St. Tammany County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In St. Tammany County?
Inmate records in St. Tammany County are official government documents maintained by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office that contain comprehensive information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's correctional facilities. These records document an individual's entire custody history from initial booking through release and are distinct from court records maintained by the judicial system.
Inmate records are created at the time of booking when an individual is first taken into custody. The booking process includes:
- Collection of personal identifying information
- Documentation of charges
- Recording of arrest details
- Capture of biometric data (fingerprints, photographs)
- Medical screening information
- Personal property inventory
Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, additional charges, court appearances, disciplinary actions, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with release date and conditions information, though the record remains in the system permanently.
According to Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:574.12, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate records of all persons committed to their custody. These records serve multiple purposes including ensuring proper identification, facilitating appropriate housing assignments, documenting behavioral issues, and providing information to authorized agencies and individuals.
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state law and departmental policies to ensure accurate documentation of all individuals within their custody.
Are Inmate Records Public In St. Tammany County?
Inmate records in St. Tammany County are generally considered public records under the Louisiana Public Records Law § 44:1 et seq., which provides for public access to government records with certain exceptions. While the law establishes a presumption of openness, not all information contained in inmate records is publicly accessible.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (listing of individuals currently in custody)
- Basic identifying information (name, age, gender)
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed
- Mugshots/booking photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, certain information is explicitly exempted from public disclosure under Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:31.1, which restricts access to records that may:
- Compromise security
- Contain confidential investigative information
- Include medical or mental health information
- Reveal victim information
- Contain Social Security numbers or other sensitive personal identifiers
Members of the public seeking inmate information may access basic details through the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system or by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. For more comprehensive records, individuals may need to submit a formal public records request in accordance with state law.
Law enforcement agencies, courts, and other authorized government entities typically have broader access to inmate records for official purposes than members of the general public.
What's Included Inmate Records in St. Tammany County
Inmate records in St. Tammany County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the correctional system. 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)
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Classification status
- Housing assignment
- Custody level
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Visitor logs
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Prior booking history (if applicable)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bondsman information (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Scheduled court dates
- Court appearance history
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Release conditions
- Probation/parole requirements
- Agency assuming supervision (if applicable)
These records are maintained in electronic and/or physical formats by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with state record retention requirements and departmental policies.
St. Tammany County Prison System
The St. Tammany County prison system operates under the jurisdiction of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of correctional facilities within the parish. The system primarily consists of the St. Tammany Parish Jail, which serves as the main detention facility for the parish.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Louisiana's correctional system:
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County/Parish Jails: Operated by the parish sheriff's office, these facilities primarily house pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings and individuals serving sentences of one year or less for misdemeanor convictions. They also temporarily hold individuals who have been sentenced to state prison while awaiting transfer.
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State Prisons: Operated by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, these facilities house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year.
The St. Tammany Parish correctional system is designed to provide secure detention while offering various rehabilitative programs including educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for successful reentry into society.
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
300 Brownswitch Road
Slidell, LA 70458
Phone: (985) 726-8000
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains operational oversight of all detention facilities in the parish and is responsible for inmate transportation, court security, and coordination with other law enforcement and judicial agencies throughout the parish.
Types of Correctional Facilities In St. Tammany County
St. Tammany County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system.
St. Tammany Parish Jail
1200 Champagne Street
Covington, LA 70433
Phone: (985) 809-8200
St. Tammany Parish Jail
The St. Tammany Parish Jail serves as the main detention facility for the parish. This medium to maximum-security facility houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to one year. The facility includes specialized housing units for various classification levels and maintains separate areas for male and female inmates. The jail offers various rehabilitative programs including GED preparation, substance abuse counseling, and religious services.
St. Tammany Parish Work Release Facility
141 Production Drive
Slidell, LA 70460
Phone: (985) 726-7900
Work Release Program
This minimum-security facility houses non-violent offenders who qualify for the work release program. Participants are allowed to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Inmates return to the facility when not working and must adhere to strict guidelines. This program facilitates successful reintegration into society by allowing inmates to maintain employment skills and save money prior to release.
St. Tammany Parish Juvenile Detention Center
21454 Koop Drive
Mandeville, LA 70471
Phone: (985) 898-3885
Juvenile Detention Center
This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18 who are awaiting adjudication or serving sentences for delinquent acts. The center provides educational services, counseling, and age-appropriate rehabilitative programming. The facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities and emphasizes rehabilitation and education.
Each facility within the St. Tammany Parish correctional system operates according to specific security protocols and programming appropriate to its population. All facilities are subject to regular inspections and must maintain compliance with state and federal detention standards.
Who's in Prison In St. Tammany County
The St. Tammany County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of the following categories:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
- Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
- These individuals maintain the presumption of innocence under the law
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
- Individuals serving multiple consecutive misdemeanor sentences
- Those serving weekend or intermittent sentences for minor offenses
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- Individuals convicted of certain non-violent felonies who are serving sentences in the parish jail rather than state prison
- Persons participating in specialized court programs such as drug court or veterans court
State Inmates Awaiting Transfer:
- Convicted felons temporarily housed in the parish jail while awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- These individuals have typically received sentences exceeding one year
Work Release Participants:
- Low-risk offenders nearing the end of their sentences who qualify for work release programs
- Individuals who maintain employment in the community while returning to secure facilities during non-working hours
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing or services
- Those in protective custody due to the nature of their charges or other safety concerns
- Federal detainees housed under contract with federal agencies
Probation/Parole Violators:
- Individuals who have violated the terms of their probation or parole and are being held pending revocation hearings
- Those serving short sanctions for technical violations of supervision
According to data from the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, St. Tammany Parish facilities typically operate near capacity, reflecting broader trends in Louisiana's high incarceration rate. The demographic composition of the inmate population generally includes a disproportionate representation of individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds and those with substance abuse or mental health issues.
How To Search for Inmate Records In St. Tammany County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in St. Tammany County have several methods available to access this information. The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate data and provides multiple search options:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" or "Jail Roster" section
- Enter search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
- Additional search filters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number for more precise results
- Review the results, which typically include basic information such as name, charges, booking date, and bond information
- Note that the online system displays only current inmates, not historical records
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours
- Complete a public records request form, providing specific information about the inmate and records sought
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction (fees are established in accordance with Louisiana R.S. § 44:32)
- Allow time for processing as specified by staff
Written Records Request:
- Prepare a written request including:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific inmate information (full name, date of birth if known)
- Detailed description of records sought
- Date range of records if applicable
- Mail or deliver the request to:
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
Records Division
300 Brownswitch Road
Slidell, LA 70458
- Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
- Provide payment method for applicable fees
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting return by mail
Telephone Inquiry:
For basic information about current inmates only:
- Call the St. Tammany Parish Jail at (985) 809-8200
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Note that detailed record information cannot be provided by telephone due to verification limitations
When requesting inmate records, be aware that certain information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws and security protocols. Requests for extensive historical records may require additional processing time and may incur higher fees based on the volume of documents requested.
How To Find an Inmate in St. Tammany County for Free?
St. Tammany County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated within the parish correctional system. These free resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other concerned parties verify an individual's custody status and location.
Online Inmate Locator:
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office maintains a free online inmate search tool that provides real-time information about currently incarcerated individuals:
- Access the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" or "Jail Roster" section
- Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (optional)
- Review search results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if available)
- Facility location
Telephone Verification:
For those without internet access, basic inmate information is available by telephone at no charge:
- Call the St. Tammany Parish Jail at (985) 809-8200
- Request inmate verification from the operator
- Provide the full name of the person you are trying to locate
- Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested
Vinelink System:
Louisiana participates in the Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) system, which provides free custody status information:
- Visit VINELink or call 1-866-566-8463
- Select Louisiana as the state
- Enter the inmate's name or identification number if known
- Receive current custody status and location information
In-Person Inquiry:
Individuals may visit the St. Tammany Parish Jail during regular business hours to inquire about an inmate's status:
St. Tammany Parish Jail
1200 Champagne Street
Covington, LA 70433
Lobby Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
When attempting to locate an inmate, it is helpful to have as much identifying information as possible, including:
- Full legal name (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth
- Approximate date of arrest or booking
- Any known identification numbers (booking number, case number, etc.)
These free resources provide basic custody information only. For more detailed records, a formal public records request may be necessary, which could involve fees for document reproduction.
How To Visit an Inmate In St. Tammany County
Visitation with inmates at St. Tammany Parish correctional facilities follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with facility rules and regulations.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial booking process
- Changes to visitation lists are typically processed within 72 hours
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an authorized adult
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proper documentation
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied visitation privileges in accordance with Louisiana Administrative Code Title 22, Part I, § 316
Visit Schedule:
The St. Tammany Parish Jail operates on a structured visitation schedule:
- General population: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Special housing units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two visits per week
- Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Schedule visits by calling (985) 809-8200 or through the online visitation scheduling system
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Visitor registration confirmation (if scheduled online)
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicle or lockers)
- Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, mobility devices)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20 (for vending machines where applicable)
- Cameras or recording devices
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is 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 see-through or tight-fitting clothing
- Shoes and shirts required at all times
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Visit Types:
St. Tammany Parish offers two primary visitation methods:
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On-site Video Visitation:
- Conducted via video terminals at the facility
- No physical contact with inmates
- Must be scheduled in advance
- Free of charge for on-site visits
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Remote Video Visitation:
- Available from any internet-connected device with webcam
- Fee-based service ($12.99 per 25-minute session)
- Must be scheduled through the online system
- Available during expanded hours (7:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily)
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
- Providing false information on visitation forms may result in permanent visitation restriction
- Visitors with outstanding warrants may be subject to arrest
- The facility reserves the right to deny or terminate any visit for security reasons
For current visitation information, contact:
St. Tammany Parish Jail
1200 Champagne Street
Covington, LA 70433
Phone: (985) 809-8200
Inmate Visitation Information
How To Send Money to a St. Tammany County Inmate
St. Tammany County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses during incarceration.
Available Deposit Methods:
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Online Deposits:
- Visit JailATM or Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select St. Tammany Parish as the facility
- Enter inmate information (full name and ID number)
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Processing fees apply (typically $2.50-$7.95 depending on deposit amount)
- Funds are typically available within 24 hours
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Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Jail lobby during business hours
- Use the self-service kiosk located in the public area
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Lower processing fees than online deposits
- Funds are typically available within 1-4 hours
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Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make payable to the inmate's full name and ID number
- Do not send cash or personal checks
- Mail to:
St. Tammany Parish Jail
Inmate Accounts
1200 Champagne Street
Covington, LA 70433- Include sender's full name and return address
- No processing fees
- Funds typically available within 3-5 business days
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Mobile App:
- Download the JailATM or Access Corrections mobile app
- Create an account or log in
- Follow prompts to complete deposit
- Same fee structure as online deposits
- Convenient for recurring deposits
Deposit Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
These limits are established in accordance with Louisiana Department of Corrections Regulation B-09-001 and may be subject to change.
Deposit Fees:
- Online/Mobile deposits: $2.50-$7.95 (tiered based on amount)
- Lobby kiosk: $1.50-$5.00 (tiered based on amount)
- Money orders: No fee
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
Inmate funds cannot be used for:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fees or fines
- Restitution payments
- Transfer to other inmates
- Purchase of prohibited items
Approved Uses of Funds:
Inmates may use account funds for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Release funds
All deposits are subject to verification and may be placed on hold if suspicious activity is detected. Refunds for released inmates are typically issued via debit card or check at the time of release.
How To Send Jail Mail In St. Tammany County
Sending mail to inmates at St. Tammany Parish correctional facilities requires adherence to specific guidelines established to maintain security and facility operations. All incoming mail is inspected before delivery to inmates.
General Mail Guidelines:
- All mail must include the inmate's full name, ID number (if known), and facility address:
Inmate Name, ID Number
St. Tammany Parish Jail
1200 Champagne Street
Covington, LA 70433
- Sender's full name and complete return address must appear on the envelope
- Mail without a return address will not be delivered
- Use standard white envelopes only (colored envelopes are not accepted)
- All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
- Private courier services (FedEx, UPS, etc.) are not accepted for regular mail
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Personal letters (limited to 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
- Money orders (following money deposit guidelines)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (4x6 maximum size, no Polaroids)
- Legal documents (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Approved periodicals sent directly from publisher
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Padded or oversized envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Stickers or labels
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Photographs depicting nudity, gang symbols, or criminal activity
- Cards with glitter, pop-ups, or electronic components
- Items containing adhesives or tape
- Blank paper, envelopes, or writing materials
Legal Mail:
Legal correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal representatives receives special handling:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Must include attorney bar number or court information
- Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
- Is not read by staff but is inspected for contraband
- Should include attorney's return address on letterhead
Publications and Books:
- Books must be paperback only (no hardcover books)
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Limited to 3 books per mailing
- Subject to content review for security concerns
- Religious texts are generally permitted but subject to quantity limitations
E-Messages:
St. Tammany Parish Jail offers electronic messaging through a secure platform:
- Visit SmartJailMail
- Create an account
- Add the inmate to your contacts using their full name and ID number
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages (subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail)
- Fees apply per message (typically $0.50 per message)
All mail, both physical and electronic, is subject to monitoring and inspection in accordance with Louisiana R.S. § 15:833, which authorizes correctional facilities to inspect inmate mail for security purposes. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of the correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges for the sender.