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Ellis County Criminal Records

What Is Ellis County Criminal Records

Ellis County criminal records are official government documents that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Ellis County, Texas. These records are maintained pursuant to Texas Government Code § 411.083, which establishes guidelines for criminal history record information.

Criminal records in Ellis County encompass several distinct categories:

  • Arrest Records: Documentation of when an individual is taken into custody by law enforcement, including the Ellis County Sheriff's Office or local police departments. These records exist whether or not charges are ultimately filed.
  • Conviction Records: Official documentation of guilty verdicts or pleas, representing final judgments in criminal cases.
  • Felony Records: Documentation of more serious offenses punishable by imprisonment in state facilities for periods exceeding one year.
  • Misdemeanor Records: Records of less severe offenses typically punishable by county jail terms of less than one year, fines, or both. The Criminal Misdemeanor Division of the Ellis County Clerk's Office maintains these records.
  • Adult vs. Juvenile Records: While adult records are generally public, juvenile records (individuals under 17) are typically sealed under Texas Family Code § 58.003 and require court orders for access.
  • Warrant Information: Documentation of active warrants for arrest versus historical warrant records.

Multiple agencies maintain criminal records in Ellis County:

Ellis County Sheriff's Office
109 S. Jackson Street
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-4901
Ellis County Sheriff's Office

Ellis County Clerk's Office
109 S. Jackson Street, Suite 200
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-5070
Ellis County Clerk

Ellis County District Clerk
109 S. Jackson Street
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-5091
Ellis County District Clerk

Comprehensive criminal records typically include documentation of charges, arraignments, pleas, trial proceedings, sentencing outcomes, and probation or parole information. These records serve as the official history of an individual's involvement with the criminal justice system in Ellis County.

Are Criminal Records Public In Ellis County

Criminal records in Ellis County are generally considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act, codified in Texas Government Code Chapter 552. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal records, are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.

The Texas Public Information Act states: "It is the policy of this state that each person is entitled, unless otherwise expressly provided by law, at all times to complete information about the affairs of government and the official acts of public officials and employees."

Public criminal records in Ellis County typically include:

  • Adult arrest records
  • Court proceedings and dockets
  • Conviction records
  • Sentencing information
  • Incarceration records
  • Probation and parole status

However, certain categories of criminal records remain restricted from public access:

  • Active criminal investigations, as disclosure could interfere with law enforcement proceedings
  • Juvenile records (for offenders under 17 years of age), which are confidential under Texas Family Code
  • Records sealed by court order, including certain expunged or non-disclosed offenses
  • Records related to deferred adjudication after successful completion of probation
  • Information that would violate personal privacy under constitutional or statutory provisions
  • Records where disclosure is prohibited by other laws, such as certain victim information

The Ellis County Clerk's Office maintains public criminal records for misdemeanor cases, while the District Clerk handles felony records. Members of the public seeking access to criminal records must follow established procedures for public information requests in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act.

It is important to note that while records may be public, certain identifying information such as Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and other personal identifiers may be redacted to protect individual privacy while still maintaining the public nature of the records.

How To Look Up Criminal Records In Ellis County in 2026

Members of the public seeking criminal records in Ellis County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently provides multiple pathways for criminal record searches:

In-Person Requests:

  1. Visit the appropriate county office based on the type of record needed:

    Ellis County Clerk's Office (for misdemeanor cases)
    109 S. Jackson Street, Suite 200
    Waxahachie, TX 75165
    (972) 825-5070
    Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Ellis County District Clerk (for felony cases)
    109 S. Jackson Street
    Waxahachie, TX 75165
    (972) 825-5091
    Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  2. Complete a records request form, providing case numbers or the individual's name and date of birth if available.

  3. Present valid government-issued photo identification.

  4. Pay applicable fees for copies (typically $1.00 per page for standard copies).

  5. Records may be provided immediately or within a reasonable timeframe depending on complexity.

Written Requests:

  1. Submit a formal written request to the appropriate office via mail, email, or fax.
  2. Include specific information about the records sought, including names, dates, and case numbers if known.
  3. Provide contact information for response.
  4. The county must respond to requests within 10 business days under the Texas Public Information Act.

Online Access:

Ellis County offers online records search capabilities for certain criminal records:

  1. Visit the Ellis County official website.
  2. Navigate to the appropriate records portal based on record type.
  3. Register for an account if required.
  4. Enter search criteria (name, case number, date range).
  5. Review available records and purchase copies if needed.

Public Information Act Requests:

For more comprehensive searches or records not readily available through standard channels:

  1. Submit a formal Public Information Request citing Texas Government Code Chapter 552.
  2. Clearly specify the records sought and preferred format.
  3. Submit to the appropriate county department.
  4. Expect a response within 10 business days regarding availability and any applicable fees.

Requestors should note that certain records may require additional verification or court orders for access, particularly sealed or confidential records.

How To Find Criminal Records in Ellis County Online?

Ellis County provides several online portals and databases for accessing criminal records electronically. These resources allow members of the public to conduct preliminary research without visiting county offices in person.

Ellis County Records Search Portal:

The county maintains an online records search system that provides access to various public records, including criminal cases. To utilize this resource:

  1. Navigate to the Ellis County Records Search portal.
  2. Create a user account if required (first-time users).
  3. Select the appropriate record type (criminal cases).
  4. Enter search criteria such as:
    • Defendant name (last name, first name)
    • Case number
    • Filing date range
    • Case type
  5. Review search results showing basic case information.
  6. Select specific cases to view additional details.
  7. Purchase and download copies of documents if needed (fees apply).

Ellis County Jail Inmate Search:

For current incarceration information:

  1. Visit the Ellis County Sheriff's Office website.
  2. Navigate to the Inmate Search function.
  3. Enter the individual's name or booking number.
  4. View current custody status, charges, and bond information.

District and County Clerk Case Information:

The Ellis County Clerk's Office maintains records for misdemeanor cases, while the District Clerk handles felony matters:

  1. Access the appropriate clerk's online portal.
  2. Search by name, case number, or date range.
  3. Review case summaries showing charges, filing dates, and disposition information.
  4. Note that complete case files may require in-person requests or additional fees.

Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal History:

For statewide criminal history information that includes Ellis County records:

  1. Visit the Texas DPS Criminal History Search website.
  2. Register for an account and pay required fees.
  3. Submit search request with full name and date of birth.
  4. Receive results showing Texas criminal history, including Ellis County cases.

Users should be aware of the following limitations when searching online:

  • Some records may only be available in person at county offices
  • Older records (typically pre-2000) may not be digitized
  • Certain confidential or sealed records will not appear in public searches
  • Registration and fees may be required for comprehensive searches
  • Official certified copies generally require in-person requests

The Official Public Records section of the Ellis County website provides additional guidance on available online resources and search capabilities.

Can You Search Ellis County Criminal Records for Free?

Ellis County provides several options for free inspection of criminal records, in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act, which establishes the public's right to access government records. While obtaining copies typically involves fees, examining records is generally available at no cost.

Free In-Person Inspection:

Members of the public may inspect criminal records at no charge at the following locations:

Ellis County Clerk's Office
109 S. Jackson Street, Suite 200
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-5070
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Ellis County District Clerk
109 S. Jackson Street
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-5091
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

To conduct a free inspection:

  1. Visit during regular business hours
  2. Complete a records request form
  3. Provide identification
  4. Specify the records you wish to examine
  5. Use public terminals or designated areas to view records

Free Online Resources:

Ellis County offers limited free online access to criminal record information:

  • Ellis County Court Docket Search: Basic case information is viewable without charge, though registration may be required.
  • Ellis County Jail Inmate Search: Current inmate information is accessible at no cost.
  • Public Court Calendars: Upcoming court dates and hearings can be viewed without fees.

Fee-Based Services:

While inspection is free, the following services typically involve costs:

  • Printed copies of records ($1.00 per page is standard)
  • Certified copies (additional certification fees apply)
  • Extensive searches requiring staff research time
  • Complete background checks
  • Expedited processing
  • Electronic document downloads from premium services

The Ellis County Clerk's Office maintains a fee schedule for various record services. Under Texas law, these fees must be reasonable and reflect actual costs of providing the records.

For individuals conducting research, the most cost-effective approach is often to:

  1. Use free online resources to identify specific records
  2. Visit county offices in person to inspect records without charge
  3. Request copies only of essential documents
  4. Provide specific case numbers when possible to minimize search fees

Public access computers at the Ellis County Law Library also provide free access to certain court records and legal research tools for those without internet access.

What's Included in a Ellis County Criminal Record?

Ellis County criminal records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interactions with the local criminal justice system. These records typically include several categories of information as outlined below:

Identifying Information:

  • Full legal name and known aliases
  • Date of birth and age
  • Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
  • Mugshot or booking photograph when available
  • Last known address
  • State Identification Number (SID)
  • FBI number (if applicable)
  • Fingerprint classification

Arrest Information:

  • Date and time of arrest
  • Arresting agency (Ellis County Sheriff, local police department)
  • Booking number and facility
  • Charges filed at time of arrest with Texas Penal Code citations
  • Bail or bond amount and status
  • Detention facility information

Court Case Information:

  • Case number and court of jurisdiction
  • Filing date and court dates
  • Formal charges filed by prosecutor
  • Statutory citations and offense classifications (felony/misdemeanor)
  • Plea information
  • Attorney of record (defense counsel)
  • Judge assigned to the case
  • Pre-trial motions and rulings

Disposition and Sentencing:

  • Verdict (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, etc.)
  • Conviction date if applicable
  • Sentencing details including:
    • Incarceration terms and location
    • Probation conditions and duration
    • Fines, court costs, and restitution ordered
    • Community service requirements
    • Treatment or educational programs mandated
  • Appeal information if applicable
  • Probation/parole status and violations

Additional Information:

  • Active warrants or pending charges
  • Protective orders or restraining orders
  • Sex offender registration requirements
  • DUI/DWI history
  • Related traffic violations
  • Probation or parole status reports
  • Modification of sentences or conditions

The Criminal Misdemeanor Division of the Ellis County Clerk's Office maintains records for less serious offenses, while the District Clerk handles felony matters. Records may vary in completeness depending on the age of the case, with more recent cases typically containing more detailed digital information.

It should be noted that certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of criminal records, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, medical information, and victim identifying details in certain cases, in accordance with Texas privacy laws.

How Long Does Ellis County Keep Criminal Records?

Ellis County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established under the Texas State Library and Archives Commission guidelines and Texas Local Government Code § 203.042. These schedules dictate minimum retention periods for various types of criminal records.

Felony Case Records:

  • Capital felony cases: Permanent retention
  • First and second-degree felonies: 25 years after final judgment
  • Third-degree felonies: 10 years after final judgment
  • State jail felonies: 5 years after final judgment
  • Cases dismissed or acquitted: 5 years after date of dismissal or acquittal

Misdemeanor Case Records:

  • Class A and B misdemeanors: 5 years after final judgment
  • Class C misdemeanors: 2 years after final judgment
  • Cases dismissed or acquitted: 2 years after date of dismissal or acquittal

Arrest Records:

  • Arrest reports and booking information: 5 years
  • Fingerprint cards and photographs: 75 years from date of arrest
  • Jail records and inmate files: 5 years after release

Specialized Records:

  • Grand jury records: 3 years
  • Probation records: 10 years after termination of probation
  • Parole records: 5 years after discharge from parole
  • Juvenile records: Until individual reaches age 21, unless sealed earlier
  • Sex offender registration: Permanent retention

It is important to note that these are minimum retention periods. In practice, Ellis County often maintains records for longer periods, particularly as records have been digitized. Additionally, records of significant historical or legal value may be preserved permanently in the county archives.

The Ellis County Clerk's Office serves as the custodian for many criminal records and implements the county's retention policies. While records may be maintained for the periods indicated above, access to older records might require additional processing time, especially if they have been transferred to archival storage or microfilm.

Criminal records that have reached the end of their retention period may be destroyed in accordance with proper procedures outlined in the Texas Local Government Records Act. However, destruction of records must be documented and approved through formal processes.

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