Smith County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Smith County?
Inmate records are official government documents maintained by the Smith County Sheriff's Office that chronicle an individual's incarceration history within county correctional facilities. These comprehensive records document the entire custody lifecycle from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.001, these records constitute public information subject to specific disclosure regulations.
Inmate records differ substantially from court records in both content and custodianship. While the Smith County District Court and County Courts maintain case files documenting legal proceedings, the Smith County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records documenting physical detention. This distinction is important for members of the public seeking specific information about incarcerated individuals.
The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:
- Initial record generation occurs during booking/intake procedures
- Information is systematically updated throughout the period of incarceration
- Records are administratively closed upon the inmate's release
- Archives are maintained according to Texas Local Government Records Act § 201.003
The Smith County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of all inmate records for individuals detained within county facilities. These records contain vital information regarding an individual's identity, criminal charges, custody status, and release information.
Are Inmate Records Public In Smith County?
Inmate records in Smith County are classified as public information under the Texas Public Information Act § 552.021, which establishes the presumption that government records are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice further clarifies record accessibility through administrative policies that balance public transparency with security considerations.
Members of the public may access the following inmate information:
- Current inmate roster showing individuals presently in custody
- Booking and arrest records documenting intake procedures
- Criminal charges filed against the individual
- Mugshot photographs (with limited exceptions for security concerns)
- Bond and bail amounts established by the court
- Projected release dates for sentenced inmates
- Current housing facility location within the county system
Certain information may be redacted from public inmate records in accordance with Texas Government Code § 552.1175, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license information
- Medical and mental health records
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
The Smith County Sheriff's Office currently maintains an online inmate search portal that provides basic public information about individuals in custody, fulfilling the statutory requirement for public access while protecting sensitive information.
What's Included Inmate Records in Smith County
Smith County inmate records contain comprehensive documentation organized into several distinct categories of information. These records provide authorized users with a complete profile of individuals within the county correctional system.
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Gender and physical description
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Unique inmate identification number
- Fingerprint classification data
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking/intake
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
- Disciplinary incidents during incarceration
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed (misdemeanor or felony)
- Statute citations for alleged violations
- Case numbers associated with each charge
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Warrant information if applicable
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount set by court
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond conditions imposed by court
- Bail hearing dates and outcomes
Court Information:
- Jurisdiction handling the case
- Assigned court and judge
- Attorney of record (appointed or retained)
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court disposition of charges
Sentence Information (if convicted):
- Length of sentence imposed
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/work time credits earned
- Parole eligibility date
- Post-release supervision requirements
Release Information:
- Actual release date and time
- Type of release (time served, bond, transfer)
- Conditions of release if applicable
- Destination upon release
- Agency assuming custody if transferred
These records are maintained in both electronic and physical formats by the Smith County Sheriff's Office in accordance with Texas records retention schedules.
Smith County Prison System
The Smith County correctional system operates under the administrative authority of the Smith County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the custody, care, and control of all individuals remanded to county detention facilities. The system primarily serves two distinct functions: pre-trial detention for individuals awaiting court proceedings and incarceration for those serving sentences of up to one year as prescribed by Texas state law.
It is important to distinguish between county detention facilities and state prisons. The Smith County Jail houses individuals charged with or convicted of misdemeanors and those awaiting trial on felony charges. Individuals sentenced to more than one year of incarceration for felony convictions are transferred to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice state prison system.
The Smith County jail system currently operates multiple facilities to accommodate various classification levels and specialized housing needs. These facilities maintain compliance with Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations regarding capacity, staffing, and operational protocols.
Smith County Sheriff's Office
227 N. Spring Avenue
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2661
Smith County Sheriff's Office
Types of Correctional Facilities In Smith County
Smith County maintains a comprehensive correctional infrastructure consisting of multiple facilities designed to accommodate various inmate populations based on security classification, gender, and special needs. Each facility operates under the administrative oversight of the Smith County Sheriff's Office.
Smith County Central Jail
206 E. Ferguson Street
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2800
Smith County Sheriff's Office
This maximum-security facility serves as the primary intake and processing center for all individuals arrested within Smith County. The Central Jail houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced inmates serving misdemeanor sentences, and individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities. The facility includes specialized housing units for administrative segregation, disciplinary detention, and protective custody.
Smith County Low Risk Detention Facility
2811 Public Road
Tyler, TX 75701
(903) 590-2847
Smith County Sheriff's Office
This minimum-security facility houses non-violent offenders who present minimal escape risk and have demonstrated good institutional behavior. Inmates at this facility may participate in work release programs, educational opportunities, and rehabilitative services. The facility emphasizes reintegration preparation for individuals approaching release.
Smith County North Jail
218 E. Line Street
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2665
Smith County Sheriff's Office
This medium-security facility primarily houses female inmates of all classification levels and male inmates requiring specialized medical or mental health services. The North Jail includes dedicated housing units for inmates with chronic medical conditions, mental health needs, and those requiring protective custody due to vulnerability.
Each facility operates according to standardized policies and procedures established by the Smith County Sheriff's Office in compliance with Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations. All facilities undergo regular inspections to ensure adherence to state standards for safety, security, and inmate welfare.
Who's in Prison In Smith County
The Smith County correctional facilities house a diverse inmate population that reflects the various stages of the criminal justice process. The county jail system primarily accommodates individuals in the following categories:
Pre-trial Detainees:
- Individuals arrested and awaiting arraignment
- Defendants who have been arraigned but await trial
- Persons unable to post bond or denied bail
- Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions
Sentenced Misdemeanants:
- Persons serving sentences for Class A misdemeanors (up to 1 year)
- Persons serving sentences for Class B misdemeanors (up to 180 days)
- Individuals serving consecutive misdemeanor sentences
- Weekend or intermittent sentence participants
Short-term Felony Offenders:
- State jail felony offenders serving county time
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Individuals serving short felony sentences under local agreements
Specialized Populations:
- Individuals in substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment participants
- Work release program participants
- Trustees performing facility maintenance and operations
Administrative Detainees:
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
- Probation and parole violators awaiting hearings
- Witnesses held for court proceedings
- Persons in protective custody
According to data from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, the Smith County jail system typically operates at approximately 85% of its total capacity, with population fluctuations occurring based on seasonal arrest patterns, court scheduling, and transfer timing to state facilities.
The demographic composition of the Smith County inmate population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in Texas, with disproportionate representation of economically disadvantaged individuals and those with substance abuse or mental health challenges.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Smith County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Smith County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Smith County Sheriff's Office currently maintains multiple platforms through which inmate status and basic record information can be obtained.
Online Inmate Search Portal:
- Navigate to the Smith County Sheriff's Office official website
- Locate and select the "Inmate Search" function in the main navigation menu
- Enter the required search criteria (at minimum, last name is required)
- Additional search parameters may include first name, date of birth, or booking number
- Submit the search query by selecting "Search"
- Review the results displayed, which typically include name, booking date, charges, and bond information
- Select an individual record for additional publicly available details
In-Person Record Requests:
- Visit the Smith County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours
- Complete an inmate record request form, available at the public counter
- Provide proper identification as required by departmental policy
- Specify the exact records being requested and their intended use
- Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction
- Allow processing time as specified by records personnel
Written Record Requests:
- Prepare a formal written request clearly identifying the specific inmate records sought
- Include requestor contact information and relationship to the inmate if applicable
- Address the request to:
Smith County Sheriff's Office Records Division
227 N. Spring Avenue
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2661
Smith County Sheriff's Office
- Submit the request via mail, email, or fax as permitted by current departmental policy
- Include payment for any applicable fees as outlined in the fee schedule
- Allow 10 business days for processing as permitted under Texas Public Information Act
Requests for inmate records must comply with the provisions of the Texas Public Information Act. Certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with statutory exemptions protecting privacy, security, or ongoing investigations.
How To Find an Inmate in Smith County for Free?
Smith County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated within the county jail system. These resources are designed to assist family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties in determining an individual's custody status and location.
Smith County Sheriff's Online Inmate Lookup:
- Access the Smith County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Search" function from the main navigation menu
- Enter the inmate's last name (minimum requirement)
- Add first name or date of birth if available to narrow results
- Review the search results showing current inmates matching the criteria
- The system displays basic information including:
- Full name and booking photograph
- Current charges and case numbers
- Bond amounts if applicable
- Housing facility location
- Booking date and projected release date if available
Telephone Inquiry System:
- Contact the Smith County Jail Information Line at (903) 590-2800
- Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
- Provide the requested identifying information when prompted
- Basic custody status information will be provided for confirmed inmates
- The system operates 24 hours daily for public access
Victim Notification System:
- Texas maintains the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system
- Access the VINE service online or call 1-877-894-8463
- Register to receive custody status notifications
- Receive automated alerts regarding custody changes, transfers, or releases
- This service is provided at no cost to crime victims and concerned citizens
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Smith County Jail public lobby during regular business hours
- Speak with the reception officer at the information desk
- Provide the name of the individual you are attempting to locate
- Receive basic information regarding custody status and visitation eligibility
- No fees are assessed for basic inmate status inquiries
These free resources provide limited information in compliance with public records laws. More detailed inmate records may require formal requests and applicable fees as outlined in the Texas Public Information Act.
How To Visit an Inmate In Smith County
The Smith County Sheriff's Office maintains a structured inmate visitation program designed to facilitate contact between incarcerated individuals and approved visitors while maintaining facility security and operational efficiency. All visits must comply with established protocols as outlined below.
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list
- Inmates may update their visitation list once every 30 days
- Visitors must register at least 24 hours in advance of planned visit
- Each inmate is permitted two 20-minute visits per week
- Visitation schedules are determined by housing unit assignment
- Special visits for attorneys, clergy, and official visitors follow separate protocols
- All visits are subject to monitoring except privileged legal consultations
Visit Schedule:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Holidays: Limited schedule as posted at facility
- Schedule is subject to modification during facility lockdowns or emergencies
- Visitors should arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled visit time
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- Visitor registration confirmation number
- Vehicle keys (to be secured in provided lockers)
- Prescription medications needed during visit duration
- Baby care items if accompanied by infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives and pepper spray)
- Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20 for vending machines
- Prescription medications not required during visit
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required for all visitors
- No revealing, tight, or suggestive clothing
- No clothing resembling inmate attire (solid orange, white, or striped)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or halter tops
- Skirts and shorts must extend below the knee when seated
- Appropriate undergarments must be worn
- No hats, bandanas, or head coverings (religious exceptions with prior approval)
Visit Types:
- Contact visits: Available for minimum security inmates with approved record
- Non-contact visits: Standard visitation through secure partitions
- Video visitation: Available at designated terminals within the facility
- Remote video visitation: Available through approved service provider for fee
Visit Restrictions:
- Persons with felony convictions within past 5 years prohibited
- Current probationers/parolees require advance written permission
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Maximum of two adult visitors per inmate per session
- Children must be accompanied by authorized adult
- Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
Visitation policies are established pursuant to Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291 governing county jail operations. The Smith County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to deny visitation privileges to individuals who violate facility rules or present security concerns.
How To Send Money to a Smith County Inmate
The Smith County Sheriff's Office provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable incarcerated individuals to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and access other approved services within the facility.
Approved Deposit Methods:
-
Online Deposits
- Visit the official commissary service provider website
- Create an account or log in to existing account
- Select "Smith County Jail" from facility list
- Enter inmate name and ID number
- Specify deposit amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds generally available within 24 hours
-
Kiosk Deposits
- Visit the Smith County Jail lobby during regular business hours
- Locate the automated payment kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions to identify inmate
- Insert cash or credit/debit card as prompted
- Obtain and retain receipt for verification
- Funds typically available within 1-2 hours
- Lower service fees than online deposits
-
Mail Money Orders
- Purchase money order from approved provider (USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Make payable to "Smith County Inmate Trust Fund"
- Write inmate's full name and ID number in memo line
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to:
Smith County Jail Inmate Accounts
206 E. Ferguson Street
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2800
Smith County Sheriff's Office
- Processing time: 5-7 business days
- No service fees for money orders
Deposit Limits and Regulations:
- Maximum weekly deposit: $300 per inmate
- Maximum account balance: $500 per inmate
- Minimum deposit amount: $5.00
- Deposits from persons with criminal history subject to approval
- All deposits screened for security concerns
- Suspicious transactions reported to appropriate authorities
Approved Fund Uses:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone account funding
- Medical co-payments
- Haircut services
- Educational materials
- Release preparation expenses
Prohibited Fund Uses:
- Payment of fines or court costs
- Bond payments
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for prohibited services
- Accumulation beyond approved limits
Inmates receive account statements showing deposits and expenditures upon request. Questions regarding inmate accounts should be directed to the Inmate Accounts Office at (903) 590-2825 during regular business hours.
How To Send Jail Mail In Smith County
The Smith County Sheriff's Office maintains specific protocols for inmate correspondence to ensure security while facilitating communication between incarcerated individuals and their support networks. All mail must comply with established guidelines to avoid rejection.
General Mail Guidelines:
- All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name (as booked)
- Inmate's identification number
- Facility name and address
- Sender must provide complete return address including:
- Full name
- Street address
- City, state, and ZIP code
- All mail undergoes security screening before delivery
- Processing typically requires 24-48 hours after receipt
- Mail without proper identification will be returned to sender
Approved Mail Items:
- Personal letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
- Photographs (maximum 4"x6", limit 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (following financial deposit protocols)
- Legal documents from attorneys of record
- Religious materials (subject to content review)
- Approved periodicals sent directly from publisher
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages of any kind
- Padded or oversized envelopes
- Plastic or metal components
- Stickers or adhesive labels
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Polaroid photographs
- Sexually explicit materials
- Content depicting violence or criminal activity
- Gang-related symbols or references
- Encrypted or coded messages
Mailing Address Format:
For Regular Mail:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
Smith County Jail
206 E. Ferguson Street
Tyler, TX 75702
For Legal/Privileged Mail:
Inmate Full Name, ID Number
LEGAL MAIL
Smith County Jail
206 E. Ferguson Street
Tyler, TX 75702
Electronic Messaging Option:
- Available through approved third-party provider
- Requires account creation and prepaid credits
- Messages subject to same content restrictions as physical mail
- Delivery typically within 24 hours
- Fees apply per message sent
- Character limits enforced per message
All mail procedures comply with Texas Commission on Jail Standards § 291.2 regarding inmate correspondence. The Smith County Sheriff's Office reserves the right to reject any correspondence that violates established guidelines or presents security concerns.