Minnehaha County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Minnehaha County?

Inmate records in Minnehaha County are official government documents maintained by the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office that chronicle an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records document the custody, care, and control of persons who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. Pursuant to South Dakota Codified Laws § 1-27-1.5, these records constitute official documentation of individuals in custody of local law enforcement agencies.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways. While court records focus on case proceedings, legal arguments, and judicial decisions, inmate records specifically document the physical custody and daily management of individuals within correctional facilities. The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records, whereas the Minnehaha County Clerk of Courts maintains case files related to criminal proceedings.

The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into the Minnehaha County Jail. During this initial phase, personal information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge details are collected and entered into the county's record-keeping system. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document.

Are Inmate Records Public In Minnehaha County?

Inmate records in Minnehaha County are generally considered public information under South Dakota's public records laws. According to South Dakota Codified Laws § 1-27-1, records of public agencies, including those of county correctional facilities, are presumed open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.

The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office makes certain inmate information available to the public in accordance with state transparency requirements while balancing privacy and security considerations. Information that is typically accessible to the public includes:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information
• Charges filed
• Mugshots
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

However, certain components of inmate records may be restricted from public access under SDCL § 1-27-1.5, which exempts specific categories of records from disclosure. These exemptions may include:

• Medical and mental health information
• Information that would compromise facility security
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
• Information that would endanger an individual if released

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access basic details through the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office online inmate lookup system or by contacting the jail directly for information not available online.

What's Included Inmate Records in Minnehaha County

Inmate records in Minnehaha County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county 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
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking/intake
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Current custody status
• Housing assignment within facility
• Classification level
• Disciplinary records
• Program participation

Charge Information:

• Current charges
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Jurisdiction of charges

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond/bail amount
• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond status (posted, not posted)
• Bond conditions
• Court-ordered holds

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned
• Scheduled court appearances
• Court case numbers
• Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction details
• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Good time/work time credits
• Parole eligibility date

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Probation/parole requirements

This information is maintained in accordance with South Dakota Codified Laws § 24-2-17, which governs record-keeping requirements for correctional facilities in the state.

Minnehaha County Prison System

The Minnehaha County correctional system operates under the authority of the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, are awaiting trial, or are serving sentences of up to one year. The system primarily consists of the Minnehaha County Jail, which serves as the main detention facility for the county.

It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in South Dakota. The Minnehaha County Jail houses individuals who are:

• Awaiting arraignment or trial
• Serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses (typically up to one year)
• Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Being held on probation or parole violations
• In custody on civil commitments or court orders

In contrast, the South Dakota Department of Corrections operates state prisons that house individuals convicted of felony offenses serving sentences longer than one year. Individuals sentenced to state prison from Minnehaha County courts are transferred to the custody of the state system after sentencing.

The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office oversees all jail operations and can be contacted at:

Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office
320 W 4th Street
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
(605) 367-4300
Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Minnehaha County

Minnehaha County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations:

Minnehaha County Jail (Main Facility)
500 N Minnesota Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
(605) 367-4321
Minnehaha County Jail

The main jail facility serves as the primary detention center for Minnehaha County. This facility houses pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions. The facility provides various security levels and housing units to accommodate different classification needs.

Minnehaha County Juvenile Detention Center
4200 S West Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
(605) 367-4687
Juvenile Detention Center

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders who are awaiting court proceedings or serving short-term detention sentences. The center provides age-appropriate supervision, educational services, and programming designed specifically for youth in custody.

Minnehaha County Work Release Center
500 N Minnesota Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
(605) 367-4321

The Work Release Center is a minimum-security facility that allows eligible inmates to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants return to the facility during non-working hours. This program helps inmates maintain employment, support their families, and prepare for successful reintegration into society.

Each facility operates under the authority of the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the South Dakota Department of Corrections and the American Correctional Association.

Who's in Prison In Minnehaha County

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

Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings. These individuals have not been convicted of the charges for which they are being held and are presumed innocent under the law. Pre-trial detainees may be held because they:

• Have been denied bail
• Cannot afford to post bail
• Are considered flight risks
• Are deemed a danger to the community
• Have violated conditions of pre-trial release

Sentenced Inmates: Individuals who have been convicted of criminal offenses and are serving sentences of up to one year in the county jail. These typically include:

• Misdemeanor offenders
• Low-level felony offenders (in some cases)
• Individuals serving time for probation violations

Temporary Holds: The jail also houses individuals who are:

• Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony sentencing
• Being held for other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, other states)
• Serving sanctions for probation or parole violations
• In custody on civil commitments or court orders

Work Release Participants: Eligible inmates who are permitted to leave the facility for employment during the day and return in the evening.

Weekend Commitments: Individuals serving intermittent sentences, typically on weekends, allowing them to maintain employment and family responsibilities during the week.

According to data from the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, the jail population fluctuates but typically averages between 400-500 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects the broader criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and minority populations.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Minnehaha County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Minnehaha County may utilize several methods to access these records. The county currently maintains multiple channels through which inmate status and information can be verified:

Online Inmate Lookup System:

1. Visit the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Jail Division" section
3. Select "Inmate Lookup" from the available options
4. Enter search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
5. Review the results, which typically include:
   • Inmate name
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Next court date
   • Expected release date (if applicable)

In-Person Requests:

1. Visit the Minnehaha County Jail during regular business hours: Minnehaha County Jail
   500 N Minnesota Avenue
   Sioux Falls, SD 57104
2. Proceed to the public information desk
3. Complete an inmate information request form
4. Provide identification if required
5. Specify the information being requested

Telephone Inquiries:

1. Contact the Minnehaha County Jail at (605) 367-4321
2. Provide the name of the inmate and any additional identifying information
3. Request specific information about custody status, visiting hours, or other public information

Written Requests:

1. Submit a written request to: Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office
   Records Division
   320 W 4th Street
   Sioux Falls, SD 57104
2. Include the following information:
   • Inmate's full name
   • Date of birth (if known)
   • Your contact information
   • Specific information requested
   • Purpose of request (if relevant)

For more comprehensive records beyond basic custody information, individuals may need to submit a formal public records request in accordance with South Dakota's public records laws. Some information may require proper identification or documentation of relationship to the inmate before release.

How To Find an Inmate in Minnehaha County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Minnehaha County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These free resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties verify an individual's custody status and location within the county correctional system.

Online Inmate Lookup: The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office online inmate search tool:

1. Access the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Jail" section
3. Select the "Inmate Lookup" option
4. Enter the inmate's information (last name, first name, or booking number)
5. Review the search results, which will indicate if the person is currently in custody

This online system is updated regularly and provides basic information about individuals currently held in Minnehaha County facilities.

Telephone Verification: For those without internet access, the Minnehaha County Jail provides custody information via telephone:

1. Call the Minnehaha County Jail at (605) 367-4321
2. Request to verify if a specific individual is in custody
3. Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person
4. Jail staff can confirm custody status and provide basic public information

Jail Lobby Information Kiosk: Visitors to the Minnehaha County Jail can use the public information kiosk in the lobby:

1. Visit the jail facility during regular business hours: Minnehaha County Jail
   500 N Minnesota Avenue
   Sioux Falls, SD 57104
2. Use the self-service kiosk in the lobby area
3. Search for inmate information using the touchscreen interface
4. Obtain printouts of basic custody information if needed

South Dakota Statewide Offender Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the South Dakota Department of Corrections Offender Search provides a free online database of state inmates.

These free resources provide basic custody information in compliance with SDCL § 23-5-7, which governs the maintenance and accessibility of criminal history information in South Dakota.

How To Visit an Inmate In Minnehaha County

Visiting an inmate at the Minnehaha County Jail requires adherence to specific protocols established to maintain security and order within the facility. The following guidelines outline the current visitation procedures:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
• Inmates are permitted to have up to 8 approved visitors on their list
• Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
• Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

• Visitation hours are scheduled according to housing unit assignments
• Each inmate is allowed two 30-minute visits per week
• The current visitation schedule is available on the Minnehaha County Jail Information page
• Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled visitation time for processing

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
• Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
• Medication that may be needed during the visit (must be declared)
• Infant necessities if visiting with a baby (one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
• Electronic devices (cell phones, smartwatches, cameras, recording devices)
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Money exceeding $20 in cash
• Medications not declared upon entry

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire is required
• No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or miniskirts)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
• No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
• Shoes must be worn at all times

Visit Types:

• On-site video visitation (primary method)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
• Special visits (approved by jail administration for exceptional circumstances)

Visit Rules:

• Physical contact is not permitted during visits
• Visitors must remain seated throughout the visit
• Disruptive behavior will result in termination of the visit
• Visitors may not exchange any items with inmates
• Conversations are subject to monitoring and recording (except attorney visits)

Visit Restrictions:

• Individuals with felony convictions within the past year may be denied
• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
• Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
• Visitors who violate rules may have visiting privileges suspended or revoked

These regulations are established pursuant to SDCL § 24-2-18, which authorizes correctional facilities to establish reasonable visitation policies. Additional information and the current visitation schedule can be found in the Jail Inmate Guidebook.

How To Send Money to a Minnehaha County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Minnehaha County Jail have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other services within the facility.

Approved Deposit Methods:

1. Online Deposits:

   • Visit the Minnehaha County Jail's official website
   • Select the "Inmate Deposits" link
   • Follow the instructions to create an account with the third-party service provider
   • Enter the inmate's information and deposit amount
   • Complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
   • Service fees apply (typically 5-8% of deposit amount)

2. Kiosk Deposits:

   • Visit the Minnehaha County Jail lobby during regular business hours: Minnehaha County Jail
     500 N Minnesota Avenue
     Sioux Falls, SD 57104
   • Use the automated kiosk located in the public lobby
   • Follow on-screen instructions to deposit funds
   • Cash, credit, and debit cards are accepted
   • Service fees apply for credit/debit transactions

3. Mail-In Money Orders:

   • Purchase a money order from an approved provider (U.S. Postal Service, Western Union, etc.)
   • Make the money order payable to the inmate (full legal name)
   • Include the inmate's booking number on the money order
   • Mail to: Minnehaha County Jail
     Inmate Accounts
     500 N Minnesota Avenue
     Sioux Falls, SD 57104
   • Personal checks and cash are not accepted through mail

Deposit Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
• Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Associated Fees:

• Online deposits: 5-8% of deposit amount
• Kiosk credit/debit transactions: $2.95 per transaction
• Money orders: No fee from the jail (provider fees may apply)
• Sentenced inmates are charged a $10.00 daily fee for incarceration as authorized by SDCL § 24-11-45

Prohibited Items:

• Cash sent through mail
• Personal checks
• Cashier's checks
• Third-party checks
• Foreign currency

Authorized Fund Uses: Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Telephone calls
• Video visitation sessions
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Release money

Restricted Fund Uses: Funds may not be used for:

• Bail or bond payments
• Fine payments
• Restitution payments
• Transfer to other inmates' accounts
• Purchase of contraband items

Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account will be returned via debit card or check, depending on the amount and circumstances of release.

How To Send Jail Mail In Minnehaha County

Correspondence with inmates at the Minnehaha County Jail must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations as outlined below:

General Mailing Instructions:

• All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
• Address envelopes clearly with:
  • Inmate's full legal name
  • Inmate's booking number (if known)
  • Facility name and address: Minnehaha County Jail
    500 N Minnesota Avenue
    Sioux Falls, SD 57104
• Include a complete return address with sender's full name
• Mail lacking proper addressing may be returned to sender

Acceptable Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (following the procedures outlined in the financial section)
• Legal documents (clearly marked as legal mail)
• Religious materials (subject to security review)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Plastic or metal items of any kind
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Polaroid photographs
• Nude or sexually explicit photographs
• Cash, personal checks, or cashier's checks
• Stamps, envelopes, or blank paper
• Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Any items containing biohazards or contraband
• Items containing gang symbols or references

Legal Mail:

• Mail from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies must be clearly marked "Legal Mail"
• Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
• Legal mail is inspected for contraband but not read by staff
• Attorneys should include their bar number on correspondence

Publications and Books:

• Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
• Hardcover books are not permitted
• Publications containing prohibited content (weapons, drug manufacturing, pornography, etc.) will be rejected
• Religious texts are subject to the same mailing requirements as other publications

E-Messages:

• The Minnehaha County Jail offers an electronic messaging system for friends and family
• Access is available through the jail's third-party communication provider
• Fees apply for electronic messages
• All electronic communications are subject to monitoring and screening
• Instructions for accessing the e-message system are available in the Jail Inmate Guidebook

All mail procedures are established in accordance with SDCL § 24-2-20, which authorizes correctional facilities to inspect incoming and outgoing mail for security purposes. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and possible suspension of mail privileges.

Lookup Inmate Records in Minnehaha County

Minnehaha County Jail Information

Jail Inmate Guidebook