Potter County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Potter County?

Inmate records in Potter County are official government documents maintained by the Potter County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document the custody, supervision, and management of individuals incarcerated within the county's detention facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks individuals from their initial entry into the correctional system through their release.

Unlike court records, which are maintained by the judicial system and focus on case proceedings, inmate records specifically document an individual's custody status and institutional history. The Potter County Sheriff's Office creates and maintains these records pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.108, which establishes guidelines for law enforcement and correctional records.

Inmate records typically include:

• Booking information captured during intake processing
• Personal identification details
• Criminal charges and case numbers
• Custody classification information
• Behavioral incidents during incarceration
• Visitation logs
• Release information

The record creation process begins at booking when an individual is first taken into custody. At this point, the Potter County detention staff collects identifying information, photographs, fingerprints, and other relevant data. Throughout incarceration, the record is continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, court appearances, and other significant events. Upon release, the record is completed with discharge information but remains in the system as a historical document according to Texas Local Government Records Act.

Are Inmate Records Public In Potter County?

Inmate records in Potter County are generally considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, with certain limitations and exceptions. This act, codified in Texas Government Code Chapter 552, establishes the public's right to access government records, including those related to incarcerated individuals.

The following inmate information is typically available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information
• Charges filed
• Mugshots
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Facility housing location

However, certain information may be withheld or redacted pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.101, which protects confidential information under law. This includes:

• Medical and mental health records
• Juvenile records (in most cases)
• Information that might compromise institutional security
• Social Security numbers and other sensitive personal identifiers
• Information related to ongoing investigations

The Potter County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search system that provides public access to basic custody information while protecting confidential data. For more comprehensive records, formal public information requests may be required.

What's Included Inmate Records in Potter County

Potter County inmate records contain a comprehensive collection of information documenting an individual's interaction with the county detention system. These records typically include:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height, weight, and identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Mugshot/booking photograph
• Fingerprints (not publicly accessible)

Custody Information:

• Booking date and time
• Arresting agency
• Booking number/inmate ID
• Current custody status
• Housing assignment within facility
• Classification level

Charge Information:

• Current charges
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Offense dates

Bond/Bail Information:

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

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned
• Scheduled court dates
• Court case numbers

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction date
• Sentence length
• Sentence start date
• Projected release date
• Good time/work time credits earned

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Release type (time served, bond, transfer)
• Post-release supervision requirements

These records are maintained in compliance with the Texas Commission on Jail Standards regulations and are subject to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

Potter County Prison System

The Potter County correctional system operates under the authority of the Potter County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and administering the county's detention facilities. The system primarily consists of the Potter County Detention Center, which houses both pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of typically up to one year.

It is important to distinguish between county jails and state prisons in Texas. The Potter County jail facilities house individuals who:

• Are awaiting trial and have not been convicted
• Have been convicted of misdemeanors with sentences up to one year
• Are temporarily held pending transfer to state prison facilities
• Are being held on probation or parole violations
• Are serving state jail felony sentences under specific agreements

By contrast, Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) state prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences, typically exceeding one year.

The Potter County Sheriff's Office oversees all jail operations, including inmate supervision, facility maintenance, and record-keeping:

Potter County Sheriff's Office
608 S. Pierce St.
Amarillo, TX 79101
(806) 379-2900
Potter County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office operates in accordance with standards established by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, which conducts regular inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding inmate housing, health services, and facility conditions.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Potter County

Potter County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate various security levels and inmate populations. Each facility serves specific functions within the county's detention system:

Potter County Detention Center
13100 NE 29th Ave
Amarillo, TX 79107
(806) 379-2925
Potter County Detention Center

This is the main detention facility in Potter County, housing the majority of inmates. The facility includes:

• Maximum security housing units
• Medium security housing units
• Minimum security housing units
• Special housing for protective custody
• Medical housing unit

Potter County Work Release Center
13100 NE 29th Ave
Amarillo, TX 79107
(806) 379-2925
Potter County Sheriff's Office

This facility houses low-risk inmates who qualify for work release programs, allowing them to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentences. Inmates return to the facility when not at work.

Potter County Juvenile Detention Center
9300 S. Georgia St.
Amarillo, TX 79118
(806) 322-2028
Potter County Juvenile Probation

While not under the Sheriff's Office jurisdiction, this facility houses juvenile offenders (typically ages 10-17) who are awaiting court proceedings or serving short-term detention sentences. This facility is operated by the Potter County Juvenile Probation Department.

Each facility operates according to specific security protocols and housing classifications based on:

• Inmate risk level
• Nature of charges/offenses
• Behavioral history
• Special needs (medical, mental health)
• Court status (pre-trial vs. sentenced)

All Potter County detention facilities are subject to regular inspections by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards to ensure compliance with state regulations regarding safety, sanitation, and inmate rights.

Who's in Prison In Potter County

The Potter County detention facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial detainees who have been charged with crimes but not yet convicted. These individuals:

• Have been denied bail
• Cannot afford to post bail
• Are awaiting arraignment or trial
• May be held on probation violations pending hearings

Sentenced misdemeanants serving terms of incarceration up to one year for offenses such as:

• Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
• Theft under certain value thresholds
• Simple assault
• Criminal trespass
• Possession of small amounts of controlled substances

Short-term felony offenders serving sentences in county facilities through agreements with the state, typically for:

• State jail felonies with sentences of less than two years
• Certain third-degree felonies under specific arrangements

Individuals awaiting transfer to Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facilities after receiving felony sentences exceeding the county's jurisdiction.

Federal detainees held through intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The demographic composition of the Potter County inmate population generally reflects trends seen in detention facilities across Texas, with disproportionate representation of:

• Males (approximately 85-90% of the population)
• Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
• Persons with substance abuse disorders
• Individuals with mental health conditions

The average daily population fluctuates based on arrest rates, court processing times, and seasonal factors, but typically ranges between 400-500 inmates across all Potter County facilities.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Potter County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Potter County may utilize several methods to access this information. The Potter County Sheriff's Office maintains current systems for providing public access to inmate custody information:

Online Inmate Search:

1. Visit the Potter County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Jail Information" section
3. Enter the required search criteria (typically name, date of birth, or booking number)
4. Review the results, which generally include:
   • Current custody status
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Next court date

In-Person Records Request:

1. Visit the Potter County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

   Potter County Sheriff's Office Records Division
   608 S. Pierce St.
   Amarillo, TX 79101
   (806) 379-2900

2. Complete a public information request form

3. Provide specific information about the inmate and records sought

4. Present valid government-issued identification

5. Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction

Written Records Request:

1. Submit a written request under the Texas Public Information Act to:

   Potter County Sheriff's Office
   Attn: Records Division
   608 S. Pierce St.
   Amarillo, TX 79101

2. Include specific details about the inmate and information requested

3. Provide contact information for response

4. Allow up to 10 business days for processing pursuant to Texas Government Code

Telephone Inquiry: For basic custody status information only, call the Potter County Detention Center at (806) 379-2925. Staff can confirm if an individual is currently in custody but cannot provide detailed record information over the phone.

Under current law, certain information may be withheld or redacted from public records requests in accordance with exemptions under the Texas Public Information Act. Requestors may be required to pay reasonable fees for document reproduction as established by the Texas Administrative Code.

How To Find an Inmate in Potter County for Free?

Potter County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals currently incarcerated within the county detention system. These free resources are accessible to family members, friends, legal representatives, and members of the general public:

Potter County Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Access the Potter County Sheriff's Office website
2. Locate and click on the "Inmate Search" function
3. Enter the inmate's name (last name, first name)
4. Review search results showing current inmates matching the search criteria
5. Select the specific inmate record to view basic custody information

This online system provides free access to:

• Confirmation of custody status
• Booking date
• Current charges
• Bond amounts
• Housing facility
• Inmate identification number (needed for visits and deposits)

Telephone Verification: For those without internet access, basic inmate location information is available by calling:

Potter County Detention Center
(806) 379-2925
Hours: 24 hours daily

When calling, be prepared to provide:

• Inmate's full legal name
• Date of birth (if known)
• Approximate booking date (if known)

Vinelink System: Texas participates in the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system, which provides:

1. Free custody status information
2. Notification services for custody changes
3. Access via web or telephone

To use VINE:

• Visit VINELink
• Select Texas from the state dropdown
• Enter the inmate's name
• Follow the prompts to view custody information

In-Person Inquiry: Individuals may visit the Potter County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours to inquire about an inmate's custody status:

Potter County Sheriff's Office
608 S. Pierce St.
Amarillo, TX 79101
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

These free search methods provide basic custody verification but do not include access to comprehensive inmate records or case details. For more detailed information, formal public information requests may be required.

How To Visit an Inmate In Potter County

The Potter County Detention Center maintains specific policies governing inmate visitation to ensure security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visits must comply with established procedures:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be 18 years or older with valid government-issued photo identification
• Minors may only visit when accompanied by an authorized adult
• Visitors must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled visit time
• Visitors must successfully clear security screening
• Maximum of two visitors per inmate per session
• Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry

Visit Schedule: The Potter County Detention Center operates visitation on a housing unit rotation:

• A-Pod: Monday and Thursday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• B-Pod: Tuesday and Friday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• C-Pod: Wednesday and Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• D-Pod: Sunday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Visitor registration confirmation (if pre-registered)
• Vehicle keys (all other personal items must remain in vehicle or lockers)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras)
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Controlled substances

Dress Code:

• No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
• No gang-related attire or colors
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
• No excessively baggy clothing
• Appropriate footwear required

Visit Types:

• Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, probation officers)
• Special visits (approved by administration for exceptional circumstances)

Visit Restrictions: Visitation privileges may be suspended or modified for:

• Violation of facility rules
• Security concerns
• Disciplinary actions against inmates
• Facility lockdowns or emergencies

All visitation policies are established in accordance with the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, which sets minimum requirements for county jail operations under Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9.

How To Send Money to a Potter County Inmate

Potter County provides several secure methods for depositing funds into an inmate's commissary account. These funds allow inmates to purchase approved items from the jail commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, and communication services.

Online Deposits:

1. Visit the Potter County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the inmate information section
3. Select the commissary deposit option
4. Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
5. Follow the prompts to complete payment via credit/debit card

Kiosk Deposits: Self-service kiosks are available in the Potter County Detention Center lobby:

Potter County Detention Center
13100 NE 29th Ave
Amarillo, TX 79107
Hours: 24 hours daily

Kiosks accept:

• Cash
• Credit/debit cards
• No personal checks

Money Order by Mail:

1. Purchase a money order payable to "Potter County Inmate Trust Fund"
2. Write the inmate's full name and ID number on the money order
3. Mail to:

Potter County Detention Center
Inmate Trust Fund
13100 NE 29th Ave
Amarillo, TX 79107

Amount Limits:

• Minimum deposit: $1.00
• Maximum single deposit: $300.00
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500.00
• Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Transaction Fees:

• Online deposits: $2.50 per transaction
• Kiosk deposits: $2.00 per transaction
• Money order deposits: No fee

What You Cannot Send:

• Cash through mail (will be returned to sender)
• Personal checks (will be returned to sender)
• Third-party checks
• Foreign currency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds: Funds deposited into an inmate's account may be used for:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Phone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Restitution payments (if court-ordered)

Prohibited Uses: Inmate funds cannot be used for:

• Purchasing contraband
• Paying other inmates
• Gambling activities
• Bribing staff or other inmates

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review by detention staff. Suspicious activity may result in administrative action or criminal investigation pursuant to Texas Penal Code § 38.11, which prohibits providing prohibited items to persons in custody.

How To Send Jail Mail In Potter County

Potter County Detention Center permits inmates to receive mail subject to specific guidelines designed to maintain facility security while allowing important communication with family, friends, and legal representatives.

General Mail Guidelines:

• All incoming mail must include:
  • Inmate's full name
  • Inmate ID number (if known)
  • Facility address:

Potter County Detention Center
[Inmate Name & ID#]
13100 NE 29th Ave
Amarillo, TX 79107

• Return address must include sender's full name and complete mailing address
• Mail lacking proper addressing will be returned to sender
• All non-privileged mail is opened and inspected for contraband
• Mail is typically distributed to inmates within 24 hours of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays

Permitted Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
• Money orders (must be addressed to inmate trust fund)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Perfumed or scented items
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Polaroid photographs
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Items containing glitter, glue, or other adhesives
• Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related materials
• Any items that pose a security threat

Legal/Privileged Mail: Mail clearly marked as legal or privileged correspondence from:

• Licensed attorneys
• Courts and government agencies
• Elected officials
• Consular officials

This mail is opened in the inmate's presence to inspect for contraband only. The contents are not read by staff.

Books and Publications:

• Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
• Soft-cover only
• Subject to content review
• Maximum of 3 books per inmate at any time

All mail procedures comply with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 291 governing county jail operations and inmate rights to correspondence while maintaining facility security.

Lookup Inmate Records in Potter County