Dallas Jail

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Core Dallas Jail Information & Contact

The main jail in Dallas is run by the Dallas County Sheriff. It holds individuals awaiting trial. Some are there for short terms. Others await transfer to state prison. The main location is the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. This is where most Dallas Jail operations take place.

Primary Dallas Jail Facilities: Lew Sterrett Justice Center Complex

The main Dallas Jail is not just one building; it is a large complex known as the Lew Sterrett Justice Center.

• Address: 111 West Commerce Street, Dallas, Texas 75202. This is the central address for the Dallas Jail.

• General Jail/Inmate Information Phone: You can call (214) 761-9025 or (214) 761-9026. These lines are for information on individuals in the Dallas Jail or for facts about how the jail operates.

• Lobby Information Booth: This is in the Frank Crowley Courts Building, part of the same large complex. The booth aims to assist visitors. It is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. These hours can change, so it is good to verify if you plan to visit. This booth can provide forms, direct you to the correct location, and help with some Dallas Jail needs.

The Lew Sterrett site has several main jail towers. Each plays a role in the Dallas Jail system.

• North Tower Detention Facility: This tower was built in 1993 and is a high-tech facility. It can hold up to 3,292 individuals who require maximum security. It has 188 single-occupancy cells. A staff of 350 operates this part of the Dallas Jail. It is for those considered high risk.

• West Tower Detention Facility: Also located at 111 West Commerce Street, this tower can house up to 1,530 male inmates. It has 132 tanks and 25 single-occupancy cells. This tower accommodates various inmate classifications and is key for those with mental health needs within the Dallas Jail. It also holds individuals with Class “C” charges, some low-risk workers, and those needing care in the infirmary or close observation if they may be a danger to themselves. It is a significant part of the Dallas Jail.

• Suzanne Lee Kays Detention Facility (South Tower): This part of the Dallas Jail, also at the main address, is the facility's first to use a "direct supervision" model. This means guards work directly in the housing units with the inmates. Construction was completed in the spring of 2008. It can hold 2,304 individuals. This tower was named for Suzanne Lee Kays, a deputy who died in the line of duty in 1989. This tower represents a modern approach to running a Dallas Jail and helps maintain safety.

Other Detention Facilities in Dallas County

While the Lew Sterrett Justice Center is the main Dallas County Jail, some cities within Dallas County operate their own smaller jails. These are often for temporary holding. If an individual is held in a city jail for a more serious charge, they will typically be transferred to the main Dallas Jail at Lew Sterrett. An example is the City of Garland Detention Center.

• Garland Detention Center Address: 1900 W State Street, Garland, TX 75042.

• Garland Detention Center Phone: 972-485-4890. This type of smaller jail holds individuals immediately after an arrest. They may stay for a few hours or a day before being moved to the larger Dallas Jail if they do not secure release on bond from the city jail. This process is crucial to how the overall Dallas Jail system functions, allowing local police to act quickly and then transfer individuals to the appropriate long-term facility.

Key Contact Numbers for Dallas Jail Matters

To get assistance with the Dallas Jail, these phone numbers for the Dallas County Sheriff's Department are important.

• Main Dispatch/Emergency: (214) 749-8641. This is for all Sheriff operations, not exclusively jail matters.

• Bond Administration: (214) 653-2755. Call this for information on how to post bond at the Dallas Jail.

• Inmate General Info: (214) 761-9025. This is a primary line for Dallas Jail information.

• PREA Inquiry: (214) 653-3419. This is for the Prison Rape Elimination Act. Call if you have concerns regarding this.

• Warrants General Info: (214) 761-9026. For information on whether an individual has a warrant.

• Detentions Administration: (214) 653-2902. For high-level jail operations.

• Inmate Services: (214) 653-3474. For needs such as an inmate's property.

• Inmate Programs Division: (214) 653-2839. For information on educational or religious programs in the Dallas Jail. You can find additional numbers on the Dallas County Sheriff's website under "Contact Us." These lines help you reach the appropriate part of the Dallas Jail staff.

Dallas Jail Inmate Search & Status

It is important to know how to find someone in the Dallas Jail. You also need to understand what their status means. The Dallas Jail provides tools to assist with this.

How to Find an Inmate in a Dallas Jail

The primary method to find an individual in the Dallas Jail is by using the internet.

1. Official Dallas County Inmate Lookup Tool: The Dallas County Sheriff operates a website for this purpose. You can find it at https://www.dallascounty.org/jaillookup/. This is the best place to start your search for someone in the Dallas Jail. This tool is free and generally up to date.

2. Information Needed: To use the tool, you will need some information:

   • The full legal name of the individual.

   • The booking number, if you have it. This number is assigned when they are first processed into the Dallas Jail.

   • The date of birth can help refine the search.

3. Information Provided: When you find the correct individual, the site will typically show:

   • A booking photo (mugshot).

   • The charge or list of charges.

   • The bail amount, if one has been set.

   • Their current location within the Dallas Jail (e.g., North Tower, West Tower). This tool is an excellent first step, providing quick, official information from the Dallas Jail. It can offer peace of mind or help you plan your next steps. Ensure you spell names correctly.

Daily Booked-In Reports / Daily Bond Reports

Sometimes, the Dallas County Sheriff's site may post lists showing who was booked into the Dallas Jail each day. They might also show who was released on bond. You would typically look on the Sheriff's main website or the jail information page. These lists are not for everyone but, if available, they provide a broad overview of movements in and out of the Dallas Jail. These are useful for news media or those who track such data. The main inmate search tool is best for locating a specific individual.

Understanding Inmate Status

When you find an individual in the Dallas Jail, their status is key. It indicates their position in the legal process.

• Awaiting Trial: Most individuals in the Dallas Jail are in this category. They have been charged but have not yet gone to court to enter a plea, or their trial has not yet occurred. They are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

• Sentenced (Local/State): Some individuals in the Dallas Jail have had their trial or have pleaded guilty. A judge has ordered them to serve time. If the sentence is short, they may serve it in the Dallas Jail. If it is long, they await transfer to a state prison.

• Awaiting Transfer (to TDCJ or other facilities): If an individual receives a long sentence, they will be transferred to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), which is the state prison system. While awaiting a placement or transport, they remain in the Dallas Jail. You can search for individuals in state prison on the TDCJ website: https://inmate.tdcj.texas.gov/InmateSearch/index.jsp. This status tells you what to expect next for the individual in the Dallas Jail and helps you understand whether their stay will be short or long term.

Arrest and Booking Process at a Dallas Jail

When an individual is arrested in Dallas County, a standard process begins, leading them to a Dallas Jail. The first few hours are critical.

Initial Arrest in Dallas County

A police officer can make an arrest. This could be a Dallas Police Department officer, an officer from a smaller local town, or a Sheriff's deputy.

• Once arrested, the individual may first be taken to a small city jail for temporary holding while the officer completes paperwork.

• Alternatively, they may be transported directly to one of the main Dallas Jail facilities within the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. This is more common for serious crimes or if smaller jails are full. The initial location can vary, but the subsequent steps are largely the same as they enter the Dallas Jail system.

The Booking Procedure at a Dallas Jail

Booking is the process by which the Dallas Jail officially admits a new individual. It involves a set of steps that must be completed for everyone.

1. Recording Personal Information: Name, date of birth, address, and similar details are recorded.

2. Fingerprinting and Photographs (Mugshot): Fingerprints are taken, and a booking photo (mugshot) is captured. This information goes into the Dallas Jail files.

3. Inventory of Personal Property: All personal items the individual has (phone, keys, cash) are collected, inventoried, and stored safely. These items are generally returned upon release from the Dallas Jail (exceptions apply for contraband).

4. Health Screening: A nurse or medical staff member may ask brief health questions to determine if immediate medical attention is needed or if there are pre-existing conditions the Dallas Jail should be aware of.

5. Charges Filed: Law enforcement informs the Dallas Jail staff of the crime(s) the individual is charged with. This is recorded in their file.

6. Awaiting Magistration / Bail Setting: After booking, the individual waits to see a judge (magistrate). The judge informs them of their rights and sets bail if applicable. This wait can be a few hours or longer if the Dallas Jail is busy or if it is a weekend or nighttime.

Your Rights During Arrest

Even when arrested, individuals have rights under U.S. and Texas law.

• Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to speak to police officers or answer their questions. You can state, "I wish to remain silent." The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 38.22, addresses this. Anything you say can be used against you.

• Right to an Attorney: You have the right to legal representation. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court must appoint one for you. You can state, "I want an attorney." Once you request this, officers should cease questioning.

• Right to Refuse Unlawful Searches: Police cannot search you or your property without a valid reason (probable cause) or a warrant. This is protected by the Fourth Amendment. If officers ask for permission to search, you can say no. However, if they have a warrant, they can proceed. If you are arrested, they can search your person and the immediate surrounding area. Know and exercise these rights. They are in place to protect you during the Dallas Jail process.

Initial Appearance Before a Judge (Arraignment/Magistration)

This is the first time an individual sees a judge after an arrest. It should occur relatively quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours. This step is crucial for their Dallas Jail stay.

• Formally informed of charges: The judge reads the crime(s) they are charged with.

• Bail determination: The judge sets a bail amount, which is the money required to be released from the Dallas Jail while the case proceeds. The judge can also deny bail or release them on their own recognizance (a PR bond).

• Rights advisement: The judge informs them of their rights again, including the right to an attorney.

• Process if bail is not set or cannot be posted: If bail is denied, or if the amount is too high to pay, the individual remains in the Dallas Jail to await their next court date. This first judicial appearance is a significant step that shapes the subsequent course of their Dallas Jail experience.

Bail and Bond Information for Dallas Jails

Bail is a sum of money that allows an individual to be released from the Dallas Jail. They must still appear for all court dates. Failure to appear results in forfeiture of the money and a new warrant for their arrest.

What is Bail?

The primary purpose of bail is to ensure an individual returns to court. It is not a fine or a punishment. A judge sets the bail amount, considering the severity of the crime, the individual's past court appearance record, and any risk they might pose to the community. Texas law (Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 17.15) states that bail should not be excessive, but "excessive" can still be a substantial amount for many. The Dallas Jail houses many individuals who cannot afford their bail.

Types of Bonds in Dallas County

There are a few ways to pay bail to secure release from a Dallas Jail.

1. Cash Bond: This means paying the full bail amount in cash.

   • Location to Pay: This is paid at the Bond Desk in the Lew Sterrett Justice Center.

   • Address: 111 West Commerce Street, Dallas, Texas 75202. The bond desk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing cash bonds for the Dallas Jail to be posted at any time.

   • Payment Methods: You must use actual cash, a cashier's check, or a money order from a local financial institution, payable to the "Dallas County Sheriff." (It is advisable to verify the exact payee name beforehand.) The Dallas Jail does NOT accept personal checks, debit cards, or credit cards for cash bonds.

2. Surety Bond: This involves using a bail bond company. You pay them a non-refundable fee, typically 10% to 15% of the total bail amount. The bail bond company then posts the full bail amount with the Dallas Jail. If the individual fails to appear in court, the bond company is responsible for the full bail amount and will likely take action to locate the individual.

3. Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond: Sometimes a judge allows an individual to be released from the Dallas Jail on their word alone. This is a PR bond. They sign a document promising to appear in court and do not pay money upfront. PR bonds are not granted to everyone; they are more common for minor offenses or if the individual has strong community ties and is not considered a flight risk.

Posting Bond for City of Dallas Arrests (Municipal Charges)

If the arrest was made by a City of Dallas officer for a municipal charge (like a traffic ticket or minor ordinance violation), the bonding location might be different.

• Location: Attorney & Cash Bonds for Arrested Defendants, City of Dallas Detention Center, Dallas Marshal's Office.

• Address: 1600 Chestnut Street, Dallas, TX 75226. This location is also typically open 24/7. This is not for all Dallas Jail bonds, only for certain city-level charges. Most bonds for serious crimes go through the Lew Sterrett Dallas Jail bond desk.

What Happens After Bail Is Posted?

Once bail is paid to the Dallas Jail, the individual can be released.

• The release process can take time; it is not immediate. It might be a few hours or longer if the Dallas Jail is very busy.

• The critical obligation is that the individual MUST attend all court dates. Missing a court date results in forfeiture of the bond money, and a new warrant will be issued for their arrest. They would then return to the Dallas Jail, and obtaining release on bond again would be much more difficult. Bail is a significant matter. It provides freedom while the case is pending but comes with serious responsibilities.

Dallas Jail Visitation: Rules and Procedures

To visit an individual in the Dallas Jail, you must adhere to the rules. The Dallas Jail has strict procedures for all visitors to ensure everyone's safety.

Eligibility to Visit an Inmate

Not just anyone can walk into the Dallas Jail and request to see an inmate.

1. Visitor Approval: Each inmate in the Dallas Jail creates a list of individuals they wish to see. This is done on a "visitor card." They can revise this list, but typically not frequently (perhaps once every 90 days). Therefore, you must be on their approved list to visit them at the Dallas Jail.

2. Restrictions: Some individuals may not be permitted to visit. For instance, if you were an inmate in the Dallas Jail yourself within the last six months, you might not be allowed to visit. Check the complete rules if you have any doubts.

Visitation Schedule (All Dallas County Jail Facilities - Lew Sterrett Complex)

Visiting hours are set by the Dallas Jail and apply to all facilities within the Lew Sterrett complex.

• No Visitation on Wednesdays. The Dallas Jail uses this day for other operational tasks.

• Inmates with last names A-L: Visitation is on Mondays and Thursdays, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

• Inmates with last names M-Z: Visitation is on Tuesdays and Fridays, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

• Open Visitation (All Inmates A-Z): On Saturdays and Sundays, all inmates in the Dallas Jail (A-Z) can receive visitors. Hours are from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

• Processing Cut-off: Arrive on time! Dallas Jail staff will not begin processing visitors if it is too close to the end of the session. This means you should aim to be there before 8:30 PM on weekdays and before 1:30 PM on weekends.

• Confirm current schedules: These times can change. It is best to check the Dallas County Sheriff's website or call the Dallas Jail at (214) 761-9025 to confirm. Events like a lockdown or severe weather can alter schedules.

Number and Length of Visits

The Dallas Jail regulates how often and for how long you can visit an inmate.

• Each inmate is allowed two (2) visits per calendar week.

• Each visit is typically short, usually 20 minutes long.

• If you live far from Dallas (more than 75 miles away), you might be granted one extended visit, possibly 40 minutes. You must provide proof of residence. This is a one-time allowance; all other visits will be 20 minutes.

• The maximum number of visitors per session is usually two adults and two children, or up to four people total. Verify current limits with the Dallas Jail.

Visitor Requirements

To enter the Dallas Jail for a visit, you must meet these requirements.

1. Valid Photo ID: All adult visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a state driver's license or ID card. A temporary paper license might be acceptable if it is current and accompanied by another photo ID.

2. Dress Code: You must dress conservatively and appropriately. The Dallas Jail will deny entry if your clothing is too revealing or has offensive words or images. Consider it a public place with men, women, and children. Avoid overly short shorts or low-cut tops.

3. Age Restrictions for Visitors:

   • Children under 17 years old can only visit on Saturdays and Sundays. They MUST be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian (proof of guardianship may be required).

   • Each adult can accompany only two children.

   • If a child under 17 is married to the inmate, they must show proof of marriage and may then be allowed to visit on other days. These rules are crucial. Failure to comply will result in being denied entry to the Dallas Jail, which can mean a wasted trip.

Prohibited Items & Conduct at Dallas Jail

What you bring to the Dallas Jail and how you behave are very important.

• Prohibited Items: You may NOT bring the following items into the visitation area of the Dallas Jail:

  • Cell phones, iPhones, smartwatches

  • Cameras, audio recorders

  • Bags, backpacks, purses (check rules for small wallets)

  • Tobacco, lighters, matches, e-cigarettes

  • Food or drinks (small items for an infant may be permitted; ask first)

  • Drugs not in a clear, labeled prescription bottle.

  • Weapons of any kind.

• No items given directly to inmates: You cannot hand anything to the inmate you are visiting at the Dallas Jail. All items must go through approved channels like mail or commissary.

• Must clear metal detector: You will be required to walk through a metal scanner, similar to airport security.

• Disruptive behavior will terminate the visit: If you or your children make noise, run around, or are disruptive, the visit will end, and you will be asked to leave the Dallas Jail. You must keep children with you and ensure they are calm. These rules help the Dallas Jail maintain safety and order. Please respect them.

Video Visitation at Dallas Jail

Sometimes the Dallas Jail may offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits.

• Availability and how to schedule: Check the Dallas County Sheriff's website or call the Dallas Jail. They will inform you if this option is available and how to set it up. There may be a fee involved.

• Rules: Video visits also have rules:

  • No nudity or overly revealing clothing.

  • Do not display drugs, alcohol, or gang-related symbols.

  • All video visits are recorded, and Dallas Jail staff can monitor them.

  • Violating the rules will result in the termination of the visit, and future video visitation privileges may be revoked. This can be a convenient way to connect with someone in the Dallas Jail if you live far away or cannot visit in person.

Attorney Visitation

Attorneys have different rules for visiting clients in the Dallas Jail compared to friends or family.

• Attorney visits are not subject to the same schedule. They can usually visit their clients more frequently and at more flexible times.

• They must present their Bar card (attorney identification).

• These visits are confidential, which is essential for the inmate to communicate freely with their legal counsel. Attorneys should contact the Dallas Jail directly for their specific visitation policies.

Hospital Visits

If an inmate in the Dallas Jail becomes seriously ill and is transferred to a hospital:

• Generally, visitation at the hospital is NOT allowed.

• Only if medical professionals deem the inmate's condition critical and near death, a one-time visit MIGHT be approved. This requires authorization from a high-ranking Dallas Jail official. This is a rare occurrence. The Dallas Jail has its own medical staff for most healthcare needs.

Inmate Life and Services at Dallas Jails

Life in the Dallas Jail is very different from life outside. There are many regulations, and some programs are available to assist inmates. Here is what you should know.

Inmate Mail: Sending and Receiving at Dallas Jail

Mail is a vital way to maintain contact with someone in the Dallas Jail, but numerous rules apply.

1. Mailing Address for Correspondence: To send a letter to the Dallas Jail, use this address: Inmate Name, Booking # (Booking Number) Inmate Location (Tank # if known; otherwise, the Dallas Jail will locate them) P.O. Box 660334 Dallas, TX 75266-0334

2. Sender Information: You MUST include your full name and return address on the outside of the envelope. Otherwise, the Dallas Jail may not deliver it to the inmate. If the inmate has been released, the mail will be returned to you if a return address is provided. Mail is not forwarded after release.

3. Prohibited Items in Mail: The Dallas Jail is very strict about what can be included in mail to ensure safety and security.

   • Paper ONLY: Generally, only plain paper and photos are permitted. No glue, staples, paper clips, stickers, tape, glitter, ribbon, wood, cloth, glass, or metal.

   • Letters on ONE SIDE ONLY: Write or print on only one side of the paper. The Dallas Jail scans mail, and if it is double-sided, it will be returned.

   • Greeting Cards: Cards must be small (not exceeding 8 inches by 10 inches). No padding, musical chips, metal parts, or string.

   • Photographs: Photos cannot be larger than 8 inches by 10 inches. No Polaroid photos. Photos depicting nudity, violence, or sexually suggestive content are prohibited.

   • NOT Allowed: Do not send stamps, blank paper, pens, or pencils in the mail to the Dallas Jail. Inmates can purchase these items from the commissary.

   • Books and Magazines: NO hardcover books. Softcover books are acceptable IF they are mailed directly FROM the retailer (like Amazon or Barnes & Noble) OR the publisher. Do not send books from your home. Inmates in the Dallas Jail may also be able to purchase e-books on a tablet if available.

   • Check the Dallas County Sheriff's website for a comprehensive list of prohibited items for Dallas Jail mail. It is extensive.

4. Legal Mail: Mail from an attorney is handled carefully. It will be opened by Dallas Jail staff in the inmate's presence but will not be read if it is legitimate legal correspondence. Adhering to Dallas Jail mail rules is essential. Violations will result in the mail not reaching your loved one; it may be returned or discarded.

Inmate Money / Commissary (Trust Fund) at Dallas Jail

Inmates in the Dallas Jail can have a money account, similar to a bank account, often called a trust fund or commissary account.

1. How Inmates Use Funds: They use this money to purchase items from the Dallas Jail store, known as the commissary. Available items typically include snacks (like chips or candy), hygiene products (soap, toothpaste), and writing materials. They often use an armband with a barcode for purchases.

2. Ways to Deposit Funds into a Dallas Jail Account: There are several ways to deposit money into an inmate's account. You will need their full name and booking number.

   • Online: You can use a website like www.accesscorrections.com. A small fee will apply.

   • Phone: You can call a toll-free number like 1-866-345-1884. A fee will also apply.

   • Kiosk: Machines are available at the Dallas Jail (Lew Sterrett complex) where you can deposit cash directly.

   • Walk-in Locations: Some retail stores partner with services like www.CashPayToday.com, allowing cash deposits for a flat fee.

3. NOT Accepted for Dallas Jail Accounts:

   • Do NOT mail cash, money orders, or personal checks to the Dallas Jail for an inmate's account. The Dallas Jail stopped accepting these by mail some years ago (January 1, 2013).

   • They also do not accept personal checks, payroll checks, tax refund checks, child support checks, or Social Security checks at the Dallas Jail (effective February 14, 2022). Use one of the approved methods (online, phone, kiosk) to add money to a Dallas Jail account.

Inmate Telephone Services at Dallas Jail

Inmates in the Dallas Jail can make phone calls, but these are subject to rules.

1. Collect Calls or Pre-Paid System: Calls from the Dallas Jail may be "collect," meaning the recipient pays for the call. Alternatively, there might be a system where you can set up a pre-paid account for calls from the Dallas Jail.

2. Call Costs: The cost for calls from the Dallas Jail has been capped by Dallas County Commissioners, previously at one cent per minute. This rate can change, so it is wise to verify current information.

3. All calls are recorded: This is very important. ALL calls from the Dallas Jail are recorded (the ONLY exceptions are properly arranged privileged calls to their attorney). Therefore, do not discuss details of the criminal case over the phone. Anything said can be used in court. Keep calls focused on support and personal matters, not case facts.

Inmate Property and Money Release at Dallas Jail

If an inmate in the Dallas Jail wishes to release some of their property or money to someone outside:

• A procedure exists for this, known as a property release or money release.

• The inmate must typically fill out a form within the Dallas Jail, designating who is authorized to pick up the items.

• The authorized person will need to present valid identification.

• You can contact Inmate Services at the Dallas Jail for more information. The number is (214) 653-3474 (but verify if this is the correct contact for current procedures).

Medical and Mental Health Services at Dallas Jail

The Dallas Jail is obligated to provide medical care for inmates.

• Parkland Health System manages medical care within the Dallas Jail and provides doctors and nurses.

• If an inmate is sick or injured, they can request to see medical staff.

• There may be a small co-pay or fee for some medical services in the Dallas Jail, often referred to as an Inmate Health Service Fee.

• For general information about Parkland Jail Health, the contact number is (214) 653-2621. However, they cannot disclose specific inmate health information due to privacy laws (HIPAA).

• The Dallas Jail also has provisions for individuals with mental health needs, with the West Tower being one facility equipped for this.

Inmate Programs at Dallas Jail

The Dallas Jail offers some programs to assist inmates.

• Educational Programs: Classes such as GED preparation or literacy skills may be available.

• Religious Services: Most faiths can hold services or allow inmates to meet with religious leaders in the Dallas Jail.

• Re-entry Services: These programs help prepare individuals for their return to the community. They may offer assistance with job skills or finding housing.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Community members can sometimes volunteer at the Dallas Jail to help run these programs.

• For information on these programs, contact Inmate Programs at (214) 653-2839 or (214) 653-3474. (Verify if these are the current best contacts).

Library Services (Recreational and Law Libraries) at Dallas Jail

Inmates in the Dallas Jail have access to books.

• Recreational Library: They can obtain books for leisure reading or learning, which helps pass the time in the Dallas Jail.

• Law Library: All inmates have a right to access a law library. This allows them to research their case and understand their rights. The Dallas Jail must provide this access, and inmates can request to use it.

Inmate Handbook

The Dallas County Sheriff's Department often provides a handbook for inmates in the Dallas Jail.

• This "Inmate Handbook" outlines all the rules of the Dallas Jail, what inmates can and cannot do, and information about programs and rights.

• You can often find this handbook on the Sheriff's website. A link from 2021 was: https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/sheriff/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Inmate-Handbook-Approved-Feb-2021.pdf. Check for an updated version. This is a good source of detailed information about the Dallas Jail.

Post-Release Information & Resources From Dallas Jail

When an individual leaves the Dallas Jail, support may be available. The goal is to help them avoid returning.

Weekender / Work Release Programs at Dallas Jail

Some individuals who receive a short sentence in the Dallas Jail may not have to stay there continuously.

• Weekender Program: Some may serve their sentences only on weekends, reporting to the Dallas Jail on Friday evening and leaving on Sunday evening. This allows them to maintain employment.

• Work Release Program: Some may be permitted to leave the Dallas Jail each day to go to an approved job, returning at night. These programs are not available to everyone; a judge must approve participation, and they are typically for low-risk individuals. The Dallas Jail will have specific rules for these programs. You should inquire if they are currently offered and about eligibility criteria.

Re-entry Services From Dallas Jail

Assistance for individuals leaving the Dallas Jail is crucial. These are known as "re-entry" programs.

• These programs aim to help individuals successfully reintegrate into the community and avoid returning to the Dallas Jail.

• They can offer help with:

  • Finding employment.

  • Securing housing.

  • Obtaining identification cards or driver's licenses.

  • Addressing substance abuse issues.

  • Mental health support.

• Some of these programs may be run by Dallas Jail staff, while others are offered by community organizations that partner with the Dallas Jail.

• The Inmate Programs staff at the Dallas Jail or a case worker there may have information on these services. These programs are very beneficial, providing individuals with a genuine opportunity to succeed after leaving the Dallas Jail.

Legal Aspects & Texas Law Relevant to Dallas Jail

The Dallas Jail operates under Texas and U.S. laws. Understanding some of these laws can be helpful.

Relevant Texas Statutes

Texas laws establish many regulations for the Dallas Jail and for the individuals incarcerated there.

1. Texas Code of Criminal Procedure: This is a comprehensive set of laws dictating how law enforcement and courts must operate. It includes rules on bail (see https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?link=CR and refer to Chapter 17) and outlines the rights of individuals accused of crimes (see Chapter 1). The Dallas Jail must adhere to these laws.

2. Texas Penal Code: This statute lists all criminal offenses in Texas, defining what acts constitute crimes and their severity (e.g., misdemeanor or felony). You can find it at https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?link=PE. This helps in understanding the reasons for an individual's incarceration in the Dallas Jail. These links direct to the official Texas statutes website, where you can search for specific law sections.

PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act)

PREA is a U.S. federal law aimed at eliminating sexual assault and harassment in all correctional facilities, including the Dallas Jail.

1. Dallas County Jail's commitment to PREA: The Dallas Jail must work to protect all individuals from sexual harm. They must have policies and procedures to prevent, detect, and respond to such incidents. Staff and inmates must be trained on PREA.

2. How to report an incident: If you or someone you know has concerns about sexual harm in the Dallas Jail, it is crucial to report it.

   • Inform Dallas Jail staff.

   • Call the PREA Inquiry line for the Dallas Jail: (214) 653-3419. (Verify if this is the current best contact number).

   • An inmate can also send a letter to someone outside the Dallas Jail to request assistance. All such allegations should be investigated thoroughly by the Dallas Jail. PREA is a key law for ensuring safe correctional environments.

Requesting Information / Open Records from Dallas Jail

Most information held by state or local government agencies in Texas is accessible to the public under the Texas Public Information Act.

• If the Dallas Jail online inmate lookup tool does not provide the information you need, you may be able to request records using this Act.

• This applies to items like reports, statistics, or how the Dallas Jail spends public funds. It does not cover all information; some records are kept private by law (such as certain health information or details of ongoing investigations).

• You must submit a written request for the information to the appropriate Dallas County department. They have specific procedures for such requests.

• You can learn more about the Texas Public Information Act on the Texas Attorney General's website: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/open-government/public-information-act. This Act helps maintain transparency and accountability for the Dallas Jail and all government entities.

Helpful Resources

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