Dorchester County Detention Center Inmate Search helps families and legal representatives locate individuals currently held at the facility in St. George, South Carolina. The center provides a real-time online roster that updates every ten minutes, showing booking photos, charges, bond amounts, housing locations, and estimated release dates. This system allows users to quickly verify an inmate’s status, plan visits, or prepare for court appearances. For those not listed, the search can be expanded to statewide arrest records dating back to 1995. All information is public under South Carolina law and maintained by the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office.
How to Use the Dorchester County Inmate Search Tool
Start by visiting the official inmate roster page linked below. Enter the full name or booking number of the person you’re searching for. The database displays results instantly, including mugshots, charge descriptions, bond details, and current housing block. If no match appears, try alternate spellings or check the statewide arrest record system. Each entry includes a unique booking ID, date of birth, and case number for cross-referencing with court documents. The system also flags inmates transferred to state prisons through a direct link to the South Carolina Department of Corrections.
Visiting Rules and Scheduling at Dorchester County Detention Center
Visits occur Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Each inmate may receive up to three visits per week. Adult sessions last 30 minutes; minors are limited to 15 minutes. All visitors must present a government-issued photo ID, be on the approved visitor list, and follow strict dress code rules. Clothing with profanity, gang symbols, or excessive jewelry is not allowed. Random security screenings happen without warning. Children under 12 must stay with an adult at all times. Schedule visits in advance by calling the facility or using the Family Support liaison service.
https://www.inmateaid.com/inmate-locator/dorchester-county-sc-detention-center 
Facility Location, Security Level, and Population Details
The Dorchester County Detention Center sits at 101 Sears Street, St. George, SC 29477. It is a medium-security facility operated by the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office. The center holds pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving less than two years. According to the latest report, 62% of inmates are awaiting trial, while 38% are serving short sentences. Security includes fenced perimeters, 24-hour surveillance, and controlled access points. Inmates wear gray uniforms and move only during scheduled times for meals, recreation, or medical care.
https://www.inmateaid.com/prisons/dorchester-county-detention-center
Booking Information and Arrest Records Access
Every arrest in Dorchester County generates a public booking record. These include the inmate’s full name, booking number, date of birth, charge description, bond amount, and housing location. Mugshots are posted within one hour of processing. As of December 2024, the active roster shows over 1,100 inmates, mostly arrested for drug possession, traffic violations, or property crimes. Records link to court filings in the Dorchester County Circuit Court. Users can download PDFs of arrest reports or request certified copies by mail.
Statewide and Federal Inmate Search Options
If an inmate isn’t found locally, expand the search to South Carolina’s statewide arrest database. This system covers all counties and includes records from 1995 to present. It shows police reports, social media profiles linked to arrests, background check data, and contact info for arresting agencies. For federal inmates, use the Bureau of Prisons locator. Some individuals may be transferred out of county custody quickly—always verify status before traveling.
https://www.countyoffice.org/sc-dorchester-county-inmate-search/
Direct Contact Methods for Inmate Verification
Call the Dorchester County Detention Center at 843-832-0215 for immediate help. Staff can confirm an inmate’s location, visitation eligibility, and mail policies. The main office is at 101 Ridge Street, St. George, SC 29477. For longer-term inmates, contact the South Carolina Department of Corrections portal, which updates every 30 minutes. Include the inmate’s full name and date of birth when calling. Emergency contacts go through 911 dispatch after hours.
https://www.scarrests.org/dorchester-county-inmate-search.html
Inmate Services: Phone, Mail, Commissary, and Support
Inmates can set up GTL phone accounts to make collect calls or receive funds from family. Mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and facility address. Legal mail requires certified delivery. The commissary kiosk lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery using funds deposited online. The on-site library holds over 1,200 books, including legal guides and educational materials. A dedicated Family Support liaison assists with visit scheduling, documentation, and special requests.
https://inmate101.com/prisons/south-carolina/county-jail/dorchester-county-detention-center/
Dorchester County Maryland Inmate Search Clarification
Note: Dorchester County exists in both South Carolina and Maryland. This page focuses on SC. For Maryland’s Dorchester County Department of Corrections in Cambridge, MD, use their separate system. That facility is at 829 Fieldcrest Road, Cambridge, MD 21613, and lists 842 active inmates as of November 2024. Always confirm the correct state before searching.
Sheriff’s Office Contact and Community Resources
The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office runs two public locations. The Summerville office at 212 Deming Way handles civil processes and outreach. The St. George office at 101 Ridge Street manages inmate records and emergencies. Both operate Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. After-hours emergencies go to 911. The office also publishes crime stats, community programs, and victim support services online.
https://www.dorchestercountysc.gov/government/emergency-services/sheriff-s-office
Maryland Department of Corrections – Dorchester County Office
In Maryland, the Department of Corrections office is led by Director Kenneth Rodgers. It coordinates inmate transfers between state prisons, local jails, and re-entry centers. Call (410) 228-8101 for parole info or program enrollment. This office does not manage South Carolina facilities. Always verify jurisdiction before contacting.
https://dorchestercountymd.com/department-of-corrections/
Current Inmate List and Housing Data
The latest inmate list shows 1,127 active bookings. Most are held for drug offenses, theft, or DUI. Each record includes gender, housing block, projected release date, and bond status. Medium-security rules require inmates to follow strict schedules. Recreation occurs twice daily in supervised yards. Medical and mental health services are available on-site.
https://nisquallycorrections.com/south-carolina/county-jail/dorchester-county-detention-center/
Frequently Asked Questions About Dorchester County Inmate Search
Many people ask how to find an inmate quickly, whether visits can be scheduled same-day, or if records include past arrests. Others want to know about mail rules, phone access, or transfer procedures. Below are clear answers based on official policies and recent data from the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and South Carolina Judicial Department.
How often is the inmate roster updated?
The online roster refreshes every ten minutes, ensuring near real-time accuracy. Changes such as new bookings, releases, or transfers appear within minutes. This frequency supports families, attorneys, and advocates who need timely information. The system pulls data directly from the jail’s internal management software, reducing errors. For legal proceedings, always request a certified copy from the Sheriff’s Office, as screenshots may not be accepted in court.
Can I visit an inmate without being on the approved list?
No. All visitors must be pre-approved and listed on the inmate’s visitor form. The inmate submits this list during intake or upon request. Only adults over 18 can be added. Minors may visit only if accompanied by a parent or guardian who is on the list. Approval takes 24–48 hours. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Call ahead to confirm your name is active.
What happens if an inmate is transferred to state prison?
Once transferred, the inmate is removed from the county roster and added to the South Carolina Department of Corrections database. The county system shows a “transferred” status with a link to the state portal. State prisons handle longer sentences, typically over one year. Contact the SCDC at 803-896-1000 or use their online locator for updates on location, programs, and visitation rules.
Are mugshots and arrest records public in South Carolina?
Yes. Under SC Code §30-4-40, arrest records, booking photos, and charge details are public unless sealed by a judge. These records remain accessible even after release unless expunged. Employers, landlords, and background check companies often use them. Individuals can request corrections if information is inaccurate. Expungement requires a court order and applies only to certain offenses.
How do I send money to an inmate?
Use the GTL ConnectNetwork website or kiosk inside the facility. You’ll need the inmate’s full name and booking number. Funds post within minutes. Fees apply for credit card deposits. Cash is not accepted by mail. Money orders must include the inmate’s ID and be sent to the jail’s mailing address. Never send cash through the mail.
What items are prohibited during visits?
Visitors cannot bring phones, bags, weapons, food, or recording devices. Dress codes ban revealing clothing, hats, or symbols linked to gangs. Excessive jewelry or accessories may be denied. All items go through X-ray screening. Failure to comply results in denied entry. Children must wear appropriate attire and stay seated during the visit.
Can I check if someone was arrested years ago?
Yes. The statewide arrest database includes records from 1995 to present. Search by name, date of birth, or case number. Older records may lack digital mugshots but still show charges and outcomes. For records before 1995, contact the Dorchester County Clerk of Court. Some files are archived and require an in-person request.
Official Website: https://www.dorchestercountysc.gov/government/emergency-services/sheriff-s-office
Phone: 843-832-0215
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM
Address: 101 Sears Street, St. George, SC 29477