Grand Traverse Public Records /Grand Traverse County Inmate Search

Grand Traverse County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Grand Traverse County?

Inmate records in Grand Traverse County are official government documents maintained by the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals detained or incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that begins at the moment of booking and continues throughout an individual's period of incarceration until their release.

Pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws § 791.230a, correctional facilities are required to maintain accurate and complete records of all persons committed to their custody. These records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
Inmate records document physical custody, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
Court records are maintained by the judicial branch through the county clerk
Inmate records are maintained by the executive branch through the sheriff's office

The Grand Traverse County Corrections Division creates and maintains these records in accordance with standards established by the Michigan Department of Corrections. Record creation begins during the intake process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial health screenings are documented. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events.

Inmate records serve multiple essential functions within the criminal justice system, including:

Ensuring proper identification of individuals in custody
Tracking custody status and location within facilities
Documenting compliance with court orders regarding detention
Recording health information and medication requirements
Maintaining visitation logs and approved contact lists
Tracking commissary accounts and financial transactions

Are Inmate Records Public In Grand Traverse County?

Inmate records in Grand Traverse County are partially accessible to the public under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), specifically MCL 15.231-15.246. This statute establishes the public's right to access certain government records, including limited information about individuals in custody at county correctional facilities.

The Michigan Department of Corrections operates under MCL § 791.229, which specifically addresses the confidentiality of certain corrections records. While this statute primarily governs state correctional facilities, county jails follow similar principles regarding the balance between public access and privacy protections.

Information that is typically available to the public includes:

Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information (date and time of admission)
Charges for which the individual is being held
Bond/bail amounts when applicable
Expected release dates for sentenced individuals
Facility location where the individual is housed

However, certain components of inmate records remain confidential due to privacy concerns and security considerations:

Medical and mental health information
Disciplinary records
Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
Security classification assessments
Program participation details
Victim information and protective orders

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access the Grand Traverse County Criminal Records Database for basic custody information. For more detailed information, formal FOIA requests may be submitted to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office.

What's Included Inmate Records in Grand Traverse County

Inmate records in Grand Traverse County contain comprehensive documentation organized into several categories of information. The following represents the standard components maintained within the county's correctional information system:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth and age
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Booking photograph ("mugshot")
Fingerprints and other biometric identifiers
State identification number and/or FBI number if applicable

Custody Information:

Booking date and time
Arresting agency and officer
Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, hold for other jurisdiction)
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification level and special housing needs
Disciplinary incidents and outcomes
Program participation and work assignments

Charge Information:

Current charges with statute citations
Case numbers for pending court matters
Warrant information if applicable
Probation/parole violation details if applicable
Criminal history information

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (personal recognizance, cash, surety)
Bond amount
Bond conditions
Bond payment status
Bond hearing dates

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Judge assigned to case
Attorney of record
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders regarding custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction charges and dates
Sentence length and terms
Credit for time served
Projected release date
Parole eligibility date
Good time or earned credit calculations

Release Information:

Scheduled release date and time
Type of release (bond, sentence completion, transfer)
Post-release supervision requirements
Release conditions
Notification requirements upon release

These records are maintained in accordance with Michigan Department of Corrections standards and are subject to regular audits to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Grand Traverse County Prison System

The Grand Traverse County correctional system operates under the authority of the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody, care, and control of individuals remanded by the courts. The system is structured to accommodate both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders serving terms of incarceration up to one year, as prescribed by Michigan law.

It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons within Michigan's correctional framework:

County jails house individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state facilities
State prisons, operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections, house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year

The Grand Traverse County correctional system operates within the broader context of Michigan's criminal justice system, working in coordination with local courts, the prosecutor's office, and community corrections programs to manage the county's incarcerated population.

Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office
851 Woodmere Avenue
Traverse City, MI 49686
Phone: (231) 995-5000
Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains operational oversight of all correctional facilities within the county and is responsible for ensuring compliance with state standards regarding inmate housing, safety, and rights. The Corrections Division specifically manages the day-to-day operations of the county jail facility.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Grand Traverse County

Grand Traverse County maintains a consolidated correctional system centered around a single primary facility that serves multiple functions within the local criminal justice system. This facility is designed to accommodate various custody levels and inmate classifications.

Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility
320 Washington Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Phone: (231) 922-4530
Grand Traverse County Corrections Division

The Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility serves as the county's primary detention center with the following characteristics:

Medium-security facility with capacity for approximately 168 inmates
Housing units organized by classification level and special needs
Separate housing areas for male and female inmates
Medical unit for inmates requiring health monitoring
Intake and processing center for all county arrests
Video visitation capabilities
Programming spaces for educational and rehabilitative services

The facility operates under guidelines established by the Michigan Department of Corrections and maintains compliance with state jail standards. Facility operations include:

24/7 supervision by trained corrections officers
On-site medical services
Food service operations
Commissary services
Religious services
Educational programming
Substance abuse treatment
Mental health services

Grand Traverse County does not operate separate minimum-security or work-release facilities. However, the main correctional facility does administer alternative incarceration programs for qualifying low-risk offenders, including:

Work release programs allowing inmates to maintain employment while serving sentences
Community service programs
Electronic monitoring/tether programs
Weekend sentencing options

These alternative programs operate under the authority of the courts and are administered by the Sheriff's Office corrections staff in accordance with Michigan Jail Reimbursement Program standards.

Who's in Prison In Grand Traverse County

The Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility houses a diverse population of individuals who fall into several distinct legal categories. The facility's population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
Persons awaiting arraignment, preliminary hearings, or trial
Individuals deemed flight risks or dangers to the community

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year
Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
Those participating in work release programs while serving sentences
Offenders completing short-term sentences before returning to probation

Felony Offenders Awaiting Transfer:

Individuals convicted of felonies awaiting transfer to state prison
Those temporarily returned from state facilities for court appearances
Persons undergoing evaluation before permanent placement

Probation/Parole Violators:

Individuals who have violated terms of community supervision
Those awaiting revocation hearings
Persons serving short sanctions for technical violations

Specialty Populations:

Individuals participating in treatment court programs (drug court, mental health court)
Those with special medical or mental health needs requiring monitoring
Persons held on immigration detainers
Individuals awaiting competency evaluations

According to data from the Michigan Department of Corrections, the average daily population of the Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility fluctuates between 120-150 inmates, with seasonal variations. Demographic analysis indicates:

Approximately 80-85% male and 15-20% female
Average age range of 20-45 years
Predominant offenses include substance-related crimes, property crimes, and domestic violence
Average length of stay for pre-trial detainees: 14-21 days
Average sentence length for misdemeanants: 30-90 days

The facility operates under capacity management protocols to prevent overcrowding and maintain appropriate classification separation in accordance with Michigan jail standards.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Grand Traverse County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals currently incarcerated in Grand Traverse County may utilize several official channels to access inmate records. The following procedures are currently in effect for conducting inmate record searches:

Online Inmate Lookup:

Visit the Grand Traverse County Criminal Records Database
Select the "Inmate Search" option from the available search types
Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number if known
Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
- Facility location

In-Person Record Request:

Visit the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
Complete an inmate information request form
Provide proper identification
Pay any applicable fees for record searches or copies
Allow processing time as determined by the scope of the request

Telephone Information:

Contact the Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility at (231) 922-4530
Provide the full name and date of birth of the individual
Basic custody status information may be provided over the phone
Detailed record information requires formal written requests

Written FOIA Request:

Submit a formal Freedom of Information Act request to:

Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office
FOIA Coordinator
851 Woodmere Avenue
Traverse City, MI 49686
Include specific information being requested
Provide contact information for response
Allow up to 5 business days for initial response as required by Michigan FOIA law
Pay any applicable fees for record production

When conducting searches, requestors should note that certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with privacy laws and security protocols. Information typically not disclosed includes:

Medical or mental health information
Information about victims or witnesses
Security classification details
Juvenile records (unless specifically authorized by court order)

All record searches are conducted in accordance with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act and applicable corrections privacy statutes.

How To Find an Inmate in Grand Traverse County for Free?

Grand Traverse County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county correctional system. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information while protecting privacy and security interests.

Online Inmate Locator:

The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the county's online inmate search portal:

Access the Grand Traverse County Criminal Records Database
No account creation or login is required
Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
For more precise results, include first name and/or date of birth if known
Review the search results, which provide:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Current facility location
- Booking date
- Basic charge information
- Bond status and amount
- Next court date if scheduled

Telephone Verification:

For those without internet access, basic custody information can be obtained by telephone at no charge:

Call the Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility at (231) 922-4530
Request to verify if a specific individual is in custody
Provide the full name and date of birth if known
Basic custody status and visiting hours will be provided
Available during regular business hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday)

Jail Lobby Kiosk:

Visitors to the correctional facility can access inmate information through lobby kiosks:

Visit the Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility lobby during regular hours
Use the self-service kiosk to search for inmate information
Follow on-screen instructions to enter inmate name
Information provided includes custody status, visiting eligibility, and basic case information

Court Records Cross-Reference:

Public court records can also be used to determine custody status:

Visit the Grand Traverse County 13th Circuit Court Records online portal
Search by defendant name
Review case information, which often indicates custody status
Court records are public information and available at no cost

When using these free resources, members of the public should be aware that information is limited to basic custody status and publicly available case information. More detailed records may require formal requests and applicable fees in accordance with Michigan's Freedom of Information Act.

How To Visit an Inmate In Grand Traverse County

The Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility maintains a structured visitation program designed to facilitate contact between inmates and approved visitors while ensuring facility security and operational efficiency. All visits are conducted in accordance with established protocols and are subject to monitoring.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
Each inmate is permitted up to 8 approved visitors on their list
Changes to visitation lists are processed on the 1st and 15th of each month
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
All visitors are subject to security screening prior to entry

Visit Schedule:

The Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility currently operates video visitation with the following schedule:

Male inmates: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
Female inmates: Monday, Wednesday, Friday (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
Maximum security/special management: By appointment only
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Daily by appointment (8:00 AM - 9:00 PM)

Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance through the online scheduling system or by calling (231) 922-4530.

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Visitor registration confirmation (if pre-registered online)
Vehicle information for parking registration
Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, mobility devices)
Baby care items if visiting with infant (one clear bottle, one small blanket, one diaper)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Tobacco products, e-cigarettes, or vaping devices
Alcohol or illegal substances
Prescription medications not pre-approved
Food or beverages
Cameras or recording devices
Cell phones or electronic devices
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Purses, bags, or backpacks
More than $20 in cash

Dress Code:

All visitors must adhere to the facility dress code, which prohibits:

Revealing or provocative clothing
Shorts or skirts shorter than mid-thigh
Tank tops, halter tops, or bare midriffs
See-through or mesh clothing
Clothing with offensive language or images
Gang-related attire or colors
Hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Excessively baggy clothing
Underwire bras that set off metal detectors

Visit Types:

The facility currently offers the following visitation options:

Video visitation (primary method)
Professional contact visits (attorneys, clergy)
Special visits (with prior approval from facility administration)

Visit Restrictions:

Visitation privileges may be restricted or suspended under the following circumstances:

Violation of facility rules during previous visits
Current disciplinary status of the inmate
Security concerns or facility lockdown
Court-ordered restrictions on contact
Visitor appears to be under the influence of substances
Visitor has a felony conviction within the past 5 years
Visitor is on probation/parole without prior approval

All visitation policies are established in accordance with Michigan Department of Corrections Policy Directive 05.03.140 regarding prisoner visitation.

How To Send Money to a Grand Traverse County Inmate

Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services while incarcerated.

Available Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits
- Visit the Grand Traverse County Inmate Funds Deposit portal
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Enter inmate information and payment details
- Processing fees apply (typically 5-8% of deposit amount)
- Funds available within 24-48 hours
Lobby Kiosk
- Available in the correctional facility lobby
- Accessible during regular lobby hours (8:00 AM - 9:00 PM, seven days a week)
- Cash or credit/debit card accepted
- Minimal processing fee applies
- Funds available same day
Money Order by Mail
- Send to: Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility, Inmate Accounts, 320 Washington Street, Traverse City, MI 49684
- Make payable to the inmate with their full name and booking number
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No personal checks accepted
- No processing fee
- Funds available within 3-5 business days
Money Order in Person
- Deliver to jail lobby window
- Available 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday
- Make payable to the inmate with their full name and booking number
- No processing fee
- Funds available same day

Deposit Limits:

Minimum deposit: $1.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Deposit Fees:

Pursuant to Grand Traverse County fee policies, the following fee structure applies:

Online deposits: 5-8% of deposit amount
Lobby kiosk (credit/debit): $2.95 per transaction
Lobby kiosk (cash): $2.00 per transaction
Money orders (mail or in-person): No fee

Permitted Fund Uses:

Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
Telephone calls
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Educational materials
Release preparation expenses

Prohibited Fund Uses:

Funds may not be used for:

Payment of fines or court costs while incarcerated
Bail or bond payments
Transfer to other inmates
Purchase of contraband items
Payment for services not approved by facility administration

Account Management:

Inmates receive account statements weekly
Bond payments are processed separately from inmate accounts
Remaining funds at release are returned via debit card or check
Unclaimed funds after release are subject to Michigan's unclaimed property laws

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with facility security protocols and Michigan Department of Corrections standards.

How To Send Jail Mail In Grand Traverse County

The Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility maintains specific procedures for sending mail to inmates. All correspondence must adhere to established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery.

Mailing Address Format:

All mail must be addressed as follows:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility
320 Washington Street
Traverse City, MI 49684

The sender's full name and complete return address must appear in the upper left corner of the envelope. Mail without a return address will not be delivered.

Acceptable Mail Items:

Personal letters (limited to 10 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, pop-up, or oversized cards)
Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
Money orders (made payable to the inmate with booking number noted)
Legal correspondence from attorneys, courts, or legal agencies
Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Subscription magazines sent directly from publisher (subject to approval)
Newspapers sent directly from publisher (subject to approval)

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages of any kind
Hardcover books
Personal checks or cash
Postage stamps or envelopes
Stickers, labels, or tape
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Perfumed or scented items
Polaroid photographs
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related content
Items depicting violence or weapons
Correspondence containing threats or extortion
Materials with unknown substances or residues
Items larger than 9"x12"

Mail Inspection Procedures:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with facility rules. Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate. Mail that violates facility rules will be: