St. John County Jail is a secure detention facility located in St. Augustine, Florida, operated by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It serves as the primary intake and holding center for individuals arrested within the county. The jail processes all adult offenders before they appear in court or are transferred to state prisons. It also houses inmates serving shorter sentences of 364 days or less. The facility includes both the main detention center and the Community Work Release Center, which supports rehabilitation through supervised employment and counseling programs.
Online Inmate Search System
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office provides a public online inmate search tool that updates every ten to fifteen minutes. This real-time system allows anyone to look up current detainees using names or booking numbers. Each record shows the person’s full legal name, exact time of booking, booking number, primary charge, bond amount, and a photo. The portal also displays the arrest date, age at booking, and a view count showing how many times the record has been accessed. All individuals listed are in custody but have not been convicted of any crime. The system is maintained by the Sheriff’s Office Records Unit, which ensures accuracy and compliance with Florida public records laws.
How to Use the Inmate Search Portal
To find someone in the St. John County Jail, visit the official SJSO website and access the inmate search page. You can search by entering a full name or partial name. The results will show a list of matching inmates with photos and key details. Click on a name to see more information, including charges, bond status, and court dates. The system refreshes frequently, so data is usually current within minutes. If you believe a record is wrong, contact the Records Unit at (904) 810-6610 during business hours or email using the address on the website. Always include the booking number, full name, and arrest date when reporting errors.
Visitation Rules and Procedures
Visitors must register at least 24 hours before their visit. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry. The dress code bans gang-related clothing, hats, and excessive jewelry. Failure to follow these rules may result in denied entry or loss of visitation rights. Live video visitation is available through a secure platform with a $5 activation fee per session. Visits run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Weekend hours are the same. Inmates can also start video calls after approval from the scheduling office. All visits are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Community Work Release Center
The Community Work Release Center is a 100-bed facility for male inmates serving sentences of 364 days or less. Located at the same address as the main jail, it focuses on rehabilitation. Residents work at approved job sites during the day and return to the center at night. They also attend counseling and vocational training programs. The goal is to reduce repeat offenses by helping inmates build skills and stable habits. The CWRC maintains a separate roster showing names, release dates, and assigned work locations. This program is part of the Sheriff’s Office effort to support reintegration into society.
Booking and Processing Procedures
When someone is arrested in St. Johns County, they are brought to the main detention center for processing. This includes fingerprinting, taking a mugshot, and a health screening by the on-site medical team. Officers record personal details, charges, and property. The individual is then assigned a booking number and placed in a holding cell. They remain in custody until a judge sets bail, releases them, or transfers them to another facility. All records are stored digitally and updated in real time. The process is designed to be fast, secure, and transparent.
Bond and Release Information
Bail amounts are set by judges based on the severity of the charge and the person’s criminal history. The online inmate search shows the current bond amount for each detainee. Bonds can be paid in person at the jail or online through the county’s approved payment system. Once paid, the inmate is released after processing, which usually takes one to two hours. If no bond is set, the person waits for their first court appearance. The Records Unit can provide details about bond status and release procedures. Contact them at (904) 810-6610 or use the email form on the official site.
Mail and Communication Policies
Inmates can receive mail at the jail’s mailing address: Inmate’s Full Name and 10-digit ID Number, 3955 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084-8628. All mail is inspected for contraband. Packages must be sent through approved vendors. Inmates may make phone calls using a prepaid account or collect calls. Video visitation is encouraged as a convenient and secure option. Letters should avoid discussing legal matters or including cash. For more rules, check the inmate handbook available on the Sheriff’s Office website.
Legal Records and Public Access
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office follows Florida’s Sunshine Law, which guarantees public access to arrest and booking records. Anyone can request copies of booking documents by submitting a written request to the Records Unit. Include the inmate’s name, booking number, and date of arrest. There may be a small fee for printing and mailing. These records are used by employers, attorneys, and researchers. All data is accurate at the time of posting but may change as cases move through the courts.
Contact Information and Location
The main St. John County Jail is located at 3955 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084-8628. The main phone number is (904) 824-8304. For inmate services, call (904) 209-1443. The Records Unit can be reached at (904) 810-6610 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Email inquiries should use the contact form on the official website. The jail is open 24 hours a day for emergencies and official business. Visitors should arrive early to complete registration and screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the St. John County Jail works. Below are answers to the most common ones. These cover search tools, visits, records, and policies. The information comes directly from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and is updated regularly. If you need more help, call the jail or visit the official website.
How often does the inmate search update?
The online inmate search refreshes every ten to fifteen minutes. This ensures the information is as current as possible. Changes in custody status, such as releases or new bookings, appear quickly. The system shows a timestamp so users know when it was last updated. This helps avoid confusion about whether someone is still in jail. The frequent updates support transparency and public safety.
Can I visit an inmate in person?
Yes, but you must register at least 24 hours in advance. Bring a government-issued photo ID and follow the dress code. In-person visits are limited and may be suspended during emergencies. Most people use video visitation instead, which is available seven days a week. It’s faster, safer, and doesn’t require travel. Check the website for the latest rules and schedules.
What happens if a record is wrong?
If you see incorrect information, contact the Records Unit right away. Call (904) 810-6610 or email using the form on the website. Provide the booking number, full name, and arrest date. The unit will review the case and correct any errors. All records are public, so accuracy is important. Mistakes can affect court cases or employment checks.
How do I pay bail for someone?
Bail can be paid online or in person at the jail. Use the county’s official payment portal or visit the detention center. Have the inmate’s name and booking number ready. Once paid, the person is usually released within two hours. The bond amount is listed on the inmate search page. Only approved payment methods are accepted.
Can inmates receive packages?
No, inmates cannot receive packages directly. All items must come from approved vendors. This includes clothing, hygiene products, and snacks. Books and magazines must be sent new from a publisher or bookstore. The jail inspects all mail and deliveries. Sending unauthorized items can result in disciplinary action.
Is there a victim notification system?
Yes, the Florida Department of Corrections offers a victim notification service. You can sign up to get alerts when an inmate is released, transferred, or escapes. This service is free and confidential. Visit the FDOC website or call their hotline to register. It helps keep families and victims informed and safe.
What is the Community Work Release Center?
The CWRC is a low-security facility for men serving short sentences. They work at real jobs during the day and return to the center at night. The program teaches responsibility and job skills. It reduces overcrowding in the main jail and helps inmates prepare for life after release. Participation is based on behavior and sentence length.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office website is the best place to start. It includes the inmate search tool, visitation rules, and contact details. You can also call the jail directly or visit in person. Avoid third-party sites that may have outdated or incorrect data. Official records are maintained by the Sheriff’s Office and updated in real time.
Official Website: https://www.sjso.org
Phone: (904) 824-8304
Inmate Services: (904) 209-1443
Records Unit: (904) 810-6610
Visiting Hours: Monday–Sunday, 8 a.m.–11 a.m., 1 p.m.–4 p.m., 7 p.m.–10 p.m.
Address: 3955 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084-8628
Related Services and Support
If you need help beyond what the jail provides, several local organizations offer support. Legal aid groups can assist with court cases and record requests. Counseling services are available for families affected by incarceration. Job training programs help former inmates find work. The Sheriff’s Office partners with community groups to promote rehabilitation and public safety. Always verify the credibility of any service before sharing personal information.
Final Notes
The St. John County Jail plays a vital role in the local justice system. It ensures that arrested individuals are held safely and treated fairly. The online tools make it easy for the public to stay informed. Policies are designed to balance security, transparency, and rehabilitation. For any questions, contact the Sheriff’s Office directly. They are committed to serving the community with honesty and professionalism.