Ft-Walton-Beach-Metro-Area County Jail is a secure detention facility located in Okaloosa County, Florida. It serves the cities of Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Crestview, and surrounding communities. This jail holds individuals who are awaiting trial, serving short sentences, or awaiting transfer to state prisons. The facility is operated by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and follows strict state and federal guidelines to ensure safety, security, and humane treatment of all inmates. Whether you’re looking for inmate information, visitation rules, or how to send money, this page provides accurate, up-to-date details about the jail’s operations and services.
Okaloosa County Jail Inmate Search and Roster
Searching for an inmate at the Okaloosa County Jail is simple and can be done online or in person. The jail maintains a public inmate roster that is updated daily. This helps families, legal representatives, and community members stay informed about someone’s custody status. The online system is free to use and available 24/7.
How to Use the Online Inmate Lookup
Visit the official Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office website and go to the “Inmate Search” section. You can search by entering the inmate’s full name or their booking number. The results show current inmates only. If the person was recently released or transferred, they may not appear. Always double-check spelling when searching by name.
What Information Is Available
The inmate lookup tool shows key details such as:
- Full name and known aliases
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed
- Bond amount (if set)
- Court dates and jurisdiction
- Housing location within the facility
This information helps families plan visits, post bail, or prepare for court appearances. The roster is refreshed every few hours to reflect new bookings and releases.
Offline Search Options
If you cannot access the internet, call the Okaloosa County Jail at (850) 651-7115. Staff can help verify an inmate’s status over the phone. You may also visit the jail in person at 1200 East Side Drive, Crestview, FL 32539. Bring a valid photo ID and the inmate’s full name or date of birth.
Okaloosa County Detention Center: Facility Overview
The Okaloosa County Detention Center is the main jail facility serving the Fort Walton Beach metro area. It houses both male and female inmates in separate units based on security level. The center includes medical services, visitation areas, and program spaces for education and rehabilitation.
Facility Features and Security
The detention center uses modern surveillance systems, electronic monitoring, and trained correctional officers to maintain order. Inmates are classified upon intake to determine appropriate housing. The facility complies with Florida Department of Corrections standards for safety, sanitation, and medical care.
Inmate Programs and Services
The jail offers several programs to support rehabilitation, including GED preparation, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training. These services aim to reduce recidivism and help inmates transition back into the community. Participation is voluntary but encouraged.
Visiting Hours and Rules at Okaloosa County Jail
Visitation is allowed for approved individuals only. All visitors must schedule visits in advance through the jail’s online portal or by calling the visitation office. Walk-in visits are not permitted.
Visiting Schedule
Visits occur on weekends from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visit per week. Scheduling opens every Monday for the following week. Late arrivals may lose their time slot.
Visitor Requirements
All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Dress code rules apply: no revealing clothing, hats, or gang-related symbols. Bags, phones, and food are not allowed in the visiting area.
Virtual Visitation Option
The jail also offers video visitation through a secure online platform. This allows families to connect remotely from home. Fees apply for video visits, and sessions are monitored for security.
Inmate Communication: Phone Calls and Mail
Inmates can make outgoing phone calls to pre-approved numbers. All calls are collect or paid through a prepaid account. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and may be recorded.
How to Add Money for Phone Calls
Family members can add funds to an inmate’s phone account online via the jail’s approved vendor, by phone, or at a kiosk in the jail lobby. Only debit or credit cards are accepted—no cash or checks.
Mail Guidelines
Inmates may send and receive mail. Letters must be written on plain white paper in standard envelopes. No stickers, drawings, or Polaroids are allowed. All mail is inspected for contraband. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or approved vendors.
Sending Money to Inmates
Inmates can receive funds to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, or pay medical co-pays. There are three ways to send money:
- Online through the jail’s commissary partner website
- By phone using a credit or debit card
- In person at the jail’s lobby kiosk (cash, card, or money order accepted)
Money orders sent by mail must be made payable to the inmate’s full name and include their booking number. Personal checks and cash are not accepted through the mail.
Commissary Services at Okaloosa County Jail
The commissary allows inmates to buy snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly, and items are delivered directly to the inmate’s housing unit.
Available Commissary Items
Common items include chips, coffee, soap, toothpaste, paper, and pens. Prices are posted weekly. Inmates must have funds in their account to make purchases. Family contributions help support these needs.
Bail Bonds and Release Procedures
If an inmate is eligible for bail, the amount is set by a judge during the first court appearance. Bail can be posted in cash, via a bail bondsman, or through the jail’s online payment system.
How to Post Bail
Contact the Okaloosa County Jail Booking Office at (850) 651-7115 to confirm the bail amount. Payments can be made in person or online. Once bail is processed, the inmate is released after completing paperwork. Processing may take 1–2 hours.
Inmate Rights and Policies
All inmates have rights protected under Florida law. These include access to medical care, legal representation, religious services, and grievance procedures. The jail provides orientation upon intake to explain these rights.
Grievance Process
Inmates can file formal complaints if they believe their rights have been violated. Forms are available from correctional officers. All grievances are reviewed by supervisory staff within 72 hours.
Booking and Arrest Records
When someone is arrested in Okaloosa County, they are brought to the jail for booking. This includes fingerprinting, mugshot photography, and a health screening. Arrest records are public and can be requested through the Sheriff’s Office.
How to Request Mugshots or Records
Mugshots and arrest reports are available online or by submitting a public records request. Fees may apply for printed copies. Some records may be restricted if the case is still under investigation.
Jail Address and Contact Information
The Okaloosa County Detention Center is located at 1200 East Side Drive, Crestview, FL 32539. This is the primary intake and housing facility for the Fort Walton Beach metro area.
Phone Numbers
- Main Jail Line: (850) 651-7115
- Visitation Office: (850) 651-7115 ext. 222
- Commissary Inquiries: (850) 651-7115 ext. 215
Official Website
For the latest updates, inmate search, and visitation scheduling, visit the official Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office website: www.okaloosasheriff.org
Visiting Hours
Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (by appointment only)
Emergency Contacts
For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency jail matters, call (850) 651-7115.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about the Okaloosa County Jail. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Okaloosa County?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office website. Enter the person’s full name or booking number. If they are currently in custody, their details will appear. If not, they may have been released or transferred. You can also call the jail at (850) 651-7115 for confirmation.
Can I visit an inmate without an appointment?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Walk-in visits are not allowed. You can book a visit online or by calling the visitation office. Appointments open every Monday for the following week. Late arrivals may lose their scheduled time.
What items can I bring to an inmate during visitation?
You cannot bring any personal items to inmates during visits. This includes food, clothing, books, or electronics. All items must be sent through approved channels like commissary or mail. Only your ID is needed for entry.
How much does it cost to add money to an inmate’s account?
There is no fee to add money online or by phone for commissary or phone use. However, third-party payment processors may charge a small transaction fee (usually $2–$5). Kiosk payments in the jail lobby accept cash with no extra charge.
Are inmates allowed to receive books in the mail?
Yes, but only if they are sent directly from a publisher or an approved bookstore like Amazon. Used books, handwritten notes, or books from individuals are not allowed due to security risks. All incoming books are inspected before delivery.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates receive a medical screening upon intake. If they need ongoing care, the jail provides access to nurses, doctors, and medications. Serious conditions are referred to outside hospitals. Inmates or families can request medical attention at any time.
Can I get a copy of someone’s mugshot?
Yes, mugshots are public records in Florida. You can view them on the Sheriff’s Office website under the inmate roster. Printed copies can be requested for a small fee. Some recent arrests may not appear immediately due to processing delays.