If you are looking for someone arrested in Trenton, Bell, Fanning Springs, or High Springs, you are dealing with the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO).
⚠️ CRITICAL LOCATION WARNING:
First, check the address.
There is a famous “Old Gilchrist County Jail” in Trenton that is a haunted house attraction and paranormal site. Do not drive there.
You need the active Gilchrist County Jail located on US Highway 129.
Gilchrist is a small, rural county. Unlike Miami or Tampa, they do not have a fancy, searchable online database where you can type in a name and see a mugshot instantly.
Sheriff Bobby Schultz runs a traditional operation. You often have to pick up the phone to get answers. This guide will tell you exactly who to call and how to send money without getting scammed.
Official Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Inmate Search
Because GCSO does not maintain a live “Inmate Roster” on their website, you have to use alternative methods to find out if someone is in custody.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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The “Direct Call” Method (Fastest):
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Call the Jail Administration directly at (352) 463-3410 or the main Sheriff’s line at (352) 463-3181.
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What to Say: “I am checking to see if [Name] has been fully booked in.”
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When to Call: If the arrest happened in Fanning Springs or Bell within the last hour, wait. It takes time for the deputy to drive them to Trenton and process the paperwork.
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FDLE Arrest Search (Backup Option):
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If you cannot get through by phone, you can check the FDLE Criminal History Search (Florida Dept of Law Enforcement).
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Note: This costs $24.00 per search and is not always real-time. It is better to call the jail for free.
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VINELink (Victim Notification):
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You can register for updates on VINElink.com. Select “Florida” and “Gilchrist County.” If the inmate is in the system, VINE will alert you when they are released or transferred.
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How to View Gilchrist County Mugshots & Charges
Since there is no online roster, you cannot view mugshots from your phone. You have two options:
1. Public Records Request:
You can go to the Sheriff’s Office lobby (address below) and request a copy of the Arrest Report or Booking Log. Under Florida’s Sunshine Law, this is public information.
2. First Appearance Court:
If they were arrested for a serious crime or domestic violence (“No Bond”), they must see a judge the next morning.
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When: Usually 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM (Call the Clerk to confirm).
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Where: Gilchrist County Courthouse (112 S Main St, Trenton).
Gilchrist County Jail Posting Bail & Sending Money (NCIC)
Gilchrist County uses a specific vendor called NCIC for inmate phone calls and deposits. Do not try to use JPay or Western Union; it won’t work.
1. Sending Money (Commissary/Phone):
To put money on their account so they can call you, use NCIC Inmate Communications.
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Website: NCIC.com
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Phone: 1-800-943-2189
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What You Need: You must know the inmate’s full name and the facility (“Gilchrist County Jail”).
2. Posting Bail:
To get them released, you must go to the Sheriff’s Office in Trenton.
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Cash Bond: You can pay the full amount at the lobby. (Cashier’s Check or Money Order payable to Gilchrist County Clerk of Courts).
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Bail Bondsman: Since this is a small county, there aren’t many bondsmen right next door. You may need to call a bondsman from a neighboring county (like Levy or Alachua) who is licensed to write bonds in Gilchrist.
Gilchrist County Jail Visitation Rules
⚠️ Warning: Visitation rules in small counties change frequently based on staffing. Always call (352) 463-3410 before driving to the jail.
The Basics:
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Schedule: Visitation is typically on Weekends (Saturday/Sunday).
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ID Required: You must have a valid Driver’s License.
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Dress Code: This is strictly enforced.
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No sleeveless shirts or tank tops.
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No shorts above mid-thigh.
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No cleavage or transparent clothing.
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Rule of Thumb: If you are not sure, don’t wear it. They will turn you away at the door.
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Gilchrist County Jail Contact Directory: Address, Phone Numbers & GPS
Save these numbers. The jail is located just south of Trenton on US-129.
Department |
Phone Number |
Purpose |
Jail Administration |
(352) 463-3410 |
Booking / Status / Visitation |
Sheriff’s Main Office |
(352) 463-3181 |
Non-Emergency / Dispatch |
NCIC (Money/Phones) |
(800) 943-2189 |
Deposit Funds |
Clerk of Courts |
(352) 463-3170 |
Court Dates / Case Lookup |
Physical Address for GPS:
Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office & Jail
9239 S. US Highway 129
Trenton, FL 32693
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I send letters to the jail?
A: Yes. But keep it simple.
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Use a standard white envelope.
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Do not include cash, stamps, polaroid photos, or stickers.
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Address:
[Inmate Name]
Gilchrist County Jail
9239 S. US Highway 129
Trenton, FL 32693
Q: Is the jail the same as the “Old Jail”?
A: No! The “Old Gilchrist Jail” (313 NW 2nd St) is a historic site and ghost tour attraction. Do not go there looking for an inmate. Go to the Sheriff’s Office on Hwy 129.
Q: Does Gilchrist County have a “Work Release” program?
A: Yes, but it is limited. Inmates must be court-ordered into the program and approved by the Sheriff. They pay a daily fee to participate.