About Walthall County
Walthall County is located in the southern portion of Mississippi, bordered by Louisiana to the south and Pike County to the north. Established in 1910 from portions of Marion and Pike counties, it was named after Edward Cary Walthall, a Confederate general and United States Senator. The county seat is Tylertown, which serves as the primary commercial and governmental center. Walthall County encompasses approximately 404 square miles of rolling hills, pine forests, and agricultural land characteristic of the Mississippi Gulf Coastal Plain.
According to recent census estimates, the county population is approximately 13,500 residents. The county is served by several key governmental offices including the Walthall County Chancery Clerk located at 200 Ball Avenue in Tylertown, the County Tax Assessor at the same address, and the Circuit Clerk which handles court records and property transactions. The economy has historically been driven by timber, agriculture, and small manufacturing.
Notable features include the Bogue Chitto Water Park and nearby natural areas that attract outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The county maintains a rural character with small communities including Sandy Hook, Dexter, and Improve scattered throughout its boundaries. Walthall County is part of Mississippi's Sixth Congressional District and falls within the Fourteenth Judicial District for court administration purposes.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Walthall County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of the county. It oversees the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is instrumental in ensuring public safety through regular patrols and community engagement. Notable programs include community policing initiatives and partnerships with local organizations to enhance crime prevention efforts. The office also collaborates with other law enforcement agencies to address major crimes and public safety concerns.
Police Departments
In addition to the Walthall County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is supported by municipal police departments. The Tylertown Police Department serves the city of Tylertown, focusing on maintaining law and order within city limits. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and public safety initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county. The Sheriff's Office handles broader jurisdictional responsibilities, while the Tylertown Police Department addresses city-specific issues.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Walthall County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 200 Ball Avenue in Tylertown, Mississippi 39667, serves as the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of the county. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (601) 876-3481 and maintains operational responsibility for patrol, criminal investigations, civil process, and operation of the Walthall County Detention Center.
- Within Walthall County, the Tylertown Police Department provides municipal law enforcement services for the county seat and can be contacted at (601) 876-3052.
- To request arrest records, citizens should submit written requests to the Sheriff's Office or municipal police department that made the arrest, identifying the subject and approximate date.
- Mugshots and booking photographs are generally available through the arresting agency, though fees may apply for copies.
- Processing times vary but most requests are fulfilled within 7-14 business days.
- Mississippi law requires agencies to respond to public records requests within a reasonable time, though no specific deadline is statutorily mandated for most records.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Walthall County encompass felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. The Walthall County Sheriff's Office and the Circuit Clerk's Office are primary custodians of these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation offers services for fingerprint-based background checks, which are often required for employment and licensing purposes.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Walthall County are maintained by the Walthall County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Mississippi Public Records Act, these records are accessible to the public, although certain restrictions may apply to protect privacy and ongoing investigations. Arrest records typically contain the individual's personal details, the nature of the charges, and the arresting officer's information.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Walthall County Jail, located in Tylertown, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and documenting personal information. Inmate lookup is available through the Sheriff's Office, allowing family members and legal representatives to find information about detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring prior scheduling and adherence to security protocols.
- The bond and bail process follows Mississippi state guidelines, allowing for the release of individuals pending trial upon payment of a set amount.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Walthall County are taken and retained by the Walthall County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest records and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office. The availability of mugshots online may vary, and requests for removal or non-disclosure are subject to Mississippi's laws regarding public records. Currently, Mississippi does not have specific laws mandating the removal of mugshots from public access, but individuals may seek legal avenues for privacy concerns.
Courts & Case Records
Walthall County is served by the Circuit Court, which holds jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $200,000, equity cases, and appeals from lower courts. The Walthall County Circuit Clerk's office is located at 200 Ball Avenue, Tylertown, MS 39667, phone (601) 876-5671, and maintains case files, judgments, and court records. Circuit Court sessions are held as part of the Fourteenth Circuit Court District.
- Walthall County Justice Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, preliminary hearings, civil matters under $3,500, small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and traffic violations.
- Copy fees are typically $1.00 per page for standard documents, with certified copies requiring a $2.00 certification fee.
The Chancery Court, with its clerk also at 200 Ball Avenue (phone 601-876-5671), handles domestic relations matters including divorce and child custody, estate probate, guardianships, land disputes, and equity jurisdiction matters. The county has two Justice Court districts with judges hearing cases at various locations. The Town of Tylertown operates a Municipal Court for violations of city ordinances and traffic matters within city limits.
Court record access in Mississippi is governed by Mississippi Code § 9-1-47 and the Mississippi Public Records Act. Case searches can be conducted in person at the respective clerk's offices during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While Mississippi has implemented the statewide Mississippi Electronic Courts (MEC) system, not all counties have full online case search capabilities, and Walthall County record searches often require in-person or phone inquiries to the appropriate clerk's office.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Walthall County are maintained by the Chancery Clerk's office, which serves as the county's Register of Deeds. Located at 200 Ball Avenue, Tylertown, MS 39667, phone (601) 876-5671, this office records and indexes deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, right-of-way documents, plat maps, mechanic's liens, releases, and other instruments affecting real property. The Chancery Clerk maintains grantor-grantee indexes dating back to the county's formation in 1910, with land records searchable by party name, legal description, or instrument type.
- Recording fees vary by document type and page count, with standard deeds typically costing $16.00 for the first two pages and $2.00 for each additional page.
- Mississippi Code § 89-5-21 establishes the recording requirements and fee structure.
- Certified copies of recorded instruments are available for $2.00 per page plus a $2.00 certification fee.
Property tax assessment records are maintained separately by the Walthall County Tax Assessor's office at 200 Ball Avenue, phone (601) 876-4911. The Assessor's office maintains current and historical tax assessment data, ownership information, property characteristics, and parcel identification numbers. While some Mississippi counties have implemented online GIS mapping and property search portals, Walthall County's property research typically requires in-person visits or phone inquiries to the Assessor or Chancery Clerk.
The Tax Collector, also located at the county courthouse complex, handles payment of current and delinquent property taxes and can provide tax payment history and receipts. Business hours for all property record offices are generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding county holidays.
Vital Records
Vital records for Walthall County, Mississippi, including birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees, are available through multiple sources. Birth and death certificates occurring in Walthall County can be requested from the Walthall County Health Department or from the Mississippi State Department of Health Vital Records office located at 570 East Woodrow Wilson Drive, Jackson, MS 39216. Mississippi Code § 41-57-1 through § 41-57-29 governs vital records access and confidentiality.
- The current fee for a certified birth certificate is $15.00 for the first copy and $15.00 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously.
- Death certificates are available to immediate family members, legal representatives, or those with a direct and tangible interest, with fees of $15.00 per certified copy.
- Processing time for in-person requests at the county level is typically same-day or next business day, while mail requests may take 2-4 weeks.
- Online ordering is available through the Mississippi State Department of Health VitalChek system at msvitalrecords.org, though expedited service fees apply.
- Marriage licenses are issued by the Walthall County Circuit Clerk's office at 200 Ball Avenue, Tylertown, requiring both parties to appear in person with valid identification and payment of the $21.00 license fee.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Walthall County are maintained by several agencies depending on the type of business activity and registration. The Walthall County Chancery Clerk's office at 200 Ball Avenue, Tylertown, records certain business-related documents including corporate filings and assumed name certificates (DBAs) for businesses operating in the county, though most formal business entity formation occurs at the state level.
- The Secretary of State's online portal provides free searching by business name, registered agent, or filing number, with certified copies available for $25.00.
- The Tylertown-Walthall County Chamber of Commerce, contactable through local business networks, provides business development resources and networking opportunities for the local business community.
The Mississippi Secretary of State Business Services Division maintains the comprehensive statewide business entity database, accessible online at www.sos.ms.gov, where users can search corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and other registered entities. Local business licenses and permits within incorporated areas are handled by municipal authorities; the Town of Tylertown issues business licenses for operations within city limits through the Town Clerk's office at 195 Beulah Avenue, Tylertown. Professional and occupational licensing in Mississippi is regulated by various state boards depending on the profession, such as the Mississippi State Board of Contractors for construction trades and the Mississippi Board of Nursing for healthcare professionals.
Sales tax permits are issued by the Mississippi Department of Revenue and can be applied for online through the TAP (Taxpayer Access Point) system. Building permits, zoning compliance, and land use permits for unincorporated areas are administered by the Walthall County Planning and Zoning office when applicable, though the county operates with limited zoning regulation in most areas.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Walthall County, Mississippi, are administered by the Walthall County Circuit Clerk, who serves as the county's Election Commissioner. The office is located at 200 Ball Avenue, Tylertown, MS 39667, and can be reached at (601) 876-5671 for voter registration information, polling place locations, and absentee ballot requests. Voter registration in Mississippi requires completion of a voter registration application at least 30 days prior to any election, and eligible citizens must be U.S.
citizens, residents of Mississippi and their county for 30 days, at least 18 years old by election day, and not disqualified by court order. Online voter registration is available through the Mississippi Secretary of State website at www.sos.ms.gov/Elections-Voting/Pages/Voter-Registration-Information.aspx, or paper applications can be submitted to the Circuit Clerk's office, driver's license stations, public assistance offices, or military recruitment centers. Mississippi requires photo identification for in-person voting, with acceptable forms including driver's licenses, government employee ID cards, U.S.
passports, tribal photo IDs, and Mississippi Voter Identification cards available free through Circuit Clerks. Polling place locations are assigned based on voter precinct, and Walthall County voters can confirm their specific polling location by contacting the Circuit Clerk or checking the Secretary of State's online polling place locator. Election records that are public include voter registration rolls (with some personal information redacted per Mississippi Code § 23-15-47), campaign finance reports filed with the Mississippi Secretary of State or county Election Commission, candidate qualifying documents, and certified election results by precinct.
Walthall County typically experiences voter turnout rates of 45-60% in presidential general elections and 25-40% in midterm and state elections, consistent with rural Mississippi county patterns. The most recent general election in November 2024 saw typical participation levels with competitive races drawing higher turnout. The next major election will be held on November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House of Representatives races (Mississippi's six congressional districts), and potentially U.S. Senate seats depending on terms, along with state legislative seats, county offices, and local ballot measures. Absentee voting in Mississippi is available for voters who meet specific criteria including age 65 or older, permanent physical disability, temporary physical disability, expectant mothers, required work outside the county on election day, required caregiving, election official, or active military service members and their dependents.
Absentee ballot applications must be requested from the Circuit Clerk and returned by mail or in person, with completed ballots due by 7:00 PM on election day for mail ballots (postmark does not count) or 5:00 PM the Saturday before election day for in-person absentee voting at the clerk's office. Mississippi does not offer universal mail-in voting or no-excuse absentee voting. Election transparency is supported by Mississippi's open records laws, allowing citizens to request precinct-level results, poll worker lists, and election equipment testing documentation from the Circuit Clerk's office, ensuring public oversight of the electoral process.
Economy & Demographics
Walthall County's economy is predominantly rural and historically based on timber production, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing. The forestry industry remains a cornerstone economic driver, with thousands of acres of pine plantations and hardwood forests supporting logging operations, timber mills, and related supply chain businesses. Major employers in the county include the Walthall County School District, which employs several hundred teachers and staff, the county government, and healthcare providers including the Walthall County General Hospital.
According to recent economic data, median household income in Walthall County is approximately $35,000-$38,000, significantly below the Mississippi state median and reflecting the county's rural character and limited industrial base. The poverty rate remains elevated compared to state and national averages, with economic challenges including limited job diversity and workforce development opportunities. Agriculture continues to play a role with cattle ranching, poultry operations, and row crop farming including soybeans and corn on suitable acreage.
Small manufacturing facilities and wood products companies provide industrial employment, though the county has not attracted large-scale manufacturing investments seen in other Mississippi counties. Retail trade, food service, and personal services comprise the majority of small businesses serving the local population. The county has experienced modest population decline over recent decades as younger residents migrate to larger urban areas for employment and educational opportunities.
Economic development efforts focus on infrastructure improvements, workforce training partnerships, and leveraging the county's proximity to Interstate 55 corridor markets. Tourism and outdoor recreation represent emerging opportunities, with the Bogue Chitto Water Park and nearby natural areas attracting visitors for kayaking, fishing, and camping.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ⚠️ Limited Online | Property: ⚠️ In-Person/Phone Required | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person or State Portal | Business: ✅ State Online Search | Elections: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person | Overall Score: 4/10 — Walthall County maintains traditional in-person and phone-based access to most public records with limited digital infrastructure for online searches.
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Cities & Towns in Walthall County
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Nearby Counties
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