Dawson County Recent Arrests
Dawson County booking records are public information you can access through the Sheriff's Office in Dawsonville. The office maintains detailed records of all arrests and jail bookings. These records show charges, booking dates, and current inmate status. You can request this information in person, by phone, or through the mail. The Georgia Open Records Act guarantees your right to view these documents.
Dawson County Sheriff's Office Information
Sheriff Jeff Johnson leads the Dawson County Sheriff's Office. The office provides law enforcement and jail services for the county. All booking records are kept at the main office on Tucker Avenue.
The jail processes inmates arrested by local law enforcement. Records include personal details, charges, and bond amounts. Staff can help you locate inmates and understand the booking process.
You can contact the Sheriff's Office at (706) 344-3535. The staff is available to answer questions during business hours. For after-hours emergencies, call the non-emergency line.
Location and Contact Details
The Dawson County Sheriff's Office is located at 19 Tucker Avenue in Dawsonville. This is the main hub for all law enforcement activities in the county. The building houses both administrative offices and the county jail.
When visiting for records, bring a valid photo ID. The records clerk will assist you with your request. Some records may require a written application. Processing times vary based on the scope of your request.
The official website is dawsoncountsheriff.org. Check there for updates on services and online resources.
What Records Are Available
Dawson County maintains several types of booking records. The jail keeps a daily log of all inmates. This log shows who is currently in custody. It also tracks releases and transfers.
Under O.C.G.A. § 42-4-7, sheriffs must record specific details for each inmate. These include name, age, race, sex, and charges. The date of commitment and discharge must also be logged.
You can request copies of incident reports related to arrests. These reports contain more details about the circumstances of the arrest. They may include witness statements and officer notes.
How to Request Booking Records
The Georgia Open Records Act, O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70, gives you access to public documents. You can submit a request orally or in writing. Written requests create a paper trail and are recommended.
Include specific details in your request. Give the full name and birth date of the person. Include the date range for the records you want. The more details you provide, the faster your request can be processed.
The Sheriff's Office has three business days to respond. They may charge fees for copying and research time. The first 30 minutes of search time is free.
Understanding the Booking Process in Dawson 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.
Dawson County Jail Visitation and Inmate Services
The Dawson 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 Dawson 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 Dawson County
O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 applies to Dawson 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.
Related County Resources
Dawson County is located in north Georgia near several other counties. If you cannot find the records you need, check with neighboring Sheriff's Offices. Arrests near county lines may be processed in adjacent jurisdictions.
The Georgia Department of Corrections provides a statewide offender search at gdc.georgia.gov. This database includes state prison inmates.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation maintains criminal history records at gbi.georgia.gov. You can request your own record through their office.