Florida Department of Corrections Mugshots 2026

FDOC Mugshots: The Insider’s Guide Are you looking for a specific mugshot in Florida?

Most people start typing names into Google and end up on spammy websites that try to charge $20 to “view the record.” Stop. You do not need to pay.

Florida has one of the most open public record systems in the U.S. (thanks to the “Sunshine Law”), which means you can see official prison photos and arrest mugshots for free.

But there is a catch: You have to know which database to check. If you look for a “fresh arrest” on the state prison website, you will find nothing.

Florida Department of Corrections Mugshots
Florida Department of Corrections Mugshots

This guide clarifies the confusion and gives you the direct, official links you need.

1. The Critical Distinction: Jail vs. Prison

Before you search, you must answer one question: When was the person arrested?

Scenario A: Arrested Recently (Last 24-48 Hours)

  • Where they are: County Jail.

  • What you need: The Sheriff’s Office database.

  • The Photo: This is a true “Mugshot”—street clothes, messy hair, looking tired.

  • Action: Scroll down to Section 3 of this guide.

Scenario B: Convicted & Sentenced (Months/Years Ago)

  • Where they are: State Prison (FDOC).

  • What you need: The Department of Corrections database.

  • The Photo: This is an “Inmate ID”—blue uniform, clean-shaven, neutral background.

  • Action: Use the step-by-step guide below.

2. How to Find FDOC Prison Photos (Official Method)

The Florida Department of Corrections (FDOC) maintains the “Offender Network.” This is the master list of everyone currently in a Florida state prison.

The Step-by-Step Search:

  1. Go to the Authorized Tool:

  2. Select Your Search:florida department of corrections inmate search

    • Click “Search All Corrections Offender Databases”. This is the safest bet because it includes current inmates, released offenders, and fugitives.

  3. Enter the Data (Less is More):The Florida Department of Corrections

    • Last Name: Required.

    • First Name: Optional. Pro Tip: If you are unsure of the spelling (is it “Shawn” or “Sean”?), just type the first letter or leave it blank. The system will give you a list.

    • DC Number: If you have this 6-digit ID, use it! It skips the list and takes you straight to the profile.

  4. View the Mugshot:

    • Click the inmate’s name.

    • The photo is located in the top-left corner of the profile page.

    • Note: If the photo says “Image Not Available,” the inmate is likely new (in Reception) and their badge photo hasn’t been uploaded yet.

3. How to Find “Fresh” Arrest Mugshots (County Jails)

If the person isn’t in the FDOC system, they are likely sitting in a local jail. The FDOC does not track daily arrests. You must check the specific County Sheriff.

The Search Formula:

Go to Google and type: [County Name] Sheriff Inmate Search

Quick Links for Major Florida Metros:

4. Advanced Search: Scars, Marks & Tattoos

What if you don’t know the person’s real name (or they used an alias), but you know what they look like?

The FDOC has a unique feature: Search by Tattoos.

  1. On the FDOC Search Menu, select “Search by Scars, Marks, and Tattoos”.

  2. Filter by Location: Select “Arm, Left” or “Neck.”

  3. Filter by Type: Select “Tattoo.”

  4. Keyword: Type “Skull” or “Rose.”

  5. Result: The system will show inmates matching that description. While it rarely shows photos of the tattoo itself, the written description is listed under their mugshot.

5. Why Can’t I Find the Photo? (Troubleshooting)

If you are 100% sure they are in prison but you see “No Results,” here is why:

  1. They are Federal: Did the FBI or DEA arrest them? They are in Federal custody, not State.

  2. The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) does not publish mugshots online. You can find their location here, but you won’t see a picture.

  3. Protective Status: Former police officers or high-risk witnesses often have their photos and location data “suppressed” for safety.

  4. Spelling Error: The system is exact. “John Smyth” will not show up if you type “John Smith.” Try searching by Last Name only.

6. Essential Resources & Links

Save these official links. They are safe, free, and accurate.

Resource Purpose Official Link
FDOC Offender Search Find sentenced prisoners & photos Click Here
Florida Sexual Offenders Find registered offenders/predators FDLE Search
VINE (Victim Notification) Get alerts on release/transfer VINELink
Commission on Offender Review Check parole/clemency status FCOR Site

⚠️ A Warning About “Removal” Scams

You might see websites that host mugshots and demand $300 to remove them.

Do not pay them.

Under Florida Statute 901.43, it is illegal for a business to solicit money to remove a booking photo. If your case was dismissed or expunged, send them a certified letter demanding removal. They must comply by law.

Disclaimer: We are a private informational guide. Arrest records are public information under Florida Statute 119, but an arrest is not a conviction. All individuals are presumed innocent. We are not the Florida Department of Corrections.