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Tom Green County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Tom Green County

Arrest records in Tom Green County are considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552). This statute establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are presumed to be open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.021, public information is available to the public during normal business hours of the governmental body. The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains criminal history record information that includes arrests, prosecutions, and the disposition of cases for individuals arrested for Class B misdemeanors or greater violations.

It is important to note the distinction between arrest records and conviction records:

  • Arrest records document that an individual was taken into custody, detained, or otherwise restrained by law enforcement.
  • Conviction records indicate that an individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through a court proceeding.

Under current Texas law, both arrest and conviction records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply. For example, records related to juvenile offenders, expunged records, or records that have been ordered sealed by a court are not publicly available.

The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, while the San Angelo Police Department maintains records for arrests within city limits. These records are subject to the provisions of the Texas Public Information Act and may be requested by members of the public through established procedures.

What's in Tom Green County Arrest Records

Tom Green County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been arrested within the county's jurisdiction. 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
  • Photograph (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints

Arrest Details:

  • Date and time of arrest
  • Location of arrest
  • Arresting agency (e.g., Tom Green County Sheriff's Office, San Angelo Police Department)
  • Arresting officer's name and badge number
  • Reason for arrest

Charge Information:

  • Criminal charges filed
  • Charge classification (misdemeanor or felony)
  • Charge severity (Class A, B, C misdemeanor; first, second, third-degree felony, etc.)
  • Statute citation for alleged violation
  • Case number

Warrant Information (if applicable):

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

Booking Information:

  • Booking date and time
  • Booking number
  • Processing officer information
  • Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

  • Bond amount
  • Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
  • Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
  • Conditions of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Scheduled court appearances
  • Judge assigned to case

Custody Status:

  • Current detention status (in custody, released)
  • Release date (if applicable)
  • Facility where detained

Additional Information May Include:

  • Prior arrest history
  • Probation/parole status at time of arrest
  • Immigration holds or detainers
  • Special custody requirements
  • Medical alerts

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. These records are maintained in accordance with Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 66.102, which governs the collection and maintenance of criminal history record information.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Tom Green County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Tom Green County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining arrest records:

  1. In-Person Requests at the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office

    • Visit the Records Division during regular business hours
    • Complete a Public Information Request form
    • Provide identification and specify the records being requested
    • Pay applicable fees for copies or certified records

    Tom Green County Sheriff's Office
    222 W. Harris Avenue
    San Angelo, TX 76903
    (325) 655-8111
    Tom Green County Sheriff's Office

  2. In-Person Requests at the San Angelo Police Department

    • Visit the Records Division during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday)
    • Complete a records request form
    • Provide identification and specify the records being requested
    • Pay applicable fees for copies or certified records

    San Angelo Police Department
    401 E. Beauregard Avenue
    San Angelo, TX 76903
    (325) 657-4315
    San Angelo Police Department

  3. Written Requests by Mail

    • Submit a written request clearly identifying the records sought
    • Include contact information for response
    • Address the request to the appropriate agency's Records Division
    • Include payment for applicable fees (call ahead to confirm amount)
  4. Email Requests

    • Submit requests to the designated email address for the appropriate agency
    • Clearly identify the records being requested
    • Include contact information for response
    • Arrangements for payment will be provided in the response
  5. Fax Requests

    • Submit a written request via fax to the appropriate agency
    • Clearly identify the records being requested
    • Include contact information for response
    • Arrangements for payment will be provided in the response

Pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act, agencies must respond to requests promptly, typically within 10 business days. Requestors should be prepared to provide sufficient information to identify the specific records sought, including the full name of the individual, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest if known.

Fees for copies of arrest records are established in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 1, Part 3, Chapter 70, which governs charges for providing copies of public information.

How To Find Tom Green County Arrest Records Online

Tom Green County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests. The following online methods are currently available:

  1. Tom Green County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search

    • Navigate to the Tom Green County website
    • Select "Court and Jail Search" from the main menu
    • Choose "Inmate Search" from the available options
    • Enter the individual's name or booking number
    • Review the results, which typically include current inmates and recent releases
    • Note that this system primarily shows current custody status rather than historical arrest records
  2. Tom Green County Court Records Search

    • Visit the Tom Green County District Clerk's website
    • Select "Case Records Search"
    • Enter search criteria (name, case number, etc.)
    • Review results for criminal cases that may contain arrest information
    • Note that court records focus on case proceedings rather than arrest details
  3. Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal History Search

    • Access the Texas DPS Crime Records Service
    • Select "Criminal History Record Information"
    • Create an account if required
    • Pay the required fee ($3.00 per name search)
    • Submit search criteria
    • Review results for arrest records and dispositions
  4. Texas Judicial Branch Website

    • Visit the Texas Courts website
    • Navigate to "Search Case Records"
    • Select Tom Green County from the jurisdiction options
    • Enter search criteria
    • Review results for criminal cases that may contain arrest information

When using online systems, users should be aware that:

  • Not all arrest records may be available online
  • Some systems may only show recent arrests or current inmates
  • Older records may require direct requests to the appropriate agency
  • Some online searches may require payment of fees
  • Complete criminal history information typically requires fingerprint-based searches through the Texas Department of Public Safety

Online access to arrest records is governed by the same legal provisions that apply to physical records, including the Texas Public Information Act and applicable exemptions for confidential information.

How To Search Tom Green County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public seeking to access Tom Green County arrest records without incurring fees have several options available. The following methods provide free access to certain arrest record information:

  1. Tom Green County Jail Roster

    • Visit the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office website
    • Navigate to the "Inmate Search" function
    • This publicly accessible database provides information on current inmates and recent releases
    • Search by name to view booking information, charges, and custody status
    • No fee is required to access this basic information
  2. Public Access Terminals at Government Offices

    • Visit the Tom Green County Courthouse during regular business hours
    • Use the public access terminals in the District Clerk's office
    • Search for criminal cases that may contain arrest information
    • No fee is charged for on-site searches, though printing fees may apply

    Tom Green County District Clerk
    112 W. Beauregard Avenue
    San Angelo, TX 76903
    (325) 659-6579
    Tom Green County District Clerk

  3. Local Newspaper Archives

    • Visit the Tom Green County Library
    • Access newspaper archives that may contain reports of arrests
    • Search by date or name to find published arrest information
    • Library access is free to county residents

    Tom Green County Library
    33 W. Beauregard Avenue
    San Angelo, TX 76903
    (325) 655-7321
    Tom Green County Library

  4. Court Docket Searches

    • Visit the Tom Green County Courts website
    • Review public court dockets for criminal proceedings
    • Court dockets may reference associated arrests
    • Online docket information is typically available at no cost
  5. Public Information Requests for Specific Records

    • Submit a targeted public information request for specific arrest records
    • While copying fees may apply, narrowly tailored requests for specific records may qualify for fee waivers
    • Requests that serve the public interest may qualify for reduced or waived fees under Texas Government Code § 552.267

When utilizing free search methods, requestors should be aware that:

  • Free resources typically provide limited information compared to official record requests
  • Historical arrest records may not be available through free online systems
  • Some free resources may only show current inmates or recent arrests
  • Complete criminal history information generally requires a paid search through the Texas Department of Public Safety

Access to free arrest record information is subject to the same legal restrictions that apply to fee-based searches, including protections for confidential information and sealed records.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Tom Green County

Under Texas law, individuals may have options to limit public access to their arrest records through legal processes known as expunction (complete removal) or non-disclosure (sealing). These remedies are governed by specific statutory provisions and require court approval.

Expunction (Erasure) of Records

Expunction is the complete removal of arrest records from public and law enforcement databases. Pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55, individuals may qualify for expunction in the following circumstances:

  • The person was arrested but never charged with a crime
  • Charges were dismissed or quashed
  • The person was acquitted (found "not guilty") at trial
  • The person was convicted but subsequently pardoned
  • The person completed certain pretrial diversion programs
  • The statute of limitations has expired for an offense for which the person was released and no charges were filed

To pursue expunction in Tom Green County:

  1. File a Petition for Expunction with the Tom Green County District Court
  2. Pay the required filing fee (approximately $300)
  3. Attend a hearing before a district judge
  4. If granted, obtain a signed Order of Expunction
  5. Ensure the order is distributed to all agencies holding records

Order of Non-Disclosure (Sealing)

Non-disclosure orders seal records from public view but maintain them for law enforcement purposes. Under Texas Government Code Chapter 411, individuals may qualify for non-disclosure if:

  • They successfully completed deferred adjudication for certain offenses
  • They meet waiting period requirements (varies by offense type)
  • The offense is eligible for non-disclosure
  • They have no disqualifying criminal history

To pursue non-disclosure in Tom Green County:

  1. File a Petition for Non-Disclosure with the court that handled the original case
  2. Pay the required filing fee (approximately $280)
  3. Attend a hearing before the court
  4. If granted, obtain a signed Order of Non-Disclosure
  5. Ensure the order is distributed to all relevant agencies

Important Limitations

Not all arrest records qualify for expunction or non-disclosure. Disqualifying factors may include:

  • Convictions for certain serious offenses
  • Multiple arrests within a specified time period
  • Certain types of sex offenses or violent crimes
  • Violations of specific protective orders

Legal representation is strongly recommended when pursuing expunction or non-disclosure, as these processes involve complex legal requirements and procedural rules. The Tom Green County District Attorney's Office does not provide legal advice to individuals seeking to expunge or seal records.

What Happens After Arrest in Tom Green County?

Following an arrest in Tom Green County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Texas law. This process typically progresses through several distinct phases:

  1. Booking and Initial Processing

    • The arrestee is transported to the Tom Green County Jail
    • Personal information is recorded and verified
    • Fingerprints and photographs (mugshots) are taken
    • Personal property is inventoried and secured
    • Medical screening is conducted
    • The arrestee is placed in appropriate housing
  2. Magistration (Initial Appearance)

    • Occurs within 48 hours of arrest (typically within 24 hours)
    • A magistrate informs the arrestee of charges and constitutional rights
    • Bail is set or denied based on factors including charge severity and flight risk
    • Indigent defendants may request court-appointed counsel
    • This proceeding is conducted pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 15.17
  3. Bail Determination and Possible Release

    • Bail may be posted through cash, surety bond, or personal recognizance
    • If bail is posted, the arrestee is released pending future court appearances
    • If bail cannot be posted, the arrestee remains in custody
    • Certain serious offenses may result in bail being denied
  4. Formal Charging

    • For misdemeanors: Information filed by the County Attorney
    • For felonies: Case presented to grand jury for possible indictment
    • Charging decisions typically occur within 30-90 days of arrest
    • Some cases may be declined for prosecution at this stage
  5. Arraignment

    • Formal reading of charges in court
    • Defendant enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
    • Court confirms legal representation status
    • Initial pretrial matters may be addressed
  6. Pretrial Proceedings

    • Discovery of evidence between prosecution and defense
    • Pretrial motions (e.g., to suppress evidence, dismiss charges)
    • Plea negotiations between defense and prosecution
    • Case status conferences and docket calls
  7. Case Resolution

    • Plea agreement: Defendant pleads guilty or no contest in exchange for specific sentencing recommendations
    • Trial: Jury trial or bench trial (before judge only)
    • Dismissal: Charges dropped by prosecution
    • Diversion: Alternative programs for eligible defendants (e.g., drug court, veterans court)
  8. Sentencing (if convicted)

    • May occur immediately after guilty plea or trial conviction
    • May be scheduled for a later date after pre-sentence investigation
    • Sentences may include incarceration, probation, fines, restitution, community service, or treatment programs
  9. Post-Conviction

    • Right to appeal within specified timeframes
    • Possible probation supervision
    • Incarceration in county jail or transfer to state prison
    • Payment of fines and restitution

The entire process from arrest to final disposition typically takes several months for misdemeanors and potentially a year or longer for felony cases. Timelines may vary based on case complexity, court dockets, and other factors.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Tom Green County?

Arrest records in Tom Green County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Texas Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods for various types of law enforcement records, including arrest documentation.

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission's Local Schedule PS specifically governs records retention for public safety agencies and establishes the following retention periods:

  • Arrest Records (Adults): Minimum of 75 years from date of arrest
  • Arrest Records (Juveniles): Until the individual reaches age 21, plus 75 years
  • Offense/Incident Reports: 5 years for Class C misdemeanors; 10 years for Class A and B misdemeanors; 75 years for felonies
  • Booking Records: 5 years
  • Jail Records/Custody Documentation: 5 years after release or transfer
  • Fingerprint Cards: 75 years

Different agencies within Tom Green County may maintain arrest records for varying periods:

  • The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records according to the minimum state requirements, typically 75 years for adult arrests.
  • The San Angelo Police Department follows similar retention schedules for arrests within city limits.
  • The Tom Green County District Clerk maintains court records related to criminal cases permanently.
  • The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains criminal history information in the statewide database indefinitely unless expunged by court order.

It is important to note that:

  1. These retention periods represent minimum requirements; records may be kept longer.
  2. Electronic records are subject to the same retention requirements as physical records.
  3. Records subject to litigation holds must be retained regardless of standard retention periods.
  4. Records that have been expunged by court order must be destroyed in accordance with the expunction order.

The extended retention of arrest records serves several public policy purposes, including:

  • Providing complete criminal history information for law enforcement investigations
  • Supporting prosecution of repeat offenders
  • Facilitating background checks for sensitive employment positions
  • Maintaining historical documentation for statistical and research purposes
  • Ensuring accountability within the criminal justice system

Individuals seeking information about specific record retention practices should contact the agency that created or maintains the records in question.

How to Find Mugshots in Tom Green County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images typically show the front and side view of an arrestee's face and upper body. Mugshots serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system and are considered part of the official arrest documentation.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Tom Green County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

  • The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office for arrests by county deputies
  • The San Angelo Police Department for arrests within city limits
  • The Tom Green County Jail as part of booking records
  • The Texas Department of Public Safety in the statewide criminal history database

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Tom Green County have several options:

  1. Submit a Public Information Request to the Arresting Agency

    • File a written request citing the Texas Public Information Act
    • Provide specific information about the arrest (name, date, charges)
    • Pay applicable fees for copies (typically $1-5 per photograph)

    Tom Green County Sheriff's Office
    222 W. Harris Avenue
    San Angelo, TX 76903
    (325) 655-8111
    Tom Green County Sheriff's Office

    San Angelo Police Department
    401 E. Beauregard Avenue
    San Angelo, TX 76903
    (325) 657-4315
    San Angelo Police Department

  2. Check the Tom Green County Jail Current Inmate Roster

    • Visit the Tom Green County website
    • Navigate to the inmate search function
    • Mugshots of current inmates may be displayed with booking information

Can Mugshots Be Found Online

While some mugshots may be available online, Tom Green County law enforcement agencies have limited the public online display of booking photographs in recent years. Currently:

  • The Tom Green County Jail roster may display mugshots of current inmates
  • Historical mugshots are generally not published on official county websites
  • Third-party websites that aggregate mugshots may have obtained these images through public information requests
  • Commercial mugshot websites may not maintain accurate or updated information

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

The most reliable method to obtain an official mugshot is through a formal public information request to the appropriate law enforcement agency. This ensures:

  • The photograph is authentic and unaltered
  • The information associated with the mugshot is accurate
  • The request is processed in accordance with state law
  • Any applicable exemptions are properly applied

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted in certain circumstances:

  • Juvenile arrest photographs are confidential under Texas Family Code
  • Mugshots associated with expunged arrests must be destroyed
  • Records subject to non-disclosure orders are not available to the general public
  • Ongoing investigations may temporarily exempt certain booking photographs
  • Privacy concerns may limit distribution in specific cases

Individuals seeking mugshots should be aware that these images are created for law enforcement purposes, and their publication or distribution may have significant privacy implications for the individuals depicted.

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