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Dallas County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Dallas County

Arrest records in Dallas County are considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, codified in Texas Government Code § 552. This statute establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are presumed to be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.

The Texas Public Information Act operates under the principle that the public has a right to information about governmental affairs and official acts. Pursuant to § 552.021, public information is available to the public during normal business hours of the governmental body.

It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records:

  • Arrest records document that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed an offense. An arrest alone does not constitute proof of guilt.
  • Conviction records indicate that an individual has been found guilty of a criminal offense through a legal proceeding, either by trial or plea.

Under Texas law, both arrest and conviction records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply. The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains the state's criminal history record information and serves as the central repository for such records.

Law enforcement agencies in Dallas County, including the Dallas Police Department, maintain arrest records that may be requested through established procedures. However, certain information within these records may be redacted to protect privacy interests or ongoing investigations as permitted under § 552.108 of the Texas Government Code.

What's in Dallas County Arrest Records

Dallas County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

  • Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
  • Date of birth
  • Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
  • Gender
  • Race/ethnicity
  • Residential address
  • Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
  • Fingerprints
  • Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

  • Date and time of arrest
  • Location of arrest
  • Arresting agency
  • Arresting officer's name and badge number
  • Reason for arrest
  • Use of force information (if applicable)

Charge Information:

  • Criminal offense(s) charged
  • Statute citation(s)
  • Offense classification (felony or misdemeanor)
  • Offense level (e.g., Class A, B, C misdemeanor; first, second, third-degree felony)
  • Case number

Warrant Information (if applicable):

  • Warrant number
  • Issuing court
  • Date issued
  • Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)

Booking Information:

  • Booking date and time
  • Booking facility
  • Booking number
  • Processing officer information

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond amount
  • Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
  • Bond status (posted or not)
  • Bonding company (if applicable)

Court Information:

  • Court assignment
  • Scheduled court appearances
  • Judge assigned to case

Custody Status:

  • Current detention status
  • Expected release date (if applicable)
  • Facility where detained

Additional Information May Include:

  • Prior criminal history
  • Probation/parole status at time of arrest
  • Immigration status or holds
  • Medical alerts or special needs
  • Property inventory taken during booking

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Certain information may be redacted from public versions of these records in accordance with privacy laws and exemptions under the Texas Public Information Act.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Dallas County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Dallas County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for requesting and accessing arrest records:

  1. Submit a Public Information Request to the Arresting Agency

    • Identify the law enforcement agency that made the arrest (Dallas Police Department, Dallas County Sheriff's Office, or other municipal police departments within the county)
    • Complete the agency's public information request form
    • Provide specific details about the record being sought (name of arrestee, date of arrest, case number if known)
    • Submit the request via email, mail, fax, or in person according to agency guidelines

    Dallas Police Department
    1400 S. Lamar Street
    Dallas, TX 75215
    (214) 671-3001
    Dallas Police Department

    Dallas County Sheriff's Office
    133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
    Dallas, TX 75207
    (214) 653-3450
    Dallas County Sheriff's Office

  2. Visit the Dallas County Criminal Records Department

    • Records may be requested in person during regular business hours
    • Bring valid government-issued photo identification
    • Be prepared to complete request forms and pay applicable fees

    Dallas County Criminal Records Department
    Frank Crowley Courts Building
    133 N. Riverfront Blvd., LB 12
    Dallas, TX 75207
    (214) 653-5740
    Dallas County Criminal Records

  3. Request Records from the Texas Department of Public Safety

    • For comprehensive criminal history information, submit a request to the Texas DPS
    • Complete the Criminal History Request Form (CR-63)
    • Include required identification and payment
    • Submit according to instructions provided on the form

    Texas Department of Public Safety
    Crime Records Service
    P.O. Box 4143
    Austin, TX 78765
    (512) 424-2474
    Texas Department of Public Safety

  4. Contact the Dallas County District Clerk's Office

    • For information about cases that have been filed with the courts
    • Provide case number or defendant name
    • Request specific documents related to the case

    Dallas County District Clerk
    George Allen Sr. Courts Building
    600 Commerce Street, Suite 101
    Dallas, TX 75202
    (214) 653-7149
    Dallas County District Clerk

When requesting arrest records, requestors should be aware that processing times may vary depending on the agency and the complexity of the request. Fees may apply in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act and agency fee schedules. Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.261, charges for copies of public information shall be established by the General Services Commission.

How To Find Dallas County Arrest Records Online

Dallas County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records electronically. These digital platforms offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests. Members of the public may utilize the following online methods to search for arrest records:

  1. Dallas County Jail Lookup System

    • Visit the Dallas County Jail Lookup portal
    • Enter the individual's name or booking number
    • System provides current inmate status and basic arrest information
    • Updated regularly with new bookings and releases
    • No fee is required for basic searches

  2. Dallas County Criminal Background Search

    • Access the Dallas County Criminal Court Records search tool
    • Create a user account if required
    • Enter search criteria (name, date of birth, case number)
    • System returns matching criminal case records
    • Some documents may be available for viewing or download
    • Fees may apply for certain document retrievals

  3. Texas Department of Public Safety Online Criminal History Search

    • Visit the Criminal History Name Search portal
    • Register for an account if required
    • Enter the subject's information
    • Pay the required fee (currently $3.00 per name search)
    • Receive results showing criminal history record information
    • Results include arrests reported to the state repository

  4. Public Data Portal for Dallas County

    • Access the Dallas County Open Data Portal
    • Navigate to public safety or criminal justice datasets
    • Use search filters to locate arrest-related information
    • Download available data in various formats
    • No fee for accessing open data resources

  5. Dallas Police Department Public Records

    • Visit the Dallas Police Department website
    • Navigate to the Records or Public Information section
    • Submit an online records request form
    • Provide required information about the desired records
    • Pay applicable fees through the online system
    • Receive documents electronically when available

When using online systems to access arrest records, users should note that not all information may be available electronically. Some records may require formal requests through the Texas Public Information Act process. Additionally, certain information may be redacted from online records to protect privacy interests as permitted under Texas Government Code § 552.

How To Search Dallas County Arrest Records for Free?

Dallas County residents and members of the public may access certain arrest record information without payment through several free resources. The following methods provide no-cost options for obtaining basic arrest record information:

  1. Dallas County Jail Population Search

    • Visit the Dallas County Sheriff's Department website
    • Access the free inmate lookup tool
    • Enter the individual's name to search current inmates
    • View booking information, charges, and custody status
    • Information limited to currently incarcerated individuals

    Dallas County Sheriff's Department
    133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
    Dallas, TX 75207
    (214) 653-3450
    Dallas County Sheriff's Department

  2. Public Access Terminals at County Facilities

    • Visit the Dallas County District Clerk's Office
    • Use public access computer terminals during business hours
    • Search criminal case records at no charge
    • Print fees may apply for document copies

    Dallas County District Clerk
    Frank Crowley Courts Building
    133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
    Dallas, TX 75207
    (214) 653-5740
    Dallas County District Clerk

  3. Dallas County Court Records Online

    • Access the public portal for court records
    • Basic case information available without charge
    • Search by name or case number
    • View case status, charges, and scheduled court dates
    • Document downloads may incur fees

  4. Public Library Resources

    • Visit Dallas Public Library locations
    • Use public computers to access county databases
    • Librarians can assist with navigating public record resources
    • No charge for basic research assistance

    Dallas Public Library - Central Library
    1515 Young Street
    Dallas, TX 75201
    (214) 670-1400
    Dallas Public Library

  5. Dallas Police Department Crime Reports

    • Access publicly available crime reports online
    • Search by date, location, or incident type
    • Basic arrest information may be included in reports
    • No fee for viewing public crime data

  6. Open Records Requests

    • Submit a Public Information Act request
    • Specify that you are requesting only information that can be provided without charge
    • Request to inspect records in person rather than receiving copies
    • Under Texas Government Code § 552.267, examination of records in person is available without charge

When utilizing free resources, requestors should be aware that information may be limited compared to paid services. Additionally, while inspection of records may be free, reproduction costs may apply if copies are requested. Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.261, governmental bodies may charge for the cost of materials, labor, and overhead related to reproducing public information.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Dallas County

The process of removing arrest records from public access in Dallas County involves either expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access) of records. These remedies are governed by specific provisions in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.

Expungement (Expunction)

Expungement is the complete removal of arrest records from all official databases and files. Pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 55.01, individuals may qualify for expungement under the following circumstances:

  • The person was arrested but never charged with a crime
  • Charges were dismissed or quashed
  • The person was acquitted at trial (found "not guilty")
  • The person was convicted but subsequently pardoned
  • The person completed certain pretrial diversion programs
  • The statute of limitations has expired for an offense for which the person was released and no charges were filed

To petition for expungement in Dallas County:

  1. File a Petition for Expunction with the Dallas County District Court
  2. Pay the required filing fee (approximately $300)
  3. Provide all required documentation about the arrest and case disposition
  4. Attend the scheduled court hearing if required
  5. If granted, obtain the Order of Expunction and ensure it is distributed to all agencies

Record Sealing (Order of Nondisclosure)

Record sealing restricts public access to criminal records but maintains them for access by law enforcement and certain government agencies. This process is governed by Texas Government Code § 411.081. Individuals may qualify for an Order of Nondisclosure if:

  • They successfully completed deferred adjudication community supervision
  • They meet waiting period requirements (varies by offense type)
  • The offense is eligible for nondisclosure
  • They have no disqualifying criminal history

To petition for record sealing in Dallas County:

  1. File a Petition for Nondisclosure with the court that handled the original case
  2. Pay the required filing fee (approximately $280)
  3. Provide evidence of eligibility and completion of all requirements
  4. Attend any scheduled court hearings
  5. If granted, ensure the order is properly implemented across agencies

Automatic Nondisclosure

Under recent amendments to Texas law, certain low-level offenses may qualify for automatic nondisclosure without filing a petition if specific criteria are met. This applies primarily to first-time, non-violent misdemeanors after successful completion of community supervision.

Where to File

Dallas County District Clerk
Frank Crowley Courts Building
133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 653-5740
Dallas County District Clerk

Individuals seeking expungement or record sealing are strongly advised to consult with an attorney familiar with Texas record clearing laws, as the processes are complex and highly technical. The Dallas County Law Library provides resources for those who cannot afford legal representation.

Dallas County Law Library
George Allen Sr. Courts Building
600 Commerce Street, Suite 200
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 653-7481
Dallas County Law Library

What Happens After Arrest in Dallas County?

Following an arrest in Dallas County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process that includes several distinct phases. This process adheres to procedures established under Texas law and local court rules.

Booking and Initial Detention

After physical arrest, the individual is transported to a detention facility for booking, which includes:

  • Recording personal information
  • Photographing and fingerprinting
  • Property inventory
  • Medical screening
  • Criminal history check
  • Assignment to detention housing or holding cell

The primary booking facility in Dallas County is:

Dallas County Jail (Lew Sterrett Justice Center)
111 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 653-3450
Dallas County Sheriff's Department

Magistration and Bail Setting

Within 48 hours of arrest (typically 24 hours for misdemeanors), the arrestee appears before a magistrate judge who:

  • Informs the individual of charges
  • Advises of constitutional rights
  • Determines probable cause for detention
  • Sets bail or bond amount
  • Considers personal recognizance release eligibility
  • Appoints counsel for indigent defendants

Formal Charging

The Dallas County District Attorney's Office reviews the case and determines whether to file formal charges:

  • Misdemeanor cases: Filed by information
  • Felony cases: Presented to grand jury for potential indictment
  • Cases may be rejected for insufficient evidence or other reasons

Dallas County District Attorney's Office
Frank Crowley Courts Building
133 N. Riverfront Blvd., LB 19
Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 653-3600
Dallas County District Attorney

Arraignment and Pretrial Proceedings

Once formally charged, defendants appear for arraignment where:

  • Charges are formally read
  • Defendant enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
  • Pretrial release conditions may be reviewed
  • Discovery process begins
  • Pretrial motions may be filed and heard

Case Disposition Options

Cases may be resolved through several mechanisms:

  • Dismissal by prosecution
  • Pretrial diversion programs
  • Plea bargain agreements
  • Trial (bench or jury)

Trial Process

If the case proceeds to trial:

  • Jury selection (voir dire) for jury trials
  • Opening statements
  • Presentation of evidence and witness testimony
  • Closing arguments
  • Jury deliberation or judge's decision
  • Verdict announcement

Sentencing

Upon conviction or guilty plea:

  • Pre-sentence investigation may be conducted
  • Sentencing hearing scheduled
  • Judge imposes sentence according to Texas law
  • Sentences may include incarceration, probation, fines, restitution, or combinations thereof

Post-Conviction

After case disposition:

  • Right to appeal within specified timeframes
  • Potential post-conviction remedies
  • Implementation of sentence
  • Creation of permanent criminal record

Throughout this process, arrest records are created and maintained by various agencies including the arresting department, Dallas County Sheriff's Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. These records become part of the individual's criminal history and are generally accessible to the public unless sealed or expunged through legal processes.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Dallas County?

Arrest records in Dallas County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Texas Local Government Code § 203. These schedules establish minimum retention periods for various types of records, including those related to arrests and criminal cases.

Law Enforcement Arrest Records

Pursuant to Texas Administrative Code § 13.2.3, basic arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies are subject to the following retention requirements:

  • Felony arrests: 75 years from date of arrest
  • Misdemeanor Class A and B arrests: 20 years from date of arrest
  • Misdemeanor Class C arrests: 5 years from date of arrest
  • Arrests of juveniles treated as adults: Same as corresponding adult offense

These retention periods apply to records maintained by the Dallas Police Department, Dallas County Sheriff's Office, and other law enforcement agencies within Dallas County.

Jail Records

Records related to incarceration in the Dallas County Jail system are retained according to the following schedule:

  • Inmate booking and intake records: 5 years after release
  • Jail population reports: 5 years
  • Inmate medical records: 7 years after release
  • Visitor logs: 3 years

Court Records

Criminal case records maintained by the Dallas County District and County Clerks are subject to different retention requirements:

  • Felony case records: Permanent retention
  • Misdemeanor case records: Permanent retention for Class A and B; 5 years after final disposition for Class C
  • Dismissed cases: 5 years after dismissal
  • Grand jury records: 10 years

Central State Repository

The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains the central repository for criminal history record information pursuant to Texas Government Code § 411.042. These records are maintained permanently unless expunged or sealed by court order.

Texas Department of Public Safety
Crime Records Service
P.O. Box 4143
Austin, TX 78765
(512) 424-2474
Texas Department of Public Safety

Factors Affecting Retention

Several factors may affect how long arrest records are maintained:

  • Court orders for expungement or sealing may remove records from public access
  • Different agencies have different retention requirements for their copies of records
  • Electronic records may be maintained longer than the minimum required periods
  • Records with historical significance may be preserved permanently

The retention of arrest records serves important public interests, including:

  • Maintaining evidence for potential future legal proceedings
  • Supporting law enforcement investigations
  • Providing accountability and transparency in the criminal justice system
  • Facilitating background checks for employment and licensing purposes

Individuals seeking information about specific arrest records should contact the agency that created or maintains the records for information about their status and availability.

How to Find Mugshots in Dallas County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images typically show the front and side view of an arrestee's face and upper body. Mugshots serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system and are considered part of the official arrest record.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Dallas County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

  1. The arresting law enforcement agency

    • Dallas Police Department maintains mugshots for arrests made by their officers
    • Suburban police departments maintain their own booking photo records
    • These records are typically stored in departmental records management systems

  2. Dallas County Sheriff's Office

    • Maintains booking photos for all individuals processed into the county jail
    • Photos are linked to inmate booking numbers and case information
    • Part of the comprehensive jail management system

    Dallas County Sheriff's Office
    133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
    Dallas, TX 75207
    (214) 653-3450
    Dallas County Sheriff's Office

  3. Texas Department of Public Safety

    • Maintains a central repository of criminal history information
    • May include mugshots submitted by local agencies
    • Access is restricted to authorized users for official purposes

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Dallas County have several options:

  1. Submit a Public Information Request

    • File a formal request under the Texas Public Information Act
    • Direct request to the agency that made the arrest or booked the individual
    • Provide specific identifying information (name, date of birth, date of arrest)
    • Pay applicable fees for record reproduction

  2. Visit the Records Division in Person

    • Go to the records section of the arresting agency
    • Complete required request forms
    • Present identification
    • Pay applicable fees

    Dallas Police Department Records Division
    1400 S. Lamar Street
    Dallas, TX 75215
    (214) 671-3001
    Dallas Police Department

Can Mugshots Be Found Online?

The availability of mugshots online through official sources is limited:

  • The Dallas County Jail lookup system does not display mugshots to the public
  • The Dallas Police Department does not maintain a public-facing mugshot database
  • The Texas Department of Public Safety does not provide public online access to mugshots

Some third-party websites may publish mugshots obtained through public records requests, but these are not official sources and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

To obtain official copies of mugshots:

  1. Submit a written request to the appropriate agency
  2. Include the subject's full name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest
  3. Specify that you are requesting the booking photograph
  4. Pay the established fee (typically $10-25 per photograph)
  5. Allow processing time (usually 7-10 business days)

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:

  • Juvenile arrest records (under age 17) are generally confidential
  • Records that have been expunged or sealed by court order are not available
  • Records related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
  • Certain identifying information may be redacted to protect privacy

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.108, law enforcement agencies may withhold information, including mugshots, if release would interfere with detection, investigation, or prosecution of crime.

Lookup Arrest Records in Dallas County

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