Covington County Jail Andalusia serves as the primary detention facility for Covington County, Alabama. Located at 290 Hillcrest Drive in Andalusia, AL 36420, this county jail houses up to 250 inmates and operates under the leadership of Sheriff Blake Turman and Jail Administrator Scott Racz. The facility processes individuals arrested by local law enforcement agencies including the Andalusia Police Department and surrounding municipal authorities. With public operating hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the jail provides essential services for families, legal representatives, and community members seeking inmate information or visitation access.
Location and Contact Details
The physical address for Covington County Jail Andalusia is 290 Hillcrest Drive, Andalusia, AL 36420. For mailed correspondence, use P.O. Box 188, Andalusia, AL 36420. The main telephone number is 334-428-2640, and the fax number is 334-428-2665. These contact points connect callers to the Media Relations office, which handles inmate information requests, mugshot inquiries, and general jail operations. Emergency support is available on weekends for urgent matters, though routine services are limited to weekday business hours.
Staff and Leadership
Covington County Jail Andalusia is managed by a team of experienced corrections professionals. Sheriff Blake Turman oversees the entire sheriff’s office operations, while Jail Administrator Scott Racz manages daily jail functions. Key personnel include Lieutenant Linda Benson, who coordinates administrative duties, and other staff responsible for inmate classification, medical services, and security protocols. This leadership structure ensures efficient operation of the facility and maintains compliance with state and federal detention standards.
Inmate Capacity and Housing
The facility accommodates up to 250 detainees across multiple housing units. These units are designed to separate inmates based on security classification, offense type, and behavioral status. Most inmates serve sentences of up to twenty-four months for county-level offenses before potential transfer to state institutions. The jail maintains strict safety protocols and regular inspections to ensure humane conditions and regulatory compliance.
Inmate Search and Roster Access
Families and legal representatives can search for inmates using the official online roster available through the Covington County Sheriff’s Office website. The roster displays real-time information including full name, booking date, charges, bond amounts, and scheduled visitation windows. For those without internet access, calling 334-428-2640 connects callers directly to the intake desk where staff can provide current inmate status updates. Requests for mugshots are processed within two business days by the inmate photography unit.
Visitation Guidelines
All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID and schedule appointments at least 24 hours in advance through the online portal on the jail’s website. In-person visits follow strict dress codes and prohibit items such as cell phones, bags, or weapons. Alternatively, video visitation is available daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. using a secure platform accessible via computer, tablet, or smartphone. Video sessions cost the same as standard phone calls and require temporary account registration with a valid email address.
Sending Mail and Money
Inmates can receive mail at P.O. Box 188, Andalusia, AL 36420. All incoming correspondence is screened for contraband before delivery. For commissary funds, families may use the approved online payment service or mail a money order directly to the inmate’s housing unit. Personal checks and cash are not accepted. Detailed guidelines for formatting addresses and prohibited items are published on the official jail website.
Arrest and Warrant Information
Andalusia, as the county seat, maintains active arrest and warrant records through its police department. These records are updated daily and include booking numbers, offense types, and mugshots. The jail collaborates closely with local law enforcement to process individuals with outstanding warrants promptly. Residents can verify arrest status or report crimes by calling the sheriff’s office at 334-428-2640.
Emergency and Medical Services
The jail operates a 24-hour hotline for emergencies involving inmate health or safety. Medical staff are on-site to handle routine care, while serious cases are referred to local hospitals. Families concerned about an inmate’s well-being should contact the main line immediately. All medical services comply with state health regulations and prioritize inmate welfare.
Public Records and Background Checks
The sheriff’s office provides downloadable forms for requesting public records, filing complaints, or applying for community service assignments. Background checks and warrant verification are available during business hours. These services support legal proceedings, employment screening, and personal safety concerns within the community.
Community Resources and Outreach
Beyond detention services, the sheriff’s department hosts community programs such as the Fallen Heroes memorial and a searchable Sex Offender Registry. Educational outreach includes crime prevention workshops and youth engagement initiatives. These efforts strengthen public trust and promote safer neighborhoods across Covington County.
Directions and Nearby Facilities
Covington County Jail Andalusia is situated near major highways including US-84 and AL-47. An interactive map on the official website provides turn-by-turn directions from surrounding areas. Nearby correctional facilities include the Escambia County Detention Center and Washington County Jail, which may be relevant for families coordinating visits across multiple locations.
Official Links and Resources
- Official Website: covcounty.com
- Inmate Roster: covcounty.com/sheriff-department
- Jail Exchange Search: https://www.jailexchange.com/city-and-county-jails/alabama/covington-county/covington-county-jail/inmate-search-and-mugshots
- Inmate Aid Locator: https://www.inmateaid.com/prisons/covington-county-al-jail
- Alabama Jail Roster: https://alabamajailroster.com/county-jail/covington-county/
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how to contact inmates, visit the facility, or access public records at Covington County Jail Andalusia. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in jail at Covington County Jail Andalusia?
You can search for an inmate by visiting the official Covington County Sheriff’s Office website and accessing the online inmate roster. The roster shows names, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and visitation times. If you don’t have internet access, call 334-428-2640 during business hours. Staff will confirm whether a person is currently detained and provide basic information. For privacy reasons, only limited details are shared over the phone. Always have the full legal name and date of birth ready when making inquiries.
Can I send money to an inmate at this jail?
Yes, you can send money to an inmate using two approved methods. First, use the online payment service linked on the jail’s website. This allows instant deposits into the inmate’s commissary account. Second, mail a money order to P.O. Box 188, Andalusia, AL 36420. Write the inmate’s full name and booking number on the money order. Do not send cash or personal checks. Funds typically appear in the account within one to two business days. Commissary purchases help inmates buy hygiene items, snacks, and phone time.
What are the rules for visiting an inmate in person?
All visitors must schedule a visit at least 24 hours in advance using the online portal on the jail’s website. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Dress modestly—no revealing clothing, hats, or gang-related symbols. Bags, phones, weapons, and food are not allowed inside. Visits occur in designated areas under staff supervision. Failure to follow rules may result in denied entry or future bans. Check the website for current visiting hours and any temporary restrictions.
Is video visitation available, and how does it work?
Yes, video visitation is offered daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. You need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access. Register a temporary account using your email address on the jail’s secure platform. Once approved, select a time slot and pay the fee, which matches the cost of a regular phone call. The session connects you live with the inmate through a private video feed. This option is ideal for families who live far away or have mobility issues. Sessions are monitored for safety and recorded for security purposes.
How long do inmates typically stay at this jail?
Most inmates serve sentences of up to twenty-four months for county-level offenses. After that, they may be transferred to a state prison if their sentence extends beyond the county limit. Pretrial detainees remain until their court date or until bail is posted. The length of stay depends on the charge severity, court schedule, and individual case progress. The jail maintains a daily intake log showing each inmate’s status, which is updated regularly on the public roster.
What should I do if I have an emergency involving an inmate?
If there is a medical or safety emergency, call the jail’s 24-hour hotline immediately. Explain the situation clearly and provide the inmate’s full name and housing unit if known. Staff will assess the issue and take appropriate action, which may include contacting medical personnel or notifying family members. For non-urgent concerns, use the main line during business hours. Always keep emergency contact information current with the jail administration.
Where can I get a copy of an arrest record or mugshot?
Arrest records and mugshots are available through the Media Relations office. Call 334-428-2640 and request the inmate photography unit. You can also mail a written request to 290 Hillcrest Drive, Andalusia, AL 36420. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and your reason for the request. Processing takes about two business days. Some records may be restricted due to ongoing investigations or privacy laws. Fees may apply for printed copies or certified documents.
Contact Summary
Address: 290 Hillcrest Drive, Andalusia, AL 36420
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 188, Andalusia, AL 36420
Phone: 334-428-2640
Fax: 334-428-2665
Website: covcounty.com
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (in-person); Video visits daily 9 a.m.–9 p.m.