Texas Arrest Records and Mugshots
How to Run a Texas Arrest Records Search
Navigating the realm of Texas arrest records doesn't have to feel like a trek through the wilderness. There are multiple online resources where you can find out if someone was arrested, as well as what their criminal charges are, and where they are jailed. Whether you are looking to find someone you know that has been arrested, or running a background check on someone, it's all good. These are publicly available records that anyone can access.
Since arrest records are handled mostly on a county basis, it can be helpful to know where the person of interest was arrested. If you do not know this, that's ok too, there are resources out there where you can search statewide. You will however need to know the person's full name, and age or date of birth to perform your search.
The Implications of Being Arrested
Before diving into the search process, let's clarify what being arrested is, and what are and what the implications are. These records are law enforcement generated documents that report an individual's alleged crime and their arrest. These records typically include details such as the person's name, mugshot, criminal charges, and booking information. They will also show the arresting law enforcement agency, as well as the police officer.
The implications of these can be troublesome. They will show up on a background check and can be detrimental when looking for a job, renting a home, or trying to obtain travel documents. While they are not technically considered public record until that person is officially convicted by a judge or jury, they are still looked at as a criminal offense.
3 Ways to Search Texas Public Arrest Records
Conducting a Texas arrest records search can be done through several avenues, both online and in-person. Here's how to begin:
Online Statewide Searches: Texas provides the public with access to criminal history records through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You can perform a search on their website for a nominal fee. This statewide database is a valuable resource for comprehensive arrest records.
County-Level Searches: For more localized searches, such as the City of Irving, or Chambers County, you would visit the respective county's official website or the county sheriff's department. Many counties either post the jail roster online, or allow you to perform a search. Although some smaller cities and counties may require you to request records in person or via mail.
Third-Party Websites: Numerous third-party websites offer arrest records search services. These can be convenient, but it's important to verify the accuracy and legality of the information provided. Always check reviews and ensure the site is compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) if using the information for pre-employment screening.
How to Find Mugshots in Texas
Looking up someone's Texas mugshot is the same as looking up their arresting report. This is added to their record after the apprehended person is booked into jail. This may be a city jail or county jail depending on what law enforcment agency was responsible. To locate a person's mugshot you would either visit the respective law enforcment website, the county jail website or contact them directly if you cannot find it posted online. For example, if you want to find Lubbock TX mugshots, you can find these posted on the Lubbock County Jail website. They poste the jail roster online for public access.
What TX Mugshots Are Used For
Texas mugshots are photo records taken by law enforcement during the booking process following someone's arrest. They are part of the arrest record and are often included in most online databases. However, the availability of mugshots might depend on the specific county, or jurisdiction. TX mugshots will clearly indicate the identity of the person in custody, as well as any marking or tattoos. This can be especially useful to see what that person's physical condition is while they were apprehended, such as if they were in an altercation, any injuries, or if they appear to be under the influence of a controlled substance. These can be used as future evidence by the courts or law enforcement in any future legal situations.
What is the Punishment for Evading Arrest in Texas?
First, this is very serious, if you evade being arrested you can face felony criminal charges. For example, if you are attempting to out-run a cop in a vehicle, and get into an accident and injure someone, then you might end up in prison, plus have a hefty fine. Just for evading an arrest can lead to up to 2 years in jail and a $10k fine, but if you injure someone, that may go as high as ten years in prison. It is never a good idea to do this, no matter what the situation is. It will most likely end up very badly for anyone that attempts to evade law enforcement.
Can I Be Arrested for Speeding in Texas?
It is possible that if you are speeding to a point where it is dangerous or reckless then you can be arrested. Typically speeding traffic violations are just a fine however if you are driving well over the speed limit then it is a major safety issue. For example, if you are driving over 100mph then you will immediate be arrested and your vehicle will be impounded, and you will most likely have your driver's license suspended.
Legal Considerations and Restrictions
While someone's TX arrests and mugshots are generally considered public records, there are restrictions on how the information can be used. These are particularly in relation to employment or housing decisions. Ensure you're in compliance with all relevant laws, including the FCRA, when using this information for any official purpose. Make sure the source you are obtaining this information is allowed for official purposes. If you are just looking to verify or research this information for personal usage only, then non-FCRA compliant sites are fine to use.
