Broward County Jail Inmate Search gives families, lawyers, and the public instant access to current detainee records across all four county-run detention centers. The official online portal shows live booking data including full name, charges, bond amount, housing location, and intake photo. Users can search by first and last name or exact booking number. Results appear within seconds and update multiple times daily. The system also lists approved mailing formats, banned items for letters, and step-by-step rules for sending money or scheduling video visits. All information comes directly from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office database, ensuring accuracy and compliance with Florida public record laws.
How to Use the Official Broward County Inmate Search Portal
The main search tool is hosted on the Broward County Sheriff’s Office website and requires no login or fee. Start by visiting the arrest search page and entering either the inmate’s legal first and last name or their unique booking number. The system accepts partial names but works best with complete spellings. After submitting, results display a profile card with the person’s photo taken at intake, date booked, current charges, bond status, and which facility holds them. Each entry links to detailed visitation policies, mail guidelines, and contact numbers for that specific jail. Data refreshes every few hours, so new bookings appear quickly. If no match appears, the person may not be in custody or could be held under a different name spelling.
Four Detention Facilities: Locations, Phone Numbers & Special Programs
Broward County operates four separate jails, each serving different purposes. The Main Jail in Fort Lauderdale houses most new arrests and handles bond processing. The Joseph V. Conte Facility in Hollywood focuses on work-release programs for low-risk inmates nearing release. The West Detention Center in Pembroke Pines specializes in mental health evaluations and treatment. The Central Detention Center in Deerfield Beach holds non-violent offenders with shorter sentences. Each site has its own address, direct phone line, and visitation schedule. Knowing which facility holds someone helps families send mail correctly and plan visits efficiently. All locations follow strict security rules, and only approved items may enter.
Main Jail – Fort Lauderdale
Located at 555 SE 1st Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, this is the primary intake center for all arrests in Broward County. It processes bonds, holds pretrial detainees, and manages most court transfers. The jail runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays for bond payments and administrative requests. Video visitation operates daily between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with each session lasting 30 minutes. Families must schedule appointments online in advance. No walk-in visits are allowed. The site also provides FAQs about medical requests, legal document access, and commissary account funding.
Joseph V. Conte Facility – Hollywood
This facility at 1351 NW 27th Ave., Hollywood, FL 33020, focuses on rehabilitation and work-release opportunities. Inmates here may leave during the day for jobs but return nightly. The roster requires full name and birthdate to locate someone. Profiles show housing block, scheduled release date, and any assigned work program. Visitation follows a rotating schedule posted monthly. Mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and exact facility address. Contraband like stickers, tape, or colored paper is prohibited.
West Detention Center – Pembroke Pines
Situated at 9000 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33024, this center provides mental health assessments and counseling services. Staff includes licensed therapists and medical professionals who evaluate incoming inmates. Records indicate if someone is under observation or receiving treatment. Families concerned about an inmate’s well-being can request updates through the Sheriff’s Office clerk. All correspondence must follow standard mail rules, and visits require pre-approval due to limited space.
Central Detention Center – Deerfield Beach
Found at 200 SW 5th St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441, this facility houses non-violent offenders with short-term sentences. Programs include GED classes, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training. The inmate roster displays charge types, bond amounts, and release dates. Video visitation is available weekdays only. Mail must use white envelopes with black ink and include the inmate’s full legal name and booking number.
Arrest Records vs. Inmate Status: What’s the Difference?
An arrest record shows someone was taken into custody, but it doesn’t mean they’re still jailed or convicted. The Broward County Sheriff’s Office updates arrest logs multiple times per day with names, times, arresting agencies, and charges filed. However, many people are released quickly on their own recognizance or after posting bond. Others may have charges dropped before trial. Always check the current inmate search to confirm if someone remains in custody. For final case outcomes—like dismissals, plea deals, or verdicts—contact the Broward County Clerk of Courts or State Attorney’s Office directly. Their docket system provides certified documents for legal use.
How to Post Bond in Broward County: Cash, Surety & Payment Hours
Bond payments are accepted only at the Main Jail, 555 SE 1st Ave., Fort Lauderdale, during business hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Two options exist: cash bond (full amount paid directly) or surety bond (handled by a licensed bondsman who charges a fee, usually 10%). The court sets bond amounts based on charge severity, criminal history, and flight risk. Once posted, the inmate is typically released within hours unless held for other reasons (e.g., immigration hold). Call (954) 831-5900 to verify bond eligibility and amount before arriving. Bring valid ID and exact payment method—credit cards may incur extra fees.
Sending Mail, Money & Legal Documents to Inmates
All mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and correct facility address. Use standard white envelopes with black ink. Prohibited items include photos with tape, stickers, glitter, perfumed paper, or anything laminated. Letters should avoid discussing ongoing cases or sharing sensitive legal details. Money can be sent online via approved vendors listed on the Sheriff’s Office site, by phone, or through kiosks at each facility. Legal documents must be clearly marked and sent directly from attorneys or courts. Personal packages, clothing, or food are not allowed.
Video Visitation Rules: Scheduling, Duration & Technical Requirements
All visits are conducted via video conferencing. No in-person meetings are permitted. Appointments last 30 minutes and run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Families must create an account on the official visitation platform, upload a photo ID, and schedule slots in advance. Each inmate gets one visit per week. Technical issues like poor internet or device problems may cancel sessions without refund. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Recording or screenshotting visits violates policy and may result in suspension of privileges.
Public Records Requests: Downloadable Arrest Logs & Historical Data
The Sheriff’s Office offers a free CSV file containing all arrests from the past 30 days. This download includes names, dates, times, agencies, and charges. For older records or bulk requests, submit a formal public records application online or in person. Processing fees may apply based on volume and staff time. Data is used by researchers, journalists, and legal professionals to track trends or verify facts. Note that arrest logs do not reflect guilt—only that someone was taken into custody.
Mugshots, Privacy & Expungement Information
Mugshots appear in search results as part of public records. They are taken at intake and remain online even if charges are dropped. Florida law allows individuals to request expungement if acquitted or if charges were dismissed. However, the process requires court approval and can take months. Once expunged, the record is sealed, but some third-party sites may still display old images. The Sheriff’s Office cannot remove photos from external platforms. For corrections or updates, use the “Contact Corrections” form on partner sites like JailBase.
Contact Information & Emergency Procedures
For urgent questions about an inmate’s status, call the Broward County Sheriff’s Office at (954) 831-5900. Clerks provide booking numbers, facility locations, and basic bond info during business hours. For medical emergencies, contact the facility directly using numbers listed on the Jail Facilities page. Legal representatives should use the Clerk of Courts portal for case filings. All non-emergency requests go through the online inmate search system or mailed correspondence.
Official Website: https://www.sheriff.org/DOD/Pages/ArrestSearch.aspx Main Jail Address: 555 SE 1st Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Phone: (954) 831-5900 Visitation Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily (video only) Bond Payment Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to find someone in jail, whether arrests mean guilt, and how to send money safely. Below are clear answers based on current Broward County policies and Florida law.
How do I confirm if someone is currently in a Broward County jail?
Use the official online inmate search tool on the Broward County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or booking number. If they appear, you’ll see their photo, charges, bond amount, and housing facility. If not listed, they may have been released, transferred, or never booked. Always call (954) 831-5900 to double-check, especially if time-sensitive. Avoid third-party sites—they may show outdated or incorrect data. The Sheriff’s database updates multiple times daily, so it’s the most reliable source.
Can I visit an inmate in person at the Broward County Jail?
No. All visits are conducted through video conferencing only. Walk-in visits are not allowed at any facility. Families must schedule 30-minute appointments online between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. Each inmate receives one visit per week. You’ll need a valid ID, stable internet, and a compatible device. Technical failures may cancel your session without refund. Children must be supervised by an adult. This policy ensures safety and reduces contraband risks.
What items are prohibited when sending mail to an inmate?
Do not send anything other than plain white paper in a standard white envelope. Avoid stickers, tape, glitter, colored ink, perfume, or laminated materials. Photos must be small and unaltered. Do not include cash—use approved money transfer services instead. Legal documents should be clearly labeled and sent directly from your attorney. Packages, food, clothing, or hygiene products are not accepted. Violating these rules may result in mail being returned or destroyed.
How long does it take to post bond and get someone released?
Once bond is posted at the Main Jail during business hours, release usually happens within 2–6 hours. Delays can occur if the inmate has other holds (like immigration or warrants from other counties). Cash bonds require full payment; surety bonds involve a licensed agent who charges a non-refundable fee. Always call ahead to confirm the exact bond amount and eligibility. Processing stops after 7 p.m. on weekdays and all day weekends.
Are mugshots removed if charges are dropped?
The Sheriff’s Office cannot delete mugshots from its public database even if charges are dismissed. However, you can petition the court for expungement, which seals the record legally. Once granted, law enforcement agencies must remove the data—but third-party websites may still host copies. Contact the Broward County Clerk of Courts for expungement forms. The process takes several months and requires a hearing.
Can I download a list of recent arrests in Broward County?
Yes. The Sheriff’s Office provides a free CSV file with all arrests from the last 30 days. It includes names, dates, times, agencies, and charges. Go to the Arrest Search page and look for the download link. For older records, submit a public records request online or in person. Fees may apply based on research time and copying costs.
What should I do if I find incorrect information in an inmate’s record?
Contact the Broward County Sheriff’s Office clerk at (954) 831-5900 or use the “Contact Corrections” form on partner sites like JailBase. Provide the inmate’s name, booking number, and details of the error. Staff will verify and update the database if needed. For legal inaccuracies (like wrong charges), consult the Clerk of Courts—they maintain official case files.