Dale County Jail is a secure correctional facility in Ozark, Alabama, run by the Dale County Sheriff’s Office. It holds people waiting for court or serving short sentences. The jail offers inmate lookup tools, visitation options, commissary services, medical care, and rehabilitation programs. Families, legal reps, and the public use this page to find inmate status, visit rules, phone numbers, address details, and more. This page gives clear, up-to-date facts about Dale County Jail operations, policies, and how to connect with loved ones inside.
How to Search for an Inmate in Dale County Jail
Finding someone in Dale County Jail is fast and easy. The jail provides a public inmate search tool online. You can also call or visit in person. The online system shows current inmates, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, court dates, and release info. It updates daily to keep data accurate.
Using the Online Inmate Lookup Tool
Go to the official Dale County Sheriff website. Click on the “Inmate Roster” section. Type the inmate’s first and last name or ID number. Hit search. The results show full name, booking date, charges, bond, court date, and expected release. If you get no results, double-check the spelling. Try a partial name or nickname. If still stuck, call the jail.
Calling the Jail for Inmate Info
Call (334) 774-2335 to speak with staff. Have the inmate’s full name, date of birth, or booking number ready. Staff can confirm if someone is in custody and share basic details. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. After hours, leave a message or check the website.
Visiting the Jail in Person
You can visit the jail at 100 Court Square, Ozark, AL 36360. Bring a valid photo ID. Staff at the front desk can help with inmate lookup. Public kiosks may show basic roster info. Arrive early to allow time for questions.
Dale County Jail Roster and Inmate Database
The Dale County Jail roster lists all current inmates. It includes names, booking dates, charges, bond status, and court info. This list helps families track cases and plan visits. The roster is public record and updated every day. It supports transparency and keeps the community informed.
What’s on the Inmate Roster
Each entry shows:
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Current charges
- Bond amount (if set)
- Next court date
- Housing location (general area)
- Release date (if scheduled)
How to Use the Roster for Legal or Family Needs
Lawyers use the roster to track client status. Families check it to plan visits or send mail. Employers or landlords may verify incarceration for reference checks. Always confirm details with jail staff for legal matters.
Booking, Mugshots, and Release Procedures
When someone is arrested in Dale County, they go through booking at the jail. This process captures key details for legal and safety reasons. It also creates public records like mugshots.
Booking Steps at Dale County Jail
Booking includes:
- Fingerprinting for background checks
- Taking a mugshot for identification
- Recording personal info (name, DOB, address)
- Health screening for medical or mental needs
- Inventory of personal items
- Assignment to housing based on risk level
Mugshot Requests and Public Access
Mugshots are public records. Anyone can request them from the Dale County Sheriff’s Office. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name and booking date. A small fee may apply. Some people worry about mugshots staying online after charges are dropped. Alabama law allows expungement in certain cases, but it requires a court order.
Release Process
Inmates are released after posting bond, completing a sentence, or a court order. Release times vary. Staff process paperwork and return personal items. Families should call ahead to confirm release timing.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling at Dale County Jail
Visits help inmates stay connected. Dale County Jail offers in-person and virtual visits. Both require advance booking. Rules ensure safety and order.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
Visits happen Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Schedule online or by phone at (334) 774-2335. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors per inmate at a time. All visitors must:
- Show a valid photo ID
- Pass a security check
- Follow the dress code (no hats, sunglasses, or revealing clothes)
- Leave phones and bags in lockers
Virtual Visitation Options
Virtual visits use a secure video system. They are ideal for distant family. Book online through the jail’s portal. Sessions last 20 minutes. You’ll need a device with a camera and internet. All chats are recorded and monitored.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Arrive 15 minutes early. Bring only ID and keys. No food, gifts, or electronics. Be polite to staff. If denied entry, ask for the reason and rebook later.
Inmate Communication: Phone Calls, Mail, and Email
Inmates can stay in touch through calls, letters, and email. All messages are screened for safety. Rules prevent contraband and protect privacy.
Phone Call Rules
Inmates make outgoing calls only. Numbers must be pre-approved. Calls last 15–20 minutes. Families add money to an account online or at a kiosk in the jail lobby. Rates vary. Calls are recorded and may be reviewed.
Sending Mail to Inmates
Mail must use plain paper and envelopes. No stickers, Polaroids, or folded letters. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Address mail like this:
Inmate Full Name
Inmate ID Number
Dale County Jail
100 Court Square
Ozark, AL 36360
Email Messaging System
The jail uses a secure email platform. Families create an account, add funds, and send messages. Inmates reply through kiosks in their units. Emails are screened before delivery. This is faster than regular mail.
Sending Money to Inmates: Commissary and Account Funding
Inmates use money for snacks, hygiene items, and phone calls. Families can send funds safely through several methods.
Ways to Add Money
- Online: Use the jail’s payment partner website with a credit card.
- Kiosk: Pay with cash or card at the jail lobby machine.
- Money Order: Mail a money order to the jail address. Write the inmate’s name and ID on it. No cash or personal checks.
Commissary Items Available
Inmates buy items weekly from the commissary. Choices include:
- Snacks: Chips, candy, coffee
- Hygiene: Soap, toothpaste, deodorant
- Supplies: Paper, pens, envelopes
- Clothing: Socks, undershirts (jail-approved)
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Dale County Jail provides medical and mental health care. All inmates get a health check upon arrival. Ongoing care is available for chronic conditions, injuries, and mental wellness.
Medical Services Offered
- Routine check-ups
- Prescription medication management
- Vaccinations
- Dental and vision care (as needed)
- Emergency response for urgent issues
Mental Health and Counseling
- One-on-one therapy sessions
- Group programs for anger management and addiction
- Crisis intervention for suicidal thoughts
- Referrals to outside providers when needed
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail helps inmates prepare for life after release. Programs focus on education, job skills, and behavior change.
Educational Opportunities
Inmates can earn a GED while in jail. Classes are held on-site with trained teachers. Completing a GED improves job chances after release.
Vocational Training
Skills taught include:
- Carpentry and basic construction
- Plumbing and electrical safety
- Computer basics and typing
- Job readiness and resume writing
Substance Abuse Support
Counseling helps inmates with drug or alcohol issues. Programs include detox support, group meetings, and relapse prevention plans.
Bail and Bond Information
Bail lets an inmate leave jail before trial. The judge sets the amount based on the crime and risk level. Families can pay bail in three ways.
How to Post Bail
- Cash: Pay the full amount at the jail.
- Credit Card: Use the online portal or kiosk.
- Bail Bondsman: Hire a licensed agent who posts bail for a fee (usually 10%).
Contact for Bail Questions
Call the Booking Office at (334) 774-2335. Ask for the current bail amount and payment options. Keep the receipt for release paperwork.
Security and Safety at Dale County Jail
Safety is the top priority. The jail uses modern systems to protect staff, inmates, and visitors.
Security Measures
- 24/7 video monitoring in all areas
- Electronic tracking of inmate movement
- Regular staff training in crisis response
- Emergency plans for fires, medical issues, or disturbances
- Inmate classification to separate high-risk individuals
Community Partnerships and Public Outreach
The jail works with local police, courts, and schools. Outreach builds trust and educates the public.
Key Partnerships
- Joint operations with Ozark Police and Alabama State Troopers
- Court coordination for fast transfers and hearings
- School tours to teach youth about law and consequences
- Victim support services for crime survivors
Contact Details and Official Resources
For questions, use these official contacts:
- Address: 100 Court Square, Ozark, AL 36360
- Phone: (334) 774-2335
- Website: www.dalecounty.org/sheriff
- Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
- Emergency Line: (334) 774-2335 (same as main number)
Always call ahead to confirm hours or policies. Check the website for updates on holidays or system outages.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about inmate lookup, visits, mail, and release. Below are clear answers based on current jail policies.
How do I find out if someone is in Dale County Jail?
Use the online inmate roster on the Dale County Sheriff website. Enter the person’s full name or ID. If no results appear, call (334) 774-2335. Staff can confirm custody status during business hours. You may need to provide the inmate’s date of birth or last known address. The roster updates daily, so info is usually current. Avoid third-party sites—they may show outdated or incorrect data. For legal cases, ask your attorney to contact the jail directly.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No, Dale County Jail does not allow in-person visits on weekends. Visits are only Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 6 PM. Virtual visits may have limited weekend slots—check the online scheduler. All visits must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. If you miss your appointment, you must rebook. Holiday schedules may change, so always confirm before traveling.
What happens if I send cash in the mail to an inmate?
Cash is not accepted by mail. It will be returned or confiscated. Only money orders are allowed through the postal service. Write the inmate’s full name and ID number on the money order. Send it to the jail address. Online deposits or kiosk payments are faster and safer. Personal checks are also rejected. Using approved methods ensures funds reach the inmate’s account quickly and securely.
Are inmates allowed to receive books?
Yes, but only if sent directly from a publisher or bookstore. No used books, handwritten notes, or homemade materials. Books must be new and wrapped. Softcover is preferred. Hardcover books may be rejected. Magazines follow the same rule—must come from the publisher. This prevents hidden contraband. Always include the inmate’s name and ID on the package label.
How long does it take to process a release?
Release time depends on the reason. After bail is posted, it usually takes 1–3 hours to complete paperwork and return personal items. Court-ordered releases may be faster. Weekends and holidays slow the process. Staff must verify all documents before releasing an inmate. Families should call the jail to confirm timing. Do not arrive until notified—waiting outside does not speed things up.
Can inmates make international phone calls?
No, Dale County Jail does not allow international calls. Inmates can only call U.S. numbers that are pre-approved. All calls are monitored and limited to 15–20 minutes. Families abroad should use email or mail instead. Some video platforms may allow international access for virtual visits, but this is rare. Check with jail staff for current options.
What rehab programs help reduce reoffending?
Dale County Jail offers GED classes, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. These programs teach job skills and coping strategies. Inmates who complete them are less likely to return to jail. Programs are run by certified instructors and local partners. Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Progress is tracked and shared with parole boards when applicable.