About Kemper County
Kemper County is located in east-central Mississippi along the Alabama state line, established in 1833 and named after Reuben Kemper, a veteran of the War of 1812. The county seat is De Kalb, a small town situated in the heart of the county. Kemper County encompasses approximately 767 square miles and has a population of around 10,000 residents according to recent census estimates. The county is characterized by rolling hills, pine forests, and agricultural land, with the Noxubee River forming part of its western boundary.
Major communities include De Kalb, Scooba (home to East Mississippi Community College), and Porterville. The county's economy has historically centered on timber, agriculture, and more recently the controversial Kemper County Energy Facility (a power plant project). The Kemper County Courthouse is located at 100 Courthouse Square in De Kalb, MS 39328, where the Chancery Clerk's office maintains vital records, land records, and court documents.
The Tax Assessor's office, also located in the courthouse, handles property assessments and tax records. The Circuit Clerk's office manages criminal and civil court filings. Kemper County is part of Mississippi's 16th Judicial Circuit District and offers a glimpse into rural Mississippi life with its rich history, tight-knit communities, and evolving economic landscape.
The county's proximity to the state line and its blend of agricultural heritage with modern development projects make it a unique area for public records research.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Kemper County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in the unincorporated areas of the county. It oversees the patrol of rural areas, manages the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety and works closely with other law enforcement agencies to address crime and community issues. Notable programs include community outreach initiatives aimed at crime prevention and fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and residents.
Police Departments
In addition to the Kemper County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is supported by municipal police departments in towns such as De Kalb and Scooba. These city police departments handle law enforcement within their respective municipal boundaries, focusing on local ordinances and community policing. The Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring a coordinated response across jurisdictions. This cooperation is essential for tackling issues that cross city limits and require resources from multiple agencies.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Kemper County Sheriff's Department, headquartered in De Kalb, Mississippi, serves as the primary law enforcement agency for the county's unincorporated areas and provides jail services. The Sheriff's office is located at 100 Courthouse Square, De Kalb, MS 39328, and can be reached at (601) 743-2255. The Kemper County Detention Center houses inmates arrested within the county, and inmate information can typically be obtained by calling the detention center directly during business hours.
- Citizens may submit written requests to the Sheriff's Department for arrest records, mugshots, and incident reports, though some records may be withheld if they pertain to ongoing investigations.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records and may be obtained through formal public records requests to the Sheriff's office or by visiting the jail during designated hours.
- Processing fees may apply for copies of arrest records and booking photographs.
- The Sheriff's Department also handles civil process service, court security, and operates patrol divisions throughout the county's rural areas.
Mississippi's public records law, specifically Mississippi Code § 25-61-1 et seq., the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983, governs access to arrest records and booking information. Municipal law enforcement in Kemper County includes police departments in De Kalb, Scooba, and Porterville, each with jurisdiction within their respective city limits. For current inmate rosters, citizens should contact the detention center directly, as Kemper County does not maintain a comprehensive online inmate search database as of the latest information available.
Some third-party websites aggregate booking information, but official records should always be verified through the Sheriff's Department directly.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Kemper County encompasses various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. The Kemper County Circuit Clerk's Office is primarily responsible for maintaining these records, with additional support from the Sheriff's Office for arrest and booking details. Residents can run background checks through the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, which provides statewide criminal history information.
- The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation offers a comprehensive database that includes records from Kemper County, allowing for thorough background checks that are essential for employment, housing, and other purposes.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Kemper County are maintained by the Kemper County Sheriff's Office, which documents all arrests made within its jurisdiction. These records are accessible to the public under the Mississippi Public Records Act, allowing residents and attorneys to request copies for legal or personal purposes. A typical arrest record in Kemper County includes the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking details.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Kemper-Neshoba Regional Correctional Facility serves as the primary detention center for Kemper County. This facility handles the booking of individuals arrested within the county and provides inmate lookup services for those seeking information about detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to adhere to scheduled times and security protocols. Inmates may be released on bond or bail, following procedures outlined under Mississippi law, which typically involves posting a set amount determined by the court.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Kemper County are taken and retained by the Kemper County Sheriff's Office as part of the booking process. These booking photos are typically available to the public and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office website or by request. While Mississippi does not have specific laws governing the removal of mugshots from public records, individuals seeking removal may need to pursue legal avenues or contact the Sheriff's Office directly. Mugshots are often included in arrest records and may also be found in court records if the case proceeds to trial.
Courts & Case Records
Kemper County's judicial system operates through several court levels headquartered primarily at the Kemper County Courthouse in De Kalb. The Kemper County Circuit Court, part of Mississippi's 16th Circuit Court District, has jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $200,000, and appeals from lower courts. The Circuit Clerk's office, located at 100 Courthouse Square, De Kalb, MS 39328 (phone: 601-743-2460), maintains court records and case files.
- Court record searches typically require visiting the appropriate clerk's office in person, as Kemper County does not maintain a comprehensive online case search portal.
- Fees for copies of court documents are generally $1.00 per page for standard documents, with certified copies costing additional fees.
The Kemper County Chancery Court handles matters including divorce, child custody, estate administration, property disputes, and guardianships; records are maintained by the Chancery Clerk at the same courthouse address (phone: 601-743-2460). Mississippi Code § 9-1-43 and § 25-61-1 et seq. govern public access to court records, with most court documents available for public inspection unless sealed by court order.
The Kemper County Justice Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, small civil claims, preliminary hearings, and issues arrest warrants. Municipal courts in De Kalb, Scooba, and Porterville handle city ordinance violations and minor traffic offenses within their jurisdictions. Case information may be obtained by providing the case number, party names, or filing date to the respective clerk's office during regular business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Kemper County are maintained by the Chancery Clerk, who serves as the county's land records custodian. The Chancery Clerk's office is located at 100 Courthouse Square, De Kalb, MS 39328, and can be reached at (601) 743-2460. This office maintains an extensive collection of documents including warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgage documents, mechanic's liens, tax liens, easements, right-of-way agreements, and plat maps dating back to the county's establishment.
- Certified copies of recorded documents are available for a fee, typically $1.00 per page plus a certification fee.
Mississippi law requires that all real property conveyances be recorded in the county where the property is located to provide constructive notice to subsequent purchasers. The Kemper County Tax Assessor's office, also located in the courthouse, maintains property tax records, assessment rolls, and ownership information. Property owners can research their tax assessments, payment history, and millage rates through the Assessor's office at (601) 743-5881.
While some Mississippi counties offer online property search databases and GIS mapping systems, Kemper County's online resources are limited, and most property record searches require an in-person visit or written request to the Chancery Clerk's office. The Tax Collector's office handles property tax payments and can provide information on delinquent taxes and tax sales. Researchers seeking historical property information, chain of title documentation, or boundary descriptions should contact the Chancery Clerk's office directly.
Land plat books and subdivision maps are also available for inspection, providing valuable information for property research, title examination, and genealogical studies.
Vital Records
Vital records for Kemper County, Mississippi, are maintained by both the Kemper County Chancery Clerk and the Mississippi State Department of Health Vital Records office. Birth and death certificates occurring in Kemper County can be requested from the Chancery Clerk's office at 100 Courthouse Square, De Kalb, MS 39328, phone (601) 743-2460. Mississippi Code § 41-57-1 et seq. governs vital records and establishes who may obtain certified copies.
- The fee for certified birth or death certificates is typically $15.00 for the first copy and $7.00 for each additional copy of the same record requested simultaneously.
- Processing time for in-person requests is usually immediate if the record is readily available; mail requests may take 2-4 weeks.
- Online ordering is available through the state's authorized vendor VitalChek at www.msvitalrecords.org with additional convenience fees.
- Applicants for vital records must present valid government-issued photo identification and proof of relationship or legal interest when requesting restricted documents.
Birth certificates are restricted to the individual named (if of legal age), parents listed on the certificate, legal guardians, and legal representatives with proper documentation. Death certificates are generally more accessible to immediate family members and those with a direct legal interest. The Mississippi State Department of Health, Vital Records Office, located at 570 East Woodrow Wilson Drive, Jackson, MS 39216, maintains statewide vital records and can provide certificates for events throughout Mississippi.
Marriage licenses are issued by the Kemper County Chancery Clerk's office, which also maintains marriage records. Mississippi has no waiting period for marriage licenses, and the license is valid for 30 days from issuance. Divorce decrees are filed with the Chancery Clerk in the county where the divorce was granted.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Kemper County are managed through multiple offices depending on the type of business activity. The Kemper County Chancery Clerk's office at 100 Courthouse Square, De Kalb, MS 39328 (phone: 601-743-2460) handles local business name registrations, including DBA (Doing Business As) filings and fictitious name registrations. These local filings establish a business's right to operate under a specific name within the county.
- The Secretary of State's office maintains records of corporate charters, annual reports, registered agents, and business formation documents.
- Sales tax permits and resale certificates are administered through the Mississippi Department of Revenue, and businesses operating in Kemper County must register for state tax identification numbers.
For comprehensive business entity searches including corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, and professional associations, researchers should consult the Mississippi Secretary of State's Business Services Division online database at www.sos.ms.gov, which provides free searches of registered business entities throughout Mississippi. Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits are handled by the Kemper County Board of Supervisors and the county's planning and development office. Specific professional licenses (contractors, healthcare providers, cosmetologists) are regulated by their respective Mississippi state licensing boards rather than at the county level.
The Kemper County area is supported by regional economic development organizations that assist with business development and expansion. Researchers seeking information on local business licensing requirements should contact the Chancery Clerk's office for county-specific regulations and the appropriate municipal clerk's office for businesses operating within incorporated towns and cities.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Kemper County, Mississippi, are administered by the Kemper County Circuit Clerk, who serves as the county's election commissioner. The Circuit Clerk's office is located at 100 Courthouse Square, De Kalb, MS 39328, and can be reached at (601) 743-2460 for election-related inquiries. Voter registration in Kemper County follows Mississippi state law, requiring registration at least 30 days before any election.
- Kemper County's voter turnout in the 2024 general election was approximately 55-60% of registered voters, consistent with turnout patterns in rural Mississippi counties.
- The Circuit Clerk's office provides absentee ballot applications and detailed instructions on eligibility and deadlines.
- Election transparency in Kemper County allows citizens to observe ballot counting and request copies of election results and campaign finance disclosures under the Mississippi Public Records Act.
Eligible residents may register to vote in person at the Circuit Clerk's office, at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety when obtaining or renewing a driver's license, or by completing a mail-in voter registration application available from the Mississippi Secretary of State's Elections Division. Mississippi does not currently offer full online voter registration, but applications can be downloaded from the Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ms.gov. Voters can verify their registration status and find their assigned polling location through the statewide voter information portal or by contacting the Circuit Clerk's office.
Election records that are public under Mississippi Code § 23-15-911 include voter registration rolls (with certain personal information redacted), precinct-level election results, candidate qualifying documents, and campaign finance reports for local candidates. Presidential and statewide election results are published by the Secretary of State, while local race results are certified by the county election commission. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
Congressional midterm elections and potential Mississippi state legislative races. Absentee voting in Kemper County is available for eligible voters including those who will be away from the county on election day, voters with disabilities, and those over age 65. Absentee ballot applications must be submitted to the Circuit Clerk's office, with in-person absentee voting available during designated periods before election day and mail-in absentee ballots requiring notarization or witness signatures as required by Mississippi law.
Mississippi maintains relatively strict voter ID requirements, and voters should be prepared to present acceptable photo identification at polling places.
Economy & Demographics
Kemper County's economy has traditionally been anchored by agriculture, forestry, and timber production, with significant acreage devoted to pine plantations, cattle ranching, and row crops. The county's economic landscape has been dominated in recent years by the Kemper County Energy Facility (also known as the Kemper Project), a power generation facility originally designed as a lignite coal gasification plant and later converted to natural gas operation.
- The median household income in Kemper County is approximately $33,000-$37,000, significantly below the Mississippi state median, reflecting the county's rural character and limited industrial base.
This controversial project represented one of the largest construction investments in Mississippi history, employing thousands during construction, though operational employment has been more limited. East Mississippi Community College's Scooba campus is a significant employer and educational anchor, providing workforce training and higher education opportunities. The county's unemployment rate typically ranges between 5-7%, subject to seasonal fluctuations in agriculture and forestry sectors.
Forestry and wood products remain crucial to the local economy, with several sawmills and timber-related businesses operating in the area. Agriculture includes cattle production, poultry operations, and row crops including soybeans and corn. Retail and service sector employment is concentrated in De Kalb and Scooba, serving local residents and the college community.
Economic development efforts focus on attracting light manufacturing, expanding broadband infrastructure to support remote work, and leveraging the county's proximity to Meridian, Mississippi's sixth-largest city. The county faces economic challenges common to rural Mississippi, including population decline, limited infrastructure, and competition for industrial recruitment, but benefits from relatively low operating costs and available land for development.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ⚠️ In-Person Required | Property: ⚠️ Limited Online Access | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person or Mail | Business: ✅ State Online Search | Elections: ⚠️ Limited Online | Overall Score: 4/10 — Kemper County public records access requires primarily in-person visits or phone contact, with limited digital infrastructure for online searches.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Kemper County
Explore public records for 4 cities and communities in Kemper County, Mississippi.
Nearby Counties
Explore public records in counties that border Kemper County.