Sylacauga Busted: Arrests, Jail Info & Mugshot Access Guide
Sylacauga Busted publishes arrest reports and mugshots from Sylacauga, Alabama. The website documents recent arrests, booking information, and jail data while noting all individuals are presumed innocent until convicted.
What is Sylacauga Busted?
Sylacauga Busted, often accessed through BustedAlabama.com, serves as an online resource providing information about arrests, bookings, and jail activities in Sylacauga, Alabama. This platform publishes mugshots and arrest reports primarily from Talladega, Coosa, Tallapoosa, Clay, Shelby, St Clair, and Lee Counties.
The website has expanded its coverage to include more Alabama counties, making it a comprehensive resource for those seeking information about recent law enforcement activities in the region.
Legal Disclaimer and Purpose
It’s important to note that Sylacauga Busted and similar platforms emphasize a critical legal principle: all individuals who appear on these sites have only been arrested and are, by law, presumed innocent until convicted by a court. This presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of the American judicial system and serves as an important reminder when viewing arrest information.
The purpose of such platforms extends beyond mere documentation. They provide transparency in law enforcement actions, allow community members to stay informed about public safety issues, and serve as a resource for those who may need information about friends or family members who have been arrested.
Related Media Resources
Sylacauga Busted operates as part of a broader media family that includes GCV-TV, a local streaming television network available on Roku devices. This network features various channels including religious programming, cooking shows, lifestyle content, music, and community events. Additionally, gcvtv.online offers a 24/7 preview of community events and activities throughout the region, organized by month.
Recent Notable Arrests in Sylacauga
Sylacauga has seen various arrests in recent months, ranging from minor offenses to serious crimes. These arrests reflect the ongoing work of local law enforcement agencies to maintain public safety and address criminal activity in the community.
Drug-Related Arrests
One significant arrest involved a major drug bust conducted by Sylacauga police with assistance from a K9 unit. During a night patrol, Officer Morgan initiated a traffic stop that led to the discovery of substantial quantities of illegal substances. The K9 officer, Corporal Jones, and his partner Aki detected drugs in the vehicle, resulting in the seizure of 14 ounces of marijuana, 9 grams of crack cocaine, 51 MDMA pills, 30 Vyvanse pills, 23 dextroamphetamine pills, 47 oxycodone pills, and digital scales.
Two individuals were arrested and face multiple charges, including possession of marijuana in the first degree, five counts of possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
This arrest exemplifies the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement and specialized units in combating drug trafficking and distribution within the community.
Violent Crime Arrests
Several arrests related to violent crimes have also been reported in recent months. In one case, a 19-year-old from Talladega, Sheridan Rashon Clark, was arrested by Sylacauga Police Department investigators on July 7. He was charged with Capital Murder in connection with the death of Nartavius Cortez Fluker-Smith in Sylacauga on July 2.
Another notable case involved the arrest of 22-year-old Tremarkus Tremaine Garrett of Sylacauga on a Capital Murder warrant. Additionally, a Birmingham woman, 31-year-old Tahila Myicole Lomax, was arrested by US Marshalls as the fifth person indicted in the alleged murder-for-hire of 46-year-old Bradford Franklin Isbell in Sylacauga.
These cases highlight the serious nature of some criminal investigations handled by local law enforcement and their coordination with federal agencies when necessary.
Theft and Property Crime Arrests
Property crimes have also resulted in arrests in Sylacauga. A 51-year-old Sylacauga man was arrested after a vehicle was reported stolen. In another incident, an arrest was made after multiple motorcycles were stolen from West 1st Street.
The Foley Police Department issued a warning following the arrest of a 20-year-old man from Sylacauga in connection with a counterfeit gold bar scam, demonstrating how some criminal activities extend beyond the city limits.
Juvenile Arrests
In a concerning incident, a 12-year-old was taken into custody after threats were made against Nichols-Lawson Middle School. This case underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement treats potential threats to school safety, regardless of the age of the individual involved.
The Sylacauga City Jail System
The Sylacauga City Jail operates under the jurisdiction of the Sylacauga Police Department and serves as a short-term detention facility for individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or further legal proceedings.
Facility Overview
Located at 301 North Broadway, Sylacauga, AL, 35150, the jail combines modern security measures with strict protocols to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff. As a city jail rather than a county or state facility, it primarily houses individuals for relatively short periods, particularly those arrested for misdemeanors or those awaiting transfer to larger facilities for more serious offenses.
Jail Administration and Contact Information
The Sylacauga City Jail can be contacted at 256-245-4334. The facility maintains an official online presence, though much of its public information appears to be shared through the Sylacauga Police Department’s Facebook page (facebook.com/pages/Sylacauga-Police-Department/213356012016877).
For families and individuals seeking information about inmates or arrest procedures, these official channels provide the most reliable source of information.
Security and Safety Protocols
Like most detention facilities, the Sylacauga City Jail implements various security measures to maintain order and ensure the safety of all individuals within the facility. These measures include regular monitoring of inmates, controlled entry and exit points, and procedures for handling various situations that may arise within the facility.
Inmate Search Process
Finding information about individuals who have been arrested and booked into the Sylacauga City Jail requires understanding the available resources and search methods.
Online Inmate Roster
The Sylacauga City Jail maintains an online inmate roster that provides essential information about current detainees. This roster includes details such as booking number, last name, first name, date of birth, expected release date, and criminal charges.
To access this information, individuals can visit the official Sylacauga Police Department website and navigate to the ‘Inmate Roster’ or ‘Who’s in Jail’ section. The search interface typically allows users to search by the inmate’s last name or booking number for quicker results.
Information Available Through Searches
When conducting an inmate search, users can expect to find several types of information:
- Basic personal details (name and age)
- Booking date and time
- Charges filed
- Bond amount (if applicable)
- Court dates
- Expected release date
- Current housing location within the facility
It’s important to note that while this information is generally available to the public, certain details may be restricted due to privacy concerns or ongoing investigations.
Tips for Effective Searches
For the most effective search results:
- Ensure accurate spelling of the inmate’s name, as even minor discrepancies can yield no results
- Use the booking number if available, as this is the most efficient way to locate specific inmate information
- Be aware that the inmate roster is frequently updated, so checking back may be necessary if information isn’t immediately available
- Consider reaching out directly to the detention center if online searches prove unsuccessful
Booking and Release Procedures
The process of booking individuals into the Sylacauga City Jail follows standard law enforcement procedures designed to document the arrest and prepare for detention.
The Booking Process
When an individual is arrested in Sylacauga, they undergo a formal booking process that includes:
- Recording personal information (name, address, date of birth)
- Documenting the alleged crime and circumstances of arrest
- Taking fingerprints for identification and record-keeping
- Capturing mugshots (typically front and profile views)
- Conducting a health screening to identify any immediate medical needs
- Collecting and inventorying personal belongings for safekeeping
- Assigning the individual to appropriate housing within the facility
This process can take anywhere from one to several hours, depending on the facility’s current capacity and the specific circumstances of the arrest.
Release Options and Procedures
Individuals may be released from the Sylacauga City Jail through various means:
- Payment of bail or bond (if set by the court)
- Release on personal recognizance (promise to appear in court)
- Completion of a short sentence
- Transfer to another facility
- Case dismissal
Upon release, individuals receive their personal belongings and are provided with information regarding any future court appearances or legal obligations.
Accessing Booking and Release Information
Family members, legal representatives, or other interested parties can access information about bookings and releases through the jail’s online database or by contacting the facility directly. This information is regularly updated but may experience slight delays between the actual booking or release and when the information appears in public records.
Legal Rights of Those Arrested
Individuals arrested in Sylacauga, like all Americans, retain important legal rights throughout the arrest, booking, and detention process.
Presumption of Innocence
As consistently emphasized by Sylacauga Busted and BustedAlabama.com, all arrested individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This fundamental principle means that the publication of arrest information and mugshots does not constitute a determination of guilt.
Right to Due Process
Those arrested have the right to due process, which includes:
- The right to be informed of charges
- The right to legal representation (including court-appointed counsel if unable to afford an attorney)
- The right to remain silent
- Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures
- The right to a fair and speedy trial
Bail Rights
In most cases, individuals have the right to reasonable bail, which allows for release from custody while awaiting trial. The amount of bail is typically determined based on factors such as the severity of the alleged offense, the individual’s criminal history, and their perceived flight risk.
Major Drug Busts and Law Enforcement Efforts
Sylacauga law enforcement agencies have conducted several significant operations targeting drug crimes in recent years.
K9 Unit Success Stories
The Sylacauga Police Department’s K9 unit has proven instrumental in drug-related arrests. As mentioned earlier, K9 Officer Corporal Jones and his partner Aki successfully detected drugs during a traffic stop, leading to a significant seizure of illegal substances including marijuana, crack cocaine, MDMA, and prescription medications.
These specialized K9 units receive extensive training to detect various substances and play a crucial role in the department’s efforts to reduce drug trafficking and distribution in the community.
Collaborative Law Enforcement Efforts
Major drug busts often involve collaboration between multiple agencies. In some cases, local police work with county sheriff’s departments, state agencies, or even federal authorities like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
A notable example includes the case of Damon Eugene Oden, who was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on drug and gun charges. When Sylacauga Police arrested Oden in May 2017, he was found with a Hi-Point .380-caliber pistol, digital scales, and approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine in small plastic bags.
Impact on Community Safety
These law enforcement efforts aim to reduce drug-related crimes and improve community safety. By removing illegal substances and firearms from the streets, police work to decrease associated violent crimes, property crimes, and public health issues related to drug use.
Understanding the Bail and Bond System
When individuals are arrested in Sylacauga, they often encounter the bail and bond system, which allows for temporary release while awaiting court proceedings.
How Bail is Determined
Bail amounts are set by the court based on several factors:
- The severity of the alleged offense
- The individual’s criminal history and record of court appearances
- Ties to the community and flight risk assessment
- Public safety considerations
For some minor offenses, standard bail schedules may exist that specify predetermined amounts for common charges. For more serious offenses, bail may be set during a formal bail hearing.
Bail Bonds Services
For those unable to pay the full bail amount, bail bonds agencies offer an alternative. These services typically charge a non-refundable fee (usually 10-15% of the total bail amount) and post a bond guaranteeing the defendant’s appearance in court.
Multiple bail bonds services operate in and around Sylacauga, providing this financial service to those who need assistance securing release from jail. The jail administration can often provide information about local bondsmen, though they typically cannot recommend specific services.
Conditions of Release
Release on bail often comes with specific conditions that must be followed, such as:
- Appearing for all court dates
- Avoiding contact with alleged victims or witnesses
- Refraining from travel outside a specified area
- Regular check-ins with a pretrial services officer
- Avoiding new arrests or criminal activity
Violation of these conditions can result in the revocation of bail and return to custody.
Resources for Families of Those Arrested
The arrest of a family member can be a stressful and confusing experience. Several resources exist to help families navigate this difficult situation.
Visiting Information
Families wishing to visit inmates at the Sylacauga City Jail should be aware of the facility’s visiting policies:
- Specific visiting hours (which should be confirmed by contacting the jail directly)
- Identification requirements for visitors
- Restrictions on items that can be brought into the facility
- Limits on the number of visitors or duration of visits
- Potential requirements for advance scheduling of visits
Communication Options
Inmates at the Sylacauga City Jail typically have access to communication methods such as:
- Telephone calls (usually collect or prepaid)
- Written mail
- In some cases, limited messaging systems
Families should be aware that most communications, except privileged attorney-client discussions, are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Support Services
Various community organizations, religious groups, and social services may offer support to families dealing with the incarceration of a loved one. These services can include counseling, assistance with basic needs, and guidance on navigating the legal system.
Common Questions
How can I find out if someone has been arrested in Sylacauga?
You can check the Sylacauga Busted website (BustedAlabama.com) or contact the Sylacauga Police Department directly at 256-245-4334. The police department maintains records of recent arrests and can provide basic information about individuals in custody.
Are mugshots from Sylacauga arrests public information?
Yes, mugshots are generally considered public records and are often published on sites like Sylacauga Busted. However, it’s important to remember that the publication of a mugshot does not indicate guilt, as all arrested individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
How long do people typically stay in Sylacauga City Jail?
As a city jail, the Sylacauga facility typically holds individuals for relatively short periods—ranging from a few hours to a few days. Those charged with more serious offenses may be transferred to the county jail or other facilities for longer detention periods. The length of stay depends on factors like the severity of charges, bail determination, and court scheduling.
What items can I bring to an inmate at Sylacauga City Jail?
Generally, visitors cannot directly bring items to inmates. Most facilities have strict regulations about what inmates can receive. Typically, money can be added to an inmate’s account through approved channels, and in some cases, certain approved items may be sent through specific vendors or services. Contact the jail directly for their specific policies.
How do I post bail for someone in Sylacauga?
Bail can be posted directly at the Sylacauga City Jail in cash or through a bail bonds service. The full bail amount must be paid in cash if posting directly, or a bail bondsman can be contracted to post a bond for a non-refundable fee (typically 10-15% of the bail amount). You’ll need the inmate’s full name and booking information when posting bail.
What happens if someone misses a court date after being released from jail?
Missing a court date typically results in the issuance of a bench warrant for the individual’s arrest. If the person was released on bail, the bail may be forfeited, and they may be subject to re-arrest and detention without the option of bail for the original charges plus additional charges for failure to appear.
Can an attorney access more information about an arrest than the general public?
Yes, attorneys representing arrested individuals can access more detailed information about the arrest, charges, and evidence through formal discovery processes. They can also communicate with their clients confidentially and help navigate the legal process.
Samantha Yates is a creative writer and journalist with expertise in content creation and editing. She holds an MA in Creative Writing and brings professional experience from Lionbridge, where she developed engaging content for leading technology companies
