Union County Inmate Search
How To Search for Inmate Records in Union County in 2026
UnionMSRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to inmate records in Union County, Mississippi. Members of the public may find data pertaining to the following record categories:
- Current custody status
- Booking and arrest records
- Charges and bond information
- Incarceration history
- Court dates and case numbers
- Facility location and transfer status
Inmate records may be searched through official county and state resources, clerk offices, public access terminals, and online tools. The steps below outline the primary methods available at present.
1. County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search
The Union County Sheriff's Office maintains custody of individuals held at the county jail and serves as the primary source for local inmate information. Members of the public may access the inmate roster by visiting the Sheriff's Office directly or contacting the facility by phone.
- Access the Sheriff's Office inmate information by contacting the facility directly
- Search by full legal name or booking number
- Provide date of birth to narrow results when multiple individuals share a name
- Request current custody status, charges, bond amount, and facility location from staff
Information available through the Sheriff's Office includes:
- Full legal name and aliases
- Booking photograph
- Current charges
- Bond amount and type
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Expected release date (when available)
The roster is updated as bookings and releases occur. At present, no dedicated mobile application is available for the Union County Sheriff's Office inmate search.
Union County Sheriff's Office
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1881
Union County Sheriff's Office
2. State Department of Corrections Inmate Search (for state prison)
Individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year in Mississippi are transferred to the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. The MDOC maintains a statewide inmate search tool that allows members of the public to locate individuals held in state correctional facilities.
- Navigate to the MDOC inmate search portal
- Enter the individual's first name, last name, or MDOC ID number
- Review results for custody status, facility assignment, and sentence information
The distinction between county jail and state prison is significant: county jail holds pre-trial detainees and individuals serving short sentences, while state prison houses post-conviction offenders serving longer terms. Transfer from county to state custody typically occurs within 30 to 90 days following sentencing, though timelines vary.
Mississippi Department of Corrections
633 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39202
Phone: (601) 359-5600
Mississippi Department of Corrections
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator (for federal inmates)
Individuals convicted of federal offenses are held in facilities operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. This resource is appropriate when the underlying offense involved federal law, such as drug trafficking across state lines, federal firearms violations, or crimes on federal property.
- Access the BOP inmate locator at bop.gov
- Search by name or BOP register number
- Available information includes facility name, release date, and age
Phone Search:
Members of the public may call the Union County Sheriff's Office at (662) 534-1881 to request inmate information by phone. Staff can provide current custody status, charges, and bond information during regular business hours. Callers should have the individual's full legal name and date of birth available to assist with identification.
In-Person Inquiry:
Members of the public may visit the Union County Sheriff's Office at 109 Main Street, New Albany, MS 38652 during regular business hours. Valid government-issued photo identification is required. Staff at the front desk can provide current custody status, charges, and bond information.
By Mail:
Written requests for inmate information may be directed to the Union County Sheriff's Office at 109 Main Street, New Albany, MS 38652. Requests should include the full legal name of the individual, date of birth, and the specific information sought. Processing times vary based on request volume.
Search Tips:
- Use the individual's full legal name as it appears on government-issued identification
- Try name variations, including nicknames, maiden names, and alternate spellings
- Include date of birth to distinguish between individuals with similar names
- Search by booking number if available, as this provides the most precise result
- Check both current inmates and recently released individuals
- Recent bookings may take several hours to appear in online systems
- Individuals who have been transferred may not appear in county records
What If You Can't Find an Inmate:
- The individual may have been transferred to state prison — search the MDOC inmate locator
- The individual may be in federal custody — search the BOP inmate locator
- The individual may have been released
- The individual may be held in an adjacent jurisdiction
- A recent booking may not yet be reflected in the online system
- Name spelling variations may affect search results
- Contact the Union County Sheriff's Office directly at (662) 534-1881
Are Inmate Records Public in Union County?
Inmate records in Union County are subject to public disclosure under Mississippi's public records law. Pursuant to Mississippi Code § 25-61-1, et seq., public records maintained by government agencies are accessible to members of the public upon request, subject to specific statutory exemptions. The Mississippi Public Records Act establishes that government transparency is a foundational principle of state law, and inmate records fall within the category of information that agencies are required to make available.
As the Mississippi Department of Corrections has stated in its public records policy: "The public records policy of the Mississippi Department of Corrections has been adopted in accordance with the Mississippi Public Records Act." This framework applies to county-level corrections records as well.
Information That Is Public:
- Current inmate roster and population
- Booking information, including date and arresting agency
- Criminal charges
- Bond and bail amounts
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Expected release date (when available)
- Scheduled court dates
Information With Restricted Access:
- Medical records and health conditions
- Mental health information and treatment records
- Prescription medication details
- Detailed disciplinary records (may be restricted)
- Visitor contact lists (may be restricted)
- Confidential informant status
- Juvenile detention records
- Witness protection participant information
- Specific security classifications and cell assignments
Why Inmate Records Are Public:
The public interest in inmate records is grounded in several recognized principles. Government transparency requires that the exercise of custodial authority over individuals be subject to public scrutiny. Public safety considerations support the availability of information about individuals charged with or convicted of criminal offenses. Family members and legal representatives rely on inmate records to locate individuals and coordinate legal proceedings. The bail bond industry depends on timely access to booking and bond information to fulfill its statutory functions.
Privacy Considerations:
Under current law, the balance between transparency and individual privacy requires that certain categories of sensitive information remain protected even when an individual is in custody. Information pertaining to medical conditions, mental health treatment, and specific security arrangements is withheld to protect both the individual and the integrity of facility operations. The impact of public records on families and future employment prospects is acknowledged within the framework of Mississippi's public records statutes.
What Is Inmate Records in Union County?
Inmate records are official government documents created and maintained by correctional authorities to document the custody, charges, legal status, and administrative classification of individuals held in detention. These records serve as the authoritative source of information regarding an individual's incarceration and are created at the point of booking by the arresting or receiving agency.
In Union County, inmate records are created and maintained by the Union County Sheriff's Office for individuals held at the county jail. The Mississippi Department of Corrections maintains records for individuals transferred to state custody following conviction and sentencing. The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains records for individuals held on federal charges.
The principal categories of inmate records include:
- Booking records: Created at the time of arrest and initial detention, documenting the individual's identity, charges, and bond information
- Custody records: Ongoing documentation of an individual's housing assignment, classification, and status within a facility
- Incarceration history: A cumulative record of all prior bookings, charges, and periods of custody within a jurisdiction
- Release records: Documentation of the circumstances and date of an individual's release from custody, including discharge, bond posting, or transfer
The official custodian of county inmate records is the Union County Sheriff's Office. County jail records pertain to individuals held pre-trial or serving sentences of one year or less. State prison records, maintained by the Mississippi Department of Corrections, pertain to individuals serving post-conviction sentences exceeding one year. Federal prison records, maintained by the Bureau of Prisons, pertain to individuals convicted of federal offenses.
What's Included in Inmate Records in Union County
Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Inmate or booking number
- Date of birth and age
- Sex and gender
- Race and ethnicity
- Height, weight, and physical description
- Booking photograph
- Identifying marks, scars, and tattoos
Custody Information:
- Current facility location
- Housing unit or cell block (subject to security restrictions)
- Custody date and booking date
- Expected release date (when available)
- Actual release date (following release)
- Custody status: in custody, released, or transferred
Charges and Legal Information:
- Current charges and charge descriptions
- Case numbers
- Court jurisdiction
- Arrest date and arresting agency
- Warrant information
Bond and Bail Information:
- Bond amount as set by the court
- Bond type: cash, surety, or no bond
- Bond status: posted or pending
- Bail bondsman information (when applicable)
Court Information:
- Scheduled court dates
- Court location and division
- Hearing types
- Attorney information (in some cases)
Sentence Information (for sentenced inmates):
- Conviction charges
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date (when applicable)
- Good time credits
Previous Custody History:
- Prior bookings within the county
- Previous charges
- Historical custody dates
Administrative Information:
- Classification level: minimum, medium, or maximum security
- Special housing needs
- Work assignments (in some cases)
- Program participation
What's NOT Typically Included in Public Records:
- Medical history or conditions
- Mental health information and treatment records
- Prescription medications
- Detailed disciplinary records
- Visitor contact information
- Inmate account balances
- Phone call logs
- Specific cell assignments withheld for security reasons
Union County Prison System
The Union County corrections system is operated under the authority of the Union County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of the county jail and the custody of all individuals detained within the county. The Sheriff serves as the chief law enforcement officer and the official custodian of the county detention facility.
Administration:
The Union County Sheriff's Office administers the county jail and oversees all aspects of inmate custody, classification, and programming. The administrative office is located at 109 Main Street, New Albany, MS 38652, and may be reached at (662) 534-1881.
Facility Operations:
The Union County Jail houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving short sentences for misdemeanor and felony offenses, and individuals awaiting transfer to state custody. The facility operates a classification system that assigns inmates to appropriate security levels based on the nature of their charges and behavioral history.
Inmate Services:
- Medical care provided on-site or through contracted medical providers
- Mental health services available through referral
- Substance abuse programming
- Religious services and chaplaincy
- Library access
- Recreation opportunities
Legal Services:
- Law library access for inmates
- Coordination with the public defender's office
- Attorney visitation available during designated hours
Reentry Programs:
The facility supports pre-release planning to assist individuals in transitioning back to the community, including coordination with substance abuse treatment providers and referrals to housing and employment resources.
Oversight and Accountability:
The Union County jail is subject to oversight by the Mississippi Department of Corrections, which conducts inspections of county facilities to ensure compliance with state standards. Grievance procedures are available to inmates through the facility's administrative process.
Types of Correctional Facilities in Union County
Union County Jail
The Union County Jail is the primary detention facility serving Union County, Mississippi. It is operated by the Union County Sheriff's Office and houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced misdemeanor offenders, and felony holdovers awaiting transfer to state custody.
Union County Jail
109 Main Street
New Albany, MS 38652
Phone: (662) 534-1881
Union County Sheriff's Office
The facility serves the following populations:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Sentenced misdemeanor offenders
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state prison
- Individuals held on detainers from other jurisdictions
Alternative Custody Programs
Home Detention and Electronic Monitoring
Eligible individuals may be placed on home detention with electronic monitoring as an alternative to incarceration. Eligibility is determined by the court based on the nature of the offense, criminal history, and community ties. Members of the public seeking information about this program may contact the Union County Sheriff's Office at (662) 534-1881.
Work Release
Work release programs allow eligible sentenced individuals to maintain employment while serving their sentence. Eligibility criteria are established by the court and the Sheriff's Office. Participants are required to return to the facility outside of approved work hours.
State Prison Facilities
Individuals convicted of felony offenses in Union County and sentenced to terms exceeding one year are transferred to facilities operated by the Mississippi Department of Corrections. The MDOC operates multiple facilities throughout the state. Members of the public may use the Mississippi Department of Corrections inmate search to locate individuals held in state custody.
Federal Detention Facilities
Individuals charged with or convicted of federal offenses may be held in federal facilities operated by the Bureau of Prisons. The nearest federal facilities to Union County are located in other Mississippi districts. The Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate locator provides current information on federally held individuals.
Facility Contact Information Summary:
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Union County Jail | 109 Main Street, New Albany, MS 38652 | (662) 534-1881 |
| MDOC Central Office | 633 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39202 | (601) 359-5600 |
How To Find an Inmate in Union County for Free?
Members of the public may locate an inmate in Union County at no cost through several official channels. No registration or payment is required to access basic inmate information through government sources.
1. Official County Inmate Roster
The Union County Sheriff's Office provides inmate information at no charge. Members of the public may contact the facility directly at (662) 534-1881 or visit in person at 109 Main Street, New Albany, MS 38652. Information available includes current custody status, booking information, charges, bond amounts, facility location, and booking photographs. The roster is updated as bookings and releases occur.
2. State Department of Corrections Free Search
The Mississippi Department of Corrections inmate search is available at no cost to members of the public. The tool provides access to information on individuals currently held in state facilities as well as historical incarceration data for formerly incarcerated individuals.
3. Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
The Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate locator is a free resource for locating individuals held in federal custody. The search tool accepts name or BOP register number and returns facility assignment, release date, and age.
4. Court Records Search
Court records maintained by the Union County Circuit and Justice Courts may be used to verify custody status and identify upcoming court dates. Case information may be available through the Mississippi Courts case search portal.
Free Phone Information:
Members of the public may call the Union County Sheriff's Office at (662) 534-1881 to request basic inmate information at no charge. Staff can provide current custody status, charges, and bond information during business hours.
Free In-Person Search:
Members of the public may visit the Union County Sheriff's Office at 109 Main Street, New Albany, MS 38652 during regular business hours. Staff assistance is available, and no fee is charged for basic inmate information inquiries.
What's Free vs. What Costs Money:
At present, the following services are provided at no charge:
- Online inmate search through official government portals
- Current custody status inquiries
- Basic inmate information by phone or in person
- Court records access through official portals
The following services involve fees:
- Sending money to an inmate through the facility's approved vendor
- Video visitation services
- Phone calls placed by inmates through the facility's telecommunications provider
- Commissary deposits
- Certified copies of booking records
- Third-party background check services
Scam Warning:
Members of the public are advised to exercise caution when using third-party websites that charge fees for inmate location services. Basic inmate information is available at no cost through official government sources. Pursuant to Mississippi Code § 25-61-5, public records are to be made available to the public, and no private fee is required to access information that government agencies are required to disclose. Members of the public should verify that any website used for inmate searches displays a .gov domain before submitting personal information or payment.