Putnam County TN Jail

County Jail

Last Updated: March 24, 2025
Address
421 E Spring St, Cookeville, TN 38506
Beds
500
County
Putnam
Phone
931-528-8484
Fax
931-528-7043
Email
sheriffinfo@putnamcountytn.gov

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Putnam Co Jail is for County Jail offenders sentenced up to twenty four months.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is CityTeleCoin, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Satellite View of Putnam County TN Jail

You can support your loved ones at Putnam Co Jail on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 931-528-8484.

When someone you care about gets locked up, it's tough to figure out all the ins and outs of jail life. From sending mail to visiting, there are a lot of things to sort out. And getting info about the arrest? Not always easy. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get a handle on how things work here so that you can stay connected and support your loved one behind bars.

The Putnam Co Jail is a detention center located at 421 E Spring St Cookeville, TN which is operated locally by the Putnam County Sheriff's Office and holds inmates awaiting trial or sentencing or both. Most of the sentenced inmates are here for less than two years. Putnam County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, Cookeville Police Department, and the US Marshal's Service.

New detainees arrive at the jail regularly, with some being released on bail, placed under pretrial services caseloads, supervised by probation agencies, or released on recognizance with a court appearance agreement. Those who are not released await their court appearances at the jail, receiving accommodations including bedding and meals.

You can see all the arrest records for Tennessee here.

The Putnam County Justice Center, opened in 1993, is a 133,795-square-foot facility that incorporates the Courthouse, Sheriff’s Office, and Putnam County Jail. The jail has a capacity of 500 beds, including approximately 32 beds for female inmates. Currently, it houses both sentenced and pretrial inmates arrested by local and state authorities, with an average inmate population of 400. Due to space constraints, additional female inmates are housed in other counties. The jail population is managed through indirect supervision.

The Jail operates under the direction of Major Tim Nash, Jail Administrator, and Capt. Phil Arms, Assistant Jail Administrator, with a total staff of 114 corrections and workhouse deputies. The facility houses an average of 100 state inmates, with the remainder of the population consisting of pretrial and sentenced county inmates. Inmates are processed by various local law enforcement agencies, including the City of Cookeville, Algood Police Department, Baxter Police Department, Monterey Police Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency within Putnam County.

Revenue for the facility is generated from housing state inmates and juvenile offenders, the inmate phone system, commissary sales, and a medical co-pay system, which help offset the budget. All persons arrested and processed at the Putnam County Jail are fingerprinted using a LiveScan Fingerprint system, which produces forensic-quality fingerprint records by electronically scanning and capturing live fingerprints. This system consistently produces clear, classifiable fingerprints of higher quality than traditional inked prints, which are subject to smudging, smearing, and over or under-inking during the rolling process.

Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

The jail offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

The Putnam County Jail offers a variety of programs to support inmate rehabilitation and development. These programs include the Trustees Program, which provides work crews for both male and female inmates, and the GED Program, which offers educational opportunities for inmates to earn their General Education Development (GED) certificate. Additionally, God's Jail Ministry, a faith-based group comprised of members from local area churches, is available to inmates. The Celebrate Recovery program teaches life skills and coping mechanisms for life outside of jail. Furthermore, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous treatment programs support inmates in overcoming substance abuse issues. Lastly, parenting classes provided through Tennessee Voices for Children aim to help inmates develop better parenting skills.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in Tennessee. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at Putnam County TN Jail.

The second section features the InmateAid Inmate Search tool, providing a user-generated database of inmates. You can access this resource to utilize any of InmateAid's services. If you require assistance in creating an inmate profile to maintain communication, please contact us at aid@inmateaid.com, and we'll gladly help you locate your loved one.

As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason, they charge to access it.

Visitation Information

Visiting Hours

By Appointment Only - Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8 am – 7 pm

Schedule an appointment - Starting each week on Thursday from 8 am-12 pm, you may phone (931) 646-1442 to schedule an appointment for either Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. You may also call Friday from 8 am-7 pm to schedule for Saturday or Sunday and also call on Saturday from 8 am-7 pm to make a Sunday appointment. We do not make same-day appointments or any appointments for the following week.

The Putnam County Sheriff's Office provides a positive family atmosphere inside visitation. We ask that all visitors comply with the visitation rules and dress code.

Visitation Rules - A photo ID must be presented every time you visit.

  • Visitors must be on time for their appointments. Visitation appointments may be canceled for late arrivals.
  • No food or drinks will be allowed inside the visitation area.
  • No cell phones or electronic devices are allowed inside the visitation area.
  • No bags, backpacks, or purses are allowed inside the visitation area.
  • No tobacco products are allowed inside the visitation area.
  • No lighters or matches are allowed inside the visitation area.
  • No weapons of any type are allowed inside the visitation area.

Dress Code

  • No short shorts / short skirts/short dresses allowed.
  • No tank tops/tube tops / strapless or spaghetti-strapped tops allowed.
  • No transparent/sheer/ mesh clothing allowed.
  • No tight-fitting tops or bottoms allowed such as spandex etc. allowed.
  • No ripped or torn clothing is allowed.
  • No clothing displaying obscene or offensive/derogatory language or pictures will be allowed.
  • No clothing displaying gang-related material will be allowed.

We ask that you please be respectful of other visitors and inmates while in the visitation area. There will be no yelling or arguing while at visitation or you will be asked to leave and forfeit your remaining visitation time. Please make sure that all children are looked after and not allowed to become loud and disruptive to other families that are visiting or you may be asked to leave. We also ask that you do not communicate with any inmate whom you do not have visitation setup with. If any inmate that you are not here to visit tries to communicate with you please let the visitation officer know and the matter will be addressed. No messages of any kind will be taken for any inmate. No personal, legal, or medical information will be given out about any inmate in visitation.

Video Visitation for inmates and their families through video visitation service provider HomeWav™, a video visitation program that enables a visit with inmates throughout the week. Homewav™ requires you to set up an account through their website and add funds to that account before being able to access video visitation. To set up an account, you must visit the HomeWav™ website. Any questions you may have can be answered on their website such as how to add funds to your account or how to let an inmate know that you are available for a visit. For further assistance, Homewav offers a toll-free number at 1-844-394-6639 or an e-mail address at info@homewav.com.

Video Visitation Rules

  • No drug or alcohol-related talk or activities allowed.
  • No nudity, provocative clothing, or sexual content is allowed.
  • No gang-related material or attire is allowed.
  • No driving while using video visitation.
  • No showing of television, news, or any other video programming.
  • No social media activities (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) are allowed.

All video visitations are monitored and reviewed daily. Failure to comply with these rules can result in the termination of your video visit call and possible loss of HomeWav™ privileges. Any violation of local or state laws will be reported and may result in possible charges.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Putnam County TN Jail - 25 FAQs

  1. How can I find out if someone is in jail at Putnam County TN Jail?
    To determine if someone is currently incarcerated at Putnam County TN Jail, start by checking the facility’s online inmate search database, which is typically updated with recent booking information. If your search does not yield results, try using VINELink, a nationwide inmate locator that provides custody status for individuals in participating correctional facilities. If online searches are unsuccessful, calling Putnam County TN Jail directly and providing the individual’s full name and date of birth is another reliable way to confirm their custody status. If all else fails, you can use the Arrest Record Finder for a small fee, which can provide broader search results across multiple jurisdictions. 

  2. What are the visitation hours at Putnam County TN Jail?
    Visitation schedules vary by facility and housing unit. Some jails offer in-person visits on specific days, while others have transitioned to video visitation. Always check with the jail in advance, as visits may require scheduling and approval.

  3. How do I send money to an inmate at Putnam County TN Jail?
    Inmates can receive funds through various methods, including online deposits via jail-approved services, kiosks at the facility, or by mailing a money order. Some jails require funds to be added by specific family members or approved contacts.

  4. Can I call an inmate at Putnam Co Jail?
    Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they may initiate collect calls or use a prepaid account provided by the jail’s phone service provider. Calls are generally recorded and monitored, and inmates must adhere to time limits. Communication gets costly, you might qualify for discounts on inmate calls if your inmate is calling you a lot.

  5. What items can I send to an inmate at Putnam Co Jail?
    Approved items typically include letters, legal documents, and photographs. Some jails also permit care packages from authorized third-party vendors. Items such as greeting cards with glitter, stickers, or Polaroid photos may be prohibited.

  6. Are books and magazines allowed at Putnam Co Jail?
    Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from approved vendors such as Amazon or InmateAid. Hardcover books and explicit content are typically prohibited to maintain facility security. Some jails also have restrictions on the number of reading materials an inmate can possess at one time.

  7. What is the mailing address for inmates here?
    Each facility has a designated mailing address for inmate correspondence. It is important to include the inmate's full name, booking number (if applicable), and facility-approved format to ensure proper delivery. Mail containing contraband, including staples or stickers, may be rejected.

  8. What is the process for bonding someone out of Putnam County TN Jail?
    Bail or bond amounts can be paid at the facility’s designated payment location, online, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Some jails accept cash, cashier’s checks, or credit card payments, while others require payments to be made at a county clerk’s office.

  9. How do I deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account at Putnam Co Jail?
    Commissary funds allow inmates to purchase personal hygiene products, snacks, and other approved items. Deposits can be made online, at facility kiosks, or through phone services. Some facilities limit the amount that can be added per week.

  10. What clothing and personal items can an inmate have at Putnam Co Jail?
    Inmates are generally issued standard jail clothing. Personal items are often restricted, and necessary hygiene products must be purchased through commissary unless the inmate is deemed indigent. Some jails allow inmates to have religious items, such as prayer beads or a Bible.

  11. How long do inmates stay at Putnam County TN Jail before being transferred?
    The length of stay varies based on the nature of their charges, sentencing, and case status. Some inmates serve their full sentences in county jail, while others may be transferred to a state or federal facility after sentencing.

  12. Can an inmate at Putnam Co Jail receive visits from children?
    Most jails allow minors to visit inmates but require them to be accompanied by a legal guardian. Some facilities impose restrictions based on the nature of the inmate's charges or have specific visitation hours for families with children.

  13. How can I schedule a visit with an inmate at Putnam Co Jail?
    Many jails require visitation to be scheduled in advance through an online portal or by phone. Some facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others enforce strict scheduling rules and background checks for visitors.

  14. What happens if an inmate gets sick or needs medical care at Putnam Co Jail?
    Jails provide basic medical care, and inmates can request medical attention as needed. Emergency cases are treated immediately, while routine care is provided through medical staff. Some jails charge small medical co-pays deducted from an inmate’s commissary funds.

  15. Can inmates work while incarcerated here?
    Some inmates qualify for work programs within the facility, such as kitchen duty, janitorial work, or laundry services. In some counties, low-risk inmates may participate in work-release programs that allow them to work in the community and return to jail afterward.

  16. How can I find court dates and case information for an inmate at Putnam Co Jail?
    Court dates and case details can usually be found through the county court website, public records, or by contacting the court clerk. Inmates are typically transported to court on scheduled hearing dates.

  17. What are the rules for inmate phone calls at Putnam Co Jail?
    Inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes. Calls must be made through facility-approved phone services, and any attempt to arrange three-way calls or circumvent restrictions may result in loss of phone privileges.

  18. Can an inmate be released early from Putnam Co Jail?
    Early release may be granted through good behavior, completion of rehabilitative programs, or at the discretion of the court. In some cases, inmates may qualify for electronic monitoring or house arrest programs.

  19. What types of rehabilitation programs are available at here?
    Many county jails offer educational programs, GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to help inmates reintegrate into society after release.

  20. What are the consequences of bringing contraband into the jail?
    Introducing contraband, such as drugs, weapons, or cell phones, is a criminal offense and can lead to legal charges, visitation bans, or enhanced security measures within the jail.

  21. Are there special accommodations for disabled inmates at Putnam County TN Jail?
    Yes, jails are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and medical care.

  22. How do I report an issue or concern about an inmate at Putnam County TN Jail?
    Family members and advocates can report concerns to jail administration, a prisoner rights organization, or a legal representative. Some jails have grievance procedures inmates can follow if they experience mistreatment.

  23. Can an inmate at Putnam Co Jail receive religious services or counseling?
    Yes, most jails provide chaplain services, religious counseling, and access to faith-based programs. Some facilities have multi-denominational services or allow clergy members to visit inmates upon request.

  24. What are the disciplinary procedures at Putnam Co Jail?
    Inmates who violate jail rules may face disciplinary actions such as loss of privileges, placement in solitary confinement, or additional charges. Disciplinary hearings are typically conducted before penalties are imposed.

  25. How do I obtain an inmate’s release records from Putnam County TN Jail?
    Release records may be available through the facility’s records department, the sheriff’s office, or the county clerk. Requests may require an application and a processing fee.

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