Calcasieu County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Calcasieu County?
Inmate records in Calcasieu County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office that document individuals in custody within the parish's correctional system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Calcasieu Parish detention facilities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important aspects. While the 14th Judicial District Court maintains case files documenting legal proceedings, charges, and dispositions, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office maintains custody records documenting the physical detention and management of individuals in their facilities. These parallel but separate record systems serve different governmental functions within the criminal justice system.
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into a detention facility. Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:574.12, these records are systematically updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to document their status, location, behavior, and other relevant information. Upon release, these records are closed but maintained according to Louisiana's record retention requirements.
The Louisiana Public Records Law, codified in Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:1 et seq., establishes the legal framework for the maintenance and accessibility of these records, defining them as "public records" subject to specific disclosure provisions and exemptions.
Are Inmate Records Public In Calcasieu County?
Inmate records in Calcasieu County are generally considered public records under Louisiana law, with certain limitations and exceptions. The Louisiana Public Records Law establishes that records maintained by public bodies, including correctional facilities, are presumptively open to public inspection. However, specific provisions within state law restrict access to certain components of inmate records to protect privacy, security, and ongoing investigations.
According to Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:31, "any person of the age of majority may inspect, copy, or reproduce any public record," which includes basic inmate information. The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office makes certain inmate information publicly accessible through their online inmate roster.
Information that is typically publicly accessible includes:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking and arrest records
- Charges filed
- Mugshots
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Housing facility location
However, certain information is exempt from public disclosure under Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:3, including:
- Medical and mental health records
- Disciplinary records that might compromise facility security
- Information that could endanger the safety of correctional officers or inmates
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
- Information related to ongoing investigations
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records should be aware that while basic information is readily available, more detailed records may require formal public records requests and may be subject to redaction or denial based on statutory exemptions.
What's Included Inmate Records in Calcasieu County
Inmate records maintained by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with the parish detention system. These records typically include the following categories of information:
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 (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Arresting officer
- Reason for arrest
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level
- Scheduled court appearances
Charge Information:
- Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge codes and descriptions
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
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 (e.g., 14th Judicial District Court)
- Judge assigned to case
- Scheduled court dates
- Court case numbers
- Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time credit calculations
- Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer, etc.)
- Conditions of release
- Probation or parole requirements
- Destination upon release
These records are maintained in compliance with Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:574.12, which governs the creation and maintenance of records pertaining to individuals in custody.
Calcasieu County Prison System
The Calcasieu Parish correctional system operates under the authority of the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals arrested within the parish boundaries. The system primarily consists of the Calcasieu Correctional Center, which serves as the main detention facility for the parish.
It is important to distinguish between the county (parish) jail system and the state prison system. The Calcasieu Parish detention facilities primarily house individuals who are:
- Awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
- Serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
- Temporarily housed due to court appearances or other legal proceedings
By contrast, the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections operates state prison facilities that house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences, typically exceeding one year.
The Calcasieu Parish correctional system operates under the direct supervision of the elected Sheriff of Calcasieu Parish. For information regarding detention facilities or inmate status, members of the public may contact:
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
5400 E. Broad Street
Lake Charles, LA 70615
(337) 491-3700
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Calcasieu County
Calcasieu Parish maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various detention needs within the parish justice system:
Calcasieu Correctional Center (CCC)
5400 E. Broad Street
Lake Charles, LA 70615
(337) 491-3700
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
The Calcasieu Correctional Center serves as the primary detention facility in the parish, housing both male and female inmates. This facility accommodates pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities. The CCC provides various programs including educational services, substance abuse treatment, and religious services.
Calcasieu Parish Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy
3958 Mallard Cove Drive
Lake Charles, LA 70615
(337) 491-3850
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
While primarily a training facility, this location also houses certain specialized detention units and administrative offices related to corrections operations.
Calcasieu Parish Juvenile Detention Center
3615 E. Prien Lake Road
Lake Charles, LA 70615
(337) 721-3900
Calcasieu Parish Police Jury
This facility is operated separately from adult facilities and houses juvenile offenders under the age of 17. The juvenile facility operates under different regulations and provides age-appropriate educational and rehabilitative services.
Calcasieu Parish Work Release Facility
5400 E. Broad Street
Lake Charles, LA 70615
(337) 491-3700
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
This facility houses minimum-security inmates who are approaching their release dates and participate in supervised work programs in the community.
Each of these facilities operates under specific security protocols and visitation policies, which are established by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with state regulations and industry standards.
Who's in Prison In Calcasieu County
The Calcasieu Parish detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These detainees are held pending trial either because they could not post bail, were denied bail, or are awaiting their initial court appearance. Under Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 701, these individuals have specific rights regarding the timeliness of their proceedings.
Misdemeanant Offenders: Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to one year. These individuals have been found guilty of less serious offenses such as simple assault, petty theft, driving under the influence, or minor drug possession.
Felony Offenders Awaiting Transfer: Individuals who have been convicted of felony offenses and are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities operated by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections. These individuals remain in parish custody temporarily until space becomes available in appropriate state facilities.
Probation and Parole Violators: Persons who were previously sentenced to probation or released on parole but have violated the terms of their supervision and are being held pending hearings or revocation proceedings.
Federal Detainees: In some cases, the Calcasieu Parish facilities may house federal detainees through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Work Release Participants: Minimum-security inmates nearing the end of their sentences who participate in supervised employment in the community while returning to secure facilities during non-working hours.
Specialized Populations: Individuals with specific needs, including those requiring mental health services, substance abuse treatment, or medical care that can be provided within the parish facilities.
The demographic composition of the Calcasieu Parish inmate population generally reflects trends in the broader criminal justice system, with variations based on local enforcement priorities and community factors.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Calcasieu County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Calcasieu Parish may utilize several methods to access this information. The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office provides multiple avenues for conducting inmate searches:
Online Inmate Roster:
- Visit the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office Inmate Roster website
- Enter the inmate's first and last name in the search fields
- Alternatively, search using the inmate's booking number if available
- Review the results, which typically include the inmate's name, booking date, charges, and bond information
- For additional details, select the specific inmate record from the search results
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Complete a public records request form, providing the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction (currently $0.25 per page for standard copies)
- Allow time for processing as specified by staff
Written Records Request:
- Prepare a written request including the inmate's full name, date of birth (if known), and specific information sought
- Include requestor's contact information and a copy of government-issued photo identification
- Mail the request to:
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
Records Division
5400 E. Broad Street
Lake Charles, LA 70615
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing under normal circumstances
State-Level Inmate Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Visit the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections offender information search
- Enter the individual's name or Department of Corrections number
- Review results to determine current custody status and location
Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:32, public bodies must provide reasonable access to public records during regular business hours. However, certain information may be redacted or withheld based on statutory exemptions.
How To Find an Inmate in Calcasieu County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Calcasieu Parish without incurring costs is possible through several publicly available resources. The following methods provide free access to basic inmate information:
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Roster:
- Access the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" section
- Enter the inmate's name in the search fields
- Review the results, which typically include current inmates' names, booking dates, charges, and custody status
- This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at no cost
Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the Calcasieu Correctional Center at (337) 491-3700
- Request inmate information from the operator
- Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
- Basic information such as confirmation of custody status and next court date may be provided verbally
- Note that detailed information may require a formal records request
Louisiana Victim Notification System (LAVNS):
- Visit the Louisiana Automated Victim Notification System website
- Select "Find an Offender"
- Enter the inmate's name
- This free service provides custody status and location information
- Registration is available for automated notifications regarding changes in custody status
Court Records Search:
- Visit the Calcasieu Clerk of Court website
- Access the online records search function
- Enter the individual's name to locate case information
- Court records may indicate custody status and facility location
- Basic case information is typically available without charge
Louisiana Department of Corrections Offender Locator: For inmates who may have been transferred to state custody:
- Access the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections offender search
- Enter the individual's name
- Review results for current location and custody status
- This service is provided free of charge
These free resources typically provide basic information including confirmation of incarceration, current charges, and expected release dates. More detailed information may require formal records requests, which could involve processing fees.
How To Visit an Inmate In Calcasieu County
Visitation with inmates at Calcasieu Parish detention facilities is governed by specific policies established by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to inmate visitation:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may submit visitor applications during their initial booking process
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or 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 personal item inspection
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied visitation privileges
Visit Schedule:
- Visitation hours are typically conducted Thursday through Sunday
- Morning sessions: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Evening sessions (Thursday and Friday only): 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are permitted two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Medications needed during the visitation period (must be declared and approved)
- Baby supplies if accompanied by an infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, and one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
- Letters, papers, or documents for inmates
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or miniskirts)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- In-person visitation is conducted through secure glass partitions with telephone communication
- Video visitation services are available through the facility's contracted provider
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) are conducted in designated areas
- Special visits may be arranged for exceptional circumstances with advance approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of the visit
- Passing items to inmates is strictly prohibited and may result in criminal charges
- Visitors on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
These visitation policies are established pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:705, which authorizes sheriffs to establish reasonable regulations regarding visitation. Policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations.
How To Send Money to a Calcasieu County Inmate
The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses. The following options are currently available:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Information" section
- Select "Inmate Deposits"
- Follow the prompts to create an account with the third-party payment processor
- Enter the inmate's name and booking number
- Enter payment information (credit/debit card)
- Fees: A service fee of approximately 5% applies to online transactions
- Processing time: Funds are typically available within 24 hours
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the Calcasieu Correctional Center lobby during regular business hours
- Locate the automated payment kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions to deposit funds
- Cash, credit cards, and debit cards are accepted
- Fees: A service fee of approximately 3% applies to kiosk transactions
- Processing time: Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office"
- Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or other items with the money order
- Mail to:
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office
Inmate Accounts
5400 E. Broad Street
Lake Charles, LA 70615
- Fees: No fee is charged by the Sheriff's Office (money order purchase fees may apply)
- Processing time: Funds are typically available within 3-5 business days
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00
Restrictions on Fund Usage: Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Electronic messaging services
- Approved educational materials
- Medical co-pays
Funds may not be used for:
- Bail or bond payments
- Payment of fines or court costs
- Purchase of contraband items
- Transfers to other inmates' accounts
- Services not approved by facility administration
Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account will be returned via debit card or check. Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:866.2, unclaimed funds may be subject to forfeiture after a specified period.
How To Send Jail Mail In Calcasieu County
Correspondence with inmates at Calcasieu Parish detention facilities is subject to specific guidelines established to maintain security while facilitating communication with family, friends, and legal representatives. The following procedures apply to sending mail to inmates:
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes clearly with the inmate's full name, booking number (if known), and facility address:
Inmate Name, Booking Number
Calcasieu Correctional Center
5400 E. Broad Street
Lake Charles, LA 70615
- Include a complete return address with sender's full name
- Use standard white envelopes only (colored or decorated envelopes will be rejected)
- Letters must be written on plain white paper (no colored paper, construction paper, or cardstock)
- All mail is opened, inspected, and may be read by facility staff before delivery to inmates
- Mail containing contraband, threats, escape plans, or other prohibited content will be rejected and may result in criminal charges
Permitted Items:
- Handwritten or typed letters on plain white paper
- Commercially printed greeting cards (no musical, oversized, or padded cards)
- Up to 5 photographs per envelope (maximum size 4"x6", no Polaroids)
- Money orders (following the procedures outlined in the previous section)
- Legal documents from attorneys or courts
Prohibited Items:
- Cash, checks, or currency
- Stamps or envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Lipstick marks or other bodily fluids
- Glitter, confetti, or other decorative elements
- Newspaper or magazine clippings
- Hardcover books or spiral-bound materials
- Photos depicting nudity, gang symbols, or criminal activity
- Any items larger than 8.5"x11"
Legal Mail:
- Mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies should be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate but may be inspected for contraband
- Legal mail must include the attorney's name, bar number, and return address
Books and Publications:
- Books must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors
- Soft-cover books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
- Maximum of 3 books per package
- Publications containing nudity, weapons, drug use, or other prohibited content will be rejected
Electronic Messaging: The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office contracts with a third-party provider for electronic messaging services. Family and friends may:
- Create an account on the approved messaging platform
- Purchase messaging credits
- Send text messages and approved attachments
- All electronic communications are subject to monitoring and review
These mail policies are established pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:833, which authorizes correctional facilities to inspect incoming and outgoing mail for security purposes.
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