State of Texas Arrest Records Search | Public Lookup Guide
State of Texas Arrest Records provide public information about people who have been arrested anywhere in Texas by law enforcement agencies.
These records are commonly used for background checks, legal research, personal verification, and public awareness.
Texas follows open records laws, which means many arrest details are available to the public, with some limits to protect privacy and ongoing investigations.
This guide explains what Texas arrest records include, how to search them step-by-step, where to find jail rosters, police logs, Texas DOC offender searches, official government links, and answers to common questions.
What Are State of Texas Arrest Records?
Texas arrest records document when a person is taken into custody by a police department, sheriff’s office, or state agency. These records do not mean someone is guilty, only that an arrest occurred.
A typical Texas arrest record may include:
- Full name and known aliases
- Date and location of arrest
- Arresting agency (city police, county sheriff, DPS, etc.)
- Charges filed at the time of arrest
- Booking number and mugshot (when available)
- Jail or detention facility name
- Bond or bail information
- Case or incident number
Some details may be restricted if the case is sealed, expunged, or involves juveniles.
How to Search State of Texas Arrest Records
Texas does not have one single statewide arrest database, so searches are usually done at the county or agency level. Here are the most reliable methods.
Texas County Jail Roster Search
Most recent arrests appear first in county jail rosters.
Steps to search:
- Identify the county where the arrest occurred
- Visit the county sheriff’s official website
- Look for “Jail Roster,” “Inmate Search,” or “Current Inmates”
- Search by name or booking date
Large counties like Harris, Dallas, Bexar, Tarrant, and Travis update their jail rosters daily.
Texas Police Department Arrest Logs
City police departments often publish arrest logs or police blotters.
How to find police logs:
- Visit the official city police department website
- Check sections like “Records,” “Daily Arrest Log,” or “Police Reports”
- Some departments require a public records request for detailed reports
Police logs usually show recent arrests, charges, and arrest locations.
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal History
For broader criminal history information, Texas DPS manages the state repository.
Official DPS Resource:
- Texas DPS – Criminal History Search (CHRI)
https://securesite.dps.texas.gov/DpsWebsite/CriminalHistory/?
This system may require identity verification or fees for official criminal history reports.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Offender Search
If an arrest led to a state prison sentence, the offender may appear in the Texas DOC database.
Official TDCJ Inmate Search:
This search shows:
- Current incarceration status
- Prison unit location
- Offense type
- Sentence length
⚠️ Note: TDCJ only includes convicted offenders, not recent county jail arrests.
Official Texas Arrest Records & Public Record Links
Here are trusted government sources:
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS):
https://securesite.dps.texas.gov/DpsWebsite/CriminalHistory/? - Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ):
https://www.tdcj.texas.gov - Texas Judicial Branch (Case Information):
https://www.tdcj.texas.gov - County Sheriff Offices:
Access through individual county websites
Always use official .gov websites to ensure accuracy.
Are Texas Arrest Records Public?
Yes, under the Texas Public Information Act, many arrest records are public. However, access may be limited if:
- The case is still under investigation
- The record involves a minor
- The arrest was expunged or sealed
- The request violates privacy or safety laws
Can You Remove or Seal Texas Arrest Records?
Texas allows expunction or orders of nondisclosure in certain cases, such as:
- Charges dismissed
- Not guilty verdicts
- Arrests without formal charges
These processes require court approval and legal steps.
FAQs
Are Texas arrest records the same as criminal records?
No. Arrest records only show that someone was arrested. Criminal records include convictions.
Can I search Texas arrest records online for free?
Yes, many county jail rosters and police logs are free. DPS criminal history searches may charge fees.
How recent are Texas jail rosters?
Most county jail rosters update every 24 hours or in real time.
Do arrest records show mugshots in Texas?
Some counties publish mugshots, while others restrict them due to privacy laws.
Can employers see Texas arrest records?
Employers may see certain records during background checks, depending on the type of check used.
How long do arrest records stay public in Texas?
They remain public unless sealed, expunged, or restricted by court order.
What if I can’t find a Texas arrest record online?
You may need to contact the county sheriff, police department, or submit a public records request.
Conclusion
State of Texas Arrest Records are an important public resource that helps people access arrest and custody information across the state.
While Texas does not offer a single statewide arrest database, county jail rosters, police logs, DPS records, and TDCJ offender searches make it possible to find accurate information when you know where to look.
I hope this guide made the process easier and clearer for you. Thank you for taking the time to read, and we wish you the best in your search.
If you’re exploring arrest records for research, personal reasons, or peace of mind — having the right information truly matters.
