Results show the person’s legal name, high-resolution booking photo, ID number, race, gender, admission date and time, housing unit, arresting agency, and a list of all charges. The roster also displays bail amounts, court docket numbers, and projected release dates when available. The system refreshes every 15 minutes to reflect new bookings and releases. For help, call (334) 712‑0762 during regular office hours.
Houston County Sheriff’s Office and Jail Operations
The Houston County Sheriff’s Office runs the jail and provides law enforcement across 587 square miles, including Dothan and nearby towns like Ashford, Cowarts, and Taylor. Sheriff Donald Valenza leads 28 sworn deputies and 12 civilian staff. The office handles criminal investigations, civil process service, courtroom security, and jail operations. In 2023, the office recorded 4,321 arrests, processed 2,114 civil citations, and responded to over 12,000 service calls. The jail’s main phone line is (334) 712‑0762. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. The office is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Inmate Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visits at Houston County Jail are allowed in a supervised lounge. Inmates can receive face-to-face or non-contact visits. All visits must be scheduled by calling (334) 712‑0762 at least 24 hours in advance. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Visitors must bring a valid government-issued photo ID and pass a health screening before entry. Visitation hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No walk-in visits are allowed. The jail limits visits to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety. Families should call early to book a time slot.
Inmate Communication and Phone Services
Inmates at Houston County Jail can make outbound calls using a prepaid debit system. Calls cost $0.25 per minute, as required by Alabama state law. Families can add money online or by phone through the jail’s approved vendor. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All calls are monitored and recorded for security. The phone system helps inmates stay in touch with family and legal counsel. For technical support or account issues, contact the vendor directly using the information provided on the jail’s website or during the deposit process.
Sending Mail and Money to Inmates
All mail to inmates must be sent to 901 East Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301. Letters should include the inmate’s full name and booking number. The jail screens all mail for contraband. Do not send cash. Money can be added to an inmate’s account using money orders or the electronic deposit system. Each deposit has a $2.00 transaction fee. Funds are available within 24 hours. For media requests, send mail to the Media Relations Office marked “Inmate Mugshot Request.” Requests are processed within three business days if they follow Alabama public record laws.
Mugshot Release Policy and Public Records
The Houston County Jail releases booking photos within 24 hours of intake. Mugshots are posted on the online roster and may be used by media outlets. The Dothan Police Department also publishes daily mugshot summaries on its website. Recent examples include arrests for drug possession, theft, and retail crime. The jail follows Alabama’s public record statutes to ensure transparency while protecting privacy rights. Individuals can request official copies of booking photos by mail or online. All requests must include the inmate’s name and booking date.
Common Charges and Booking Trends in Houston County
In 2024, the most common charges at Houston County Jail were drug possession, theft, and driving under the influence. Between January and June 2024, the jail processed 1,842 new admissions. Drug-related offenses made up nearly 40% of all bookings. Theft and property crimes accounted for 25%, while DUI cases represented 15%. The jail works with local courts to ensure timely hearings. Most inmates receive a preliminary hearing within 48 hours of booking. Public defenders are available for those who cannot afford private attorneys.
Bail and Bond Information
Bail amounts are set by judges based on the severity of charges and the inmate’s criminal history. The Houston County Jail roster shows current bond amounts when available. Families can post bail using cash, property, or a licensed bail bond agent. Local agencies include A-Ability Bonding (334) 792‑2663, Big Boy Bonding (334) 258‑5463, and Southern Surety (334) 555‑0198. These agencies can post bonds up to the court-approved limit. For bond status or court dates, call (334) 712‑0762 during business hours.
Jail Capacity and Facility Details
Houston County Jail has a maximum capacity of 150 inmates. The average daily population in 2023 was 95 inmates. The highest recorded occupancy was 148 in March 2022. The facility includes housing units, a medical area, visitation lounge, and administrative offices. It operates under the authority of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). The jail’s budget for FY 2023 was $1.2 million, covering staff salaries, maintenance, and inmate programs. The intake desk is staffed 24 hours a day to process new arrivals.
Houston County Demographics and Location
Houston County is in southeastern Alabama, bordering Georgia and Florida. The county seat is Dothan, located at the intersection of U.S. Routes 84 and 231. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population was 106,740, a 5.2% increase from 2010. Dothan is part of the Dothan Metropolitan Statistical Area, with a labor force of 62,400 and an unemployment rate of 3.8% in 2023. The county serves rural communities and urban centers, making the jail a key public safety resource.
Online Resources and Third-Party Inmate Search Tools
Several websites provide access to Houston County Jail roster data. These include official portals and third-party services that aggregate public records. Users can search by name, charge, or booking date. Results typically show mugshots, charges, bond amounts, and housing locations. While these tools are helpful, always verify information with the Sheriff’s Office at (334) 712‑0762. Some sites may charge fees or display outdated data. The official Houston County Sheriff’s Office website is the most reliable source.
Legal Rights and Inmate Support Services
Inmates at Houston County Jail have the right to medical care, legal representation, and religious services. They can request a public defender if they cannot afford a lawyer. Preliminary hearings are held within 48 hours of booking. The jail offers educational programs and substance abuse counseling when possible. Families should contact the jail for information about programs or support services. All inmates are treated according to Alabama state law and federal guidelines.
Crime Stoppers and Community Safety
The Houston County Sheriff’s Office runs a Crime Stoppers hotline to encourage community involvement in solving crimes. Tips can be submitted anonymously. The program has helped solve numerous cases in Dothan and surrounding areas. The office also partners with schools, churches, and businesses to promote safety and reduce crime. Community policing efforts include outreach events, school resource officers, and public education campaigns.
Firearm Licensing and Additional Services
The Houston County Sheriff’s Office processes pistol permit applications and conducts background checks. Applicants must meet state requirements, including age, residency, and criminal history checks. The office also provides civil process services, such as serving court papers. For more information, visit the office at 411 North Foster Street or call (334) 712‑0762. Services are available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Houston County Sheriff’s Office is located at 411 North Foster Street, Dothan, Alabama 36301. The main phone number is (334) 712‑0762. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After-hours calls are routed to the on-duty deputy. For emergencies, always call 9-1-1. The jail’s mailing address for inmate correspondence is 901 East Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301. Media requests should be sent to the Media Relations Office.
Frequently Asked Questions About Houston County Jail Roster Dothan AL
Many people have questions about how the Houston County Jail roster works, how to find an inmate, or what information is public. Below are answers to the most common questions. These cover search tools, visitation, bail, mugshots, and inmate rights. If you need more help, call (334) 712‑0762 during business hours.
How often is the Houston County Jail roster updated?
The Houston County Jail roster updates every 15 minutes to reflect new bookings, releases, and changes in inmate status. This ensures the public has access to the most current information. The system is automated and linked to the jail’s intake desk, so each new admission is logged immediately. Users can refresh the page to see the latest data. For real-time updates, check the official roster online or call the jail directly.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment?
No, all visits must be scheduled in advance. You must call (334) 712‑0762 at least 24 hours before the visit. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Each visit lasts 30 minutes and is supervised by correctional staff. You must bring a valid photo ID and pass a health screening. Visitation hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Scheduling helps maintain order and safety in the facility.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Houston County?
You can search the Houston County Jail roster online using the inmate’s full name or booking number. The roster shows current inmates, their charges, mugshots, and housing locations. If you can’t find the person online, call (334) 712‑0762 during business hours. Provide the person’s full name and date of birth if possible. The jail staff can confirm if someone is in custody and provide basic information.
Are mugshots public record in Houston County?
Yes, booking photos are public records and are released within 24 hours of intake. They appear on the online roster and may be used by media outlets. You can request official copies by mail or online. Send requests to the Media Relations Office at 901 East Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301. Include the inmate’s name and booking date. Requests are processed within three business days if they follow Alabama law.
How can I send money to an inmate?
You can add money to an inmate’s account using money orders or the electronic deposit system. Each deposit has a $2.00 fee. Funds are available within 24 hours. Do not send cash through the mail. Use the jail’s approved vendor for online deposits. For help, call the vendor or the jail at (334) 712‑0762. The inmate can use the funds for phone calls, commissary items, or other approved expenses.
What happens during the intake process?
When someone is booked into Houston County Jail, they go through a 24-hour intake process. This includes fingerprinting, photographing, medical screening, and recording personal details. The inmate’s information is added to the electronic roster. They are assigned a housing unit and given jail rules. A preliminary hearing is scheduled within 48 hours. The intake desk is staffed around the clock to handle new arrivals.
Can inmates receive phone calls?
No, inmates can only make outbound calls. They cannot receive incoming calls. Calls are made using a prepaid debit system at $0.25 per minute. Families can add credit online or by phone. All calls are monitored and recorded for security. Inmates can call family, friends, or attorneys. For technical issues, contact the phone service vendor directly.
Official Website and Contact Details
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Houston County Sheriff’s Office website or call (334) 712‑0762. The office is located at 411 North Foster Street, Dothan, Alabama 36301. Business hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After-hours calls go to the on-duty deputy. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. The jail’s mailing address is 901 East Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301.
Summary of Key Facts About Houston County Jail Roster Dothan AL
The Houston County Jail roster is a live, public record updated every 15 minutes. It includes inmate names, mugshots, charges, bond amounts, and housing locations. The jail holds up to 150 inmates and is managed by Sheriff Donald Valenza. Visits require 24-hour advance scheduling. Inmates can make outbound calls at $0.25 per minute. Mail and money can be sent to 901 East Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301. For help, call (334) 712‑0762 during business hours.
Related Search Terms and Resources
People searching for Houston County Jail Roster Dothan AL often look for inmate lookup tools, mugshot databases, bail bond services, and visitation rules. Other common searches include Dothan police arrests, Alabama jail records, and public safety updates. For more information, visit the official Sheriff’s Office website or contact the jail directly.