Dakota County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Dakota County?
Inmate records in Dakota County are official government documents maintained by the Dakota County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control of individuals incarcerated within county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from initial booking through release from custody. Pursuant to Minnesota Statute § 13.82, these records are classified as criminal justice data and are maintained separately from court records.
While court records document the judicial process and legal proceedings, inmate records specifically track the physical custody and management of detained individuals. The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and initial charge information are collected. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, and other custody-related data.
The Dakota County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Minnesota's Data Practices Act and follows established protocols for record retention and access. Inmate records serve multiple purposes, including ensuring proper identification of inmates, managing facility populations, coordinating court appearances, and facilitating appropriate security measures.
Are Inmate Records Public In Dakota County?
Inmate records in Dakota County are partially accessible to the public under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, which establishes the presumption that government data is public unless specifically classified otherwise by state or federal law. However, access to inmate records is subject to specific limitations outlined in Minnesota Statute § 13.82 regarding law enforcement data.
The following inmate information is generally available to the public:
- Current custody status (whether an individual is currently in custody)
- Full legal name and booking photograph (mugshot)
- Date of birth
- Charges for which the individual is being held
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Bail or bond amount
- Housing facility location
Certain information within inmate records remains confidential and is not accessible to the public, including:
- Medical and mental health information
- Disciplinary records
- Social Security numbers
- Detailed personal information that could compromise security
- Information related to ongoing investigations
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
The Dakota County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides public access to basic custody information for individuals currently incarcerated in county facilities. This public access system balances transparency with privacy and security considerations.
What's Included Inmate Records in Dakota County
Inmate records in Dakota County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories that document an individual's interaction with the correctional system. The following elements are typically included:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Fingerprints and other biometric data
- Assigned inmate identification number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer information
- Housing assignment within the facility
- Classification level
- Disciplinary incidents and actions
- Visitation records
- Phone call logs
- Property inventory
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
- Incident reports
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, etc.)
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court transport requirements
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Projected release date
- Good time/work credit calculations
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Release type (time served, bond, transfer, etc.)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release planning documentation
These records are maintained in accordance with Minnesota Statute § 641.08, which requires sheriffs to keep detailed records of all persons committed to county jails.
Dakota County Prison System
The Dakota County correctional system operates under the authority of the Dakota County Sheriff's Office and is designed to provide secure detention for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences of up to one year. This system is distinct from the Minnesota Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons housing individuals convicted of felonies and serving sentences longer than one year.
The Dakota County jail facilities primarily house:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Individuals in transit to other jurisdictions
The Dakota County jail system operates in compliance with Minnesota state jail standards and undergoes regular inspections to ensure adherence to established protocols for inmate safety, security, and welfare.
Dakota County Sheriff's Office
1580 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
651-438-4700
Dakota County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Dakota County
Dakota County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations:
Dakota County Jail
1580 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
651-438-4800
Dakota County Jail
This main facility serves as the primary detention center for Dakota County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility provides multiple security classifications and houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. Services include medical care, mental health services, educational programming, and religious services.
Dakota County Juvenile Services Center
1600 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
651-438-8280
Dakota County Juvenile Services Center
This facility houses juvenile offenders and provides specialized programming designed for youth. Services include educational programming, counseling, and family support services. The facility operates under juvenile detention standards that differ from adult facilities.
Dakota County Community Corrections
1 Mendota Road West, Suite 600
West St. Paul, MN 55118
651-554-6800
Dakota County Community Corrections
While not a secure detention facility, Community Corrections oversees alternative incarceration programs including:
- Electronic home monitoring
- Work release programs
- Day reporting centers
- Intensive supervision programs
These facilities operate in accordance with Minnesota Statute § 641.26, which establishes standards for the operation of county jails and detention facilities.
Who's in Prison In Dakota County
The Dakota County jail population consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The current inmate population typically includes:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Individuals who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Individuals awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanors (up to 90 days)
- Individuals serving sentences for gross misdemeanors (up to 1 year)
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
Special Populations:
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations
- Individuals held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Individuals held for other jurisdictions under inter-agency agreements
- Individuals participating in work release programs
- Individuals participating in treatment programs
According to data from the Minnesota Department of Corrections, the Dakota County jail population fluctuates but typically maintains an average daily population of approximately 250-300 inmates. Demographic analysis indicates the population includes both male and female adults across various age groups, with males constituting approximately 85% of the population.
The average length of stay varies significantly based on case type, with pre-trial detainees averaging 21 days and sentenced inmates averaging 45-60 days for misdemeanor offenses.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Dakota County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Dakota County may utilize several methods to access publicly available records. The Dakota County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems that provide access to basic inmate information:
Online Inmate Search:
- Visit the Dakota County Jail Inmate Search portal
- Enter the inmate's first and last name in the search fields
- Review the results, which include current custody status, charges, and booking date
- Note that the online system displays only individuals currently in custody
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Dakota County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Complete an inmate information request form at the public counter
- Provide the full legal name of the inmate and, if possible, date of birth
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable fees for any printed records
Telephone Inquiries:
- Contact the Dakota County Jail information line at 651-438-4800
- Provide the full legal name of the inmate to the staff member
- Note that limited information is available via telephone for security reasons
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to: Dakota County Sheriff's Office Attn: Records Division 1580 Highway 55 Hastings, MN 55033
- Include the inmate's full name, date of birth (if known), and your contact information
- Specify the information being requested
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing
All requests must comply with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, which governs access to government records.
How To Find an Inmate in Dakota County for Free?
Dakota County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals in custody:
Dakota County Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Dakota County Jail Inmate Search portal
- Enter the individual's name in the search fields
- Review results showing current inmates only
- No registration or fees are required to use this service
- Information is updated regularly throughout the day
Minnesota Department of Corrections Offender Locator:
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Corrections Offender Search website
- Enter the individual's name in the search fields
- This system locates individuals in state custody, including those who may have been transferred from Dakota County
- The service is free and available 24/7
Minnesota Court Records Online:
- Access the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) portal
- Search by the individual's name
- Review case information, which may include custody status
- This service provides court case information that can help determine if an individual has been ordered into custody
Telephone Information Line:
- Call the Dakota County Jail at 651-438-4800
- Provide the full name of the person you are trying to locate
- Basic custody information is provided at no cost
- Available during regular business hours
When using these free resources, members of the public should note that information is limited to what is classified as public under Minnesota law. More detailed information may require formal requests and applicable fees.
How To Visit an Inmate In Dakota County
Visitation with inmates at Dakota County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. Pursuant to Minnesota Statute § 641.15, which addresses inmate welfare, the following protocols apply:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Inmates may submit visitor request forms for up to 5 visitors
- Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must present a birth certificate or school ID
- Visitors with criminal histories may be denied visitation privileges
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) follow separate protocols
Visit Schedule:
- General population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Maximum security: Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are allowed two visits per week
- Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
- Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
- Baby care items for infant visitors (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Weapons of any kind
- Food or beverages
- Tobacco products
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
- Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no exposed midriffs, cleavage, or undergarments)
- No shorts above mid-thigh
- No tank tops, sleeveless shirts, or halter tops
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- On-site video visitation (primary method)
- Remote video visitation (available for pre-approved visitors)
- Contact visits (limited to special circumstances with prior approval)
- Professional visits (separate area for attorneys, clergy, etc.)
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 prohibited and may result in criminal charges
- Visitors on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
For additional information or to schedule visits, contact the Dakota County Jail Visitation Office at 651-438-4828.
How To Send Money to a Dakota County Inmate
Dakota County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.
Approved Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Dakota County Inmate Account Services portal
- Create an account or log in
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Processing fees apply (typically 5% of deposit amount)
- Funds are generally available within 24 hours
-
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit the lobby kiosk at the Dakota County Jail (1580 Highway 55, Hastings, MN)
- Available 24/7 in the jail lobby
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Minimal processing fees apply
- Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
-
Mail-In Money Orders:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Dakota County Jail" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
- Mail to: Dakota County Jail, Inmate Accounts, 1580 Highway 55, Hastings, MN 55033
- Include sender's full name and return address
- No personal checks or cash accepted
- No processing fees
- Funds typically available within 3-5 business days
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $5.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Deposit Restrictions:
- Funds from individuals with active criminal cases are subject to review
- Deposits from other inmates or recently released individuals are prohibited
- Deposits suspected of being associated with illegal activity will be rejected
- Deposits may be subject to court-ordered obligations, including restitution and child support
Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Video visitation fees
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses:
- Payments to other inmates
- Payments to outside individuals
- Bail or bond payments
- Court fines or fees (unless specifically authorized)
Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release or can be transferred to another correctional facility if the inmate is transferred. For additional information, contact the Dakota County Jail Inmate Accounts Office at 651-438-4850.
How To Send Jail Mail In Dakota County
Correspondence with inmates in Dakota County facilities follows specific guidelines to ensure security while maintaining important connections with family and community. All mail must comply with the following regulations:
Mailing Address Format:
Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Dakota County Jail
1580 Highway 55
Hastings, MN 55033
Acceptable Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, padded, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (must be separate from letters)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic or metal items of any kind
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Items containing biohazards
- Correspondence containing threats or criminal activity
Mail Processing Procedures:
- All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
- Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
- Mail that violates policies will be returned to sender or placed in the inmate's property
- Mail may be photocopied, with copies provided to inmates and originals stored in property
- Delivery typically occurs within 24-48 hours after receipt and processing
Electronic Messaging: Dakota County currently offers a secure electronic messaging system through its inmate communication platform. To use this service:
- Create an account on the Dakota County Inmate Communication Portal
- Purchase messaging credits
- Compose and send messages through the secure system
- Messages are subject to the same review process as physical mail
- Fees apply for each message sent
Publications:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
- Publications must be paperback only
- Content is subject to review and may be rejected if it contains prohibited material
- Religious texts are permitted but subject to quantity limitations
For additional information regarding mail policies, contact the Dakota County Jail Mail Room at 651-438-4840.
Lookup Inmate Records in Dakota County
Dakota County Jail Inmate Search
Dakota County Government Portal
Minnesota Department of Corrections Offender Search