Blount County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Blount County?
Inmate records in Blount County are official government documents maintained by the Blount County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document individuals who are in custody within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Blount County facilities. Pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated § 10-7-504, these records are maintained as part of the county's responsibility to document all individuals within its custodial care.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While court records, maintained by the Blount County Circuit Court Clerk, document the judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of individuals within detention facilities. The creation of an inmate record begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into a Blount County detention facility. The record is continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information. Upon release, the record is closed but maintained according to Tennessee's records retention requirements.
According to the Tennessee Department of Correction, inmate records serve multiple purposes, including ensuring proper identification of individuals in custody, tracking their location within the facility, documenting their behavior during incarceration, and providing information necessary for their care and supervision.
Are Inmate Records Public In Blount County?
Inmate records in Blount County are generally considered public records under the Tennessee Public Records Act § 10-7-503, which establishes that all state, county, and municipal records shall be open for personal inspection by any citizen of Tennessee. However, certain portions of inmate records may be exempt from disclosure based on privacy concerns, security considerations, or ongoing investigations.
The Tennessee Public Records Act provides that "all state, county and municipal records shall, at all times during business hours, be open for personal inspection by any citizen of this state, and those in charge of the records shall not refuse such right of inspection to any citizen, unless otherwise provided by state law." This statutory provision establishes the presumption of openness for government records, including basic inmate information.
Information typically available to the public includes:
- Current inmate roster (listing of individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking and arrest information
- Charges filed against the inmate
- Mugshots (in most cases)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Facility where the inmate is housed
However, certain information may be redacted or withheld pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated § 10-7-504, which provides specific exemptions to the Public Records Act. These exemptions may include medical information, social security numbers, and information that might compromise institutional security or ongoing investigations.
What's Included Inmate Records in Blount County
Inmate records in Blount County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. The following categories of information are typically included:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Visitation logs
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Warrant numbers
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Date of alleged offense
- Criminal history (prior arrests and convictions)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, property, etc.)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court dates
- Court case numbers
- Court disposition of charges
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Length of sentence
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Actual release date and time
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer to another facility, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements, if applicable
This information is maintained in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-4-140, which establishes requirements for jail record-keeping.
Blount County Prison System
The Blount County correctional system operates under the authority of the Blount County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and administering detention facilities within the county. The system primarily consists of the Blount County Adult Detention Facility, which serves as the county jail for both pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year, as prescribed by Tennessee state law.
It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Tennessee. County jails, including the Blount County facility, typically house individuals who are awaiting trial, serving misdemeanor sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. State prisons, operated by the Tennessee Department of Correction, house individuals convicted of felonies and serving longer sentences.
The Blount County correctional system operates under the oversight of the elected Sheriff and in accordance with standards established by the Tennessee Corrections Institute and the American Correctional Association. The facility provides various programs aimed at reducing recidivism, including educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training.
Blount County Sheriff's Office
940 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway
Maryville, TN 37804
Phone: (865) 273-5000
Blount County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Blount County
Blount County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's overall corrections system:
Blount County Adult Detention Facility
920 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway
Maryville, TN 37804
Phone: (865) 273-5245
Blount County Sheriff's Office
This is the primary detention facility in Blount County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility accommodates pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The Adult Detention Facility operates with multiple security classifications and housing units to separate inmates based on gender, security risk, and special needs.
Blount County Work Release Center
920 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway
Maryville, TN 37804
Phone: (865) 273-5245
Blount County Sheriff's Office
The Work Release Center provides qualified low-risk inmates the opportunity to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants in this program leave the facility for approved employment during the day and return to custody during non-working hours. This program helps inmates maintain employment, support their families, and transition back into the community.
Blount County Juvenile Detention Center
1045 Middlesettlements Road
Maryville, TN 37801
Phone: (865) 681-6883
Blount County Juvenile Court
This facility houses juvenile offenders who are awaiting court proceedings or serving short-term detention sentences. The Juvenile Detention Center operates separately from adult facilities in compliance with federal and state laws requiring the separation of juvenile and adult offenders.
Each of these facilities operates under the authority of the Blount County Sheriff's Office and in accordance with standards established by the Tennessee Corrections Institute and relevant state laws governing detention facilities.
Who's in Prison In Blount County
The Blount County detention facilities house several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. Understanding the composition of the inmate population provides insight into the function of the county's correctional system:
Pre-trial detainees constitute a significant portion of the Blount County jail population. These individuals have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. They are either awaiting trial or other court proceedings. Pre-trial detention may result from inability to post bail, denial of bail due to public safety concerns, or other factors determined by the court.
Individuals serving misdemeanor sentences typically comprise another substantial segment of the county jail population. Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 40-35-111, misdemeanor offenses are punishable by incarceration for periods of less than one year, which are served in county facilities rather than state prisons.
The jail also houses individuals who have been convicted of felonies and are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities operated by the Tennessee Department of Correction. This transitional population fluctuates based on court case processing and the availability of bed space in state facilities.
Additionally, the facility may hold individuals who have violated probation or parole conditions and are awaiting hearings or serving sanctions for these violations. The jail also accommodates individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions, including those facing charges in multiple counties or those being held on federal detainers.
According to data from the Tennessee Department of Correction, common offenses resulting in incarceration in county facilities include drug possession, driving under the influence, theft, assault, and failure to appear for court proceedings.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Blount County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Blount County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Blount County Sheriff's Office maintains current inmate records and provides multiple avenues for public access:
The most efficient method for searching inmate records is through the online inmate lookup system maintained by the Blount County Sheriff's Office. Interested parties may access this system through the official Sheriff's Office website. To conduct a search, users must provide at least one of the following: the inmate's full name, booking number, or date of birth. The system provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody, including charges, booking date, and bond information.
For those unable to access the online system, telephone inquiries may be directed to the Blount County Detention Facility at (865) 273-5245. Staff can provide basic information about individuals in custody, including confirmation of incarceration, charges, and bond amounts. However, detailed record requests may require submission of a formal public records request.
In-person requests for inmate information may be submitted at the Blount County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours:
Blount County Sheriff's Office
940 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway
Maryville, TN 37804
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Phone: (865) 273-5000
For more comprehensive inmate records, interested parties may submit a formal public records request in accordance with the Tennessee Public Records Act. Request forms are available at the Sheriff's Office or may be downloaded from the county website. Completed forms should be submitted to the Records Division of the Sheriff's Office, either in person, by mail, or via email to the designated records custodian.
For information about individuals who have been transferred to state custody, the Tennessee Felony Offender Information database provides a searchable system for locating individuals in state correctional facilities.
How To Find an Inmate in Blount County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Blount County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic information about individuals in custody without requiring payment or subscription fees:
The primary resource for locating inmates in Blount County is the online inmate search tool provided by the Blount County Sheriff's Office. This database is updated regularly and allows searches by name, booking number, or date of birth. To access this tool, visit the Blount County Sheriff's Office website and navigate to the inmate search function. The system provides information including the inmate's name, booking date, charges, and bond information.
For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, the Tennessee Felony Offender Information database offers a free search tool that provides information about individuals incarcerated in state facilities. This resource is particularly useful for locating individuals who have been sentenced to terms exceeding one year and have been transferred from county to state custody.
The Blount County Clerk of Courts maintains public access terminals at the courthouse where visitors can search court records that may contain information about an individual's case status and custody situation. These terminals are available during regular business hours at:
Blount County Circuit Court Clerk
930 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway
Maryville, TN 37804
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Additionally, telephone inquiries may be made to the Blount County Detention Facility at (865) 273-5245. Staff can confirm whether an individual is currently in custody and provide basic information about their status. When making telephone inquiries, be prepared to provide the full name and, if possible, the date of birth of the individual you are attempting to locate.
These free resources provide access to basic information about individuals in custody, though more detailed records may require submission of a formal public records request in accordance with Tennessee law.
How To Visit an Inmate In Blount County
Visitation with inmates at Blount County detention facilities is governed by specific policies established to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. Individuals planning to visit an inmate should familiarize themselves with the following guidelines:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which is established during the inmate's booking process
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors are subject to security screening, including metal detection and possible search
- Visitation sessions are monitored and recorded in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-4-116
Visit Schedule:
- General population inmates are typically allowed two 30-minute visits per week
- Visitation hours are:
- Tuesday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday-Monday: Closed for visitation
- Visitors should arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled visitation time for processing
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
- Vehicle keys (all other personal items must be secured in lockers provided in the lobby)
- Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes
- Cell phones or other electronic devices
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20 for vending machines
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Contact visits are generally not permitted at the Blount County Detention Facility
- Non-contact visits are conducted through glass partitions with telephone communication
- Video visitation services are available and can be scheduled through the facility's online system
Visit Restrictions:
- Individuals with active warrants or criminal cases pending will not be permitted to visit
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before being approved for visitation
- Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in termination of the visit and possible suspension of visitation privileges
For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact the Blount County Detention Facility at (865) 273-5245 or visit the Blount County Sheriff's Office website.
How To Send Money to a Blount County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Blount County detention facilities have several approved methods for sending funds. These methods are designed to ensure security while providing inmates access to commissary and other permitted services:
Methods and Steps for Sending Money:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay payment service website (accessible through the Blount County Sheriff's Office website)
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Blount County Detention Facility" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
-
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay kiosk located in the lobby of the Blount County Detention Facility
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Deposits can be made using cash, credit cards, or debit cards
-
Money Orders:
- Purchase a money order payable to the inmate (full name and ID number must be included)
- Mail to: Blount County Detention Facility, Inmate Accounts, 920 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN 37804
- Include the sender's full name and return address
Amount Limits:
- Online and kiosk deposits: Minimum $5.00, maximum $300.00 per transaction
- Weekly deposit limit: $500.00 per inmate
- Money orders: Maximum $500.00
Transaction Fees:
- Online credit/debit card deposits: $2.50 fee for transactions up to $100.00; $3.50 fee for transactions $100.01-$300.00
- Kiosk credit/debit card deposits: Same fee structure as online deposits
- Kiosk cash deposits: $2.00 flat fee
- Money orders: No processing fee
What Cannot Be Sent:
- Cash through the mail
- Personal checks
- Cashier's checks
- Third-party checks
- Foreign currency
Permitted Uses of Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone account funding
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
Prohibited Uses of Inmate Funds:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for services not approved by facility administration
- Purchase of contraband items
- Payment of fines or restitution (these must be handled through the court system)
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-21-216, which governs inmate trust fund accounts. For additional information regarding inmate accounts, contact the Blount County Detention Facility at (865) 273-5245.
How To Send Jail Mail In Blount County
Correspondence with inmates housed in Blount County detention facilities is subject to specific regulations designed to maintain facility security while allowing inmates to maintain important connections with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following guidelines apply to all mail sent to inmates:
All non-legal mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service. Packages, courier deliveries, and hand-delivered items are not accepted. Letters should be addressed using the following format:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number Blount County Detention Facility 920 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway Maryville, TN 37804
All incoming non-legal mail is opened, inspected, and screened for contraband before delivery to inmates, in accordance with Tennessee Code Annotated § 41-21-205. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and will be opened only in the presence of the inmate.
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters on plain white, lined, or colored paper (no construction paper, cardstock, or other heavy paper)
- Photographs (maximum size 4" x 6", limit of 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (following the procedures outlined in the previous section)
- Self-addressed stamped envelopes
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, pop-up, or oversized cards)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Books, magazines, or newspapers (these must be sent directly from the publisher)
- Postage stamps or envelopes (except self-addressed stamped envelopes)
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit or obscene materials
- Gang-related materials
- Items containing glitter, lipstick, perfume, or other substances
- Cash or personal checks
- Clothing or other personal items
- Food items or candy
Inmates may receive soft-cover books, magazines, and newspapers only if they are sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor. These items must be pre-approved by facility staff and are subject to content review.
All outgoing mail from inmates is subject to inspection, except for legal mail addressed to attorneys, courts, or government agencies. Inmates are responsible for the cost of postage for personal mail. Indigent inmates may be provided with limited free postage for essential correspondence.
For additional information regarding mail policies, contact the Blount County Detention Facility at (865) 273-5245 or visit the Blount County Sheriff's Office website.