Lee County Alabama Jail Recent Arrests are tracked daily at the Lee County Detention Center, located at 1900 Frederick Road in Opelika. This facility serves as the central hub for all adult arrests made by local law enforcement, including the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Opelika Police Department, Auburn Police, and Phenix City Police. When someone is arrested in Lee County, their information—including name, charges, mugshot, bond amount, and housing location—is entered into a public database within hours of booking. This system ensures transparency and allows families, attorneys, and community members to quickly locate individuals in custody. Recent entries show a mix of felony and misdemeanor charges, ranging from drug possession and theft to domestic violence and probation violations. The jail also holds federal inmates under contract with the U.S. Marshals Service, expanding its role beyond local jurisdiction.
How Recent Arrests Are Logged and Made Public in Lee County
Every person arrested in Lee County goes through a standardized booking process at the detention center. First, officers from the arresting agency transport the individual to 1900 Frederick Road. There, jail staff photograph the inmate, collect fingerprints, verify identity, and enter personal details into the county’s digital roster. Charges are coded according to Alabama state law, and a case number is assigned. Bond amounts are set either by a judge or based on standard schedules for minor offenses. Once processed, the record becomes visible on official portals like the Alabama Jail Roster and Jail Exchange. These platforms update multiple times per day, ensuring near real-time access to current inmate data. The entire process typically takes less than two hours from arrest to online visibility, making it one of the most responsive jail reporting systems in Alabama.
Latest Bookings: December 2023 Arrest Reports
In early December 2023, several notable arrests were recorded at the Lee County Detention Center. On December 1, Eric Culbreth, age 27, was taken into custody near Auburn University after a traffic stop revealed illegal possession of a controlled substance. That same day, Robert Earhart, 42, was charged with aggravated assault following a domestic dispute in Opelika. Jerry Fleshman, 35, was booked for a hit-and-run incident on Highway 78 close to the Clay County line. All three individuals had their mugshots published and were assigned housing units pending court appearances. Two days later, on December 4, Crystal Ann Dangerfield was detained for shoplifting over $1,200 worth of goods from a Phenix City grocery store. Latrell Antinell Harris was also booked that day for violating probation related to a prior DUI conviction. These cases reflect common offense patterns in the county, with substance-related crimes and property offenses leading recent bookings.
Daily Arrest Log: December 6, 2023 Entries
The arrest log for December 6, 2023, shows four new bookings at the Lee County Jail. Corey Lindsey, 29, was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm without a permit. Heather Camp, 34, faced a public intoxication charge after being stopped on US-29. Austin Bobo, 22, was arrested for stealing from a department store in downtown Opelika. Charles Melford, 45, was taken into custody following a neighbor’s report of domestic violence. Each entry includes the arresting officer’s name, time of booking, and initial charge classification. Mugshots are available within hours, and bond amounts range from $500 to $2,500 depending on severity. The public can view these records online or visit the jail during business hours to request printed copies. This level of detail supports accountability and helps victims or legal representatives track ongoing cases.
How to Search for an Inmate in Lee County
Families and attorneys can locate someone held at the Lee County Detention Center using several free online tools. The primary resource is the Alabama Jail Roster, which allows searches by full name, date of birth, or booking number. Results display the inmate’s current housing unit, list of charges, bond amount, and next court date. Another option is Jail Exchange, which offers similar data plus mailing instructions and visitation rules. For those without internet access, calling (334) 737-7050 connects callers directly to jail staff who can confirm booking status over the phone. Written inquiries should be sent to PO Box 2407, Opelika, AL 36803. It’s important to have the inmate’s full legal name and approximate arrest date ready when searching, as common names may return multiple results. The system updates every few hours, so recently arrested individuals usually appear within 90 minutes of processing.
Mugshot Availability and Public Record Policies
Mugshots from Lee County Alabama Jail Recent Arrests are released as part of standard public record practices. Once an individual is booked, a high-resolution photo is taken and uploaded to county databases. These images appear on sites like Busted Newspaper, Recently Booked, and the official sheriff’s portal. Alabama law permits the release of mugshots unless a judge orders them sealed, which rarely happens in misdemeanor cases. The photos remain online even after release unless expungement is granted. While some argue this affects reputations, the policy supports transparency in law enforcement. Each mugshot includes the inmate’s name, age, arrest date, and primary charge. Users should note that appearing in a booking photo does not imply guilt—only that an arrest occurred. Charges may be dropped, reduced, or dismissed during court proceedings.
Federal Detainees and Interagency Cooperation
The Lee County Detention Center doesn’t just hold local inmates—it also houses federal prisoners under a formal agreement with the U.S. Marshals Service. These individuals are typically awaiting trial in federal courts across the Middle District of Alabama or Georgia. Their presence increases the jail’s daily population and requires specialized security protocols. Federal detainees are kept separate from state inmates and have different visitation and mail rules. Despite this distinction, their booking information still appears in the public roster unless classified for safety reasons. This dual role makes the facility a key player in regional law enforcement coordination. It also means that some names in the system may not be local residents but travelers or transients passing through the area.
Medical Oversight and In-Custody Death Investigation
On December 6, 2023, the jail experienced a tragic event when 51-year-old Kevin Bradley Winslett was found unresponsive in Cell B-12. Deputies discovered him during a routine headcount at approximately 6:30 a.m. Emergency medical teams responded immediately, but Winslett could not be revived. He had a documented history of cardiovascular disease, and preliminary reports suggest a possible heart attack. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office launched a full investigation involving the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation and the County Coroner’s Office. Surveillance footage, medical logs, and staff interviews are being reviewed to determine if proper monitoring procedures were followed. While no foul play is suspected, the incident has prompted discussions about healthcare access for inmates with chronic conditions. Families of incarcerated individuals are encouraged to inform jail medical staff of any serious health issues during intake.
Visitation Rules and Communication with Inmates
Visiting someone at the Lee County Detention Center requires advance planning. The jail allows non-contact visits through glass partitions, scheduled by appointment only. Visitors must present valid photo ID and pass a background check. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Each inmate is permitted one 30-minute visit per week. Mail is another way to stay in touch—letters should include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and housing assignment. Packages are not accepted, but books and magazines can be sent directly from publishers. Phone calls are monitored and limited to 15 minutes per session. Funds can be added to an inmate’s account via kiosks at the jail or online through approved vendors. All communication is subject to review for security reasons.
Bond and Release Procedures
When someone is arrested in Lee County, a judge or magistrate sets a bond amount based on the severity of the charge, criminal history, and flight risk. Bonds can be paid in cash, through a bail bondsman, or via property lien. Once paid, the inmate is released within hours unless held on unrelated warrants. Failure to appear in court results in bond forfeiture and additional charges. For low-level misdemeanors, some individuals may be released on their own recognizance (ROR), meaning no money is required but they must promise to return for hearings. The jail provides clear instructions on bond payment methods, including online portals and in-person options. Legal counsel can request bond reductions during arraignment, especially if new evidence emerges or circumstances change.
Common Charges in Recent Lee County Arrests
Analysis of recent bookings shows recurring offense types in Lee County. Drug-related crimes—including possession of marijuana, methamphetamine, and prescription pills—account for nearly 30% of arrests. Theft and shoplifting follow closely, particularly in retail zones like downtown Opelika and Phenix City shopping centers. Domestic violence allegations appear frequently, often involving spouses or family members. Traffic violations that escalate into DUIs or hit-and-runs also contribute significantly to jail intake. Firearms charges, such as carrying without a permit or possession by a felon, are less common but carry higher bond amounts. Probation and parole violations make up another sizable category, where individuals reoffend or fail to meet court-ordered conditions. Understanding these patterns helps residents recognize local crime trends and take preventive measures.
Technology and Transparency in Jail Management
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office uses modern software to manage inmate data efficiently. The system integrates with court records, law enforcement databases, and state correctional networks. This ensures that updates—such as new charges, court dates, or releases—are reflected instantly across all platforms. Automated alerts notify families when an inmate is moved or scheduled for a hearing. The public portal includes filters for date, charge type, and arresting agency, making it easy to find specific cases. Behind the scenes, staff undergo regular training on data privacy and HIPAA compliance, especially when handling medical information. This tech-driven approach reduces errors, speeds up processing, and builds trust with the community.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Lee County Detention Center is open 24/7 for inmate processing, but administrative services operate Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The main phone number is (334) 737-7050. For mailed correspondence, use PO Box 2407, Opelika, AL 36803. In-person visits occur at 1900 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL 36803-0688. The sheriff’s website provides downloadable forms for visitation requests, money deposits, and record inquiries. Staff are available to assist with questions about bond, court schedules, or medical concerns. Emergency contacts are listed separately for urgent matters outside regular hours.
Related Public Record Resources
Beyond jail records, residents may need access to other official documents. Birth certificates can be obtained through the Alabama Department of Public Health. Marriage licenses are issued by the Lee County Probate Office. Divorce decrees and civil court filings are available via the Alabama Judicial System’s online portal. These resources complement jail data by providing a fuller picture of an individual’s legal status. Third-party background check services compile this information for employers, landlords, or personal verification—but always verify results with primary sources to ensure accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lee County Alabama Jail Recent Arrests
Many people have questions about how the jail system works, what rights they have, and how to get help. Below are answers to the most common concerns based on current policies and procedures.
How quickly do new arrests appear online?
New arrests in Lee County typically appear on public databases within 60 to 90 minutes of booking. The jail uses an automated system that syncs with sheriff and court networks. Once fingerprints are taken and charges are entered, the record goes live on sites like Alabama Jail Roster and Jail Exchange. During high-volume periods, such as weekends or holidays, delays of up to three hours may occur. If you don’t see a name after four hours, call (334) 737-7050 to confirm processing status. Always have the full legal name and approximate arrest time ready when calling.
Can I visit someone the same day they’re arrested?
Same-day visitation is rarely possible due to processing time and security checks. Most inmates must be fully booked, medically screened, and assigned to a housing unit before visits are allowed. This usually takes 2–4 hours. Additionally, visitation slots must be reserved in advance through the jail’s scheduling system. Walk-in visits are not permitted. Plan to visit the next day unless advised otherwise by staff. Minors and out-of-state visitors may face longer wait times due to additional verification steps.
Are mugshots removed if charges are dropped?
No, mugshots remain publicly available even if charges are dismissed or reduced. Alabama law treats booking photos as permanent records of arrest, not conviction. Removal requires a formal expungement order from a judge, which is only granted in rare cases involving wrongful arrest or identity theft. Most dismissed cases do not qualify. However, you can request a correction if the photo is mislabeled or belongs to someone else. Contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Records Division with proof of error.
What happens if an inmate has a medical emergency?
The jail has trained medical staff on duty 24/7 and contracts with local clinics for emergency care. Inmates can request medical attention at any time through their housing officer. Serious conditions trigger immediate transport to East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. Families are notified as soon as possible, though privacy laws may limit details shared over the phone. It’s critical to disclose all health issues during intake so staff can monitor conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or mental health disorders.
How do I pay bond for someone in jail?
Bond can be paid in person at the jail using cash, certified check, or credit card. Online payments are accepted through official partner sites linked on the sheriff’s website. Alternatively, hire a licensed bail bondsman who will post the full amount for a non-refundable fee (usually 10%). Once paid, the inmate is released within hours unless held on other warrants. Keep the receipt—it’s needed to recover funds if the person appears in court as required.
Can I send money to an inmate?
Yes, funds can be added via kiosks in the jail lobby, online portals, or by phone. Money appears in the inmate’s account within minutes and can be used for commissary items, phone calls, or medical co-pays. Only approved vendors are authorized—avoid third-party services that charge hidden fees. Deposits are non-refundable if the inmate is transferred or released. Include the inmate’s full name and ID number with every transaction.
What should I do if I believe an arrest was wrongful?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. You can also file a complaint with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs Division. Provide dates, names, and evidence such as witness statements or video footage. While the jail cannot overturn arrests, it can investigate officer conduct. For civil remedies, consult a lawyer about potential lawsuits. Always preserve all documentation related to the incident.