Chatham County Jail and Arrest Records Search
Chatham County recent bookings are maintained by the Chatham County Sheriff's Office in Savannah, Georgia. Sheriff Richard Coleman leads the agency. The Sheriff's Office operates the county detention center. They maintain comprehensive arrest and booking records. Georgia law ensures public access to these documents. Chatham County is the most populous county in coastal Georgia.
Chatham County Sheriff's Office Information
The Chatham County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary law enforcement agency. Sheriff Richard Coleman directs all operations. The detention center is located on Carl Griffin Drive in Savannah. They provide comprehensive detention and correctional services.
You can contact the Sheriff's Office using the details below. Multiple lines are available for different services.
- Sheriff: Richard Coleman
- Address: 1050 Carl Griffin Drive, Savannah, GA 31405
- Main Phone: (912) 652-7609
- Alternative: (912) 660-1012
- Receiving/Discharge/Booking: (912) 651-3700
- Front Lobby: (912) 652-7785
- Shift Commander: (912) 652-7710
- Website: sheriff.chathamcountyga.gov
The detention center handles inmate mail through JailATM.com. Money orders and certified checks can be sent to the Finance and Accounting Services division. The facility provides comprehensive inmate services.
Accessing Chatham County Booking Records
Chatham County provides multiple ways to access booking information. Contact the detention center directly by phone. The booking office can provide custody status information. Written requests are accepted for detailed records.
Submit open records requests referencing O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70. The agency must respond within three business days. Fees may apply for copying and research time.
Visit the Chatham County Sheriff's Office website at sheriff.chathamcountyga.gov for current information.
Chatham County Jail Record Contents
Chatham County maintains comprehensive booking records. O.C.G.A. § 42-4-7 requires detailed documentation. These records track all persons in custody.
Records include full name and date of birth. Physical descriptors are documented. The booking photograph provides identification. Date and time of arrest are logged.
Charges specify alleged offenses. Georgia statute codes are referenced. Bond information shows release conditions.
Georgia Open Records Act Access
The Georgia Open Records Act guarantees access to booking records. O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 establishes this right.
O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(4) addresses arrest records specifically.
Request records by contacting the Sheriff's Office.
Booking photographs require special handling under O.C.G.A. § 35-1-18.
How to Request Chatham County Booking Records
Contact the Chatham County Sheriff's Office directly. Phone inquiries are the fastest method for checking custody status. Staff can verify if someone is currently held in the jail.
For detailed records, submit a written request. Reference O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 to establish your legal rights. The agency must respond within three business days under Georgia law.
Mail requests should include your contact information and specific details about the records needed. Fees may apply for copying and extensive research time.
Understanding the Booking Process in Chatham County
The booking process begins when law enforcement brings an arrestee to the jail. Staff follow procedures required by O.C.G.A. § 42-4-7. Each step creates a public record.
Intake includes photographing and fingerprinting the arrestee. Medical screening is performed to identify health issues. Staff collect personal property for secure storage.
Charges are entered into the computer system. A magistrate sets bond amounts. Inmates receive information about court dates. All documentation becomes part of the public record.
Chatham County Jail Visitation and Inmate Services
The Chatham County Jail allows family visitation on a scheduled basis. Call the Sheriff's Office to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Visitors must present valid photo identification. Dress codes are enforced. All visitors are subject to search. Children must be accompanied by adults.
Inmates can receive mail and commissary deposits. Send letters to the jail address with the inmate's full name. Books must be softcover and shipped directly from publishers.
State Resources for Chatham County Inmates
The Georgia Sheriffs' Association provides a directory of all Georgia sheriffs. This resource helps you find contact information for any county.
The Georgia Department of Corrections offers an online offender search at gdc.georgia.gov. This tracks state prison inmates separately from county jail records.
Victim services are available through the Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program. Call 1-800-547-6000 for assistance with medical bills, counseling, and other expenses.
Georgia Open Records Act and Chatham County
O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 applies to Chatham County. The Sheriff's Office must comply with public records requests. Transparency is mandated by state law.
You have the right to inspect booking records. Copies are available for reasonable fees. The first thirty minutes of staff search time are free.
Agencies must respond within three business days. Denials must include legal justification. You have the right to appeal any denial of records.
Neighboring County Resources
Expand your search to nearby counties when needed. Counties bordering Chatham County include:
The Georgia Department of Corrections maintains an online offender search.