Travis County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Travis County
Arrest records in Travis County are considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, specifically pursuant to § 552.021 of the Texas Government Code. This statute establishes that public information is available to any person, with certain exceptions as provided by law.
The distinction between arrest records and conviction records is significant in Texas. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through the judicial process. Under Texas law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public.
However, certain exceptions exist under § 552.108 of the Texas Government Code, which allows law enforcement agencies to withhold information if release would interfere with the detection, investigation, or prosecution of crime. Additionally, records related to juvenile arrests are subject to different confidentiality standards under the Texas Family Code.
The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains the state's criminal history record information and establishes policies governing access to these records at the state level, while Travis County maintains local arrest records through the Sheriff's Office.
What's in Travis County Arrest Records
Travis County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody. These records typically include the following components:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Address at time of arrest
- State identification number (SID) and/or FBI number if applicable
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Arresting officer's name and badge number
- Reason for arrest (probable cause statement)
- Whether force was used during arrest
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Charge classification (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge level (e.g., Class A, B, C misdemeanor; first, second, third-degree felony)
- Statute citation for alleged violation
- Case number assigned
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date issued
- Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
Booking Information:
- Booking date and time
- Booking facility
- Booking number
- Fingerprints
- Mugshot photograph
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted or not)
- Conditions of release if applicable
Court Information:
- Court assignment
- Scheduled court appearances
- Judge assigned to case
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Expected 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
- Medical alerts or special needs while in custody
- Property inventory taken during booking
The specific content of arrest records may vary based on the arresting agency's protocols and the nature of the arrest. All information is maintained in accordance with the Texas Local Government Records Act, which establishes standards for record creation and maintenance.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Travis County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Travis County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining arrest records:
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Online Search: The Travis County Sheriff's Office maintains an inmate information portal where individuals can search for current inmates and recent arrests. This system provides basic information about individuals currently in custody.
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In-Person Request: Individuals may request arrest records in person at:
Travis County Sheriff's Office
5555 Airport Boulevard
Austin, TX 78751
512-854-9770
Travis County Sheriff's Office
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Written Request: Submit a written public information request to:
Travis County Sheriff's Office Records Division
P.O. Box 1748
Austin, TX 78767
512-854-9770
- Criminal History Search: For a complete criminal history record, individuals may request this information from:
Travis County District Clerk's Office
1000 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78701
512-854-9457
Travis County District Clerk
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
When requesting arrest records, individuals must provide:
- Full name of the person whose records are being sought
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Payment of applicable fees (currently $10-$25 per record, depending on the type of search)
Pursuant to § 552.261 of the Texas Government Code, agencies may charge reasonable fees for providing copies of public information. Fee schedules are established in accordance with guidelines set by the Office of the Attorney General.
How To Find Travis County Arrest Records Online
Travis County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records electronically. These digital platforms offer convenient access to public information while adhering to state disclosure laws.
The primary online resources for Travis County arrest records include:
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Travis County Inmate Search Portal: The Sheriff's Office maintains a searchable database of current inmates and recent arrests. Users can search by name or booking number to access basic information about individuals in custody, including charges, booking date, and bond information.
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Travis County Criminal Court Records: The Travis County District Clerk's website provides access to criminal court records, which often contain information about arrests that led to court proceedings. Users can search by name, case number, or date range.
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Travis County Warrant Search: The Sheriff's Office provides a public warrant search tool where individuals can check if there are active warrants for arrest in Travis County.
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Travis County Criminal Docket Search: The criminal courts docket search allows users to verify court dates and appearance requirements for criminal cases.
To conduct an effective online search:
- Gather identifying information about the subject (full name, date of birth if possible)
- Select the appropriate database based on the information needed
- Enter search criteria as prompted
- Review results carefully, noting that similar names may appear
- Follow any instructions for requesting additional details not available online
Online searches are subject to the limitations of each database's update frequency. The most current information may require direct contact with the appropriate agency. Additionally, pursuant to § 552.203 of the Texas Government Code, each governmental body is required to prominently display a notice that contains basic information about public information rights and responsibilities.
How To Search Travis County Arrest Records for Free?
Travis County residents and other interested parties may access certain arrest record information without payment through several free public resources. These no-cost options provide basic information while complying with Texas public information laws.
Free arrest record search options include:
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Travis County Sheriff's Office Inmate Information System: The public inmate search portal is available at no cost and provides information about individuals currently in custody, including charges and booking information.
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Travis County Criminal Court Dockets: The public courts information system allows free searches of criminal court dockets, which include information about defendants, charges, and scheduled court appearances.
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Travis County Warrant Search: The Sheriff's Office warrant search tool is freely accessible and allows individuals to check for active warrants in Travis County.
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Public Access Terminals: Computer terminals are available for public use at:
Travis County Law Library and Self-Help Center
314 W. 11th Street, Room 140
Austin, TX 78701
512-854-8677
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Public Information Requests: Under the Texas Public Information Act, individuals may submit basic requests for public information. While extensive searches may incur fees, limited requests may be fulfilled without charge if they require minimal staff time and resources.
When using free search options, users should be aware of certain limitations:
- Information may be less comprehensive than paid searches
- Historical records may not be available through free online portals
- Some identifying information may be redacted
- Results may require follow-up with the appropriate agency for verification
The Texas Public Information Act, specifically § 552.261, allows governmental bodies to waive or reduce charges if doing so is in the public interest. However, comprehensive criminal history reports typically require payment of established fees.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Travis County
In Travis County, individuals cannot technically "delete" arrest records, but may pursue legal remedies to limit public access through expunction or record sealing. These processes are governed by Chapter 55 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Expunction (Erasure)
Expunction, pursuant to § 55.01 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, completely removes arrest records from public and law enforcement databases. Individuals may qualify for expunction if:
- They were arrested but never charged
- Charges were dismissed
- They were acquitted at trial
- They were convicted but subsequently pardoned
- The statute of limitations expired without charges being filed
To request expunction in Travis County:
- File a Petition for Expunction with:
Travis County District Clerk
1000 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78701
512-854-9457
- Pay the filing fee (approximately $300)
- Attend the scheduled court hearing
- If granted, provide the expunction order to all agencies holding records
Record Sealing (Order of Nondisclosure)
Record sealing, governed by § 411.081 of the Texas Government Code, restricts public access to records while maintaining them for law enforcement purposes. Individuals may qualify if:
- They successfully completed deferred adjudication
- They were convicted of certain misdemeanors
- A specified waiting period has passed (typically 2-5 years)
- They have no disqualifying criminal history
To request record sealing:
- File a Petition for Nondisclosure with:
Travis County District Clerk
1000 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78701
512-854-9457
- Pay the filing fee (approximately $280)
- Attend the scheduled court hearing
- If granted, the order restricts public access to the records
Important considerations:
- Certain offenses, particularly violent crimes and sex offenses, are ineligible for expunction or sealing
- Federal immigration authorities may still access sealed records
- Private data companies may have already collected and distributed the information
- Legal representation is strongly recommended for these complex procedures
The Travis County District Attorney's Office can provide additional information about eligibility for these remedies.
What Happens After Arrest in Travis County?
Following an arrest in Travis County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process with several key stages. This process adheres to procedures established under Texas law and local court rules.
Booking and Initial Detention
After physical arrest, individuals are transported to the Travis County Jail for booking, which includes:
- Photographing and fingerprinting
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Entry into jail management system
Magistration (Initial Appearance)
Within 48 hours of arrest (typically 24 hours), arrestees appear before a magistrate judge who:
- Informs them of charges
- Advises them of constitutional rights
- Sets bail or bond conditions
- Determines eligibility for court-appointed counsel
- May issue emergency protective orders in domestic violence cases
Bail/Bond Determination
The magistrate sets bail based on:
- Nature and circumstances of the offense
- Defendant's ability to pay
- Public safety considerations
- Flight risk assessment
Defendants may secure release through:
- Cash bond (full payment to court)
- Surety bond (payment to bondsman)
- Personal recognizance bond (promise to appear)
Formal Charging
For misdemeanors, the County Attorney must file charges within:
- 30 days for Class A or B misdemeanors
- 15 days for Class C misdemeanors
For felonies, the District Attorney must present the case to a grand jury, which determines if probable cause exists to issue an indictment.
Arraignment
At arraignment in the Travis County Criminal Courts, defendants:
- Are formally informed of charges
- Enter an initial plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Have counsel status confirmed
- Receive future court dates
Pretrial Proceedings
Before trial, several proceedings may occur:
- Pretrial conferences
- Discovery exchanges
- Motion hearings (suppression, dismissal, etc.)
- Plea negotiations
Trial or Plea Resolution
Cases resolve through:
- Plea agreement (approximately 90% of cases)
- Bench trial (judge decides)
- Jury trial (guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment)
Sentencing
If convicted, sentencing may include:
- Incarceration
- Probation
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution
- Community service
- Treatment programs
Post-Conviction
After conviction, defendants may:
- Appeal the conviction
- File post-conviction writs
- Seek modification of sentence
- Apply for early termination of probation
Throughout this process, defendants can access case information through the Travis County Criminal Docket Search system.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Travis County?
Arrest records in Travis County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of the Texas Local Government Records Act. These schedules establish minimum retention periods for various types of records.
Under the current retention schedule, specifically Local Schedule PS (Records of Public Safety Agencies), arrest records are subject to the following retention periods:
- Arrest Reports/Offense Reports: Maintained for at least 75 years for Class A and B misdemeanors and all felonies
- Arrest Reports for Class C Misdemeanors: Maintained for at least 2 years
- Booking Records: Maintained for 5 years after the final disposition of the case
- Jail Records/Custody Records: Maintained for 5 years after release or transfer of inmate
- Fingerprint Cards: Maintained for 75 years
- Mug Shots: Maintained for 75 years for felonies; 20 years for misdemeanors
These retention periods apply unless the records:
- Have been ordered expunged by a court pursuant to § 55.02 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure
- Are subject to a destruction order following successful completion of deferred adjudication under § 411.081 of the Texas Government Code
- Are subject to a specific court order mandating alternative retention
Different agencies within Travis County may maintain separate copies of arrest-related records:
- Travis County Sheriff's Office: Maintains original arrest reports, booking information, and jail records
- Travis County District Attorney's Office: Maintains records related to prosecution
- Travis County District Clerk: Maintains court records related to the case
- Texas Department of Public Safety: Maintains statewide criminal history information
The extended retention periods for most arrest records serve several important purposes:
- Preservation of evidence for potential future legal proceedings
- Documentation for background checks and security clearances
- Statistical analysis and crime pattern recognition
- Historical and research value
- Accountability and transparency in law enforcement actions
Records that have reached the end of their retention period may be destroyed in accordance with § 202.001 of the Texas Local Government Code, which requires formal authorization and documentation of records destruction.
How to Find Mugshots in Travis County
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots, or booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. In Travis County, these photographs are taken by the Sheriff's Office at the Travis County Jail as part of the standard booking procedure. Mugshots typically show the front and side view of an arrested individual's face and upper shoulders.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
Mugshots in Travis County are primarily maintained by:
Travis County Sheriff's Office
5555 Airport Boulevard
Austin, TX 78751
512-854-9770
Travis County Sheriff's Office
These photographs are stored in the jail management system and linked to the individual's booking record. They are considered part of the arrest record and are subject to the same retention schedules as other booking information.
Finding Mugshots
To locate a mugshot in Travis County, individuals may:
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Submit a Public Information Request: File a formal request with the Travis County Sheriff's Office Records Division, specifying:
- Full name of the individual
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest
- Request specifically for booking photograph
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Visit in Person: Request mugshots at:
Travis County Sheriff's Office Records Division
5555 Airport Boulevard
Austin, TX 78751
512-854-9770
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Check Court Records: In some cases, mugshots may be included in court files accessible through:
Travis County District Clerk
1000 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78701
512-854-9457
Travis County District Clerk
Can Mugshots Be Found Online?
The Travis County Sheriff's Office does not currently publish mugshots on its official website or inmate search portal. Unlike some jurisdictions, Travis County has adopted a more restrictive approach to online mugshot publication in recognition of privacy concerns and the presumption of innocence.
However, mugshots may appear online through:
- Media outlets that have obtained them through public information requests
- Third-party websites that aggregate booking information
- Social media sharing
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
To officially obtain a mugshot, individuals must:
- Complete a public information request form
- Provide identification
- Pay applicable fees (typically $10-$15 per photograph)
- Specify the intended use of the photograph
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:
- If the case has been expunged or sealed
- If the individual was a juvenile at the time of arrest
- If release would interfere with an ongoing investigation
- If the individual has been acquitted and has petitioned for removal
Additionally, Texas House Bill 3284, enacted in 2021, restricts commercial websites from publishing mugshots and charging fees for their removal if the individual was acquitted or the charges were dismissed.