Forrest County Jail Roster gives you instant access to every person currently held in the county detention center. The list updates every hour with names, ages, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and mugshots taken at intake. You can search by full name, booking number, or date of birth. Each entry links directly to the court docket so you can follow case progress. The system runs on JailTracker software and is hosted on the official Forrest County Sheriff’s Office website at https://forrestcountysheriff.com/inmate-roster. This ensures all data matches live bookings and releases.
How to Use the Forrest County Jail Roster Search Tool
Start by visiting the sheriff’s office site and clicking “Inmate Roster.” Enter a first name, last name, booking number, or date of birth into the search box. Press “Search” to see matching profiles. Each result shows the inmate’s photo, full legal name, age, booking time, all criminal charges, total bond amount, next court date, and any release restrictions. If someone has a detainer from another agency or is not eligible for bail, that will appear clearly on the profile page. The search works on phones, tablets, and computers.
Search Filters and Navigation Features
The roster lets you filter results in multiple ways. Use the name field for quick lookups. The booking number gives exact matches for legal professionals. Date of birth helps when names are common. Results show ten inmates per page with forward and back buttons to move through older entries. Every profile includes a direct link to the Mississippi eCourts system so you can view filings, motions, and hearing schedules without leaving the page.
Latest Arrest Log and Booking Activity
The arrest log records every new booking as it happens. Each entry lists the exact time, arresting agency, suspect’s name, primary charge, and bond set at intake. Recent examples include Curtis Shows booked December 6 at 3:45 p.m. for possession of a controlled substance with a $5,000 bond, and Desmond Henry booked the same day at 3:03 p.m. for aggravated assault with a $15,000 bond. The log is paginated—ten records per page—with navigation links to view earlier bookings. Attorneys, families, and journalists use this log to track new cases daily.
Arresting Agencies and Charge Types
Bookings come from multiple agencies including the Hattiesburg Police Department, Forrest County Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Highway Patrol, and federal partners. Common charges include drug possession, domestic violence, theft, DUI, and probation violations. Each log entry specifies which agency made the arrest so users know the source. Bond amounts vary based on charge severity, criminal history, and judicial guidelines. All bonds are set during the initial hearing within 48 hours of booking.
Official Inmate Roster Links and Data Sources
The primary source for the Forrest County Jail Roster is the sheriff’s official site: https://forrestcountysheriff.com/inmate-roster. This page pulls live data from the JailTracker platform used by Mississippi counties. Secondary sources include https://mississippi.arrests.org/index.php?county=449 for recent arrests and https://forrestcountyjail.org/ for inmate lookup tools. All three sites sync nightly but the sheriff’s site updates hourly. Users should always verify critical information with the jail directly.
Data Accuracy and Public Records Policy
The Sheriff’s Office aims for 100% accuracy but notes that delays can occur due to clerical errors or system sync issues. If you spot incorrect information—such as a wrong charge, missing release, or outdated mugshot—contact the public records coordinator at 601-545-6096. The office corrects verified errors within one business day. Under Mississippi law, inmate records are public unless sealed by court order. Protective orders may hide mugshots in domestic violence or witness protection cases.
Mugshot Availability and Privacy Rules
Mugshots appear on the roster within minutes of booking. They are taken at intake and stored digitally. Photos remain public unless a judge issues a protective order. This commonly happens in cases involving minors, sexual assault victims, or cooperating witnesses. When a photo is restricted, the roster shows “Photo Not Available” instead of the image. Families and attorneys can request photo removal through the court, not the jail. The Sheriff’s Office does not delete mugshots without a signed court order.
How Mugshots Are Used
Media outlets, background check services, and legal teams use mugshots to identify suspects and track cases. The images are not evidence of guilt—only proof of booking. Employers and landlords sometimes request them during screenings. The jail does not charge for mugshot access. Third-party sites may republish photos, but the official roster remains the most reliable source. Always cross-check with court records before drawing conclusions.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visits happen Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No visits on Sundays or holidays. All visitors must show a valid photo ID—driver’s license, passport, or state ID. Minors under 18 need a parent or guardian present. Dress code bans tank tops, shorts, revealing clothing, hats, and clothing with offensive language. You must register online through the jail’s visitation portal before arriving. Walk-ins are not allowed.
Visitation Process Step-by-Step
- Go to the sheriff’s website and click “Visitation Portal.”
- Create an account with your email and phone number.
- Select the inmate you want to visit and choose an available time slot.
- Upload a clear photo of your government-issued ID.
- Wait for approval—usually within 24 hours.
- Arrive 15 minutes early on visit day with your ID.
Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week. Up to two adults can visit at once. No physical contact is allowed except brief handshakes at the start and end. Phones, bags, and food are prohibited in the visiting room.
Facility Location, Contact, and Security
The Forrest County Jail sits at 316 Forrest Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. The main phone number is 601-545-6096. The facility holds about 250 male inmates and 40 female inmates in a medium-security setting. Security includes electronic door locks, 24/7 video monitoring, and metal detectors at all entrances. Staff conduct random cell checks and drug screenings. The jail is operated by the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Billy McGee.
Rehabilitation and Support Programs
Eligible inmates can join substance-abuse counseling, GED classes, faith-based groups, and vocational training. The Community Work Center (CWC) offers an alternative for non-violent offenders. Participants work supervised jobs, earn reduced sentences, and receive life-skills coaching. The CWC houses around 125 people daily and can be reached at 601-544-5030. Program enrollment depends on behavior, charge type, and space availability.
Inmate Housing, Release Dates, and Case Tracking
Each roster profile shows the inmate’s housing unit—such as Block A, Dorm 3, or Medical Wing. This helps visitors and lawyers locate them quickly. Scheduled release dates appear if known, but many inmates are held pre-trial so dates may change. The roster also notes if an inmate has a detainer from ICE, another state, or a parole board. These hold even if local charges are dropped.
How to Track Court Dates
Click the “Court Docket” link on any inmate’s profile to go directly to the Mississippi eCourts system. You’ll see upcoming hearings, past motions, and case status. Set up email alerts for changes. If a hearing is postponed, the docket updates within hours. Families should check daily during trial periods. Missed court dates can result in bench warrants and higher bonds.
Mississippi State Inmate Search and County Comparisons
Mississippi requires all counties to publish inmate rosters online. Forrest County complies fully with hourly updates and public mugshots. Some smaller counties like Franklin still rely on phone inquiries. The statewide portal at https://forrestcountyjail.org/inmate-search/ lists every county’s contact info, website, and search method. Users can compare facilities, bond policies, and visitation rules across the state.
Statistics on Jail Population
Forrest County operates 302 jail beds with an average daily population of 253 inmates. About 12% are female (roughly 40 women) and 88% are male (about 213 men). Sentenced inmates stay an average of 18 days; pre-trial detainees average 4 days. The substance-abuse program serves 35% of the population yearly. These numbers come from StateCourts data updated quarterly.
Employment Opportunities at the Sheriff’s Office
The Forrest County Sheriff’s Office hires full-time corrections officers and part-time bailiffs. Applicants must be 21 or older, have a high school diploma or GED, and hold a valid driver’s license. The hiring process includes a written test, physical fitness exam, background check, and polygraph interview. New hires complete a 12-week training program covering inmate management, self-defense, CPR, and legal procedures. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and promotion paths.
Why Work Here?
Employees cite job stability, community impact, and professional growth. The office emphasizes integrity, service, and trust—values established in 1908. Officers receive ongoing training and support. Shift schedules vary, with night and weekend options. Veterans and prior law enforcement experience are preferred but not required. Applications are accepted online at https://forrestcountysheriff.com/.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Forrest County Jail Roster
People often ask how often the roster updates, whether mugshots prove guilt, and how to visit an inmate. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on official policies and state law.
How current is the inmate roster data?
The Forrest County Jail Roster refreshes every hour using the JailTracker system. Bookings, releases, and transfers appear within 60 minutes. However, court-ordered changes (like bond reductions or charge amendments) may take up to 24 hours to reflect. For urgent matters, call the jail directly at 601-545-6096. The sheriff’s website is the most reliable source—avoid third-party sites that may lag or contain errors.
Can I remove a mugshot from the roster?
No—the jail cannot remove mugshots without a court order. Under Mississippi law, booking photos are public records unless a judge issues a protective order. This usually happens in cases involving minors, sexual assault, or witness safety. If you believe your photo should be restricted, file a motion with the Forrest County Circuit Court. Once granted, the court notifies the jail to hide the image. The process takes 5–10 business days.
What if I find wrong information on the roster?
Contact the Public Records Coordinator at 601-545-6096 or visit the jail in person at 316 Forrest Street. Provide the inmate’s name, booking number, and the specific error (e.g., wrong charge, missing release). The office verifies corrections with court documents and updates the system within one business day. Keep a copy of your request for your records. False reports may delay fixes.
Are inmates allowed phone calls?
Yes—inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid accounts through Securus Technologies. Calls are monitored and limited to 15 minutes. Numbers must be approved in advance. Minors and attorneys are exempt from monitoring. Families can add funds online or by phone. International calls require special approval. The jail does not provide free calling; all costs are borne by the caller or inmate.
How do I post bail for someone in Forrest County Jail?
Bail can be posted at the jail lobby Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. or through a licensed bail bondsman 24/7. Cash, cashier’s check, or credit card are accepted. The full bond amount must be paid unless a judge approves a surety bond. After payment, the inmate is released within 2–4 hours unless held on another charge. Keep the receipt—it’s required for refunds if charges are dropped.
Can I send money or items to an inmate?
Money can be added via Securus online, by phone, or at kiosks in the jail lobby. No cash is accepted by mail. Approved items include letters, photos (no Polaroids), and legal documents. Packages must be sent through approved vendors like Access Securepak. Food, clothing, and electronics are prohibited. All mail is inspected. Inmates receive funds within 24 hours of deposit.
Is the Community Work Center part of the main jail?
No—the CWC is a separate facility for non-violent offenders who qualify for work release. It’s located nearby but managed independently. Inmates live at the CWC, work daytime jobs, and return nightly. They are not housed in the main jail. Search the CWC roster at https://www.jailexchange.com/city-and-county-jails/mississippi/forrest-county/forrest-county-cwc or call 601-544-5030. Eligibility depends on charge type, behavior, and sentence length.
Official Website: https://forrestcountysheriff.com/inmate-roster
Phone: 601-545-6096
Address: 316 Forrest Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Visiting Hours: Mon–Fri 9 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
