Aiken County Public Records /Aiken County Inmate Search

Aiken County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Aiken County?

Inmate records in Aiken County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Aiken County Sheriff's Office that document individuals who are in custody. These records serve as comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration history from initial booking through release. Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 24-21-5, these records constitute official documentation of individuals under correctional supervision within the county.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and legal determinations maintained by the judicial system, inmate records specifically document custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior maintained by correctional authorities. The Aiken County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals detained in county facilities.

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:

Initial creation occurs during booking/intake when an individual is first taken into custody
Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
Documentation includes institutional behavior, program participation, and disciplinary actions
Records are administratively closed upon release but maintained according to state retention schedules

The South Carolina Department of Corrections and local detention facilities maintain these records in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-3-20, which establishes requirements for documenting individuals in state custody.

Are Inmate Records Public In Aiken County?

Inmate records in Aiken County are considered public records under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), specifically § 30-4-30, which provides for public access to government records with certain exceptions. The law establishes that records created, maintained, or received by a public body are presumptively open to public inspection.

For correctional facilities, South Carolina Code § 24-21-290 further clarifies that basic information about individuals in custody shall be made available to the public, though certain sensitive information may be redacted to protect privacy and security interests.

Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:

Current inmate roster showing individuals currently in custody
Booking and arrest records documenting intake information
Criminal charges filed against the individual
Mugshot photographs (subject to certain restrictions)
Bond/bail amounts set by the court
Expected release dates for sentenced individuals
Current housing facility location

The Aiken County Detention Center maintains a publicly accessible database that allows citizens to verify custody status and basic case information for individuals currently detained in county facilities. However, certain information remains confidential, including medical records, psychological evaluations, and specific security-related details.

What's Included Inmate Records in Aiken County

Inmate records in Aiken County contain comprehensive documentation of 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 and age
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Assigned inmate identification number
Fingerprints and biometric data
Photograph/mugshot

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency and officer information
Custody classification level
Current housing assignment
Disciplinary records while in custody
Program participation and work assignments

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed (both misdemeanors and felonies)
Warrant numbers and issuing authorities
Case numbers associated with pending charges
Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Charge severity classification

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (personal recognizance, surety, cash)
Bond amount set by court
Bond status (posted, not posted, revoked)
Bond conditions imposed by court
Bail hearing dates and outcomes

Court Information:

Scheduled court appearance dates
Court of jurisdiction (municipal, magistrate, circuit)
Judge assigned to case
Court case numbers
Court disposition information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Sentence length and terms
Conviction date and sentencing date
Credit for time served calculations
Probation or parole eligibility dates
Good time/work credits earned
Projected release date

Release Information:

Actual release date and time
Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
Release conditions if applicable
Post-release supervision requirements
Agency assuming custody if transferred

These records are maintained in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-13-150, which establishes requirements for documenting individuals in county detention facilities.

Aiken County Prison System

The Aiken County correctional system operates within a structured framework that distinguishes between local detention and state incarceration. The county maintains facilities primarily for pre-trial detention and sentences of up to one year, while longer sentences are served in state prison facilities operated by the South Carolina Department of Corrections.

The Aiken County detention system falls under the jurisdiction of the Aiken County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the operation and administration of the county's detention center. This facility houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences for misdemeanor convictions, and temporarily holding individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities after felony convictions.

The key distinction between county detention and state prison lies in both the length of incarceration and the nature of offenses. County facilities typically house:

Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (generally under one year)
Individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities after sentencing
Individuals held on probation or parole violations

For information regarding detention in Aiken County, citizens may contact:

Aiken County Sheriff's Office
420 Hampton Avenue NE
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains oversight of detention operations in accordance with standards established by the South Carolina Department of Corrections and state law.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Aiken County

Aiken County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security requirements. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's correctional system:

Aiken County Detention Center
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Detention Center

The Detention Center serves as the primary facility for housing pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. This medium-security facility provides:

Intake and booking services for newly arrested individuals
Housing for male and female detainees in separate units
Medical services for incarcerated individuals
Visitation facilities for approved visitors
Court holding and transportation services

Aiken County Work Release Center
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Sheriff's Office

The Work Release Center operates as a minimum-security facility for qualifying inmates who:

Have been approved for work release programs
Maintain employment in the community during incarceration
Return to secure custody during non-working hours
Are serving sentences for non-violent offenses
Have demonstrated good institutional behavior

For individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year or convicted of serious felonies, transfer to state facilities operated by the South Carolina Department of Corrections typically occurs following sentencing. These state facilities provide longer-term incarceration services beyond the scope of county detention.

Who's in Prison In Aiken County

The Aiken County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The county jail population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
Those who could not post bail or were denied bail due to flight risk or public safety concerns
Individuals awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial dates
Persons held on out-of-county warrants awaiting transfer

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
Those serving weekend sentences that allow limited work or educational release
Persons serving consecutive sentences for multiple misdemeanor convictions
Individuals serving split sentences with partial incarceration followed by probation

Short-term Felony Convictions:

Individuals convicted of certain low-level felonies with sentences under one year
Persons serving the incarceration portion of split sentences before probation begins
Those awaiting transfer to state correctional facilities after sentencing

Technical Violators:

Individuals who have violated terms of probation or parole
Those serving sanctions for technical violations rather than new criminal offenses
Persons awaiting probation revocation hearings

Special Populations:

Individuals with mental health needs awaiting appropriate placement
Those requiring protective custody due to case circumstances
Individuals held on civil commitments or contempt of court
Federal detainees housed under intergovernmental agreements

According to data from the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the average daily population in Aiken County detention facilities fluctuates between 300-350 individuals, with approximately 60% being pre-trial detainees and 40% serving sentences or awaiting transfer to state facilities.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Aiken County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Aiken County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic custody information while protecting sensitive data.

Online Inmate Search:

Visit the Aiken County Detention Center Detainee Public Search portal
Enter search criteria such as the individual's name or booking number
Review the results showing current custody status and basic case information
Note that the system displays only currently incarcerated individuals
Record the inmate ID number for future reference if conducting additional inquiries

In-Person Record Requests:

Visit the Aiken County Detention Center during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
Complete a public records request form at the administrative office
Provide specific information about the records being requested
Present valid government-issued identification
Pay applicable fees for document reproduction if requesting physical copies

Written Requests:

Submit a formal written request to: Aiken County Detention Center
Records Division
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
Include the inmate's full name, date of birth, and approximate dates of incarceration
Specify the exact records being requested
Provide contact information for response
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting mailed response

For historical records or individuals no longer in custody, requests may need to be directed to the Records Division of the Aiken County Sheriff's Office. All requests are processed in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act, which allows up to 10 business days for initial response to records requests.

How To Find an Inmate in Aiken County for Free?

Locating an individual currently incarcerated in Aiken County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources allow family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties to verify custody status without incurring fees.

Aiken County Online Inmate Locator:

Access the Aiken County Detention Center Detainee Public Search system
Enter the individual's last name and first name in the search fields
Review results showing current inmates matching the search criteria
Verify identity using additional information such as age or booking date
Note the housing location and booking information displayed

Telephone Verification:

Contact the Aiken County Detention Center at (803) 642-1761
Request inmate verification from the custody staff
Provide the full legal name of the individual being sought
Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requested
Inquire about visitation eligibility and procedures if applicable

State-Level Resources:

For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, utilize the South Carolina Department of Corrections Inmate Search
For individuals on probation or parole, check the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services Offender Search
Enter the required search information and review results
Verify the current location and custody status
Note any special conditions or restrictions indicated

These resources provide basic custody verification and location information. For more detailed records or case-specific information, formal records requests may be necessary through the procedures outlined in the previous section.

How To Visit an Inmate In Aiken County

Visitation with individuals incarcerated in Aiken County facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits are subject to facility rules and regulations established pursuant to South Carolina Code § 24-3-80, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish visitation policies.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance of planned visit
Each inmate is permitted two 30-minute visits per week
A maximum of two visitors (including children) are allowed per visit
All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor

Visit Schedule:

General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Special Housing Units: Saturday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
No visits on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
Visits are scheduled by inmate housing unit on a rotating basis
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) may be scheduled during additional hours

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
Medications needed during visit duration (must be declared)
Baby necessities if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
Visiting order or appointment confirmation if applicable

What NOT to Bring:

Cell phones or electronic devices of any kind
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Food or beverages
Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives)
Tobacco products or smoking materials
Cash exceeding $20 for vending machines
Revealing or inappropriate clothing
Papers, documents, or mail for inmates

Dress Code:

Conservative attire required for all visitors
No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
No clothing with offensive language or images
No gang-related colors or symbols
Shoes and shirts required at all times
No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)

Visit Types:

Contact visits are not permitted at the Aiken County Detention Center
All general visits occur through secure video visitation terminals
Professional visits occur in designated non-contact booths
Special visits may be approved by facility administration for exceptional circumstances

For current visitation information and to schedule a visit, contact:

Aiken County Detention Center
Visitation Office
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Detention Center

How To Send Money to a Aiken County Inmate

Individuals incarcerated in Aiken County facilities may receive funds from approved sources to purchase commissary items and pay for services. The Aiken County Detention Center has established several methods for depositing money into inmate accounts in accordance with facility regulations.

Online Deposits:

Visit the TouchPay payment portal through the Aiken County Sheriff's Office website
Create an account or log in to an existing account
Select "Aiken County Detention Center" as the facility
Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
Select payment amount and method (credit/debit card)
Complete the transaction and retain the confirmation number
Service fees apply (typically $2.50-$10.00 depending on deposit amount)

Kiosk Deposits:

Visit the Aiken County Detention Center lobby during regular business hours
Locate the TouchPay kiosk near the main entrance
Follow on-screen instructions to identify the inmate
Insert cash or credit/debit card for payment
Obtain and retain printed receipt
Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 24 hours
Service fees apply for credit/debit transactions (cash deposits may have lower fees)

Money Order Deposits:

Purchase a money order payable to "Aiken County Detention Center"
Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
Complete a deposit slip (available at the facility or printable from website)
Mail to: Aiken County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
Allow 5-7 business days for processing
No service fees apply for money order deposits

Deposit Limits and Restrictions:

Maximum weekly deposit limit: $300 per inmate
Maximum account balance allowed: $500
Funds from unidentified sources will be returned
Deposits from other inmates or their families are prohibited
Deposits from individuals with criminal records may require approval

Authorized Fund Uses:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone account funding
Medical co-pays for requested services
Haircuts and other personal services
Payment of outstanding facility fees or debts

Prohibited Fund Uses:

Transfer to other inmates
Payment for prohibited services
Accumulation beyond authorized limits
Bond payments (must be handled separately through court system)
Restitution payments (handled through court system)

For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact:

Aiken County Detention Center
Inmate Accounts Office
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Detention Center

How To Send Jail Mail In Aiken County

Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in Aiken County facilities follows specific guidelines designed to maintain security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. All mail is subject to inspection in accordance with South Carolina Code § 24-3-550, which authorizes screening of inmate correspondence.

General Mail Guidelines:

Address all mail exactly as follows: Inmate's Full Name, ID Number Aiken County Detention Center 435 Wire Road Aiken, SC 29801
Include your complete return address on the envelope
Use standard white envelopes only (maximum size 9" x 12")
Write in blue or black ink only (no markers, colored ink, crayons, etc.)
Do not use stickers, labels, tape, or white-out on envelopes
All mail must arrive through the U.S. Postal Service (no courier services)

Permitted Mail Items:

Letters on plain white paper (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Commercially printed greeting cards (no musical, oversized, or homemade cards)
Money orders (following procedures outlined in previous section)
Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4" x 6", no Polaroids)
Legal documents from attorneys (clearly marked as legal mail)
Religious materials (subject to review by facility chaplain)

Prohibited Mail Items:

Cash, personal checks, or currency of any kind
Packages or padded envelopes
Plastic, cardboard, or metal items of any kind
Stamps, envelopes, or blank paper
Newspaper clippings or magazine cutouts
Drawings made with crayon, marker, or colored pencil
Photos depicting nudity, gang symbols, or criminal activity
Photos with multiple layers or adhesive backing
Perfumed or scented paper
Books or publications (must come directly from publisher)

Legal Mail:

Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
Must come from a verifiable attorney or legal organization
Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
Is subject to inspection for contraband but not read for content
Must comply with physical restrictions (no staples, paper clips, etc.)

Mail Processing Times:

Regular mail is typically processed within 24-48 hours of receipt
Legal mail is processed within 24 hours of receipt
Rejected mail is returned to sender with explanation
Mail volume may cause delays during holiday periods

For questions regarding mail policies, contact:

Aiken County Detention Center
Mail Room
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Detention Center

Lookup Inmate Records in Aiken County

Aiken County Detention Center

Aiken County Inmate Search System

South Carolina Department of Corrections

South Carolina Probation and Parole Offender Search