Clay County Inmate Search and Records
To find inmate records in Clay County, South Dakota, you can utilize both online and offline resources. Start by checking the South Dakota Department of Corrections’ Offender Locator (https://doc.sd.gov/adult/lookup/), which provides information on individuals incarcerated in state prisons, though not always county jails. For inmates in the Clay County Jail specifically, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office is your primary local resource; their website (https://claysheriff.org/) may offer inmate or jail rosters, or you can contact them directly at the Sheriff’s Office located at 15 Washington Street, Vermillion, SD. For offline requests or more detailed records, such as booking details or visitation information, visit or call the Sheriff’s Office during business hours. Additionally, the Clay County Clerk of Courts at the Courthouse can provide public court records related to current or past inmates. Always have identifying information, such as full name and date of birth, ready when making inquiries.
Clay, SD Jail and Prison System
How to Find an Inmate in CLAY County, SD Jail and Prison System
To locate an inmate in the Clay County, South Dakota jail or prison system, begin by visiting the official Clay County Sheriff’s Office or Detention Center website, where you’ll often find an online inmate search tool. To use this resource effectively, have identifying information on hand such as the inmate’s full name, booking number, or date of birth. If an online search option is unavailable or you encounter difficulties, contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office directly via phone or visit in person during business hours for assistance. Providing accurate and up-to-date inmate details ensures faster and more reliable search results. Always rely on official, regularly updated resources to obtain the most current information and avoid misinformation.
Bookings in Clay Jail
To access recent booking records for the Clay County Jail in South Dakota, individuals can begin by visiting the official website of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office typically maintains an online inmate roster or booking log, where recent arrest and booking information is posted for public viewing. By navigating to the “Inmate Roster” or “Bookings” section on the website, users can search for current and past inmates using filters such as name, date, or booking number. If the online booking records are unavailable or lack the needed details, individuals have the option to directly contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office by phone or in person at their main administrative office, where public arrest records can be requested during normal business hours. Additionally, public records databases—both state-operated and reputable third-party services—may provide updated booking information depending on their data sources. It is advisable to utilize official government resources for the most accurate and up-to-date records. For sensitive or confidential information, identification or formal requests under South Dakota’s public records law may be required. Always verify access policies and hours of operation through the official Clay County government or sheriff’s office website.
Clay Parole and Probation
CLAY County Parole and Probation
In Clay County, South Dakota, parole and probation services are overseen in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Corrections and local supervisory offices. Individuals on parole have been conditionally released from incarceration, while those on probation serve part or all of their sentences within the community under structured guidelines. Accessing information about parole eligibility, probation conditions, and supervision services can be done through the county parole and probation office or the Department of Corrections’ official website. These agencies offer comprehensive support, including reentry assistance programs, vocational guidance, and ongoing compliance monitoring. Clients are required to adhere to regular reporting schedules, participate in rehabilitative services, and meet all court-ordered obligations to maintain good standing. For additional details or assistance, residents are encouraged to contact the local office or consult state resources for up-to-date policies and support options.
Clay Incarceration Statistics
As of June 2024, the Clay County Jail in South Dakota maintains a small population reflecting the county's size. The facility typically houses between 10 and 20 inmates daily, with fluctuations based on law enforcement activity and court scheduling.
Offense categories: The majority of bookings involve misdemeanors such as driving under the influence (DUI), disorderly conduct, and drug possession (primarily methamphetamine and marijuana). Felony bookings most frequently relate to aggravated assault, burglary, probation violations, and more serious drug charges.
Booking data: In the past 12 months, annual bookings total approximately 350–400 individuals, with the average stay lasting 5–14 days. About 60% of arrestees are male, and roughly 30% of bookings involve repeat offenders.
Facility population: On an average day in 2024, about 40% of the population is detained for misdemeanor offenses and 60% for felonies. The facility occasionally holds state or federal detainees on a temporary basis, typically less than 5% of overall population.
Sentencing and release data: Roughly 35% of inmates are serving sentences (typically under one year, as longer sentences are transferred to state prison), while 65% are pretrial detainees awaiting court proceedings. Of those sentenced, nearly all are serving time for county-level offenses rather than serious felonies. Pretrial inmates are either awaiting bail decisions or resolution in magistrate or circuit court.
Pretrial vs. post-conviction status: Approximately two-thirds (65%) of inmates are held pretrial or for probation violations. The remainder are post-conviction, with most staying less than 30 days before transfer or release due to sentence completion, time served, or alternative sentencing.
Source: Clay County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Department of Corrections (June 2024 data and annual jail report).
Clay County Prisons and Jails
Useful Links
- Inmate Search
- Visitation Guidelines
- Bail Information
- Prison Policies
- Legal Aid
- Re-Entry Programs
- Legal Rights
- Family & Community Support