Otter Tail County Jail Roster is a publicly accessible record of all adults currently in custody at the county’s detention facility in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. Updated every two hours, the roster includes full legal names, booking photos, dates of birth, assigned housing units, charge details, bond amounts, and upcoming court appearances. This information is published under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13.82 and Chapter 13.85, which require transparency for adult inmates while protecting the identities of juveniles under 18. The sheriff’s office may edit or temporarily hide entries if a court orders confidentiality. The jail, built in 1987, holds up to 111 inmates and operates at about 85% capacity, housing county-sentenced individuals, pretrial detainees, and federal prisoners under contract with ICE, U.S. Marshals, and the Minnesota Department of Corrections.
How to View the Current Otter Tail County Jail Roster
The official Otter Tail County Jail Roster is available online and refreshed every two hours to reflect new bookings, releases, and status changes. Each entry displays the inmate’s full name, gender, age, booking number, intake date, charge codes, bond amount, and projected release date. A booking photo is included when available. The system pulls data directly from the sheriff’s intake software, so new arrests processed after midnight appear by 2 a.m. the next day. This ensures families, attorneys, and the public receive timely updates. The roster also shows housing assignments, such as General Population or Maximum Security, and lists upcoming court events like arraignments or preliminary hearings.
To access the live roster, visit the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office website. The page includes a search function that allows filtering by name, booking number, or charge type. All data is public under state law, but juvenile records are automatically masked. The sheriff’s office reserves the right to modify or remove entries based on legal requirements or court orders. For accuracy, users should check the timestamp on each update, as the list is not static and changes frequently due to new arrests, releases, or transfers.
Sample Inmate Record from Otter Tail County Jail
On December 13, 2021, the Otter Tail County Jail Roster listed Brian Keith Aasberg, a 51-year-old male with booking number 000000009773. He was detained on November 26, 2021, and sentenced on December 22, 2021, to five days for a first-degree drug offense involving a non-small quantity of marijuana. The charge fell under Minnesota Statute 5.2(1) for possession of Schedule 1–4 substances. His bond was set at $152.02, and his release was pending compliance with parole conditions. The record included his intake date, charge code, and legal status, demonstrating how detailed each entry can be.
This example shows how the roster provides transparency while following state laws. It includes only adult information, with juvenile names automatically hidden. The system logs every change, so users can track updates over time. For legal professionals, this level of detail supports case preparation. For families, it offers peace of mind knowing they can monitor a loved one’s status in real time. The roster’s structure ensures clarity and accountability, making it a trusted source for public safety information.
http://www.ottertailcounty.us/sheriff/report/custody%20list.rpt.pdf
Facility Overview: Otter Tail County Jail
The Otter Tail County Jail was constructed in 1987 and has a maximum capacity of 111 inmates. It currently operates at approximately 85% capacity, holding individuals sentenced by county courts, those awaiting trial, and federal detainees under contract. The facility serves multiple jurisdictions, including agreements with the Minnesota Department of Corrections, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the U.S. Marshals Service. This makes it a key hub for regional detention needs.
Inside, the jail features on-site medical screening to assess new inmates for health issues. A classification unit evaluates each person’s security risk and assigns housing accordingly. Daily routines include access to a gymnasium and an outdoor recreation yard. These amenities support physical health and reduce tension within the facility. The jail also maintains strict safety protocols to protect staff and inmates. Its design reflects modern correctional standards, balancing security with humane treatment.
https://ottertailcountymn.us/department/jail/
How to Search for an Inmate in Otter Tail County
To search for someone in the Otter Tail County Jail Roster, use the online inmate lookup tool. Enter the person’s full legal name, date of birth, or booking number. The system will display all matching records with current status, charges, bond amount, and housing location. Each result includes a booking photo when available. The search function is free and does not require registration.
The roster updates every two hours, so information is nearly real time. New bookings appear within hours of processing. Users can also sort results by date, charge type, or release date. This helps attorneys track court schedules and families plan visits. The tool is mobile-friendly, so it works on phones and tablets. For those without internet access, the sheriff’s office provides printed copies upon request.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling at Otter Tail County Jail
Visitation at Otter Tail County Jail runs Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each inmate may have up to two adult visitors and one child per session. All visitors must present a valid photo ID at the entry gate. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Visits last 30 minutes to maintain security and order.
To schedule a visit, call the visitation office at 218-998-8555. Walk-ins are allowed, but appointments are recommended to avoid delays. The jail does not allow visits on Sundays or major holidays. Personal items like phones, bags, or food are prohibited. Dress code rules apply: no revealing clothing, hats, or gang-related symbols. Violations can result in denied entry or suspension of visitation rights.
Legal Basis for Public Access to Jail Rosters in Minnesota
Minnesota law requires the release of adult inmate information under Chapter 13.82 of the state statutes. This mandates that sheriff’s offices publish custody data, including names, charges, and booking details. However, Chapter 13.85 protects juveniles by prohibiting the disclosure of their identities. Any person under 18 will have their name masked or omitted from public rosters.
The law also allows the sheriff to edit or remove entries if a court orders confidentiality. This ensures compliance with ongoing investigations or protective orders. Records are managed under Chapter 641.05, which outlines proper data handling and retention. These laws balance public transparency with individual privacy rights. They reflect Minnesota’s commitment to open government while safeguarding vulnerable populations.
How Often Is the Otter Tail County Jail Roster Updated?
The Otter Tail County Jail Roster refreshes every two hours, making it one of the most current public records available. Updates occur automatically from the sheriff’s intake system. New bookings processed after midnight appear by 2 a.m. the following day. This rapid refresh rate ensures families, lawyers, and researchers have access to the latest information.
The timestamp on each roster shows when it was last updated. Users should check this to confirm data freshness. During high-volume periods, such as weekends or holidays, updates may occur more frequently. The system logs all changes, so historical data can be reviewed if needed. This level of transparency builds public trust and supports legal accountability.
What Information Is Included in Each Inmate Entry?
Each entry in the Otter Tail County Jail Roster contains specific details to ensure clarity and usefulness. These include the inmate’s full legal name, gender, age, and date of birth. A booking photo is displayed when available. The record also shows the booking number, intake date, and assigned housing unit.
Legal information includes charge codes, bond amounts, and court dates. Upcoming hearings, such as arraignments or trials, are listed with times and locations. The roster notes whether the inmate is sentenced, awaiting trial, or held for federal authorities. This comprehensive format helps users understand the person’s legal status and next steps.
Who Can Be Found on the Otter Tail County Jail Roster?
Only adults aged 18 and older appear on the Otter Tail County Jail Roster. Juveniles are protected by law and their names are never published. The roster includes county-sentenced inmates, pretrial detainees, and federal prisoners under contract. It does not list individuals released, transferred, or deceased.
Inmates from neighboring counties may appear if they are housed at Otter Tail under intergovernmental agreements. Federal detainees from ICE or U.S. Marshals are also included. The roster excludes those in medical isolation or under special protective custody unless a court allows disclosure. This ensures compliance with privacy and safety regulations.
How to Contact Otter Tail County Jail for Inquiries
For questions about the jail roster, visitation, or inmate status, contact the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office. The main phone number is 218-998-8555. The visitation office can be reached at the same number during business hours. Staff can assist with scheduling visits, verifying inmate information, or explaining roster details.
The jail is located at 417 Court Street South, Fergus Falls, MN 56537. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For emergencies, call 911. Non-emergency inquiries can be made via phone or in person. The sheriff’s website also provides email contact forms and FAQs for common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Otter Tail County Jail Roster
Many people have questions about how the roster works, what information is available, and how to use it. Below are answers to the most common inquiries. These cover access, privacy, updates, and legal rights. Each answer is based on current Minnesota law and jail policies.
Can I see if someone was recently arrested in Otter Tail County?
Yes, you can check the Otter Tail County Jail Roster online. It updates every two hours and shows all adults currently in custody. Enter the person’s name or booking number to find their status. New arrests appear within hours of processing. The roster includes charge details, bond amount, and court dates. If the person is not listed, they may have been released, transferred, or their record is sealed by court order. Juveniles are never shown. For confirmation, call the sheriff’s office at 218-998-8555.
Why is a name missing from the jail roster?
A name may be missing for several reasons. The person could have been released, transferred to another facility, or their record is under a court-ordered seal. Juveniles under 18 are never listed due to privacy laws. In rare cases, technical delays may cause temporary omissions. The roster updates every two hours, so check again later. If the person was recently booked and still not listed, contact the jail for verification. The sheriff’s office can confirm status but may not disclose details without proper authorization.
How do I visit someone at Otter Tail County Jail?
Visitation is allowed Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each inmate can have two adults and one child per visit. All visitors must bring a valid photo ID. Children under 12 need a parent or guardian present. Visits last 30 minutes. Call 218-998-8555 to schedule or confirm availability. No phones, bags, or food are allowed. Dress modestly—no hats, revealing clothes, or gang symbols. Violations can lead to denied entry. Check the jail website for holiday closures or policy changes.
Is the jail roster accurate and up to date?
Yes, the Otter Tail County Jail Roster is highly accurate and updated every two hours. It pulls data directly from the sheriff’s intake system, so new bookings appear quickly. Each page shows a timestamp indicating the last update. While rare errors can occur, the office corrects them promptly. The roster is a public record under Minnesota law and is maintained for transparency. For legal purposes, always verify with official documents or court records. The jail does not guarantee absolute completeness but strives for reliability.
Can I get a copy of an inmate’s booking report?
Booking reports are not always publicly available due to privacy and security concerns. However, basic information like name, charges, and bond amount is on the roster. For detailed reports, submit a public data request to the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office. Some records may be restricted if they involve ongoing investigations or protected individuals. Attorneys can request full reports through proper legal channels. The jail may charge a fee for copying and processing. Contact the records division at 218-998-8555 for guidance.
What happens if an inmate is transferred or released?
When an inmate is transferred or released, their name is removed from the active roster. The change appears in the next update, usually within two hours. Transfers to state prisons, federal facilities, or other counties are logged but not detailed on the public site. Released inmates are no longer listed. Historical data may be available through official records requests. The roster only shows current custody status. For updates on a specific person, monitor the site regularly or contact the jail directly.
Are federal inmates listed on the county roster?
Yes, federal inmates held at Otter Tail County Jail under contract with ICE, U.S. Marshals, or other agencies appear on the roster. Their names, charges, and status are included like any other inmate. However, some details may be limited due to federal privacy rules. The jail coordinates with federal authorities to ensure compliance. These inmates are housed separately when required. Their presence does not affect public access to the roster. All adult detainees are listed unless a court orders otherwise.
Official Contact Information
Otter Tail County Jail
417 Court Street South
Fergus Falls, MN 56537
Phone: 218-998-8555
Visitation Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Website: https://ottertailcountymn.us/department/jail/