Bexar County Public Records /Bexar County Inmate Search

Bexar County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Bexar County?

Inmate records in Bexar County are official government documents maintained by the Bexar County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, supervision, and care of individuals detained in county correctional facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial booking through their release from custody.

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.001, these records serve both administrative and public information purposes. Unlike court records, which document legal proceedings and are maintained by the judicial system, inmate records specifically document an individual's custodial status and are maintained by law enforcement agencies.

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where identifying information is collected and documented. As specified under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 62.051, these records include:

Biographical information
Photographs and fingerprints
Charge information
Custody classification
Housing assignments
Medical screening information
Property inventories

Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, court appearances, and other significant events. Upon release, the inmate record is completed with release information but remains in the system as a historical document.

Are Inmate Records Public In Bexar County?

Inmate records in Bexar County are generally considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, which establishes the presumption that government records are open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. The Act, codified in Texas Government Code Chapter 552, provides the legal framework for public access to these records.

The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:

Current inmate roster
Full name and age
Physical description
Booking date and time
Charges filed
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Current housing facility

However, certain components of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under Texas Government Code § 552.101 and other provisions. These exemptions typically include:

Medical and mental health information
Social Security numbers
Information that would compromise security
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Information related to ongoing investigations

Members of the public seeking access to inmate records may utilize the Bexar County Justice Information Portal or submit formal public information requests to the Sheriff's Office.

What's Included Inmate Records in Bexar County

Inmate records in Bexar County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories that document an individual's interaction with the criminal justice system. These records typically include:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth and age
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Fingerprints and photographs (mugshots)
System Identification Number (SID)

Custody Information:

Booking date and time
Arresting agency
Custody classification
Housing assignment
Disciplinary records
Visitor logs
Property inventory

Charge Information:

Current charges
Warrant information
Case numbers
Offense dates
Offense descriptions
Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony class)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond type (personal, surety, cash)
Bond amount
Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
Conditions of release

Court Information:

Court assignment
Scheduled court dates
Court appearance records
Attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Sentence length
Sentence start date
Projected release date
Good time/work time credits
Parole eligibility date

Release Information:

Release date and time
Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
Release conditions
Probation or parole requirements

This information is maintained in the Bexar County Sheriff's Office records management system and portions are accessible through the county's online inmate search portal.

Bexar County Prison System

The Bexar County correctional system operates under the authority of the Bexar County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the administration and operation of the county's detention facilities. This system primarily focuses on pre-trial detention and the incarceration of individuals serving sentences of up to one year.

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system. The Bexar County Adult Detention Center houses individuals who:

Are awaiting trial
Have been convicted of misdemeanors
Are serving sentences of less than one year
Are awaiting transfer to state prison facilities

Individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year are typically transferred to facilities operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), which manages the state prison system.

The Bexar County Sheriff's Office oversees all aspects of jail operations, including inmate housing, security, transportation, and records management.

Bexar County Sheriff's Office
200 N. Comal Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
210-335-6010
Bexar County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Bexar County

Bexar County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations:

Bexar County Adult Detention Center (Main Jail)
200 N. Comal Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
210-335-6010
Bexar County Sheriff's Office

This is the primary detention facility in Bexar County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility accommodates various custody classifications including minimum, medium, and maximum security. It includes specialized housing units for inmates with medical needs, mental health concerns, and those requiring protective custody.

Bexar County Annex Detention Center
200 N. Comal Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
210-335-6010
Bexar County Sheriff's Office

This facility serves as an extension of the main jail, providing additional housing capacity for the county's inmate population. It primarily houses minimum and medium security inmates.

Bexar County Central Magistrate Facility
401 S. Frio Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
210-335-6400
Bexar County Central Magistrate

While not a long-term detention facility, this location serves as the initial processing center for newly arrested individuals. Here, arrestees are booked, magistrated, and either released on bond or transferred to the main detention center.

Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center
600 Mission Road
San Antonio, TX 78210
210-335-7500
Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department

This facility houses juvenile offenders (under 17 years of age) and operates separately from the adult detention system under the authority of the Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department.

Who's in Prison In Bexar County

The Bexar County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
Persons awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

Individuals convicted of Class A or B misdemeanors serving sentences of up to one year
Those serving weekend or intermittent sentences
Individuals on work release programs

Short-term Felony Offenders:

Persons convicted of state jail felonies serving short sentences locally
Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities

Specialized Populations:

Individuals with mental health needs in specialized housing units
Those requiring medical care or observation
Protective custody cases

Technical Violators:

Probation violators awaiting hearings
Parole violators awaiting disposition

Federal Detainees:

Individuals held under contract with federal agencies (U.S. Marshals Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

According to Bexar County Jail Activity Reports, the daily population averages approximately 4,000 inmates, with fluctuations based on seasonal arrest patterns, court activity, and other factors. The majority of inmates are pre-trial detainees who have not been convicted of the charges for which they are being held.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Bexar County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Bexar County may utilize several methods to access these records:

Online Justice Information Portal:

The Bexar County Justice Information Portal provides the most convenient method for searching inmate records. To conduct a search:

Navigate to the official portal website
Select the "Inmate Search" option
Enter search criteria (at least one is required):
- Full name (last name, first name)
- System Identification Number (SID)
- Date of birth
Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and demographic information
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Housing location
- Next court date

In-Person Records Request:

Individuals may request inmate records in person at:

Bexar County Sheriff's Office Records Division
200 N. Comal Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
210-335-6010
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

When requesting records in person:

Complete a public information request form
Provide specific information about the inmate
Present valid identification
Pay applicable fees for copies of records

Written Request:

Written requests may be submitted via mail or email:

Prepare a written request clearly identifying:
- The inmate's full name
- Date of birth or approximate age
- Specific information requested
Include requestor contact information
Mail to the Sheriff's Office Records Division or email to the designated public information address

All requests are processed in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act, which generally requires a response within 10 business days.

How To Find an Inmate in Bexar County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Bexar County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods:

Bexar County Online Inmate Search:

The most efficient method is using the county's online inmate search system:

Visit the Bexar County Justice Information Portal
Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
Enter the inmate's information (last name is required, first name recommended)
For more specific results, include additional identifiers such as:
- Date of birth
- System Identification Number (SID)
- Booking number (if known)
Review the search results, which display current inmates only

Central Magistrate Search:

For recently arrested individuals who may not yet appear in the main inmate database:

Access the Bexar County Central Magistrate Search
Enter the individual's name
Review recent arrest information for individuals charged with Class B misdemeanors or higher

Telephone Inquiry:

For those without internet access, information can be obtained by phone:

Bexar County Sheriff's Office Information Line
210-335-6000
Hours: 24 hours daily

When calling, be prepared to provide:

Inmate's full name (with correct spelling)
Date of birth (if known)
Approximate date of arrest (if known)

Jail Information Kiosk:

Visitors to the Bexar County Adult Detention Center can use on-site kiosks:

Bexar County Adult Detention Center Lobby
200 N. Comal Street
San Antonio, TX 78207
Hours: 24 hours daily

These kiosks provide basic inmate information and visitation scheduling capabilities.

How To Visit an Inmate In Bexar County

Visitation at Bexar County detention facilities follows specific protocols to ensure security and orderly operations. All visits are subject to the regulations established by the Bexar County Sheriff's Office and in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must register and schedule visits in advance
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an authorized adult
Each inmate is permitted two 20-minute visits per week
Special visits may be authorized for out-of-town visitors (100+ miles)
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification

Visit Schedule:

Visitation hours vary by housing unit and are subject to change. Currently:

General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Special Housing Units: Designated days/times as posted
No visits on Mondays and Tuesdays (reserved for attorney visits)

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Visitor registration confirmation
Essential medical items (with prior approval)
Locker key deposit ($5, returned after visit)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
Food or beverages
Tobacco products
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code:

Conservative attire required
No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing resembling inmate attire
No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
Shoes required at all times

Visit Types:

On-site Video Visitation:
- Conducted via video terminals in the visitation center
- Must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Free of charge
Remote Video Visitation:
- Available from any internet-connected device
- Requires account creation and scheduling
- Fees apply ($7.50 per 20-minute session)
Professional Visits:
- Available for attorneys, clergy, and other approved professionals
- Conducted in non-recorded, confidential settings
- Available seven days a week with proper credentials

Visit Restrictions:

Visitation privileges may be suspended or modified for:

Violation of visitation rules
Security concerns
Facility lockdowns
Disciplinary actions against inmates
Court orders restricting contact

Visitors with questions regarding visitation policies may contact the Bexar County Adult Detention Center Visitation Office at 210-335-6226.

How To Send Money to a Bexar County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Bexar County detention facilities have several options for depositing funds into inmate accounts. All financial transactions are processed in accordance with Bexar County Inmate & Bond Information policies.

Available Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay website or download the mobile app
- Create an account or proceed as a guest
- Enter the inmate's information (full name and SID number)
- Select payment amount and method
- Complete transaction
Lobby Kiosk:
- Available 24/7 in the main lobby of the detention center
- Touch screen operation with clear instructions
- Accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Provides immediate receipt
Phone Deposits:
- Call the automated system at 1-866-232-1899
- Follow voice prompts to complete transaction
- Credit/debit card payments only
Mail Deposits:
- Send money order only (no personal checks or cash)
- Make payable to the inmate's full name and SID number
- Mail to: Bexar County Adult Detention Center Inmate Trust Fund 200 N. Comal Street San Antonio, TX 78207

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $1.00
Maximum single deposit: $300.00
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
Maximum monthly deposit: $1,500.00 per inmate

Transaction Fees:

Online/Phone: $2.95 fee for deposits up to $20.00
Online/Phone: $6.95 fee for deposits $20.01-$100.00
Online/Phone: $9.95 fee for deposits $100.01-$300.00
Lobby Kiosk: $3.00 flat fee for all deposit amounts
Mail (money order): No fee

Prohibited Items:

Personal checks
Cash sent through mail
Cashier's checks
Traveler's checks
Foreign currency

Fund Usage Guidelines:

Inmates may use deposited funds for:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Phone calls
Medical co-pays
Haircuts
Release funds

Funds may not be used for:

Bond payments
Fine payments
Restitution
Transfers to other inmates

The Bexar County Sheriff's Office cautions that they do not solicit payments by phone and will never request gift card purchases to avoid arrest. Any such solicitations should be reported as fraudulent.

How To Send Jail Mail In Bexar County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Bexar County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines established by the Sheriff's Office to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail procedures comply with Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations.

General Mail Guidelines:

All non-legal mail must be sent via postcard only. Postcards must:

Be no larger than 5" x 7"
Be commercially produced (not homemade)
Contain the sender's full name and return address
Include the inmate's full name, SID number, and housing unit (if known)
Be addressed to: Inmate Full Name, SID# Bexar County Adult Detention Center 200 N. Comal Street San Antonio, TX 78207

Legal Mail Guidelines:

Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must:

Be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
Include the sender's bar number or agency identification
Contain the sender's full name and return address
Be addressed with the inmate's full name and SID number

Prohibited Content:

The following items are prohibited in all correspondence:

Personal checks, cash, or money orders (send financial items to Inmate Trust Fund only)
Stamps, envelopes, or stationery
Polaroid photos or photos depicting illegal activity
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related content
Stickers, labels, or tape
Perfumed or scented items
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Items containing biohazards or unknown substances

Publications and Books:

Books and publications must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor and must:

Be paperback only (no hardcover books)
Contain no sexually explicit or security-threatening content
Include the inmate's full name and SID number
Be limited to three items per mailing

E-Messages:

Electronic messaging is available through the inmate communication system:

Create an account on the approved vendor website
Purchase message credits
Compose and send messages (subject to review)
Attach approved digital photos (additional fee applies)

All correspondence, regardless of format, is subject to inspection and may be rejected if it violates facility rules or poses security concerns. Senders of rejected mail will receive notification explaining the reason for rejection.