Bexar County Jail is a secure detention center located in San Antonio, Texas. It holds people who are waiting for trial or serving short sentences. The jail is run by the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. It provides basic care, medical services, and programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. Families, lawyers, and community members often need quick access to inmate information. This page gives clear, up-to-date details on how to find an inmate, visit, send money, and use other key services. All information comes from official sources and reflects current policies.
How to Search for an Inmate in Bexar County Jail
Finding someone in Bexar County Jail is easy using the online inmate lookup tool. This system shows real-time data on people currently held. You can search by name or inmate ID number. Results include booking date, charges, bond amount, court dates, and expected release. The roster updates daily. If you don’t find a name, the person may not be in custody or could be under a different spelling. Always double-check the full legal name. If online search fails, call the jail or visit in person for help.
Steps to Use the Inmate Lookup System
Go to the official Bexar County Sheriff’s website. Click on “Inmate Roster” or “Jail Search.” Enter the first and last name or inmate number. Press search. The system will show matching records. Click on a name to see full details. Keep in mind that some inmates may be transferred or released quickly. For the most accurate info, check the site often or call the jail directly.
What Information Is Available?
The inmate lookup shows:
- Full name and known aliases
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and case status
- Bond amount and type (cash, surety, or personal recognizance)
- Next court date and location
- Housing unit within the jail
- Projected release date (if sentenced)
This data helps families plan visits, lawyers prepare cases, and employers verify status. All records are public under Texas law.
Visitation Rules and Schedules at Bexar County Jail
Visiting someone at Bexar County Jail requires planning. Both in-person and video visits are allowed. You must schedule ahead. Walk-in visits are not accepted. All visitors must bring a valid photo ID. Minors under 17 need a parent or guardian present. Dress modestly—no shorts, tank tops, hats, or revealing clothing. Security checks are required for every visit.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
In-person visits happen Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate per session. You must arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Prohibited items include phones, bags, food, and weapons. All belongings may be searched. If you break rules, future visits can be denied.
Video Visitation Options
Video visits offer a safe, convenient way to connect. They use a secure online platform. You need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet. Schedule video calls through the jail’s partner site. Sessions last 20 minutes. You can book up to three visits per week. Video visits cost a small fee, paid online. This option is ideal for people who live far away or have mobility issues.
Special Rules for First-Time Visitors
New visitors should review the jail’s visitation policy online before coming. Arrive early. Bring only your ID and car keys. Leave bags and electronics in your car. Be respectful to staff and inmates. Loud talking, arguing, or inappropriate behavior leads to immediate removal. If you have questions, ask jail staff politely.
Sending Money to an Inmate in Bexar County Jail
Inmates can receive money for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Family and friends can send funds three ways: online, by phone, or in person at a kiosk. Cash and personal checks are not accepted by mail. Only money orders are allowed through the postal service.
Online Deposits
Use the jail’s official commissary partner website. Create an account, enter the inmate’s name and ID, and add funds with a credit or debit card. Transactions are instant. A small service fee applies. You’ll get a confirmation email.
Kiosk Payments at the Jail
A payment kiosk is located in the jail lobby at 200 N. Comal St., San Antonio. It accepts cash, credit, and debit cards. Follow the screen instructions. Receipts print automatically. Kiosks operate during business hours.
Mailing Money Orders
Send a money order via USPS to:
Bexar County Sheriff’s Office
Inmate Name & ID Number
200 N. Comal St.
San Antonio, TX 78207
Write the inmate’s full name and ID clearly. Do not send cash. Personal checks will be returned. Processing takes 3–5 business days.
Commissary Services and Allowed Items
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. Orders are placed once a week. Items arrive within 48 hours. Funds must be in the inmate’s account before ordering. Popular items include chips, coffee, soap, toothpaste, pens, and socks. Prices are posted online. Inmates cannot share or trade items. All purchases are logged.
How to Add Funds for Commissary
Friends and family can add money using the methods above. Once funds are deposited, inmates can access their balance through the jail’s kiosk or tablet system. They select items from the digital menu. Delivery is handled by jail staff.
Inmate Communication: Phone Calls and Mail
Staying in touch helps inmates stay connected and reduces stress. Bexar County Jail allows phone calls, mail, and email. All communication is monitored for safety.
Phone Call Rules
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Calls last 15–20 minutes. Rates are per minute. Family can prepay for calls online. Incoming calls are not allowed. All calls are recorded and may be reviewed by staff.
Sending and Receiving Mail
Mail must follow strict rules. Use plain white paper and standard envelopes. No stickers, drawings, or Polaroids. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Address mail to:
Inmate Full Name & ID
Bexar County Jail
200 N. Comal St.
San Antonio, TX 78207
All mail is opened and checked. Contraband leads to rejection or disciplinary action.
Secure Email Messaging
The jail offers a monitored email system. Family sends messages online. Inmates read and reply on jail tablets. Messages are screened for threats or coded language. This is faster than regular mail but not private.
Medical and Mental Health Care in Bexar County Jail
All inmates receive medical care upon arrival. Nurses do health checks. Doctors are on call. Chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure are managed. Prescription drugs are given as needed. Dental and vision care are available for serious issues.
Mental Health Support
Mental health is a priority. Trained counselors offer individual and group sessions. Programs cover addiction, anger control, and coping skills. Inmates with severe needs may get special housing or medication. The goal is to support recovery and reduce repeat offenses.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
Bexar County Jail runs programs to help inmates build skills and prepare for life outside. These include GED classes, vocational training, and life skills workshops.
Educational Opportunities
Inmates can earn a high school equivalency diploma (GED). Classes are held on-site. Materials and testing are provided free. Completing a GED improves job chances after release.
Vocational Training
Hands-on training includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and computer basics. Local partners help design courses. Certificates are given upon completion. These skills lead to real jobs in construction, tech, and maintenance.
Bail and Release Procedures
Bail lets someone leave jail before trial by paying a set amount. The judge decides the bail based on the crime and risk of fleeing. To post bail, contact the Booking Office at (210) 335-6201. Pay with cash, card, or through a bail bondsman. Once paid, the inmate is released after paperwork is done.
Release Process
When released, inmates get their personal items back. They receive a release form and any court documents. If sentenced, they may go to prison or get probation. Families are notified when possible.
Security and Safety Measures
Bexar County Jail uses strong security to protect everyone. Cameras watch all areas 24/7. Staff track inmate movements electronically. Emergency plans cover fires, medical crises, and escapes. Inmates are classified by risk level. High-risk individuals are housed separately. Staff train regularly in safety and crisis response.
Community Partnerships and Public Resources
The jail works with local police, courts, and nonprofits. Programs include victim support, school tours, and reentry planning. These efforts build trust and help reduce crime. The public can attend open houses or request speakers.
Contact Information and Location
Official Website: https://www.bexar.org/168/Adult-Detention-Center
Phone Number: (210) 335-6219
Address: 200 N. Comal St., San Antonio, TX 78207
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (by appointment only)
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have questions about Bexar County Jail. Below are clear answers based on current policies and official sources. These cover inmate lookup, visitation, money, mail, and more.
How do I find out if someone is in Bexar County Jail?
Use the online inmate search tool on the Bexar County Sheriff’s website. Enter the full name or inmate ID. The system shows current inmates, charges, bond, and court dates. If no result appears, call (210) 335-6219. The person may be in another facility or released. Always verify spelling and try nicknames if needed. The roster updates every few hours, so check again later if necessary.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling ahead?
No. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. Use the jail’s online portal or call the visitation office. Choose a time slot and bring a valid ID. Late arrivals may lose their visit. Both in-person and video visits require booking. This helps manage crowds and maintain security.
What items can I send to an inmate through mail?
You can send letters on plain paper. Books and magazines must come directly from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or other approved retailers. No used books, photos, stickers, or food. All mail is inspected. Prohibited items will be confiscated. Include the inmate’s full name and ID on the envelope. Do not send cash or personal checks.
How much does it cost to send money to an inmate?
Online deposits have a small service fee, usually $2–$5. Kiosk payments may cost less. Money orders by mail have no fee except postage. Funds are available within minutes for online and kiosk methods. Mail takes 3–5 days. Only money orders are accepted by post. Personal checks and cash are rejected.
Are inmates allowed phone calls? Can they receive calls?
Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. They cannot receive incoming calls. Calls last 15–20 minutes and cost per minute. Family can prepay online. All calls are recorded. Numbers must be added to the approved list first. International calls are not allowed. Phone access depends on behavior and housing unit.
What happens if an inmate needs medical care?
All inmates get a health screening when booked. Nurses and doctors are on-site. Prescriptions are filled. Emergency care is available 24/7. Mental health services include counseling and medication. Inmates can request a medical visit through staff. Serious cases may be sent to a hospital. Families are notified in emergencies when possible.
Can inmates get a GED or job training while in jail?
Yes. Bexar County Jail offers free GED classes and vocational programs. Subjects include carpentry, plumbing, and computer skills. Certificates are awarded upon completion. These programs help inmates find jobs after release. Classes are held in secure classrooms. Participation depends on behavior and space availability.