Galveston County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Galveston County?
Inmate records in Galveston County are official documents maintained by county correctional facilities and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) that contain information about individuals who are or have been incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records serve as the official documentation of an individual's time in custody and are maintained pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.029.
Inmate records typically include:
- Booking information and intake documentation
- Personal identification details
- Criminal charges and case numbers
- Custody classification information
- Scheduled court appearances
- Release dates and bond information
- Disciplinary records during incarceration
- Visitation logs and approved visitor lists
The Galveston County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state record-keeping requirements and retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
Are Inmate Records Public In Galveston County?
Inmate records in Galveston County are generally considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552). However, access to these records is subject to certain limitations and exceptions as prescribed by law.
Members of the public may access basic inmate information including:
- Full name and identification number
- Physical description
- Date of birth
- Facility location
- Booking date
- Charges filed
- Bond amount
- Court information
- Expected release date
Certain information within inmate records may be redacted or restricted from public disclosure, including:
- Medical and mental health information (protected under HIPAA)
- Information that could compromise institutional security
- Records pertaining to juvenile offenders
- Information that could endanger an individual if released
- Social Security numbers and other sensitive personal identifiers
Requests for inmate records must be submitted in accordance with established procedures through the Galveston County Sheriff's Office Records Division or the appropriate correctional facility.
What's Included Inmate Records in Galveston County
Inmate records maintained by Galveston County correctional facilities contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's incarceration history. These records are maintained in compliance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 269, Subchapter B, Rule §269.13 regarding record keeping standards.
Standard inmate records in Galveston County include:
- Booking photographs (mugshots)
- Fingerprint records and biometric identifiers
- Criminal history information
- Current charges and case status
- Court documents related to the case
- Sentencing information and judgment orders
- Custody classification assessments
- Disciplinary reports and incident documentation
- Visitation records and approved visitor lists
- Commissary account information
- Program participation and work assignments
- Medical screening information (with restricted access)
- Property inventory lists
- Release documentation
The Galveston County Sheriff's Office Records Division is responsible for maintaining the accuracy and security of these records throughout an inmate's period of incarceration and beyond, in accordance with state-mandated retention schedules.
Galveston County Prison System
The Galveston County prison system operates under the authority of the Galveston County Sheriff's Office and in coordination with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. This system encompasses various correctional facilities designed to house individuals at different security levels and with different needs.
The primary facility in the county is:
Galveston County Jail 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551 Phone: (409) 763-7597 Galveston County Sheriff's Office
The Galveston County prison system operates in accordance with Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations and is subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with state standards for:
- Facility safety and security
- Inmate health and welfare
- Staff training and qualifications
- Food service and sanitation
- Recreation and programming opportunities
- Religious accommodations
- Legal access for inmates
Individuals sentenced to longer terms may be transferred to state facilities operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, though they initially process through the county system.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Galveston County
Galveston County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility operates under specific guidelines established by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
The county's correctional infrastructure includes:
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Main Detention Center: Houses the majority of pre-trial detainees and those serving shorter sentences for misdemeanor offenses. This facility includes specialized housing units for different classification levels.
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Minimum Security Facility: Accommodates low-risk offenders, work release participants, and those nearing the end of their sentences.
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Medical Housing Units: Specialized housing for inmates requiring ongoing medical care or observation.
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Behavioral Health Units: Designated areas for inmates with mental health needs requiring specialized supervision and treatment.
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Juvenile Detention Facility: Separate facility operated by Galveston County Juvenile Justice Department for youthful offenders under 17 years of age.
Additionally, the Dickinson Police Department maintains temporary holding facilities for individuals arrested within city limits before transfer to county facilities. More information about these facilities can be found on the Dickinson Police Department website.
Who's in Prison In Galveston County
The inmate population in Galveston County correctional facilities consists of diverse individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. As of 2025, the county facilities house approximately 1,200 inmates on an average day, with fluctuations based on seasonal factors and law enforcement activity.
The inmate population typically includes:
- Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
- Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses (typically under one year)
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state facilities
- Probation and parole violators
- Federal detainees housed under intergovernmental agreements
- Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
Demographic analysis of the Galveston County inmate population indicates:
- Approximately 82% male and 18% female inmates
- Age ranges from 17 to senior citizens, with the majority between 25-45 years
- Diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds reflecting the county's population
- Varying educational backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses
- Range of offense types from non-violent misdemeanors to serious felonies
The Galveston County Sheriff's Office maintains current statistics on inmate population demographics and makes certain aggregate data available to researchers and the public upon request, pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.029.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Galveston County in 2025
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Galveston County may utilize several official channels to access these records. The Galveston County Sheriff's Office provides multiple methods for conducting inmate searches in compliance with Texas Public Information Act provisions.
To search for inmate records:
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Online Inmate Lookup System: The Galveston County Sheriff's Office maintains a public-facing inmate search portal on their official website. Users may search by name, booking number, or date of birth.
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In-Person Requests: Records may be requested in person at: Galveston County Sheriff's Office Records Division 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Phone: (409) 766-2300
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Written Requests: Submit formal written requests for inmate information to: Galveston County Sheriff's Office Attn: Records Division 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551
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Telephone Information: Limited information may be obtained by calling the Galveston County Jail Information Line at (409) 766-2322 during business hours.
When requesting information, individuals should provide:
- Inmate's full legal name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Booking number (if known)
- Requestor's contact information
Responses to requests are typically provided within 10 business days in accordance with Texas Government Code § 552.221.
How To Find an Inmate in Galveston County for Free?
Galveston County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals currently in custody within the county correctional system. These free resources are available to the general public in accordance with transparency provisions of the Texas Public Information Act.
Free inmate locator resources include:
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Galveston County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search: The official online database maintained by the Sheriff's Office provides basic custody information at no charge. This resource is updated regularly and includes current inmates only.
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Jail Information Telephone Line: The public may call (409) 766-2322 to inquire about an individual's custody status. Staff can confirm if someone is in custody and provide basic information about their location and charges.
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VINELink Service: Victims and concerned parties may register with the Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) system to receive free automated notifications about an inmate's custody status, including transfers and releases.
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Court Records Search: The Galveston County District Clerk's Office maintains public court records that may indicate if an individual is in custody. These records can be accessed through the county's online court records portal.
When utilizing these free resources, members of the public should be prepared to provide the inmate's full legal name and, if possible, date of birth to ensure accurate results. Information obtained through these channels is limited to basic custody status and does not include comprehensive case details or personal information.
How To Visit an Inmate In Galveston County
Visitation with inmates housed in Galveston County correctional facilities is permitted according to established protocols designed to maintain facility security while supporting inmate connections with family and approved visitors. All visitation is subject to Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291 regulations.
Visitation procedures include:
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Registration Requirements: All visitors must register in advance and be on the inmate's approved visitor list. Initial registration requires government-issued photo identification.
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Visitation Schedule:
- General Population: Wednesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Special Housing Units: Schedule varies; contact facility for specific times
- No visitation on Mondays, Tuesdays, or county holidays
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Visitor Regulations:
- Maximum of two adults per visit
- Children must be accompanied by an authorized adult
- Proper attire required (no revealing clothing, gang-related items, or orange/white clothing)
- No personal items allowed in visitation area except for identification
- All visitors subject to security screening
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Video Visitation Option: Remote video visitation is available through the county's contracted service provider. Fees apply for remote sessions, while on-site video visitation is provided at no cost.
Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time at: Galveston County Jail Visitation Center 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551 Phone: (409) 766-2333
How To Send Money to a Galveston County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Galveston County facilities have several authorized methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. All transactions are processed in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291, Rule §291.3 regarding inmate funds.
Approved methods for sending money include:
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Online Deposits: The county contracts with TouchPay and eCommDirect to provide secure online money transfers. Fees apply based on deposit amount.
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Kiosk Deposits: Self-service kiosks are available in the lobby of the Galveston County Jail at 5700 Avenue H, Galveston, TX 77551. Kiosks accept cash and credit/debit cards.
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Money Orders: Money orders may be mailed to: Galveston County Jail Inmate Accounts 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551
Money orders must include the inmate's full name and booking number on the payable line.
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Commissary Deposits: Funds may be added to an inmate's account during normal business hours at: Galveston County Jail Commissary Office 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
All deposits are subject to processing times of 1-3 business days. A percentage of all deposits may be applied to any outstanding debts, including court costs, restitution, or medical co-pays, in accordance with Texas state law.
How To Send Jail Mail In Galveston County
Correspondence with inmates in Galveston County correctional facilities must follow specific guidelines established to maintain security and facilitate efficient processing. All mail procedures comply with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291, Rule §291.2.
Mail requirements include:
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Addressing Format: Inmate's Full Name and Booking Number Galveston County Jail 5700 Avenue H Galveston, TX 77551
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Permitted Items:
- Letters on plain white paper
- Photographs (maximum 4"x6", limit of 5 per envelope)
- Money orders (must be separate from letters)
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
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Prohibited Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Colored paper or envelopes
- Polaroid photographs
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or envelopes
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writing
- Any items with perfume, lipstick, or unknown substances
All incoming mail is opened, inspected, and may be photocopied before delivery to inmates. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies must be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and will be opened in the inmate's presence.
Outgoing mail from inmates is subject to inspection and must include the inmate's name and return address. Postage is the responsibility of the inmate and is available for purchase through the commissary.