Gallatin County Public Records /Gallatin County Inmate Search

Gallatin County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Gallatin County?

Inmate records in Gallatin County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office that document individuals who are in custody. These records contain comprehensive information about persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in county facilities. Pursuant to Montana Code Annotated § 44-5-103, these records are classified as "criminal justice information" and are subject to specific regulations regarding their maintenance and accessibility.

Inmate records differ from court records in several important aspects. While court records document the judicial proceedings related to a case, inmate records specifically track an individual's custody status and institutional history. The Gallatin County courts maintain case files containing charges, hearings, and legal decisions, whereas the Gallatin County Detention Center maintains custody records documenting an individual's physical presence within the facility.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first processed into the detention facility. During this initial phase, personal information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge details are collected and entered into the county's record-keeping system. These records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration to reflect changes in custody status, housing assignments, disciplinary actions, and program participation. Upon the individual's release from custody, the record is updated to reflect the discharge but remains in the system as a historical document.

The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office is the primary agency responsible for maintaining these records for individuals housed in the Gallatin County Detention Center.

Are Inmate Records Public In Gallatin County?

Inmate records in Gallatin County are partially accessible to the public under Montana's public records laws. According to the Montana Constitution Article II, Section 9, citizens have the right to examine government documents except in cases where the demand of individual privacy clearly exceeds the merits of public disclosure. This constitutional provision is further implemented through the Montana Public Records Act, which governs access to government records.

For inmate records specifically, the Montana Criminal Justice Information Act § 44-5-301 establishes that certain information is publicly available while other details remain confidential. The following inmate information is typically accessible to the public:

Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
Basic booking information
Charges filed
Mugshots
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Current housing facility

However, certain information within inmate records is restricted from public access, including:

Medical and mental health information
Social Security numbers
Detailed personal history
Information that would compromise facility security
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Information related to ongoing investigations

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access basic details through the Gallatin County Detention Center's online inmate search portal or by contacting the facility directly.

What's Included Inmate Records in Gallatin County

Inmate records in Gallatin County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. 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
Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking
Arresting agency
Booking officer
Current custody status
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
Disciplinary records while in custody
Participation in jail programs or work assignments

Charge Information:

Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Warrant information
Case numbers
Arresting agency
Incident reports related to the arrest

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, not posted)
Bond conditions
Court-ordered holds or detainers

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Judge assigned to the case
Scheduled court appearances
Court orders related to custody

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction details
Sentence length
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Good time/earned time credits
Parole eligibility date
Probation terms

Release Information:

Scheduled release date
Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
Release conditions
Post-release supervision requirements

These records are maintained in compliance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2203, which establishes requirements for jail record-keeping in the state.

Gallatin County Prison System

The Gallatin County correctional system operates primarily through the Gallatin County Detention Center, which serves as the county's main facility for housing pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of up to one year. This facility functions under the jurisdiction of the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office and is distinct from the Montana state prison system.

It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Gallatin County Detention Center primarily houses individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences for misdemeanors, or serving short-term felony sentences of less than one year. In contrast, the Montana state prison system, operated by the Montana Department of Corrections, houses individuals convicted of felonies and sentenced to terms exceeding one year.

The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office is responsible for the operation and administration of the county's detention facilities. For information regarding inmates or detention services, members of the public may contact:

Gallatin County Sheriff's Office
615 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2100
Gallatin County Sheriff's Office

Gallatin County Detention Center
605 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2140
Gallatin County Detention Center

The Gallatin County detention system operates in accordance with state regulations outlined in Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2201, which establishes standards for county jails throughout Montana.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Gallatin County

Gallatin County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various custody needs and security levels. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's criminal justice system:

Gallatin County Detention Center
605 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2140
Gallatin County Detention Center

This is the primary correctional facility in Gallatin County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility accommodates pre-trial detainees, individuals serving misdemeanor sentences, and those serving felony sentences of less than one year. The detention center provides various security levels and specialized housing units.

Gallatin County Re-entry Program
605 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2140
Gallatin County Sheriff's Office

This program operates within the Detention Center structure and focuses on preparing inmates for successful reintegration into the community. Participants typically include individuals nearing their release date who meet specific eligibility criteria.

Gallatin County Work Release Program
605 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2140
Gallatin County Sheriff's Office

This program allows eligible inmates to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Participants return to the detention facility during non-working hours. This program is typically available to low-risk offenders who meet strict eligibility requirements.

Gallatin County Electronic Monitoring Program
615 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2100
Gallatin County Sheriff's Office

While not a physical facility, this program allows certain low-risk offenders to serve their sentences while remaining in the community under electronic supervision. Participants wear monitoring devices that track their location and compliance with program requirements.

These facilities and programs operate in accordance with Montana state law, specifically Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2205, which establishes guidelines for the operation of county detention facilities.

Who's in Prison In Gallatin County

The Gallatin County Detention Center houses several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. The facility's population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees: Individuals who have been arrested and charged with crimes but have not yet been convicted. These individuals are either awaiting trial or have been unable to post bail. Pre-trial detainees make up a significant portion of the jail population and are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Misdemeanor Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses (less serious crimes typically punishable by up to one year of incarceration) and are serving their sentences in the county facility. Common misdemeanor offenses include:

Driving under the influence (DUI)
Simple assault
Petty theft
Trespassing
Disorderly conduct

Short-term Felony Offenders: Individuals convicted of felonies who are serving sentences of less than one year. Those with longer sentences are typically transferred to state prison facilities operated by the Montana Department of Corrections.

Probation/Parole Violators: Individuals who were previously sentenced to probation or released on parole but violated the terms of their supervision. These individuals may be held in the county jail while awaiting hearings or as a sanction for their violations.

Individuals Awaiting Transfer: Persons who have been sentenced to state prison but are temporarily housed in the county facility while awaiting transfer to a Montana Department of Corrections facility.

Federal Detainees: In some cases, the Gallatin County Detention Center may house federal inmates through agreements with federal agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service.

The demographic composition of the Gallatin County inmate population varies over time but generally reflects patterns consistent with national trends in local jail populations. According to data from the Montana Department of Corrections, the majority of county jail inmates are male, with females typically comprising a smaller percentage of the total population.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Gallatin County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Gallatin County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county provides multiple options for conducting inmate searches:

Online Inmate Search:

Visit the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the Detention Center section
Select the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" option
Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
Review the results, which typically include basic information such as name, booking date, charges, and bond amount

In-Person Search:

Visit the Gallatin County Detention Center during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
Complete an inmate information request form at the front desk
Provide identification and specify the information being requested
Staff will process the request and provide publicly available information

Telephone Inquiry:

Contact the Gallatin County Detention Center at (406) 582-2140
Provide the name of the individual and any additional identifying information
Basic information about current inmates may be provided over the phone

Written Request:

Submit a written request to: Gallatin County Detention Center Attn: Records Department 605 South 16th Avenue Bozeman, MT 59715
Include the inmate's full name, date of birth (if known), and specific information requested
Provide contact information for response
Allow 5-10 business days for processing

For more comprehensive inmate records beyond basic custody information, interested parties may need to submit a formal public records request in accordance with Montana's public records laws. Such requests may be subject to fees for research, copying, and redaction of confidential information.

For statewide searches of individuals in the Montana prison system, the Montana Department of Corrections Offender Search provides an online database of convicted felons currently under supervision.

How To Find an Inmate in Gallatin County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Gallatin County can be accomplished through several free methods provided by county agencies. These resources are designed to help family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties determine if an individual is in custody and access basic information about their status.

Gallatin County Detention Center Online Roster:

Access the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the Detention Center section
Select the inmate lookup feature
Search by the individual's name (last name, first name)
Review results showing current inmates only

Montana Statewide Inmate Search:

Visit the Montana Department of Corrections Offender Search
Enter the individual's name
Review results showing individuals in state custody or under supervision
Note that this system includes state prisoners but may not include all county detainees

Telephone Verification:

Call the Gallatin County Detention Center at (406) 582-2140
Provide the name of the person you are trying to locate
Request confirmation of their custody status
Inquire about basic information such as charges and bond amount

Court Records Search:

Access the Montana Judicial Branch website
Navigate to the court records search function
Enter the individual's name
Review case information, which may indicate if the person is in custody

In-Person Inquiry:

Visit the Gallatin County Detention Center during regular business hours
Speak with staff at the information desk
Provide the name of the individual you are trying to locate
Request confirmation of their custody status

These free search methods typically provide basic information including:

Confirmation of custody status
Booking date
Charges
Bond information
Next court date (if applicable)
Expected release date (if known)

For privacy and security reasons, certain information about inmates is not publicly available through these free search methods, including detailed personal information, medical records, and specific housing locations within the facility.

How To Visit an Inmate In Gallatin County

Visiting an inmate at the Gallatin County Detention Center requires adherence to specific procedures and regulations established to maintain security and order within the facility. The following information outlines the current visitation policies:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visits must be scheduled in advance
Visitors must arrive 15 minutes prior to scheduled visit time
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility
Visitation may be terminated at any time for rule violations or security concerns

Visit Schedule:

Regular visitation hours: Tuesday through Sunday
Morning sessions: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Evening sessions: 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Tuesday and Thursday only)
No visits on Mondays (reserved for administrative processing)
Visit duration: 30 minutes per session
Inmates are typically allowed two visits per week

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Visitor registration form (completed prior to visit)
Vehicle information (make, model, license plate number)
If applicable, documentation proving relationship to inmate (for special visits)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Drugs or alcohol
Tobacco products
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Food or beverages
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

Conservative attire required
No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
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 items)
Shoes must be worn at all times

Visit Types:

On-site video visitation (primary method)
Remote video visitation (available for approved visitors)
Contact visits (limited to special circumstances with prior approval)
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)

Visit Restrictions:

Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
Individuals on probation or parole must obtain permission from their supervising officer
Persons with active warrants or pending criminal charges may be denied visitation
Maximum of two adult visitors per session

These visitation policies are established in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2225, which authorizes county sheriffs to establish reasonable regulations for jail visitation.

For the most current information or to schedule a visit, contact:

Gallatin County Detention Center
605 South 16th Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-2140
Gallatin County Detention Center

How To Send Money to a Gallatin County Inmate

The Gallatin County Detention Center provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, phone calls, and other approved expenses. The following options are currently available:

Online Deposits:

Visit the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the Detention Center section
Select the "Inmate Accounts" or "Commissary" option
Follow the prompts to make a deposit using a credit or debit card
Print or save the confirmation receipt

Kiosk Deposits:

Visit the Gallatin County Detention Center lobby during business hours
Locate the automated payment kiosk
Follow the on-screen instructions
Insert cash or use a credit/debit card
Retain the printed receipt

Mail-In Deposits:

Obtain a money order or cashier's check (personal checks not accepted)
Make payable to "Gallatin County Detention Center" with inmate's name and ID number in memo line
Mail to: Gallatin County Detention Center Attn: Inmate Accounts 605 South 16th Avenue Bozeman, MT 59715
Do not send cash through the mail

In-Person Deposits:

Visit the Gallatin County Detention Center during regular business hours
Complete an inmate deposit form at the front desk
Submit payment (cash, money order, or cashier's check)
Obtain a receipt for the transaction

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Transaction Fees:

Online deposits: $2.50 per transaction
Kiosk deposits: $2.00 per transaction
Mail-in deposits: No fee
In-person deposits: No fee

What You Cannot Send:

Personal checks
Cash through mail
Third-party checks
Foreign currency
Cryptocurrency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Phone calls
Video visitation sessions
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Release funds

Restricted Uses:

Payments to other inmates
Payments to outside individuals
Bail or bond payments
Court fees or fines (separate process required)
Attorney fees

Funds remaining in an inmate's account upon release will be returned via debit card or check. For additional information regarding inmate accounts, contact the Gallatin County Detention Center at (406) 582-2140.

How To Send Jail Mail In Gallatin County

Sending mail to inmates at the Gallatin County Detention Center requires adherence to specific guidelines to ensure delivery and maintain facility security. The following procedures and restrictions apply to all incoming mail:

Addressing Requirements:

All mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service
Address envelopes as follows: Inmate's Full Name and ID Number (if known) Gallatin County Detention Center 605 South 16th Avenue Bozeman, MT 59715
Include a complete return address with sender's full name

Acceptable Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
Money orders (must be in separate envelope addressed to Inmate Accounts)
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
Polaroid photographs
Cash or personal checks
Stamps or envelopes
Cards larger than 5x7 inches
Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
Any items containing glitter, glue, or other adhesives
Pornographic or obscene materials
Gang-related content
Materials depicting violence or weapons
Content that presents security concerns

Mail Processing Procedures:

All incoming mail is opened and inspected by detention staff
Mail is typically distributed to inmates within 24-48 hours of receipt
Contraband items will be rejected and either returned to sender or destroyed
Mail containing unauthorized content will be rejected in its entirety
Legal mail from attorneys will be opened in the presence of the inmate

Publications and Books:

Books must be paperback only
Books must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor
Magazines must be sent directly from the publisher
Publications are subject to review for prohibited content
Maximum of 3 books and 5 magazines in an inmate's possession at any time

E-Messages: The Gallatin County Detention Center also offers an electronic messaging system:

Create an account on the approved vendor's website
Purchase message credits
Compose and send messages to specific inmates
Messages are subject to review before delivery
Fees apply for each message sent

These mail regulations are established in accordance with Montana Code Annotated § 7-32-2226, which authorizes detention facilities to establish reasonable mail procedures.

For questions regarding mail policies, contact the Gallatin County Detention Center at (406) 582-2140.