Cameron Public Records / Cameron County Arrest Records

Cameron County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Cameron County

Arrest records in Cameron County are considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, specifically pursuant to § 552.021 of the Texas Government Code. This statute establishes that public information is available to the public during normal business hours of the governmental body. The Texas Public Information Act defines public information as information that is collected, assembled, or maintained under a law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business by a governmental body or for a governmental body.

It is important for members of the public to understand the distinction between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement on suspicion of criminal activity, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through the judicial process. Under Texas law, both arrest and conviction records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply as outlined in § 552.101 through § 552.158 of the Texas Government Code.

The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains policies governing access to criminal history record information. In Cameron County, the Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of arrest records generated by county law enforcement agencies. While most arrest information is public, certain details may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations, confidential informants, or juvenile information as specified under state law.

What's in Cameron County Arrest Records

Cameron County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name (first, middle, last)
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
Address at time of arrest
Booking photograph ("mugshot")
Fingerprints

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Arresting officer's name and badge number
Reason for arrest
Use of force information (if applicable)

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Charge classification (misdemeanor or felony)
Charge severity (Class A, B, C misdemeanor; first, second, third-degree felony, etc.)
Texas Penal Code citation for each charge
Charge description

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing court
Date of issuance
Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)

Booking Information:

Booking date and time
Booking number/case number
Processing officer information
Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
Bonding company (if applicable)

Court Information:

Court assignment
Scheduled court appearances
Case number

Custody Status:

Current detention status
Facility location
Expected release date (if applicable)

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Probation/parole status
Immigration holds
Medical alerts
Special housing requirements

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Pursuant to § 552.108 of the Texas Government Code, certain information may be withheld if its release would interfere with the detection, investigation, or prosecution of crime.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Cameron County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Cameron County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains systems that allow for both in-person and remote access to these public records. Individuals may follow these steps to look up arrest records:

Submit a Public Information Request to the Cameron County Sheriff's Office
- Complete the Public Information Request Form
- Submit the form in person, by mail, or via email to the Records Division
- Provide specific information about the record being requested (name, date of birth, approximate date of arrest)
- Present valid identification when requesting records in person

Cameron County Sheriff's Office
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6700
Cameron County Sheriff's Office

Visit the Cameron County District Clerk's Office
- Request access to criminal case records related to arrests
- Use public access terminals to search for records
- Provide the clerk with identifying information for the search

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

Contact the Cameron County Jail
- Inquire about current inmates and recent arrests
- Provide the name and date of birth of the individual
- Verify custody status and booking information

Cameron County Carrizales-Rucker Detention Center
7100 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6700
Cameron County Sheriff's Office

Request Records from the Arresting Agency
- Identify which law enforcement agency made the arrest (Sheriff's Office, local police department, etc.)
- Contact that agency's records division directly
- Submit a public information request specific to that agency
Submit a Request to the Texas Department of Public Safety
- Request a criminal history record check through the Crime Records Service
- Complete the appropriate forms and pay the required fee
- Submit fingerprints if requesting a comprehensive background check

Texas Department of Public Safety - Crime Records Service
PO Box 4143
Austin, TX 78765
(512) 424-2000
Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records

Pursuant to § 552.221 of the Texas Government Code, governmental bodies must promptly produce public information in response to proper requests. The law defines "promptly" as producing the information as soon as possible under the circumstances, within a reasonable time, without delay.

How To Find Cameron County Arrest Records Online

Cameron County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records through official online platforms. These electronic systems offer convenience while maintaining compliance with Texas public records laws. Members of the public may access arrest records online through the following methods:

Cameron County Inmate Search Portal
- Navigate to the Cameron County inmate information system
- Enter the individual's name or booking number in the search fields
- Review the results for custody status, charges, and booking information
- Note that this system only displays current inmates and those released within the past seven days
Cameron County District Clerk's Online Case Records
- Visit the Cameron County District Clerk's website
- Access the public case records search function
- Enter the individual's name or case number
- Review case information related to arrests and subsequent court proceedings
- Note that some documents may require in-person access or additional fees
Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal History Search
- Access the Texas DPS Crime Records Service website
- Register for a secure account to conduct name-based criminal history searches
- Pay the required fee for each search ($3.00 per name-based search)
- Receive results showing publicly available criminal history information
- Note that this provides statewide information, including arrests in Cameron County
Texas Department of Criminal Justice Offender Information Search
- Visit the TDCJ Offender Information Search portal
- Enter the individual's name or TDCJ number
- Review information about current inmates in state custody
- Access information about conviction and sentencing following arrests
Judicial Branch Court Case Information Portal
- Access the statewide court records system
- Search by name or case number
- Review court records related to criminal cases following arrests
- Note that this system focuses on court proceedings rather than arrest details

When utilizing online systems, users should be aware that pursuant to § 552.263 of the Texas Government Code, governmental bodies may charge for providing copies of public information. Additionally, certain information may be redacted from online records to protect sensitive data as specified under state law.

How To Search Cameron County Arrest Records for Free?

Cameron County residents and other interested parties may access certain arrest record information without incurring fees through several public resources. These no-cost options provide basic arrest information while complying with Texas public records laws. The following methods allow for free searches of Cameron County arrest records:

Cameron County Jail Inmate Roster
- Access the Cameron County inmate information system online
- Search by name to view current inmates and those released within the past seven days
- View basic booking information, charges, and custody status
- This service is provided at no cost to the public
In-Person Terminal Access at the Sheriff's Office
- Visit the Cameron County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
- Request to use the public access terminals
- Search for basic arrest information without charge
- Note that printing or obtaining copies may incur fees

Cameron County Sheriff's Office
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6700
Cameron County Sheriff's Office

Public Access Computers at the District Clerk's Office
- Visit the Cameron County District Clerk's Office
- Use the public access computers to search court records related to arrests
- View basic case information at no charge
- Note that document copies may incur fees

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

Cameron County Court Records Online
- Access the county's public court records website
- Search by name for criminal cases stemming from arrests
- View basic case information without charge
- Note that document access may be limited in the free version
Local Public Library Resources
- Visit Cameron County public libraries
- Use public computers to access county websites with arrest information
- Receive assistance from library staff in navigating public records systems
- Access is typically available during regular library hours

Pursuant to § 552.261 of the Texas Government Code, while governmental bodies may charge for copies of public information, they generally do not charge for inspection of records. However, if a request requires programming or manipulation of data, or results in substantial labor costs, fees may apply even for inspection in some circumstances.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Cameron County

The process of removing arrest records from public access in Cameron County involves either expunction (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access) of records. These legal remedies are governed by specific provisions in Texas law and require formal court proceedings. The distinction between these options is significant:

Expunction (Expungement): This process completely removes and destroys all records of an arrest from government and law enforcement databases. After expunction, the individual may legally deny the arrest ever occurred.

Record Sealing (Order of Nondisclosure): This process restricts public access to records but maintains them for law enforcement and certain governmental entities. The records are not destroyed but are no longer available to the general public.

Pursuant to Chapter 55 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically § 55.01, individuals may be eligible for expunction of arrest records under the following circumstances:

The person was acquitted of the offense
The person was pardoned for the offense
The person was convicted and subsequently pardoned
The case was dismissed and the statute of limitations has expired
The person completed a pretrial diversion program
The person was arrested but never charged, and the statute of limitations has expired

To initiate the expunction process in Cameron County, individuals must:

Determine Eligibility
- Review the statutory requirements under § 55.01
- Consult with an attorney to confirm eligibility
- Gather documentation of case disposition
File a Petition for Expunction
- Prepare a formal petition with the Cameron County District Court
- Include all required information about the arrest and case
- Pay the required filing fee (approximately $250-$300)
Attend Court Hearing
- Appear before the judge as scheduled
- Present evidence supporting eligibility for expunction
- Respond to any objections from law enforcement or prosecutors
Obtain and Distribute the Order
- If granted, obtain certified copies of the expunction order
- Ensure distribution to all agencies holding records
- Follow up to confirm compliance with the order

For record sealing through an Order of Nondisclosure, eligibility is governed by Chapter 411 of the Texas Government Code, specifically § 411.081. This option is typically available to individuals who have successfully completed deferred adjudication for certain offenses.

The Cameron County District Clerk's Office processes these legal filings:

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

It is strongly advised that individuals seeking expunction or record sealing consult with a qualified attorney, as these processes involve complex legal requirements and procedural rules.

What Happens After Arrest in Cameron County?

The criminal justice process in Cameron County follows a structured sequence of events from the point of arrest through final disposition of a case. This process adheres to Texas state law and local procedures established by Cameron County authorities. Following an arrest, individuals proceed through these stages:

Booking and Processing
- The arrestee is transported to the Cameron County Jail
- Personal information is recorded and verified
- Fingerprints and photographs are taken
- Personal property is inventoried and secured
- Medical screening is conducted
- The arrestee is placed in appropriate housing
Magistration (Initial Appearance)
- Occurs within 48 hours of arrest
- A magistrate informs the arrestee of charges
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Bail is set in eligible cases
- Indigent defendants may request court-appointed counsel
- This proceeding is mandated by Article 15.17 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure
Bail Determination
- The magistrate sets bail based on:
  - Nature and circumstances of the offense
  - Defendant's ability to pay
  - Public safety considerations
  - Flight risk assessment
- Options include cash bail, surety bond, or personal recognizance
- Some serious offenses may result in bail denial
Case Filing
- For misdemeanors: Case filed with the County Attorney's Office
- For felonies: Case filed with the District Attorney's Office
- Prosecutor reviews evidence and determines formal charges
Grand Jury Proceedings (Felonies Only)
- Grand jury reviews evidence in felony cases
- Determines if probable cause exists to issue an indictment
- Proceedings are closed to the public
- No defense presentation is typically allowed
Arraignment
- Formal reading of charges in court
- Defendant enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Court confirms legal representation
- Preliminary trial dates may be set
Pretrial Proceedings
- Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
- Pretrial motions (suppress evidence, dismiss charges, etc.)
- Plea negotiations may occur
- Case management hearings to track progress
Trial
- Jury selection (voir dire)
- Opening statements
- Presentation of evidence and witness testimony
- Closing arguments
- Jury deliberation and verdict
- Defendants have the right to a jury trial under the Texas Constitution, Article 1, Section 10
Sentencing
- Upon conviction, the court imposes sentence
- May occur immediately or at a later hearing
- Victim impact statements may be presented
- Sentences may include incarceration, probation, fines, or combinations
Post-Conviction
- Right to appeal within 30 days
- Possible post-conviction remedies
- Transfer to appropriate correctional facility if incarcerated
- Probation supervision if applicable

Throughout this process, individuals remain in the Cameron County Jail unless released on bail or other pretrial release mechanisms. The Cameron County Sheriff's Office maintains custody records that are updated as individuals move through these stages of the criminal justice system.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Cameron County?

Arrest records in Cameron County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Chapter 441 of the Texas Government Code. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods for various types of law enforcement records, including arrest documentation. The retention of these records serves multiple purposes, including preserving evidence, maintaining accountability, and supporting public safety.

The primary retention periods for arrest-related records in Cameron County are as follows:

Arrest Reports and Booking Information
- Retained for a minimum of 75 years from the date of arrest
- Includes fingerprints, photographs, and personal identifying information
- Maintained by the Cameron County Sheriff's Office
Investigation Reports
- For cases resulting in arrests:
  - Felonies: Permanent retention
  - Misdemeanors: 10 years after case closure
- For cases not resulting in arrests:
  - Felonies: 10 years after case closure
  - Misdemeanors: 5 years after case closure
Jail Records
- Inmate booking and release information: 5 years
- Visitor logs: 3 years
- Inmate medical records: 7 years after release
- Disciplinary records: 5 years
Court Records Related to Arrests
- Felony case files: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor case files: 10 years after case disposition
- Maintained by the Cameron County District Clerk and County Clerk
Juvenile Arrest Records
- Subject to special confidentiality provisions
- May be sealed or destroyed under specific circumstances
- Generally maintained until the individual reaches age 21

It is important to note that different agencies within Cameron County may have varying retention requirements for the same types of records. For example, the Sheriff's Office, municipal police departments, and the District Attorney's Office each maintain their own records systems with potentially different retention schedules.

Digital records are increasingly replacing paper documentation, but the retention requirements remain the same regardless of format. The Texas Administrative Code, Title 13, Chapter 7 establishes standards for electronic records management that apply to arrest records maintained by Cameron County agencies.

Even after the minimum retention period has expired, records may be maintained indefinitely unless specifically ordered to be destroyed through legal processes such as expunction.

How to Find Mugshots in Cameron County

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are created during the arrest booking process and serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system. In Cameron County, these photographs are maintained as part of official arrest records and are subject to specific access protocols.

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots are standardized photographs taken by law enforcement during the booking process following an arrest. These typically include:

A front-facing (portrait) photograph
A profile (side-view) photograph
A placard or identification board showing the arrestee's name, booking number, and date
Consistent lighting and background to ensure clear identification

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Cameron County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:

Cameron County Sheriff's Office
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6700
Cameron County Sheriff's Office

Municipal police departments within Cameron County also maintain mugshots for arrests they process before transferring individuals to county custody.

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Cameron County may utilize these methods:

Submit a Public Information Request
- File a formal request under the Texas Public Information Act
- Specify the individual's name and approximate date of arrest
- Submit the request to the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Pay any applicable fees for reproduction
Check the Online Inmate Information System
- Access the Cameron County inmate information system
- Search for current inmates or those recently released
- Note that not all inmate listings include visible mugshots
Contact the Arresting Agency
- Determine which law enforcement agency made the arrest
- Submit a public information request to that specific agency
- Provide as much identifying information as possible

Can Mugshots Be Found Online

Some Cameron County mugshots may be available online through:

The county's inmate information system (for current inmates)
Third-party websites that aggregate public records
Local news media websites that publish arrest information

However, Cameron County does not maintain a comprehensive public database of all historical mugshots. Online availability is typically limited to current inmates and those recently released.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

To officially obtain a mugshot from Cameron County authorities:

Complete a public information request form
Provide the full name and date of birth of the individual
Include the approximate date of arrest if known
Submit the request in person, by mail, or via email
Pay the reproduction fee (typically $1-5 per photograph)

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:

Juvenile arrests (under 17 years of age)
Expunged or sealed records
Ongoing investigations where release could compromise public safety
Cases involving certain victims (sexual assault, family violence)

These restrictions are governed by exceptions to the Texas Public Information Act, particularly § 552.108 and § 552.142 of the Texas Government Code, which allow law enforcement agencies to withhold information in specific circumstances.

Lookup Arrest Records in Cameron County

Cameron County Inmate List

Cameron County Sheriff's Office

Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records

Texas Department of Criminal Justice Inmate Information

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