Arrest Records Broward County offers a fast, public way to search for recent bookings, charges, and inmate details in Florida’s second-largest county. The system lets users enter a first or last name to pull up arrest dates, booking locations, charge descriptions, and bond amounts. Each result links to a full profile with the inmate’s booking photo, physical description, and a direct path to the court docket. All data refreshes nightly and is marked for reference only—subject to change without notice. For official legal use, always verify details through the Broward Clerk of Courts or the Sheriff’s Office.
How to Search Arrest Records in Broward County
Anyone can search arrest records using the Broward Sheriff’s Office online tool. Start by visiting the official Arrest Search page. Enter either a first name or last name—no middle initial needed. The system returns matching names with key details: arrest date, booking location, charge type, and bond amount. Click any name to open a detailed view. This includes the inmate’s booking photo, height, weight, age, and a link to the court case file. Results update every night, so recent arrests may take up to 24 hours to appear.
The search tool works on phones, tablets, and computers. No login or fee is required. It’s free and open to the public. However, the Sheriff’s Office warns that this data is not an official record. Always double-check with the Clerk of Courts for legal matters like background checks or court filings.
Broward County Detention Facilities and Contact Info
The Broward County Department of Detention runs four main jails. All share one phone number for inmate status, bail, and visitation: 954-831-5900. Calls are answered 24/7, with live agents from 7 a.m. to midnight. After hours, an automated system gives basic info like booking date and charges.
- Main Jail Bureau: 555 SE 1st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Joseph V. Conte Facility: 1351 NW 27th Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069
- North Broward Bureau: 1550 NW 30th Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069
- Paul Rein Detention Facility: 2421 NW 16th Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33069
Each site holds different types of inmates. The Main Jail handles most new arrests. The Conte Facility houses longer-term detainees. The North Broward Bureau serves male inmates, while Paul Rein focuses on medical and mental health needs. All facilities follow the same rules for visits, mail, and phone calls.
Real-Time Booking Blotter: What It Shows
The Booking Blotter is a live feed of every person booked into Broward County jails. It updates every hour and lists full names, dates of birth, arresting agency, charges, and bond amounts. Users can filter by date, location, or charge type. For example, you can view all drug-related arrests from the past 48 hours or see who was booked at the North Broward Bureau yesterday.
Each entry includes a unique booking number. This helps track changes like bond reductions, case dismissals, or transfers between facilities. The blotter notes that info may be corrected later. It’s meant for public awareness—not legal proof. Always confirm details with official court records before making decisions based on this data.
How to Post Bail in Broward County
Bail can be posted at any time through the Bail Bond Office. They accept cash, credit cards, and surety bonds from licensed agents. The office operates from 7 a.m. to midnight daily. Call 954-831-5900 to start the process. Have the inmate’s full name, booking number, and charge details ready.
Cash bail must equal the full bond amount. Credit card payments may include a processing fee. Surety bonds require a licensed bail agent who charges 10% of the bond (e.g., $1,000 on a $10,000 bond). The agent handles paperwork and guarantees payment if the defendant skips court.
Bond amounts vary by charge. Misdemeanors often range from $500 to $5,000. Felonies can start at $5,000 and go much higher. Judges set bonds during first appearances, usually within 24 hours of arrest. The Clerk of Courts posts updated bond info online at browardclerk.org.
Juvenile Arrests and Assessment Center
Youth under 18 are processed at the Juvenile Assessment Center, located at 2145 NW 9th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. Call 954-734-2365 for intake questions. Unlike adult jails, this center focuses on assessment, not long-term holding. Most juveniles are released to parents or guardians within hours unless charged with a serious offense.
Records for minors are sealed by law. They do not appear in public arrest searches. Only authorized agencies like schools or courts can access them. Parents should contact the center directly if their child has been detained. Legal representation is strongly recommended.
Court Records and Case Details
Arrest records show charges, but court outcomes live elsewhere. The Broward Clerk of Courts maintains all case files. Visit browardclerk.org to search by name, case number, or charge. You’ll find hearing dates, rulings, plea deals, and final judgments.
Court dockets link directly from inmate profiles on the Sheriff’s site. This helps users move from arrest info to trial status in one click. For example, if someone was arrested for theft, you can see if they pleaded guilty, went to trial, or had charges dropped. Always use court records—not jail data—for legal verification.
Attorney and Legal Aid Resources
People arrested in Broward County have the right to an attorney. Public defenders are available for those who can’t afford private counsel. The Office of the Public Defender serves indigent clients and can be reached through the Department of Detention hotline.
Private attorneys must be Florida-licensed. The Broward County Bar Association offers a referral service. The State Attorney’s Office prosecutes crimes and provides victim support. All legal contacts are listed on the Sheriff’s website under “Attorney Resources.”
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visits must be scheduled in advance. Each facility has specific hours and rules. Generally, visits occur on weekends and holidays. Inmates get one 30-minute visit per week. Visitors must bring valid photo ID—no exceptions. Minors under 18 need a parent or guardian present.
Dress codes ban revealing clothes, hats, or gang-related symbols. No phones, bags, or food allowed. All visits are monitored. Violations can lead to suspension of visiting rights. Check the Department of Detention website for current schedules and updates.
Data Accuracy and Legal Disclaimers
All arrest and booking data is labeled “for informational purposes only.” It refreshes nightly and may change without warning. Charges can be amended, bonds reduced, or cases dismissed after initial posting. The Sheriff’s Office does not guarantee accuracy.
Never use jail records for employment, housing, or legal decisions without verifying with official court documents. Errors can harm reputations or lead to wrongful actions. When in doubt, contact the Clerk of Courts or consult a lawyer.
Statistics: Broward County Arrest Trends
In 2021, the Department of Detention processed over 41,000 bookings. Of these, 12,450 were for traffic violations, 18,310 for property crimes, and 11,222 for violent offenses. Nearly 58% of those booked were male, with a median age of 29. About 22% were first-time offenders; 35% had three or more prior convictions.
| Charge Type | Number of Bookings (2021) |
|---|---|
| Traffic Violations | 12,450 |
| Property Crimes | 18,310 |
| Violent Crimes | 11,222 |
These numbers come from monthly logs sent to the Florida Department of Corrections. They reflect county-wide trends but don’t include federal or out-of-state arrests.
Common Charges and Bond Ranges
Bonds depend on the charge and criminal history. Below are typical ranges for common offenses in Broward County:
- Theft (under $300): $500–$1,500
- Drug Possession (small amount): $1,000–$5,000
- DUI (first offense): $500–$2,000
- Domestic Violence: $2,500–$10,000
- Burglary: $5,000–$15,000
- Assault (felony): $5,000–$25,000
Judges consider risk to public safety, flight risk, and prior record. High-profile or dangerous cases may have no bond set initially.
How Long Do Inmates Stay in Jail?
Most inmates stay less than 48 hours if they post bail. Those without bail remain until their first court appearance, usually within 24 hours. If charges are serious, they may stay weeks or months awaiting trial. Sentenced individuals serve short terms (under one year) in county jails. Longer sentences go to state prisons.
Release dates are estimates. They can change due to court delays, medical holds, or new charges. Use the inmate search tool to check current status.
Mail, Phone Calls, and Commissary
Inmates can receive mail at their facility address. Include the full name, booking number, and return address. No cash, stamps, or contraband allowed. All mail is inspected.
Phone calls are collect or prepaid through approved vendors. Inmates cannot receive calls. Commissary lets them buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery. Funds can be added online or at kiosks in jail lobbies.
Emergency Contacts and Victim Services
If you’re a victim of a crime, contact the State Attorney’s Victim Advocacy Unit. They provide support, court updates, and safety planning. The Sheriff’s Office also has a tip line for anonymous reports: submit online or call 954-831-5900.
For emergencies, always call 911. Non-emergency police matters go to the local precinct or the Sheriff’s non-emergency line.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to find arrest records, post bail, or visit inmates. Below are clear answers based on current Broward County policies and procedures.
Can I search arrest records by address or date?
The official tool only searches by first or last name. However, the Booking Blotter lets you filter by date range or facility. For address-based searches, you’d need to contact the Sheriff’s Office directly—public databases don’t support this feature due to privacy laws.
Are arrest records public in Florida?
Yes, under Florida Statute 119, arrest and booking info is public record. This includes names, charges, and photos—unless the person is a juvenile. However, expunged or sealed records are not accessible. Always check with the Clerk of Courts if a record seems missing.
How fast do arrest records update?
Most data refreshes nightly. The Booking Blotter updates hourly but may lag by 1–2 hours during peak times. Recent arrests (within the last 6 hours) might not appear yet. For urgent needs, call the detention hotline.
Can I get a copy of a booking photo?
Booking photos appear in the inmate profile when you click a name in the search results. You can take a screenshot or print the page. For certified copies, submit a public records request to the Sheriff’s Office. Fees may apply.
What if the info is wrong?
Contact the Department of Detention at 954-831-5900. Provide the inmate’s name, booking number, and the error. Corrections are made within 1–3 business days. For legal disputes, consult an attorney—the Sheriff’s Office won’t amend records based on informal complaints.
Do arrest records affect employment?
Employers can see arrests, but not convictions, in background checks. Florida law bans discrimination based solely on arrest records. However, if charges led to conviction, that can be considered. Always disclose honestly and provide context during job interviews.
Where do I find court dates?
Court dates aren’t listed on the Sheriff’s site. Go to browardclerk.org, search by name or case number, and view the docket. You’ll see hearing times, locations, and case status. Set reminders—missing court can lead to warrants.
For official inquiries:
Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Detention
Phone: 954-831-5900
Website: sheriff.org
Visiting Hours: Vary by facility—check online before arriving