Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana serves as the primary detention center for Lawrence County, located at 1420 I Street, Bedford, IN 47421. Built in 1989, this mid-level security facility houses up to 138 adult male inmates and operates 24 hours a day under the supervision of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department. The jail provides public access to inmate charge details, bond amounts, visitation schedules, and mugshots through its official roster or by contacting the Records Department at (812) 277‑2014. For court dates and case updates, individuals must reach out directly to the Lawrence County Circuit Court or Superior Court. The co-located Security Center manages intake, classification, property storage, and emergency coordination.
Official Inmate Roster and How to Search for an Inmate
The Lawrence County Jail maintains an up-to-date inmate roster that lists each detainee’s name, charged offense, bond amount, booking date, and a thumbnail mugshot. This information is available online via the county’s official website or by calling the Records Department during business hours. Only basic details—such as charges and bond—are released publicly; full criminal histories or sentencing information require a court records request. To search for an inmate, you can use the jail’s online portal or contact staff directly. If you know the inmate’s full name or ID number, the search becomes faster and more accurate. The roster is updated daily and reflects current bookings, releases, and status changes.
Visitation Rules, Hours, and Requirements
Visitation at Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana occurs on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each visitor must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, and be listed on the inmate’s approved visitor list. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate per visit, and all visits are non-contact, conducted through glass partitions. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The jail does not allow food, gifts, or electronic devices during visits. To add your name to an inmate’s visitor list, contact the jail administration in advance. Late arrivals may not be admitted, and all visitors are subject to search upon entry.
Contact Information, Phone Numbers, and Emergency Lines
For general inquiries about inmates, visitation, or facility policies, call (812) 277‑2014. This number connects to the main administrative office and is staffed during regular business hours. For urgent matters or emergencies, use (812) 277‑2015. Media representatives seeking inmate photos or press-related records should email media@lawrencecounty.in.gov or mail requests to 1420 I Street, Bedford, IN 47421. The jail does not accept collect calls from outside numbers, but inmates may place outbound collect calls at $0.12 per minute. Money orders for commissary deposits must include the inmate’s full name and ID number and be sent to the same address.
Commissary, Money Deposits, and Inmate Accounts
Inmates at Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana can purchase snacks, hygiene items, and stationery through the self-service commissary kiosk located in the lobby. The kiosk accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards with a $2 processing fee per transaction. Deposits made by mail must be in the form of a money order payable to “Lawrence County Jail – Inmate Name – ID Number” and sent to 1420 I Street, Bedford, IN 47421. Personal checks and cash mailed to the facility will be returned. Account balances are updated within 24 hours, and funds remain active for up to one year after release. Families can check balances by calling the main number or visiting the kiosk in person.
Court Information and Public Defender Services
Court schedules and hearing dates for inmates are not posted on the jail website. To obtain this information, contact the Lawrence County Circuit Court at (812) 275‑2421 or the Lawrence County Superior Court at (812) 275‑3124. Both courts operate Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and provide case status, docket numbers, and required documentation upon request. Unrepresented defendants can apply for a public defender by calling (812) 275‑3312. Applications require proof of income and residency. Once approved, the public defender’s office will coordinate with the court and jail for legal consultations.
Educational and Rehabilitation Programs
Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana offers several programs to support inmate rehabilitation and skill development. These include GED preparation classes, substance abuse counseling, and work-release partnerships with local businesses. Inmates enrolled in work-release may earn wages and gain job experience while serving their sentence. Educational sessions are held weekly and led by certified instructors. Substance abuse programs follow state-approved curricula and include group therapy and individual counseling. Participation is voluntary but encouraged for those seeking early release or reduced sentences. Completion certificates are provided and may be used in future parole hearings.
Security Center Operations and Staff Leadership
The Lawrence County Security Center, co-located with the jail at 1420 I Street, manages all intake, classification, and property storage functions. It operates 24 hours a day and coordinates with the Indiana State Police for emergency responses. Captain Andrew Lynn serves as Jail Commander and oversees a team of 15 correctional officers. The center conducts routine cell inspections, health screenings, and security audits to maintain safety standards. All staff undergo annual training in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and inmate rights. The facility also partners with local NGOs to offer vocational training and reentry planning for soon-to-be-released inmates.
Sheriff’s Department and Community Outreach
The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department consists of 22 sworn deputies responsible for public safety, civil process service, and jail operations. The department runs community programs like “Neighborhood Watch” and “Teen Safety Workshops,” reaching over 1,200 residents each year. These initiatives aim to build trust, reduce crime, and educate the public on legal rights and safety practices. Deputies also assist with missing person cases, domestic disputes, and traffic enforcement. The sheriff’s office publishes monthly crime reports and hosts open houses for citizens to tour the facility and meet staff.
Facility History, Capacity, and Security Level
Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana was constructed in 1989 and designed to hold up to 138 adult male inmates. It is classified as a mid-level security facility, meaning it houses individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences. The building includes secure housing units, medical bays, visitation rooms, and administrative offices. Over the years, the jail has undergone minor renovations to improve lighting, ventilation, and surveillance systems. Despite its age, the facility meets all state standards for health, safety, and inmate care. No major incidents or escapes have been reported in the past decade.
How to Request Inmate Records or Mugshots
Requests for inmate records, photographs, or judicial documents must go through the Media Relations office. You can submit your request by mail to 1420 I Street, Bedford, IN 47421, by email to media@lawrencecounty.in.gov, or by phone at (812) 277‑2014 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and specific records needed. Mugshots are typically provided within 48 hours for accredited news outlets. Private individuals may receive limited information due to privacy laws. All requests are logged and reviewed for compliance with Indiana’s public records policy.
Comparison with Bedford City Jail
While Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana serves the entire county, the Bedford City Jail at 1617 K Street handles municipal offenses and short detentions. The city jail, established in 1994, holds about 100 inmates and operates under high-security protocols. It has its own inmate lookup tool and work-program partnerships with local manufacturers. However, most felony cases and long-term detainees are transferred to the county facility. Both jails share some services but maintain separate records, staff, and visitation policies. For accurate information, always verify which facility holds the inmate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana
Many people have questions about how the jail works, what services are available, and how to stay connected with an inmate. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official policies and recent updates. These responses reflect current procedures as of 2024 and are verified with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department.
Can I visit an inmate on weekdays?
No, visitation is only allowed on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Weekday visits are not permitted except for attorney meetings or medical appointments. All visitors must be pre-approved and present valid ID. Late arrivals will not be admitted, and visits are limited to two people per inmate.
How do I send money to an inmate?
You can deposit money using the self-service kiosk in the jail lobby, which accepts cash, credit, and debit cards for a $2 fee. Alternatively, send a money order by mail to “Lawrence County Jail – Inmate Name – ID Number,” 1420 I Street, Bedford, IN 47421. Always include the inmate’s ID number to ensure proper credit.
Are inmates allowed phone calls?
Inmates cannot receive incoming calls but may place outbound collect calls at $0.12 per minute. The receiving party must accept the charges. Calls are monitored and limited to 15 minutes per session. Prepaid accounts are not available; all calls are billed to the recipient.
Where can I find court dates for an inmate?
Court schedules are not posted on the jail website. Contact the Lawrence County Circuit Court at (812) 275‑2421 or the Superior Court at (812) 275‑3124. Provide the inmate’s name and case number for faster service. Both courts are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Does the jail offer educational programs?
Yes, the jail provides GED preparation, substance abuse counseling, and work-release opportunities. Programs are voluntary and designed to support rehabilitation. Participants receive certificates upon completion, which may help with parole or future employment.
How do I request a public defender?
Call (812) 275‑3312 to apply for a public defender. You’ll need to provide proof of income and residency. Once approved, the office will assign an attorney to your case and coordinate with the court and jail.
Can I get a copy of an inmate’s mugshot?
Media outlets can request mugshots by emailing media@lawrencecounty.in.gov or calling (812) 277‑2014. Private individuals may receive limited information due to privacy laws. Include the inmate’s full name and date of birth in your request.
Official Resources and Direct Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources. Below are direct links and contact details for Lawrence County Jail Bedford Indiana and related services. These resources are maintained by the county and state agencies.
- Official Inmate Roster: https://lawrencecounty.in.gov/justice/sheriff/inmate-information
- Jail Exchange Inmate Search: https://www.jailexchange.com/city-and-county-jails/indiana/lawrence-county/lawrence-county-jail/inmate-search-and-mugshots
- Indiana DOC Offender Search: https://www.in.gov/apps/indcorrection/ofs/ofs
- Security Center Information: https://lawrencecounty.in.gov/justice/sheriff/security-center
Contact Details and Visiting Hours
Address: 1420 I Street, Bedford, IN 47421
Main Phone: (812) 277‑2014
Emergency Line: (812) 277‑2015
Media Email: media@lawrencecounty.in.gov
Visiting Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Related Services and County Resources
Lawrence County offers additional legal and public safety resources beyond the jail. These include probate court records, divorce filings, and civil case searches. While not directly managed by the jail, these services often intersect with inmate cases. For example, child support or property disputes may affect sentencing or visitation rights. Residents can access these records through county offices or online portals. Always verify which agency handles your specific need to avoid delays.
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