General Overview of Pinellas County Jail

The Pinellas County Jail, located in Clearwater, Florida, is a prominent detention facility operated by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. As one of the largest jails in the state, it houses over 3,000 inmates daily, including both male and female prisoners, as well as juveniles tried as adults. The jail serves inmates facing various charges, ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

Established in the late 19th century, the facility has evolved considerably, with modern expansions and upgrades to improve security and inmate welfare. It now includes specialized units for mental health, substance abuse, and healthcare services. The jail’s capacity and state-of-the-art facilities reflect its role as a major correctional institution in Florida

Pinellas County Jail

Contact Information for Pinellas County Jail

  • Address:
    Pinellas County Jail,
    14400 49th Street North,
    Clearwater, FL 33762

  • Phone Numbers:
    General Information: (727) 582-6200
    Inmate Booking Line: (727) 464-6415
    Visitation Line: (727) 464-6842

  • Email:
    Public records and inquiries can be directed to: Contact via PCSO website

Visiting Information for Pinellas County Jail

Visiting hours at Pinellas County Jail are offered by appointment only. The jail utilizes a video visitation system, allowing families to schedule remote visits. Visits typically last around 30 minutes to an hour, and it is recommended to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

What to Bring for a Visit:

  • A valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID).
  • Only approved visitors (up to two adults and one child) are permitted per visit.
  • Follow the dress code, avoiding provocative or inappropriate clothing.

How to Book a Visit:

  • Online: Appointments can be scheduled online through the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office website.
  • By Phone: Call the visitation line at 727-464-6842 before midnight of the preceding day.

Directions and Parking Information for Pinellas County Jail

Pinellas County Jail is located at 14400 49th Street North in Clearwater, Florida. It’s easily accessible by major highways, such as US-19. If driving from downtown Clearwater, head east on Drew Street, merge onto 49th Street, and follow signs to the jail.

Parking is available directly outside the jail complex, with designated visitor spaces near the main entrance. Note that parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

What is Pinellas County Jail Like for Inmates?

Inmates at Pinellas County Jail are housed in a variety of units based on classification. High-security inmates and those in protective custody are kept separate from the general population. The jail operates several rehabilitation programs, including education and vocational training, designed to reduce recidivism. Additionally, inmates with mental health needs receive specialized care through the jail’s mental health unit.

Overcrowding has been a persistent issue at the jail, with some inmates sleeping on mats due to capacity limits. Despite these challenges, the facility continues to upgrade its security systems and inmate welfare programs

Famous Prisoners at Pinellas County Jail

Throughout its history, Pinellas County Jail has housed several notable inmates, including individuals involved in high-profile criminal cases. One such individual was Michael Drejka, involved in a controversial “Stand Your Ground” shooting case in 2018. The facility has also dealt with inmates facing federal charges and those awaiting trial for severe felonies​

FAQs About Pinellas County Jail

  1. How do I contact Pinellas County Jail?
    You can reach the jail at 727-582-6200 for general inquiries or visit their official website for more details.

  2. How can I schedule a visit at Pinellas County Jail?
    Visits can be scheduled online through the jail’s visitation system or by calling 727-464-6842.

  3. What types of inmates does Pinellas County Jail house?
    The jail houses a diverse inmate population, including male and female offenders, as well as juveniles tried as adults.

  4. Where is Pinellas County Jail located?
    The facility is located at 14400 49th Street North, Clearwater, FL 33762.

  5. What is the capacity of Pinellas County Jail?
    The jail has a capacity of approximately 3,000 inmates but often operates at or above this capacity.

  6. How can I send money to an inmate at Pinellas County Jail?
    Funds can be deposited into an inmate’s account via online services or by mail.

  7. What are the visiting hours at Pinellas County Jail?
    Visiting hours are scheduled by appointment and typically last between 30 minutes to an hour.

  8. Is there parking available at Pinellas County Jail?
    Yes, parking is available for visitors in designated areas outside the main entrance.

  9. Does Pinellas County Jail offer rehabilitation programs?
    Yes, the jail provides education, vocational training, and substance abuse programs to help rehabilitate inmates.

  10. Can I visit an inmate in person at Pinellas County Jail?
    All visits are conducted via video visitation, which must be scheduled in advance either online or by phone.

Summary

Pinellas County Jail serves as one of Florida’s largest correctional facilities, holding over 3,000 inmates and offering a variety of rehabilitation programs. Despite facing challenges such as overcrowding, the jail continues to provide essential services to its inmates, including healthcare, mental health support, and educational programs. Visitors are encouraged to schedule visits in advance using the jail’s video visitation system.

For further details on inmate services or to schedule a visit, visit the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office official website.

Sources

Visit Pima County Jail