About Posey County
Posey County is located in the southwestern corner of Indiana, bordered by the Wabash River to the west and the Ohio River to the south, forming the state's border with Illinois and Kentucky. The county seat is Mount Vernon, situated along the Ohio River. Established in 1814 and named after General Thomas Posey, who served as Indiana's territorial governor, Posey County encompasses approximately 410 square miles of land and water.
The county's population is approximately 25,000 residents, making it one of the smaller counties in Indiana by population but significant in agricultural and industrial output. Major communities include Mount Vernon, New Harmony, Poseyville, and Wadesville. New Harmony is particularly notable as a historic utopian community founded in the early 19th century, first by the Harmonist Society in 1814 and later by Robert Owen in 1825, now serving as a cultural landmark with preserved historic sites and museums.
The county's economy has traditionally centered on agriculture, particularly corn and soybean production, but has diversified to include manufacturing and energy production, including the Indiana Gasification LLC synthetic fertilizer plant. The Posey County Recorder is located at 126 E 3rd Street, Room 105, Mount Vernon, IN 47620. The Posey County Clerk's office operates from the same courthouse complex at 300 Main Street, Mount Vernon.
The Posey County Assessor maintains property valuation records at the Government Complex. The terrain is predominantly flat agricultural land with river bottomlands, making it prime farmland. Harmonie State Park, located near New Harmony, offers recreational opportunities along the Wabash River.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Posey County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in the county's unincorporated areas. The office oversees the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The sheriff's office is also involved in community policing and offers various programs aimed at crime prevention and public safety. Notable divisions within the office include the patrol division, investigations, and a dedicated team for handling emergency responses.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Posey County is provided by the Posey County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments in cities like Mount Vernon and New Harmony. The Mount Vernon Police Department handles law enforcement within the city limits, while the New Harmony Police Department serves its respective community. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and emergencies, often working together to ensure public safety across the county. Each department has jurisdictional authority within its designated area, but they collaborate on county-wide initiatives.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Posey County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of the county, operating from 300 Main Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (812) 838-4122 and maintains a website at poseysheriff.com where citizens can access general information about operations and services. The Posey County Jail, operated by the Sheriff's Office, houses inmates awaiting trial and those serving sentences up to one year.
- Citizens can request arrest records by submitting written requests to the appropriate law enforcement agency, though certain information may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or privacy interests.
- Mugshots and booking photos are typically maintained by the Sheriff's Office and may be available upon request, though some agencies post recent bookings on their websites or social media platforms.
- Processing fees for copies of records may apply according to Indiana statute.
Inmate information can typically be obtained by contacting the jail directly at (812) 838-4110 or through the Sheriff's Office website, though online inmate lookup capabilities may vary. Municipal law enforcement includes the Mount Vernon Police Department, which serves the county seat, and the Poseyville Police Department. Under Indiana Code 5-14-3, the Indiana Access to Public Records Act, arrest records are generally considered public information.
The county does not have tribal police jurisdiction. For emergency situations, residents should dial 911, which is managed by the Posey County Central Dispatch serving all law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services throughout the county.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Posey County include felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. The Posey County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Residents can run background checks through the Indiana State Police, which provides comprehensive criminal history reports. The Indiana Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for Posey County residents seeking information on criminal records.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Posey County are maintained by the Posey County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and personal information of the individual. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the sheriff's office directly. The Indiana Access to Public Records Act governs the availability of these records, ensuring transparency and public access. Arrest records typically contain the date of arrest, charges filed, and the arresting agency.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Posey County Jail, located in Mount Vernon, is the primary detention facility for the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrested individuals. Inmate lookup services are available through the sheriff's office, allowing the public to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules require scheduling in advance and adherence to specific guidelines.
- The bond and bail process in Indiana allows for the release of detainees through cash bonds or surety bonds, and information on recently arrested individuals can be obtained from the jail's administrative office.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Posey County are taken and retained by the Posey County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the sheriff's office website or by formal request. Indiana does not have specific laws for mugshot removal, but individuals may seek removal through legal channels if the mugshot is deemed inaccurate or misleading. The availability of mugshots online may vary, and third-party websites may also host these images.
Courts & Case Records
Posey County court operations are conducted through the Posey Circuit Court, located at the Posey County Courthouse, 300 Main Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620. The Circuit Court can be reached at (812) 838-1306 and handles a wide range of civil, criminal, family, juvenile, probate, and small claims matters. The court maintains jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil cases exceeding the small claims limit, dissolutions of marriage, adoptions, estates, guardianships, and appeals from administrative agencies.
- The Indiana Judiciary's online case search system, Mycase.IN.gov, provides free public access to case information, docket entries, and some court documents for Posey County cases.
- Small claims cases, typically involving amounts under $10,000, are heard in the small claims division of the Circuit Court.
- Traffic violations and certain misdemeanor matters may also be processed through the court system.
Indiana trial courts operate under the unified court system administered by the Indiana Supreme Court. Court records are accessible to the public under Indiana Code 5-14-3 and Indiana Access to Public Records Act guidelines, with certain exceptions for sealed records, juvenile matters, and cases involving confidential information. Users can search by party name, case number, or attorney.
While basic case information is available online without charge, certified copies of court documents must be requested from the Clerk of the Circuit Court, with fees typically $1 per page for copies plus a certification fee. In-person visits to the Clerk's office allow access to physical court files during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. The court operates under Indiana Trial Rules and local court rules specific to Posey County.
Property & Public Records
The Posey County Recorder's Office, located at 126 E 3rd Street, Room 105, Mount Vernon, IN 47620, maintains all land and property records for the county. The office can be contacted at (812) 838-1314 and is responsible for recording deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, rights-of-way, military discharge papers (DD-214s), and other instruments affecting real property. Under Indiana law, these records are public and provide the official chain of title for all real estate transactions in Posey County.
- Certified copies of recorded documents can be requested in person or by mail, with fees set by Indiana Code 36-2-7-10, typically $1 per page for copies plus a certification fee if required.
- Plat maps showing subdivision layouts are recorded with the Recorder and may be available for viewing online or in person.
The Recorder's office has implemented online access to recorded documents through a searchable database, though specific website details should be confirmed directly with the office. Users can typically search by grantor/grantee name, document type, or parcel number. The Posey County Assessor's Office maintains property tax assessment records and can be reached at (812) 838-1639.
Property assessment information, including assessed values, property characteristics, and tax district assignments, is public information. Many Indiana counties participate in the state's online property database systems, and Posey County property tax information may be searchable through county or state portals. The Posey County GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping application may provide online access to parcel maps, aerial photography, and property boundary information.
The County Treasurer's office handles property tax collections and can provide information on tax payments, delinquencies, and tax sale properties.
Vital Records
Vital records for Posey County, Indiana, are managed through multiple offices depending on the record type and date. Birth and death certificates that occurred in Posey County can be requested through the Posey County Health Department, located at 103 E 4th Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620, phone (812) 838-1561. The Health Department maintains birth records and death records for events occurring within the county.
- The fee for a certified birth or death certificate is typically $10-$12 for the first copy and reduced rates for additional copies ordered simultaneously.
- Processing time is usually immediate for in-person requests during business hours or several days for mail requests.
- Online ordering is available through VitalChek.com for an additional processing fee.
- Couples must apply in person, provide valid identification, and pay the marriage license fee.
Under Indiana Code 16-37, certified copies of birth certificates require proof of eligibility, as only certain individuals (the person named, parents, legal representatives, or those with a direct and tangible interest) may obtain certified copies. The Indiana State Department of Health Vital Records office in Indianapolis serves as the central repository for all Indiana vital records and can provide certified copies of birth certificates (from October 1907 forward) and death certificates (from 1900 forward) that occurred anywhere in Indiana, including Posey County. Marriage licenses are issued by the Posey County Clerk's office at 300 Main Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620, phone (812) 838-1306.
Both parties must be present to apply. Divorce records are maintained by the Clerk of the Circuit Court as part of the court case file. Genealogical researchers seeking older vital records should contact the county Health Department or State Vital Records office.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Posey County are maintained through several offices depending on the business activity type. The Posey County Clerk's office at 300 Main Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620, handles certain local business registrations, including assumed business name (DBA - Doing Business As) certificates required under Indiana law when operating a business under a name other than the owner's legal name. However, the primary repository for business entity formation and registration in Indiana is the Indiana Secretary of State's Business Services Division.
- All corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other formal business entities must register with the Secretary of State.
- The Indiana Secretary of State maintains INBiz.in.gov, a free online portal where anyone can search registered business entities, view formation documents, check business status, and identify registered agents.
- This database includes all businesses registered in Posey County and throughout Indiana.
- The Posey County Chamber of Commerce, serving the greater Mount Vernon area, provides business development resources and can be found at poseycountychamber.com.
Professional and occupational licenses are typically issued by state-level boards and commissions rather than county offices. The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency oversees dozens of professions requiring state licensure. Sales tax permits are issued by the Indiana Department of Revenue, not at the county level.
Local business operating permits and zoning compliance are handled by municipal governments (Mount Vernon, Poseyville, etc.) or the Posey County Area Plan Commission for unincorporated areas. The Area Plan Commission, reachable at (812) 838-1390, administers zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and development standards. Building permits are issued through the Posey County Building Department, which enforces the Indiana Building Code.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Posey County, Indiana, are administered by the Posey County Clerk, who serves as the chief election official for the county. The Clerk's office is located at 300 Main Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620, and can be reached at (812) 838-1306. Voter registration in Posey County can be completed online through the Indiana Voters Registration system at indianavoters.in.gov, in person at the County Clerk's office, at Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles branches, or by mail using a voter registration application.
- Indiana law requires voters to register at least 29 days before an election to be eligible to vote in that election.
- The Posey County Clerk maintains these records and provides access consistent with Indiana public records law.
The online voter registration portal also allows Posey County residents to check their registration status, find their polling place, view sample ballots, and track absentee ballot applications. Polling place assignments are based on residential address and precinct boundaries; voters can locate their specific polling location through the indianavoters.in.gov portal or by contacting the County Clerk. Election records that are public under Indiana Code 3-7 include voter registration lists (with certain personal information redacted for security), candidate filings, campaign finance reports, precinct-level election results, and poll worker assignments.
Posey County typically experiences voter turnout of 60-70% in presidential election years and 35-45% in midterm elections, slightly above Indiana state averages. In the 2024 general election, Posey County reported turnout consistent with these patterns. The next major election is November 4, 2026, featuring U.S.
House of Representatives races, Indiana state legislative contests, and various county offices. Absentee voting is available to all Indiana voters without requiring an excuse. Applications for absentee ballots can be submitted online through indianavoters.in.gov, in person at the County Clerk's office, or by mail.
Absentee ballot applications must be received by the Clerk no later than 11:59 PM eleven days before the election for mail-in ballots, or voters may request absentee ballots in person at the Clerk's office up until noon the day before the election. Indiana has implemented early in-person voting, typically beginning 28 days before an election at locations designated by the County Election Board. Transparency in Posey County elections is maintained through public notice requirements, open meetings of the County Election Board, poll watcher provisions, and public access to election results and voting equipment testing.
Economy & Demographics
Posey County's economy reflects a diverse mix of agriculture, manufacturing, energy production, and tourism, with a median household income estimated around $60,000-$65,000, slightly above the Indiana state average. Agriculture remains fundamental to the county's economic base, with approximately 80% of the county's land devoted to farming. Corn, soybeans, and wheat are the primary crops, and the county consistently ranks among Indiana's top agricultural producers. The rich bottomland soils along the Wabasha and Ohio Rivers contribute to high crop yields.
- The county's strategic location at the confluence of major river systems and proximity to Evansville's metropolitan area provides access to larger markets and workforce pools.
Manufacturing has expanded significantly, with major employers including Posey County's largest private employer sectors representing automotive parts, plastics, and industrial equipment. The energy sector plays a substantial role, particularly with the Indiana Gasification LLC facility near Dale, which produces synthetic fertilizer using coal gasification technology. River commerce continues to influence the economy, with the Ohio River providing transportation routes for agricultural products and industrial materials.
Tourism centered on New Harmony generates economic activity through the historic site attractions, museums, galleries, and hospitality services. The New Harmony State Historic Site and Harmonie State Park draw thousands of visitors annually. The unemployment rate in Posey County typically tracks below the national average, reflecting the diverse employment base.
Recent economic development initiatives have focused on industrial park expansion, riverfront development in Mount Vernon, and infrastructure improvements to support logistics and distribution operations. Healthcare, education, and retail trade sectors also contribute substantially to local employment.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online via Mycase | Property: ✅ Recorder & Assessor Online Search | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Contact Required | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person or Mail | Business: ✅ State Online Portal | Elections: ✅ Full Online Access | Overall Score: 7.5/10 — Posey County provides good digital access to court, property, and election records through state and local systems, though some records require direct office contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Posey County
Explore public records for 6 cities and communities in Posey County, Indiana.
Nearby Counties
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