About Sullivan County
Sullivan County, Indiana is located in the southwestern portion of the state, bordered by the Wabash River to the west. Established in 1816 and organized in 1817, Sullivan County was named after Daniel Sullivan, a Revolutionary War hero. Sullivan County seat is Sullivan County, which is the governmental and commercial hub for Sullivan County's approximately 20,758 residents (2020 Census). Sullivan County includes 452 square miles of predominantly rural scene, with a rich heritage rooted in coal mining, agriculture, and energy production. Sullivan County is home to several significant landmarks including Greene-Sullivan State Forest, which offers over 7,000 acres of outdoor recreation, and Shakamak State Park, located partially within Sullivan County. Sullivan County government operates through several key offices housed primarily in Sullivan County Courthouse at 100 Courthouse Square, Sullivan County, IN 47882. These offices include Sullivan County Recorder, responsible for maintaining land records and documents; Sullivan County Clerk, who manages court records, marriage licenses, and election administration; and Sullivan County Assessor, who oversees property assessments and tax records. Sullivan County's economy has historically been centered on coal mining, agriculture, and power generation, with Duke Energy's Edwardsport Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) power station representing one of the most significant modern industrial facilities in Sullivan County. Sullivan County maintains a small-town atmosphere while preserving its historical significance in Indiana's early settlement and industrial development.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Sullivan County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in the unincorporated areas of Sullivan County. This office oversees Sullivan County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The sheriff's office is also involved in community policing efforts and operates divisions such as patrol, investigations, and corrections. Notable programs include community outreach initiatives meant to building better relationships between law enforcement and residents. The office is focused on public safety and upholding the law throughout Sullivan County.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Sullivan County is provided by Sullivan County Sheriff's Office and several municipal police departments. The city of Sullivan is served by the Sullivan City Police Department, while other towns like Carlisle and Shelburn have their own local police forces. These agencies work collaboratively to address crime and ensure public safety across Sullivan County. The sheriff's office handles law enforcement in rural areas and supports municipal departments in major investigations.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Sullivan County Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas and provides countywide services including operating Sullivan County Jail. The agency's website provides information on services, though full online inmate lookup may require direct contact with the jail.
- Sullivan County Jail maintains custody records for current inmates, and citizens can typically request inmate information by calling the jail directly or visiting in person during business hours.
- Under Indiana Access to Public Records Act (Indiana Code 5-14-3), arrest records are generally considered public information and may be requested from the arresting agency or the Sheriff's Office.
- Written requests should specify the individual's name and approximate date of arrest.
- Processing fees may apply for copies of records and photographs.
Municipal law enforcement within Sullivan County includes the Sullivan area Police Department, which serves the city of Sullivan, and the Shelburn Police Department, serving the town of Shelburn. Sullivan County does not have tribal police jurisdiction. For warrant information or to report non-emergency incidents, citizens should contact the appropriate municipal police department or the Sheriff's Office dispatch.
Indiana's public records law requires agencies to respond to requests within a reasonable timeframe, typically within seven business days, and agencies may charge reasonable copying and research fees as outlined in IC 5-14-3-8.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Sullivan County cover a range of documents, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and the sex offender registry. Residents can conduct background checks through the Indiana State Police, which provides full criminal history reports.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Sullivan County, Indiana, are maintained by Sullivan County Sheriff's Office. These records document the details of an individual's arrest, including the date, charges, and arresting agency. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the sheriff's office directly, often requiring a formal request under the Indiana Access to Public Records Act. Arrest records typically include personal information about the arrestee, the nature of the charges, and the status of the case.
Jail & Inmate Records
Sullivan County Jail, located in Sullivan, Indiana, is the primary detention facility for Sullivan County. The booking process at the jail involves photographing and fingerprinting individuals who are arrested. Inmate information, including booking details and charges, can be accessed through the sheriff's office. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to security protocols.
- The bond process in Indiana allows for the posting of bail to secure the release of an inmate, with specific procedures outlined by Sullivan County court system.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Sullivan County are taken and retained by Sullivan County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest record and can be accessed through the sheriff's office. To search for mugshots, individuals may visit the sheriff's website or contact the office directly. Indiana does not have specific laws for the removal of mugshots from public records, but individuals may petition for removal in certain circumstances, such as expungement of the related criminal record.
Courts & Case Records
Sullivan County judicial matters are handled by the Sullivan Circuit Court, located at 100 Courthouse Square, Sullivan, IN 47882. The court can be reached through the office has jurisdiction over civil, criminal, juvenile, probate, and family law cases within Sullivan County. The Honorable Judge presides over proceedings, with Sullivan County Clerk of Courts managing case records, filings, and public access to court documents. Indiana provides public access to most court records under Indiana Access to Court Records (IACR) guidelines and Indiana Code 5-14-3. The Indiana Judiciary offers the Mycase.
- gov portal, which provides free online access to case information for Sullivan County cases.
- To obtain certified copies of court documents, requests must be submitted to Sullivan County Clerk's Office either in person, by mail, or sometimes by fax.
- Fees for certified copies typically range from $1 to $2 per page, with an additional certification fee.
Users can search by party name, case number, or attorney to view dockets, filed documents, and case status. However, certain sensitive cases including sealed records, juvenile matters, adoption proceedings, and mental health cases are restricted from public view. The Clerk's Office accepts cash, checks, and money orders.
For divorce records and marriage dissolution documents, the Clerk maintains an index dating back to Sullivan County's establishment. Probate records, including wills, estate inventories, and guardianship matters, are also maintained by the Clerk and are generally public unless specifically sealed by court order. Researchers and attorneys can access archived records by appointment, and genealogical research is accommodated during regular business hours.
Property & Public Records
Sullivan County Recorder's Office, located at 100 Courthouse Square, Sullivan, IN 47882, telephone, maintains all land records and property documents for Sullivan County. The Recorder is responsible for recording and preserving deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, military discharge papers (DD-214s), and plat maps. These records date back to Sullivan County's establishment in 1817, providing full property history. Indiana law under IC 36-2-11 mandates that the Recorder maintain permanent records and provide public access during regular business hours.
- Certified copies of recorded documents are available for a statutory fee, typically $1 per page for copies plus $5 for certification.
- The Recorder's Office accepts new documents for recording during business hours, with fees based on page count and document type as established by Indiana statute.
The office typically operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding county holidays. For property tax information, assessment values, and parcel identification, Sullivan County Assessor's Office is located at the same courthouse address and can be contacted through the office’s website. The Assessor maintains property tax records, assessment cards, and ownership information. While Sullivan County has made strides in digitization, full online property record searches may be limited compared to larger counties.
Citizens seeking property records can visit the Recorder's Office in person to access deed books and indexing systems. Sullivan County Treasurer, telephone, handles property tax payments and maintains tax payment history. For property research, Sullivan County's GIS mapping system may be accessed through Sullivan County government website or by contacting the Surveyor's Office.
Abstract companies and title insurance professionals regularly use these records for title searches and property transfers.
Vital Records
Vital records for Sullivan County, Indiana residents are managed through multiple agencies depending on the record type and date. Birth and death certificates occurring in Sullivan County are filed with the Indiana State Department of Health, Vital Records Division, located at 2 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Under Indiana Code 16-37, birth certificates are available to the registrant (if of legal age), parents listed on the certificate, legal guardians, and legal representatives.
- The current fee for a certified birth certificate is $28, with additional copies ordered at the same time costing $4 each.
- Death certificates cost $21 for the first copy and $4 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously.
- Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks for mail requests and can be expedited for additional fees.
- The license fee is established by state statute and Indiana law requires a 72-hour waiting period before the ceremony can occur.
- Divorce records (Dissolution of Marriage) are maintained by Sullivan County Circuit Court and can be requested through the Clerk of Courts.
Applications can be submitted by mail, in person at the State Department of Health, or through the VitalChek online ordering system at Indiana.gov/health/vital records, though VitalChek charges additional processing fees. Sullivan County Clerk's Office at 100 Courthouse Square, Sullivan, IN 47882, telephone, issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records. Couples applying for a marriage license must appear in person with valid identification, birth certificates, and proof of dissolution of any prior marriages.
Applicants for vital records must provide valid government-issued photo identification and demonstrate eligibility to receive the record. Genealogical researchers may access historical vital records that are beyond confidentiality restrictions, typically 75 years for birth records. Local funeral homes in Sullivan County can also assist families in obtaining death certificates for recently deceased individuals.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Sullivan County, Indiana operates through a combination of county and state agencies. Sullivan County Clerk's Office at 100 Courthouse Square, Sullivan, IN 47882, telephone, handles registration of assumed business names (DBA - Doing Business As) and fictitious business names for sole proprietors and partnerships operating within Sullivan County. These filings are public record and can be searched at the Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
- The INBiz system provides free public access to business name availability, registered agent information, corporate status, and filing history.
For formal business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and limited partnerships, registration must be completed through the Indiana Secretary of State, Business Services Division. The Secretary of State maintains INBiz, the state's full online business portal at inbiz. gov, where users can search existing business entities, file new registrations, and maintain business records.
Professional licenses including those for contractors, healthcare providers, cosmetologists, and other regulated professions are issued by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) and respective state boards, not at Sullivan County level. Sales tax permits are obtained through the Indiana Department of Revenue. For building permits, zoning approvals, and land use matters within Sullivan County, applicants should contact Sullivan County Building Commissioner and Plan Commission.
The city of Sullivan maintains its own building department for projects within city limits. Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce, accessible through local business directories, provides resources for entrepreneurs and businesses operating in Sullivan County, including networking opportunities and economic development information. Business owners should also verify local licensing requirements with individual municipalities, as towns may require additional business registrations or permits beyond county and state requirements.
Official Government Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I search for someone recently arrested in Sullivan County, Indiana?
Where can I find mugshots or booking photos in Sullivan County, Indiana?
How do I get a criminal background check in Sullivan County, Indiana?
How can I look up sex offenders in Sullivan County, Indiana?
How do I register to vote in Sullivan County, Indiana?
How do I look up property records in Sullivan County, Indiana?
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Sullivan County, Indiana?
How do I find business license records in Sullivan County, Indiana?
Cities & Towns in Sullivan County
Explore public records for 11 cities and communities in Sullivan County, Indiana.
Economy & Demographics
Sullivan County, Indiana's economy has historically been anchored by coal mining, agriculture, and energy production, though the economic scene has evolved significantly in recent decades.This facility alone has transformed Sullivan County's employment scene and tax base since its completion. Agriculture remains vital to Sullivan County's economy, with corn and soybean production dominating the rural scene, supplemented by livestock operations and specialty crops.
Coal mining, while diminished from its peak in the mid-20th century, still contributes to the local economy through surface mining operations. According to recent estimates, Sullivan County's median household income approximates $47,000-$52,000, which is below the Indiana state median, reflecting Sullivan County's rural character and economic transition from heavy industry. The unemployment rate has historically tracked close to or slightly above the state average, influenced by seasonal agricultural employment and energy sector fluctuations.
Manufacturing and distribution operations provide additional employment, though on a smaller scale than in more urbanized Indiana counties. Tourism contributes modestly through Greene-Sullivan State Forest and Shakamak State Park, which attract outdoor recreation enthusiasts for camping, fishing, hiking, and hunting. The retail and service sectors are concentrated primarily in Sullivan County, Sullivan County seat, with healthcare services provided by Sullivan County Community Hospital and affiliated medical practices.
Economic development efforts focus on diversifying the economy, improving infrastructure, and using Sullivan County's location along US Highway 41 and proximity to Interstate 69. Workforce development initiatives aim to address skills gaps and prepare residents for evolving employment opportunities in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology sectors.
Elections & Voter Records
Election administration in Sullivan County, Indiana is managed by Sullivan County Clerk's Office, serving as Sullivan County election board. The office is located at 100 Courthouse Square, Sullivan, IN 47882, and can be contacted through the office’s website. voter registration questions and election information. Voter registration in Indiana can be completed online through indianavoters. gov, the state's centralized voter registration system, or by submitting a paper application to the County Clerk. The registration deadline is 29 days before any election.
- Absentee ballot applications can be submitted through the Indiana Voters portal or by paper application to the County Clerk, with requests due by 11:59 PM eleven days before Election Day.
- Citizens seeking election related documents should submit requests to the County Clerk's Office under the Indiana Access to Public Records Act, and most election records are available after elections are certified.
Indiana residents must provide their Indiana driver's license or state ID number when registering online; alternatively, voters can register in person at the County Clerk's Office, license branch, or through designated voter registration drives. To vote in Sullivan County, residents must be U.S. Citizens, at least 18 years old by the next election, have lived in their precinct for at least 30 days, and not be currently imprisoned for a criminal conviction.
Voters can verify their registration status and find their assigned polling place by visiting indianavoters. gov or by contacting the County Clerk. Sullivan County maintains several precinct polling locations throughout Sullivan County, including sites in Sullivan area, Shelburn, and rural voting centers.
S. Congressional representatives, Indiana state legislators, and various county offices. Indiana offers absentee voting by mail for voters who qualify under specific circumstances including being age 65 or older, having a disability, being scheduled to work during all polling hours, being a military or overseas voter, or being confined due to illness or injury.
Indiana also offers early in-person voting at designated locations beginning 28 days before Election Day. Election results by precinct are published on the County Clerk's website and through the Indiana Secretary of State elections division. Campaign finance reports for local candidates are filed with the County Clerk and are available for public inspection.
Voter registration lists are public record under Indiana Code 3-7-26-7 and may be obtained for legitimate purposes.