Dallas County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Dallas County?
Inmate records in Dallas County are official government documents maintained by the Dallas County Sheriff's Office that track and document individuals who are in custody within the county's detention facilities. These records are created pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.001, which establishes the public's right to information about governmental bodies and their operations, including correctional facilities.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, hearings, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document an individual's custody status and institutional history
- Court records are maintained by the Dallas County Clerk's Office
- Inmate records are maintained by the Dallas County Sheriff's Office
The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, when an individual is first taken into custody. At this point, the Dallas County Sheriff's Department collects identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and details about the alleged offense. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Medical information
- Program participation
- Court appearances
- Release information
Under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 62.08, certain information contained in inmate records must be maintained for specified periods after an individual's release, particularly for those convicted of offenses requiring sex offender registration.
Are Inmate Records Public In Dallas County?
Inmate records in Dallas County are generally considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, codified in Texas Government Code Chapter 552. This law establishes that government records, including those related to incarcerated individuals, are presumed to be open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
According to Texas Government Code § 552.021, "public information is available to the public at a minimum during the normal business hours of the governmental body." This provision applies to the Dallas County Sheriff's Office and its maintenance of inmate records.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster
- Booking and arrest records
- Charges filed
- Mugshots
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, certain information within inmate records may be exempt from public disclosure under Texas Government Code § 552.101, which protects information considered confidential by law. This includes:
- Medical and mental health records
- Juvenile records (in most cases)
- Social security numbers
- Information that would compromise institutional security
- Victim information in certain cases
Members of the public seeking access to inmate records in Dallas County may submit requests through the Dallas County Sheriff's Office or utilize the online inmate search portal provided by the county.
What's Included Inmate Records in Dallas County
Inmate records in Dallas County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. The following categories of information are typically included in these records:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and distinguishing physical characteristics
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- State identification number (SID)
- Booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Current housing location
- Classification level
- Projected release date (if applicable)
- Previous incarceration history within Dallas County
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Warrant information
- Case numbers
- Arresting agency
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond conditions
- Bail hearing information
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Attorney information
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court case numbers
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction date
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Probation/community supervision terms
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Conditions of release
- Supervising agency (if applicable)
These records are maintained in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 269, which establishes minimum standards for record keeping in county jails.
Dallas County Prison System
The Dallas County correctional system operates under the authority of the Dallas County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration of detention facilities within the county. The system primarily consists of county jail facilities designed for pre-trial detention and the incarceration of individuals serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor offenses.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system:
- County jails house individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences (typically less than one year), or awaiting transfer to state facilities
- State prisons, operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences
The Dallas County jail system is one of the largest county jail systems in Texas, with a capacity to house thousands of inmates across multiple facilities. The system operates under the guidelines established by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, which sets minimum standards for the construction, maintenance, and operation of county jails.
For information regarding the Dallas County jail system, members of the public may contact:
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 653-3450
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Dallas County
Dallas County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's detention system:
Lew Sterrett Justice Center (North Tower)
111 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 653-3450
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
The North Tower primarily houses male inmates awaiting trial on felony charges. This maximum-security facility includes intake processing areas, medical units, and specialized housing for inmates requiring heightened supervision.
Lew Sterrett Justice Center (West Tower)
111 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 653-3450
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
The West Tower houses both male and female inmates, with separate housing areas for each population. This facility accommodates individuals with various security classifications and includes areas for educational and rehabilitative programming.
Suzanne Lee Kays Detention Facility (South Tower)
111 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 653-3450
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
The South Tower primarily houses inmates with medium to minimum security classifications. This facility includes specialized units for inmates with medical needs, mental health concerns, and those participating in work release programs.
George Allen Courts Building (Holding Facility)
600 Commerce Street
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 653-3450
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
This facility serves as a temporary holding location for inmates attending court proceedings. It is not designed for long-term detention but facilitates the secure transport of inmates to and from court appearances.
These facilities operate in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 267, which establishes minimum standards for the construction, equipment, maintenance, and operation of county jails.
Who's in Prison In Dallas County
The Dallas County jail system houses a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically includes:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not afford bail or were denied bail
- Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
Sentenced Offenders:
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (typically up to one year)
- Those serving short felony sentences as determined by the courts
- Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities after felony convictions
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals with mental health needs requiring specialized housing and treatment
- Those with medical conditions requiring ongoing care
- Veterans participating in specialized programs
- Individuals participating in substance abuse treatment programs
- Those enrolled in educational or vocational training programs
Other Categories:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Those awaiting extradition to other jurisdictions
- Probation and parole violators
- Individuals serving weekend sentences
According to data from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, the Dallas County jail system typically operates at 70-85% of its total capacity, with population fluctuations occurring regularly based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors.
The demographic composition of the Dallas County jail population generally reflects broader patterns in the criminal justice system, with disproportionate representation of individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and communities of color, as documented in reports by the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Dallas County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Dallas County may utilize several methods to access these records. The Dallas County Sheriff's Office currently maintains multiple channels through which inmate information can be obtained:
Online Inmate Lookup:
- Visit the Dallas County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search Portal
- Enter the required search criteria (at least one field is required):
- Last name (required)
- First name (optional but recommended)
- Date of birth (optional but helps narrow results)
- Booking number (if known)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Full name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Housing location
- Next court date
- Select an individual record to view more detailed information
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Dallas County Sheriff's Office Records Division during normal business hours:
Dallas County Sheriff's Office Records Division
133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 653-3450
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM - Complete an inmate information request form
- Provide identification and any applicable fees
- Specify the information being requested
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request under the Texas Public Information Act to:
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Records Division
133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207 - Include the following information:
- Inmate's full name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Specific information requested
- Your contact information
- Allow up to 10 business days for a response, as permitted under Texas Government Code § 552.221
Telephone Inquiries:
- Call the Dallas County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line at (214) 653-3450
- Provide the inmate's name and date of birth
- Note that limited information may be available through telephone inquiries
When requesting inmate records, be aware that certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with privacy laws and security protocols.
How To Find an Inmate in Dallas County for Free?
Dallas County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently in custody within the county jail system. These free resources are accessible to the general public:
Dallas County Online Inmate Locator:
- Access the Dallas County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
- Enter the inmate's last name (required) and first name (recommended)
- Review the results, which include current custody status, charges, and facility location
- No registration or payment is required to use this service
Texas Department of Criminal Justice Offender Information Search:
- Visit the TDCJ Offender Information Search
- Enter the inmate's name or TDCJ number
- This system provides information on inmates who have been transferred to state custody
- The service is available 24/7 at no cost
Telephone Information Line:
- Call the Dallas County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information Line at (214) 653-3450
- Provide the operator with the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Basic information about custody status and facility location is provided at no charge
- Available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
Vinelink Service:
- Access the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) website
- Select Texas as the state
- Enter the inmate's name
- This free service provides custody status and allows registration for notifications about changes in an inmate's status
- Available in multiple languages
When using these free services, it's advisable to have as much identifying information as possible about the inmate, including full name, date of birth, and booking number (if known). This helps ensure accurate results, particularly for individuals with common names.
How To Visit an Inmate In Dallas County
Visitation with inmates in Dallas County detention facilities is governed by specific policies established by the Dallas County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291, which outlines minimum standards for visitation in county jails.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must register and schedule visits in advance through the Dallas County Sheriff's Office Inmate Visitation System
- Visitors must be 17 years of age or older with valid government-issued photo identification
- Minors (under 17) must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Each inmate is permitted two 20-minute visits per week
- Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time for processing
Visit Schedule:
- Visitation hours vary by facility and housing unit
- North Tower: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- West Tower: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- South Tower: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- No visitation on Sundays, Mondays, or county holidays
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) have separate scheduling procedures
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
- Visitation registration confirmation
- Locker key deposit ($1.00 exact change)
- Medical devices with proper documentation (if necessary)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Cameras or recording equipment
- Food or beverages
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire is required
- No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, halter tops, etc.)
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No hats or head coverings (except religious head coverings)
- No excessively baggy clothing
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Regular visitation is conducted via video terminals located in the visitation areas
- Contact visits are generally not permitted except in special circumstances
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.) are conducted in separate areas
- Special visits may be arranged for out-of-state visitors with advance approval
Visit Restrictions:
- Visitors with active warrants will be subject to arrest
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in termination of the visit
- Visitors on probation or parole must provide written permission from their supervising officer
For the most current visitation information, visitors should consult the Dallas County Sheriff's Office website or call the Inmate Visitation Information Line at (214) 653-3450.
How To Send Money to a Dallas County Inmate
Dallas County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, writing materials, and other permitted items.
Online Deposits:
- Visit the Dallas County Inmate Trust Fund website
- Create an account or log in if you already have one
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and booking number)
- Select the deposit amount
- Complete the payment using a credit or debit card
- Processing fees apply (typically 5% of the deposit amount)
- Funds are usually available in the inmate's account within 24 hours
Kiosk Deposits:
- Visit any of the kiosks located in the lobby areas of Dallas County detention facilities
- Enter the inmate's information on the touchscreen
- Insert cash or use a credit/debit card for the deposit
- Obtain and keep the receipt
- Small service fee applies (typically $2.00-$3.00 per transaction)
- Funds are typically available immediately
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order payable to "Dallas County Inmate Trust Fund"
- Write the inmate's full name and booking number on the money order
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or correspondence with the money order
- Mail to:
Dallas County Sheriff's Office
Inmate Trust Fund
133 N. Riverfront Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207 - No processing fee for money orders
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Deposit Restrictions:
- Funds from unidentifiable sources will be returned
- Money from other inmates or their families is prohibited
- Deposits from individuals with active warrants may be rejected
- Deposits suspected of being associated with illegal activity will be investigated
Permitted Uses of Funds:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
Prohibited Uses of Funds:
- Payment for services from other inmates
- Gambling or betting activities
- Purchase of contraband items
- Transfer to other inmates' accounts
For additional information about sending money to inmates in Dallas County facilities, contact the Inmate Trust Fund Office at (214) 653-3450 or visit the Dallas County Sheriff's Office website.
How To Send Jail Mail In Dallas County
Correspondence with inmates in Dallas County detention facilities is subject to specific guidelines established by the Dallas County Sheriff's Office. All mail is processed through the facility's mailroom and is subject to inspection for contraband and prohibited content.
Regular Mail Guidelines:
- Address envelopes with complete information: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Facility Name 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. Dallas, TX 75207
- Include your complete return address on the envelope
- Use standard white envelopes only
- Do not use colored paper, markers, crayons, glitter, or stickers
- Letters must be written in blue or black ink only
- All mail is opened and inspected before delivery to inmates
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 5 pages per envelope)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (must be in separate envelopes from letters)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (subject to review)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Cash or personal checks
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Plastic or laminated items
- Polaroid photographs
- Nude or sexually explicit photos
- Photos of current or former inmates
- Stamps, envelopes, or stationery
- Hardcover books or magazines
- Items with adhesives (tape, stickers, labels)
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or lipstick-marked letters
Books and Publications:
- Books must be sent directly from publishers or approved vendors
- Paperback books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
- Maximum of 3 books per package
- Address packages to: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Facility Name - Mailroom 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. Dallas, TX 75207
- Content is subject to review and may be rejected if deemed inappropriate
E-Messages (if available):
- Register on the Dallas County Inmate Messaging System
- Purchase credits for messages
- Compose and send messages through the online system
- Messages are printed and delivered with regular mail
- Service fees apply (typically $0.50 per message)
All mail sent to inmates in Dallas County facilities is subject to inspection in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291.2, which establishes guidelines for inmate correspondence in county jails.
For additional information regarding mail policies, contact the Dallas County Sheriff's Office at (214) 653-3450.
Lookup Inmate Records in Dallas County
Texas Department of Criminal Justice Inmate Information
Inmate Direct Purchase Program