Sheriff's Office

This article explains the mission, day-to-day work, and public services of the Autauga County AL Sheriff’s Office. You’ll learn how deputies protect unincorporated communities, what to expect from core services like jail operations, civil process, and courthouse security, and how to navigate essential online tools such as the inmate roster, press releases, alerts, and crime-tip resources. We also outline community programs, permit guidance, and practical scenarios—always grounded in official county information—so residents can act quickly and confidently when they need help.

Understand the Scope and Mission of the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office

Serve a growing, largely rural county—every day and around the clock

The Autauga County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) is the primary law-enforcement agency for the unincorporated areas of Autauga County, including the Towns of Autaugaville and Billingsley and many communities such as Pine Level, Marbury, Booth, White City, Jones, Evergreen, Kingston, Pentecost, Mulberry, and Independence. In addition to emergency response and routine patrols, deputies shoulder a broad set of responsibilities that keep county government functioning safely. Each year, ACSO answers approximately 9,200 calls for service—reflecting the combined demand from rural homesteads, town centers, and fast-growing residential areas of central Alabama.

Deputies protect the peace and uphold Alabama law across 604 square miles of land and water. While rapid 911 response remains an essential responsibility, ACSO’s work also includes courthouse security, civil process, prisoner transport, mental-health orders, and other activities that quietly keep the justice system moving. The Sheriff’s commitment is visible on the street, in the courthouse, and inside detention facilities—each setting requiring different skills, policies, and public-facing services.

Know the county’s character to understand policing demands

Autauga County was established on November 21, 1818, nearly a year before Alabama achieved statehood. The county name stems from the Autauga (Tanwasa) village Atagi—“pure water”—at the confluence of Autauga Creek and the Alabama River. Today, the county remains majority rural, with about 85% of land used for timber and farming, even as population growth has accelerated. Geography matters: the Alabama River forms the southern boundary, and the county borders Chilton to the north; Elmore and Montgomery to the east; Lowndes to the south; and Dallas to the west. That layout shapes patrol coverage, backup routes for deputies, and coordination with neighboring jurisdictions.

Move Fast Online: Official Links for High-Demand Services

Check jail status and custody updates with one click

Residents, crime victims, and defense counsel often need reliable custody information. Use the Inmate Roster to see current booking and release updates and to verify whether the jail roster is online or undergoing maintenance. When you need facility-specific procedures—such as intake rules, commissary basics, or how to coordinate inmate communications—go to the Autauga Metro Jail page for official guidance.

Explore the Inmate Roster: Inmate Roster
Learn jail procedures: Autauga Metro Jail page

Stay current on incidents, operations, and countywide alerts

Public safety information works best when it’s timely and official. ACSO posts verified operational updates and case information in Press Releases, which is the right place to review notable arrests, interagency operations, and public advisories. For ongoing awareness—weather emergencies, road closures that affect deputy response, or public-safety notices—take a moment to sign up for county alerts so notifications reach you automatically.

Read official updates: Press Releases
Opt in for notifications: Sign up for county alerts

Submit crime tips in confidence

Community members are critical to solving crimes and preventing new ones. The Secret Witness program offers a confidential way to share information about crimes, wanted persons, or suspicious activity. Whether you observed a vehicle after a burglary or recognize a person in a release, use this official channel to get actionable details to investigators.

Share a tip: Secret Witness

Review sex-offender notifications for neighborhood awareness

For neighborhood safety planning, ACSO provides an official Sex Offender Registry portal that lets residents review offender status information maintained for community notification. This is the correct government-supported source to check addresses and compliance status before school starts, during holiday gatherings, or when moving.

Check notifications: Sex Offender Registry

Get step-by-step help when you’re not sure where to start

Many common questions—how to obtain a report copy, how to request extra patrol while you’re away, what to do about warrants—are already answered in the Sheriff’s Frequently Asked Questions page. When in doubt, consult the official answers there first to speed things up before you call or visit.

Quick answers: Frequently Asked Questions

Tip: For everything else—from a message from Sheriff Harrell to a roadmap of departments and resources—begin at the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office website home page. It’s the most direct entry point to current programs, forms, and updates.

Start here: Autauga County Sheriff’s Office website

Know the Core Services: How Each Function Supports Public Safety

Patrol and emergency response: from rural highways to neighborhood streets

ACSO prioritizes rapid emergency response across a mix of open country roads, riverfront areas, town corridors, and residential subdivisions. Deputies handle life-threatening emergencies, take crime reports, coordinate with fire and EMS, and maintain visible patrol presence to deter crime. Beyond emergency calls, deputies address traffic hazards, conduct welfare checks, and mediate disputes that—if handled early—prevent more serious incidents. The Sheriff’s Office works closely with the county’s 911 system to route calls, dispatch the appropriate units, and coordinate backups as needed.

Courthouse security: protect the justice system and the public

Courthouse security is a specialized Sheriff’s function. Deputies screen individuals at entry, protect judges and staff, maintain order in courtrooms, and move in-custody defendants safely to and from proceedings. Because courtrooms bring together victims, witnesses, defendants, and families under stress, resilient de-escalation and clear procedures are vital. Courthouse deputies also coordinate with the Circuit Clerk’s Office and judicial staff to meet daily docket needs and adapt to sudden changes—such as emergency hearings or jury management logistics.

Civil process: serve papers accurately and on time

The civil-process unit of ACSO ensures that court orders reach the right person, in the right way, on the right timeline. That includes subpoenas, summonses, protection orders once issued by the court, eviction notices, and other civil papers. Proper service protects due-process rights and keeps cases moving without delay. Residents with questions about document requirements or timelines should consult the official Civil Process Information page for guidance and contact steps.

Understand service rules: Civil Process Information

Jail operations and inmate transport: custody with order and safety

The Autauga Metro Jail is managed with an emphasis on safety, security, and lawful standards of care. Corrections deputies coordinate bookings, classification, visitation procedures, and safe transport to court and other facilities. The jail also plays a central role in interagency operations across the River Region during major incidents or when detainees must be moved. For public inquiries—what’s permitted for inmate correspondence or how to verify custody—use the Autauga Metro Jail page referenced earlier.

Records and reports: access the documents you need

If you filed a report with ACSO, you may be able to obtain a copy. The Sheriff’s policy ensures that only the reporting party can pick up the report, and a valid photo ID is required. This protects private information and preserves investigative integrity. When you need to check whether a report is ready, consult the FAQs first, then plan your visit with identification in hand to streamline processing.

Warrants, arrests, and turning yourself in: do it the right way

If you believe a warrant may exist, the Sheriff’s Office verifies warrants in person only; information is not provided over the phone. If you know you have a warrant, the best practice is to turn yourself in. The Circuit Clerk’s Office can provide bond information, which allows you to prepare appropriately. Handling the process promptly reduces potential complications and shortens time in custody.

Permits, Programs, and Prevention: Engage With the Sheriff’s Office

Concealed carry and pistol permits

The Sheriff’s Office manages concealed carry (pistol) permits for county residents. Renewals are processed on a schedule of one to five years, depending on what you request. Renew in person during posted hours; bring valid identification and be prepared to follow any updated procedures. For current steps and requirements, always use the official Concealed Carry/Pistol Permit page to avoid outdated advice from non-official sources.

Review requirements: Concealed Carry/Pistol Permit

Crime tips and prevention resources

Preventing crime takes more than a badge—it takes informed neighbors. ACSO’s prevention resources cover seasonal safety messages, how to secure property while traveling, and what to report if you see something off. For issues like theft rings working rural roads, or sudden spikes in car break-ins, community tips delivered through Secret Witness and timely press releases create the feedback loop deputies need to disrupt patterns quickly.

Project Lifesaver: protection for at-risk loved ones

Project Lifesaver gives families of vulnerable residents—such as those with cognitive conditions—additional support to locate loved ones quickly if they wander. The Sheriff’s Office administers the program locally, ensuring enrollment, device management, and rapid response protocols are aligned with deputies’ search operations.

Reserve Program: expand capacity with trained volunteers

The Reserve Program is designed to augment the Sheriff’s capacity during high-demand events, emergencies, or public-education initiatives. Reserve deputies receive training and support Sheriff’s operations under established policies. This program broadens community partnership and builds a pipeline for residents who wish to serve more formally in law enforcement.

Drug Drop Box: dispose of medications responsibly

Keeping unused prescription drugs out of medicine cabinets—and out of local waterways—prevents misuse and protects the environment. The Sheriff’s drug drop box program provides a secure way to dispose of medications. Residents should follow posted rules about acceptable items and packaging. When in doubt, call the main line for guidance before you travel.

Communications You Can Trust: Official Sources Only

Why official press releases matter

In the age of instant social posts and rumor mills, the Sheriff’s official Press Releases are the authoritative source for case milestones, public-safety notices, and interagency operations. These releases are crafted to inform without jeopardizing investigations, which is why details sometimes appear in stages. Checking the official site before sharing information helps prevent misinformation and protects victims and witnesses.

Alerts that follow you—not the other way around

When weather threats, road closures, or urgent advisories affect your community, seconds count. County alert systems allow the Sheriff’s Office and partner agencies to broadcast concise, targeted notices. Signing up once through the official portal means you get the heads-up without having to constantly refresh websites.

The power of a confidential tip

Local knowledge—from odd traffic at a vacant house to a neighbor suddenly fencing stolen lawn equipment—often breaks cases. Secret Witness gives you a secure way to pass useful details to investigators without public exposure. It’s especially effective in a rural county where long driveways and thick timber can shield criminal activity from casual observation.

Civil and Court-Related Guidance Residents Ask About Most

Extra patrols while you’re away

If you’re traveling, you can request extra patrols in your area. Deputies will document your request and watch for unusual activity on your road. To set it up, provide basic trip details and a local contact person who can be reached if a deputy finds something that needs attention.

Paying a traffic ticket

Tickets issued by deputies are handled through the court, not at the Sheriff’s Office. Follow the instructions on your summons to appear in court or pay at the Clerk’s Office, which is located inside the Autauga County Courthouse at 134 N. Court Street in Prattville. This keeps financial transactions and docket controls within the judicial branch.

Getting a copy of a report you filed

Only the person who made the report can obtain a copy, and a valid photo ID is required. This protects sensitive information and ensures reports don’t circulate improperly. If time has passed and you’re unsure whether your report is ready, check the FAQs for guidance on typical timelines before planning your visit.

Restraining orders

In Alabama, restraining (protective) orders are obtained through the court system, typically with help from an attorney. Once a valid court order is in place, deputies can enforce it. If you’re seeking protection, get legal guidance quickly and keep certified copies of your order where deputies can review them during a call.

Responsible Neighborhood Awareness: Using Official Registries and Rosters

Sex-offender notifications

Use the Sheriff’s Sex Offender Registry portal to check current notifications that affect your area. This is especially helpful when planning childcare, hosting youth events, or moving to a new neighborhood. Relying on non-official sites can lead to outdated or incomplete information; the official portal aggregates what residents need to know for safety planning.

Jail rosters and court coordination

The Inmate Roster is the correct place to verify custody. If you are a victim seeking updates, a defense attorney coordinating client meetings, or a family member planning a visit, always start with the official roster and then review the Autauga Metro Jail page for facility rules. When rosters are temporarily offline for maintenance, check Press Releases for any posted notices or instructions.

Public Engagement: Education, History, and Honor

Community relations and youth education

Community presentations, school visits, and kid-focused materials are staples of ACSO’s outreach. Youth education builds trust early and demystifies law enforcement—especially in rural counties where children may see deputies mostly during big events or incidents. Programs such as Kid’s Corner reinforce age-appropriate safety topics so children know how to call for help, recognize risky situations, and cooperate calmly during emergencies.

The Sheriff’s message and memorials

The Sheriff’s official message conveys priorities for crime reduction, customer service, and staff professionalism. ACSO also honors fallen officers who gave their lives in service to Autauga County. These pages help residents understand agency values and the human side of local law enforcement.

How to Navigate Official Information Efficiently

Practical Scenarios: What to Do and Where to Look

You witnessed suspicious activity on a rural road

Document what you can safely observe—vehicle type, color, unique markings, time, and direction of travel. Provide your tip through Secret Witness so investigators can match it to recent burglaries, stolen property cases, or traffic stops. If deputies need more detail, they’ll follow up using the contact method you provide.

You’re leaving home for an extended trip

Request an extra patrol. Deputies will note your travel dates and coordinate periodic drive-bys on your road. Provide a local contact in case something needs immediate attention. Before you go, store valuables out of sight and consider using the drug drop box to clear out any unneeded medications so they don’t become targets.

You need to renew a pistol permit

Check the Concealed Carry/Pistol Permit page for renewal windows and in-person office hours. Bring a valid photo ID and allow extra time if lines are long. If you’re changing your address or name, prepare any supporting documentation to speed up processing.

You think you have a warrant

Handle it head-on. Verification is in person only. If a warrant exists, contact the Circuit Clerk’s Office for bond information and turn yourself in. Proactive steps shorten the process and reduce stress for everyone involved.

Sheriff’s Office Departments and Contacts

Autauga County Sheriff’s Office — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Dispatch / Non-Emergency — [No physical address listed] — (334) 361-9911

Emergency — [Countywide] — 911

Autauga Metro Jail — [No physical address listed] — (334) 361-2600

Secret Witness Hotline — [Confidential tip line] — (334) 361-2599

Courthouse Security — Autauga County Courthouse, 134 N. Court Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3725

Civil Process Unit — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Concealed Carry / Pistol Permits — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Records / Reports — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Project Lifesaver Program — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Reserve Program — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Drug Drop Box — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Sheriff’s Sale / Unclaimed Property — 162 W. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-2500

Autauga County Sheriff's Office FAQs

How do I get a copy of a report I filed?

Only the original reporting party may obtain a copy, and a valid photo ID is required at in-person pickup. This protects sensitive information and preserves case integrity. Check status first and bring documentation that confirms you are the reporting individual to prevent delays at the records counter.

How do I renew or manage a pistol permit?

Renewals are processed on a cycle of one to five years, depending on the period you request. Bring valid identification during weekday business hours; offices are closed on state and federal holidays. For current requirements, accepted payment methods, and any updates to application steps, use Concealed Carry/Pistol Permit.

What should I do if I think I have a warrant—or I know I do?

Verification is conducted in person; warrants are not confirmed over the phone. If you know a warrant exists, address it promptly by turning yourself in. For planning purposes, consult the circuit clerk for bond information so you can arrange payment before arrival.

Where can I find jail procedures, visitation guidance, or inmate transport details?

Review the facility’s rules, custody procedures, and visitation guidance on Autauga Metro Jail. Policies may change for safety or operational reasons, so confirm the latest instructions online before traveling.