Cameron County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Cameron County?
Inmate records in Cameron County are official government documents maintained by the Cameron County Sheriff's Office that document the custody, care, and control 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 multiple governmental functions:
- Documentation of lawful detention
- Tracking of inmate movements and status
- Management of facility population
- Ensuring proper identification of detained individuals
- Facilitating communication between justice agencies
Inmate records are distinct from court records maintained by the Cameron County District Clerk or County Clerk. While court records document judicial proceedings, inmate records specifically track custody status and institutional management information. The Cameron County Sheriff's Office creates and maintains these records in accordance with state regulations and local policies.
The record creation process begins at booking when an individual is processed into a Cameron County detention facility. Information is collected regarding the individual's identity, charges, medical status, and other relevant details. Throughout incarceration, records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, court appearances, and other significant events. Upon release, records are finalized with discharge information but remain in the system as historical documentation.
Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 62.08, certain inmate records must be maintained for specified periods depending on the nature of the offense and other factors.
Are Inmate Records Public In Cameron County?
Inmate records in Cameron County are generally considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, which establishes the presumption that government records are open to public inspection. However, access is subject to specific limitations and exceptions as outlined in state law.
The Texas Public Information Act, codified in Texas Government Code § 552, provides the legal framework for public access to government records, including inmate information. Under this statute, the following inmate record components are typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
- Basic booking information
- Charges filed
- Mugshots (with certain exceptions)
- Bond/bail amounts
- Facility location
- Expected release dates for sentenced inmates
However, certain information may be redacted or withheld pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.101, which protects information considered confidential by law. This includes:
- Medical and mental health information
- Social Security numbers
- Information that would compromise facility security
- Information related to ongoing investigations
- Certain personal information of law enforcement personnel
- Information related to juvenile offenders
The Cameron County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search system that provides public access to basic custody information while protecting confidential data in accordance with state law.
What's Included Inmate Records in Cameron County
Inmate records in Cameron County contain comprehensive information organized into several categories. The following components typically comprise a complete inmate record:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Height, weight, and identifying marks
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Booking number and other identification numbers
- Fingerprints (maintained in secure law enforcement databases)
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current custody status
- Housing assignment within facility
- Classification level
- Disciplinary records
- Visitation logs
Charge Information:
- Current charges (including statute citations)
- Charge severity (misdemeanor/felony classification)
- Warrant information
- Arresting agency case numbers
- Prior booking history (if applicable)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond amount
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Bond conditions
- Bail hearing information
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case numbers
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court orders affecting custody
- Attorney of record
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Conviction details
- Sentence length
- Credit for time served
- Projected release date
- Parole eligibility date
- Good time/work time credits
- Special conditions of confinement
Release Information:
- Release date and time
- Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
- Conditions of release
- Receiving agency (if transferred)
- Post-release supervision requirements
These records are maintained in compliance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 269, which establishes minimum standards for record-keeping in county jails.
Cameron County Prison System
The Cameron County correctional system operates under the authority of the Cameron County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the detention of individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences of up to one year, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. This system functions as a critical component of the local criminal justice infrastructure.
The distinction between county detention facilities and state prisons is significant. Cameron County jails primarily house:
- Individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detainees)
- Those convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities
- Individuals held on immigration detainers
By contrast, state prisons operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences.
The Cameron County jail system operates under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, which establishes minimum standards for jail operations throughout the state.
Cameron County Sheriff's Office
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6700
Cameron County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains administrative responsibility for all county detention facilities, including staff training, policy development, and ensuring compliance with state standards.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Cameron County
Cameron County operates multiple detention facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county correctional system:
Cameron County Jail (Main Facility)
954 E Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0865
Cameron County Jail Division
This facility serves as the primary intake and processing center for newly arrested individuals in Cameron County. The main jail houses both male and female inmates across various security classifications and provides basic medical services, visitation facilities, and court holding areas.
Carrizales-Rucker Detention Center
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6701
Cameron County Jail Division
This larger, more modern facility houses the majority of the county's inmate population. The center includes:
- Maximum security housing units
- Medium security dormitory-style housing
- Specialized housing for inmates with medical and mental health needs
- Educational and vocational program spaces
- Video visitation facilities
- Medical clinic
Cameron County Juvenile Detention Center
2310 W Highway 77
San Benito, TX 78586
(956) 399-3075
Cameron County Juvenile Justice Department
This separate facility houses juvenile offenders under the administration of the Cameron County Juvenile Justice Department rather than the Sheriff's Office. The facility provides specialized programming for youth, including educational services, counseling, and rehabilitation programs.
All facilities operate in accordance with standards established by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards pursuant to Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Chapter 267.
Who's in Prison In Cameron County
The Cameron County jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals, each with different legal statuses and needs. Understanding this population composition is essential for comprehending the county's correctional system.
Pre-trial detainees constitute the largest segment of the jail population. These individuals:
- Have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Are awaiting trial or other court proceedings
- May be detained due to inability to post bail, denial of bail, or other court orders
- Retain the presumption of innocence under law
Sentenced misdemeanants are individuals who:
- Have been convicted of misdemeanor offenses
- Are serving sentences of up to one year
- May participate in work release, educational programs, or other rehabilitative services
- May receive "good time" credits that reduce their sentences
Felony offenders in county custody include:
- Those recently convicted and awaiting transfer to state prison
- Individuals returned to county custody for court proceedings
- Those serving short portions of state sentences in county facilities under specific agreements
Other populations include:
- Federal detainees held under intergovernmental agreements
- Immigration detainees held under contract with federal authorities
- Individuals held on probation or parole violations
- Those serving weekend or intermittent sentences
According to data from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, the Cameron County jail system typically operates at approximately 85-90% of its total capacity, with population fluctuations based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Cameron County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate information in Cameron County may utilize several methods to access these records. The county provides multiple search options to accommodate different needs and preferences.
The most efficient method for locating current inmate information is through the online inmate search portal:
- Visit the Cameron County Inmate List website
- No login or account creation is required for basic searches
- Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name) in the search fields
- For more specific results, include additional identifiers if known (date of birth, booking number)
- Review the search results, which typically include:
- Inmate name and booking photo
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Housing facility
- Court of jurisdiction
For those unable to access the online system, telephone inquiries may be directed to:
Cameron County Sheriff's Office Records Division
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
(956) 554-6700
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
In-person record requests may be submitted at:
Cameron County Sheriff's Office Records Division
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
For formal written requests, submit a Public Information Request pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act to:
Cameron County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Records Division
7300 Old Alice Road
Olmito, TX 78575
Written requests should include:
- Requestor's contact information
- Specific information sought
- Inmate's full name and date of birth (if known)
- Time period covered by the request
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.221, the Sheriff's Office must promptly respond to requests for public information, typically within 10 business days.
How To Find an Inmate in Cameron County for Free?
Cameron County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties.
The primary free resource is the Cameron County Inmate List, which provides real-time information on current inmates. To use this system:
- Access the website from any internet-connected device
- No registration or payment is required
- Enter the inmate's name in the search fields
- Review results showing current custody status, charges, and facility location
- Note that the system displays individuals currently in custody and those released within the past seven days
For individuals who may be in state custody rather than county jail, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Offender Information Search provides free access to information on state prisoners.
Additional free methods include:
Telephone Verification:
- Call the Cameron County Sheriff's Office at (956) 554-6700
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Basic custody information can be confirmed by phone at no charge
Automated Jail Information System:
- Call (956) 544-0865
- Follow the automated prompts
- Enter the inmate's booking number if known, or follow instructions for name search
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the public reception area at either jail facility during regular business hours
- Provide the inmate's name to the reception staff
- Basic custody status will be provided without charge
These free resources typically provide:
- Confirmation of custody status
- Current charges
- Bond information
- Next court date (if available)
- Facility location
More detailed information may require formal records requests and applicable fees in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act.
How To Visit an Inmate In Cameron County
Visitation with inmates in Cameron County detention facilities follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits are subject to the following guidelines:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Visitors must clear security screening before each visit
- Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
- Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
- Visitors must register at least 30 minutes before scheduled visitation time
Visit Schedule:
- Cameron County Jail (Brownsville):
- Tuesday and Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Carrizales-Rucker Detention Center (Olmito):
- Wednesday and Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medication needed during visit time (must be declared)
- Quarters for vending machines (maximum $10 in change)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
- Tobacco products or e-cigarettes
- Outside food or beverages
- Purses, backpacks, or large bags
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $10 in quarters
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no shorts above mid-thigh, no tank tops, no low-cut tops)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing resembling inmate attire
- No hats or head coverings (religious exceptions may apply)
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- In-person visitation: Conducted through secure glass partitions with telephone communication
- Video visitation: Available at both facilities
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy): Available during extended hours by appointment
Visit Restrictions:
- Maximum two visitors per inmate per session
- Visits limited to 20 minutes during high-volume periods
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
- Three-month suspension of privileges for rule violations
- Special housing (disciplinary, medical) may have modified visitation
All visitation policies are established in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Chapter 291 governing county jail operations. For current visitation information, contact the Cameron County Jail Division directly.
How To Send Money to a Cameron County Inmate
Cameron County provides multiple secure methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services within the facility.
In-Person Deposits:
- Kiosk locations:
- Cameron County Jail lobby (954 E Harrison St, Brownsville)
- Carrizales-Rucker Detention Center lobby (7300 Old Alice Road, Olmito)
- Hours: 24 hours daily
- Payment types accepted: Cash, credit/debit cards
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Funds available in inmate account: Same day
- Service fee: $2.50 per transaction
Online Deposits:
- Visit Access Corrections
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Cameron County" as the facility
- Enter inmate information (name and ID number)
- Follow prompts to complete payment
- Payment types accepted: Credit/debit cards, electronic check
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Funds available in inmate account: 1-2 business days
- Service fee: $3.50 per transaction
Telephone Deposits:
- Call 1-866-345-1884
- Follow automated prompts
- Payment types accepted: Credit/debit cards
- Maximum single deposit: $300
- Funds available in inmate account: 1-2 business days
- Service fee: $4.50 per transaction
Mail Deposits:
- Money orders only (no personal checks, cash, or other items)
- Make payable to: "Cameron County Inmate Trust Fund"
- Include inmate's full name and booking number on money order
- Mail to: Cameron County Inmate Trust Fund 7300 Old Alice Road Olmito, TX 78575
- Maximum single deposit: $500
- Funds available in inmate account: 5-7 business days after receipt
- No service fee
Deposit Restrictions:
- Funds from individuals with criminal histories may be rejected
- Deposits from other inmates or their families are prohibited
- Excessive or suspicious deposit patterns may be investigated
- All deposits are subject to deduction for outstanding fees, restitution, or other court-ordered payments
Approved Fund Uses:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Telephone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Educational materials
Prohibited Fund Uses:
- Transfer to other inmates
- Payment for prohibited services
- Gambling or other unauthorized activities
- Purchase of contraband items
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations.
How To Send Jail Mail In Cameron County
Correspondence with inmates in Cameron County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.
General Mail Guidelines:
-
All incoming mail must include:
- Inmate's full name and booking number
- Sender's full name and return address
- Proper postage
-
Address format: Inmate Name, Booking Number Cameron County Jail 954 E Harrison Street Brownsville, TX 78520
OR
Inmate Name, Booking Number Carrizales-Rucker Detention Center 7300 Old Alice Road Olmito, TX 78575
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (soft-cover only)
Prohibited Mail Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Hardcover books or magazines
- Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Polaroid photographs
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Cards larger than 8"x10"
- Items containing glitter, glue, or other adhesives
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
- Materials depicting violence or weapons
- Coded messages or foreign language content (unless approved)
Books and Publications:
- Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
- Soft-cover only
- Subject to content review
- Maximum of 3 books in possession at one time
Legal Mail:
- Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Attorney-Client Communication"
- Must come from attorney of record, court, or legal agency
- Will be opened in inmate's presence
- Not subject to content inspection, only contraband check
Mail Processing Times:
- Regular mail: Processed within 24-48 hours of receipt
- Legal mail: Processed within 24 hours of receipt
- Rejected mail: Returned to sender with explanation
All mail policies are established in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Chapter 291.2 governing inmate correspondence in county jails.