Ellis County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Ellis County?

Inmate records in Ellis County are official government documents maintained by the Ellis County Sheriff's Office that document and track individuals who are in custody within the county's detention facilities. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that begins at the initial booking process and continues throughout an individual's period of incarceration until their release from custody.

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.001, these records serve as the official documentation of an individual's interaction with the county's correctional system. It is important to distinguish inmate records from court records, as they serve different purposes within the criminal justice system:

• Inmate records focus on custody status, housing assignments, and institutional behavior
• Court records document case proceedings, charges, and judicial decisions
• Sheriff's Office maintains inmate records
• District and County Clerks maintain court records

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process that begins at booking when an individual is first taken into custody. As specified under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 62.051, these records include demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and details of the alleged offense. Throughout incarceration, records are continuously updated to reflect changes in custody status, disciplinary actions, and other relevant information.

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and makes certain information available to the public as required by law.

Are Inmate Records Public In Ellis County?

Inmate records in Ellis County are partially public under Texas law. The Texas Public Information Act establishes that government records, including those related to inmates, are presumed to be open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. However, certain components of inmate records may be withheld due to privacy concerns, security considerations, or ongoing investigations.

According to Texas Government Code § 552.108, law enforcement agencies may withhold information if release would interfere with detection, investigation, or prosecution of crime. Nevertheless, basic information about current inmates is generally accessible to the public.

The following inmate information is typically available to the public in Ellis County:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information (name, age, gender)
• Charges filed
• Booking photographs (mugshots)
• Bond/bail amounts
• Expected release dates
• Current housing facility

Members of the public may access this information through the Ellis County Sheriff's Office online inmate search portal or by submitting a formal public information request. The Sheriff's Office processes these requests in accordance with the timeframes established in the Texas Public Information Act.

What's Included Inmate Records in Ellis County

Inmate records in Ellis County contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's time in custody. These records are maintained in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 37, Part 9, Chapter 269 regarding record-keeping standards for county jails. The following categories of information are typically included:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth and age
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints
• State identification number (SID) and/or FBI number if applicable

Custody Information:

• Booking date and time
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification status (minimum, medium, maximum security)
• Special housing needs or restrictions
• Disciplinary records during incarceration

Charge Information:

• Current charges (misdemeanor or felony)
• Warrant information
• Case numbers
• Arresting agency
• Offense date
• Statute violations

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 appearance history
• Attorney of record

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Conviction date
• Sentence length
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Parole eligibility date
• Good time/work time credits earned

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bond, time served, transfer)
• Conditions of release if applicable
• Destination upon release

These records are maintained electronically in the jail management system and are updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect current status and relevant changes.

Ellis County Prison System

The Ellis County correctional system operates under the authority of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office, which is responsible for the management and operation of the county's detention facilities. The system primarily consists of the Ellis County Jail, which serves as the main detention facility for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor convictions.

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system:

• Ellis County Jail: Houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving misdemeanor sentences (typically up to one year)
• Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ): Operates state prisons for individuals convicted of felonies serving longer sentences

The Ellis County Sheriff's Office operates its detention facilities 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, safety, and welfare.

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

The Sheriff's Office maintains custody of individuals arrested within Ellis County jurisdiction, including those arrested by municipal police departments within the county. The jail population typically consists of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process, from initial arrest through trial and sentencing.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Ellis County

Ellis County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations. Each facility operates under the authority of the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.

Ellis County Jail
300 S. Jackson Street
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-4901
Ellis County Jail

The main detention facility serves as the primary holding facility for adult offenders in Ellis County. This facility houses:

• Pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings
• Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions
• Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Federal detainees held under contract with U.S. Marshals Service

Wayne McCollum Detention Center
300 S. Jackson Street
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-4901
Wayne McCollum Detention Center

This facility serves as an extension of the main jail and provides:

• Additional housing for overflow population
• Specialized housing units for inmates requiring separation
• Work release programs for eligible inmates

Ennis Detention Center
600 N. Kaufman Street
Ennis, TX 75119
(972) 875-4462
Ennis Detention Center

This municipal facility primarily houses:

• Individuals arrested by Ennis Police Department
• Short-term holding before transfer to the main county jail
• Weekend sentence programs

Ellis County does not operate juvenile detention facilities directly. Juvenile offenders are typically housed at:

Ellis County Juvenile Services
723 S. State Highway 77
Waxahachie, TX 75165
(972) 825-5150
Ellis County Juvenile Services

This facility provides:

• Temporary detention for juvenile offenders
• Educational programs
• Counseling services
• Court-ordered placement

Each facility maintains specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options based on the population served and security requirements.

Who's in Prison In Ellis County

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

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
• Those awaiting arraignment, trial, or other court proceedings
• Persons who have not posted bail or were denied bail
• Individuals held on probation or parole violations awaiting hearings

Sentenced Offenders:

• Persons convicted of Class A or B misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
• Individuals serving time for probation violations
• Those serving weekend or intermittent sentences
• Work release program participants who work during the day and return to custody at night

Temporary Holds:

• Individuals awaiting transfer to Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities after felony convictions
• Persons held on out-of-county warrants awaiting transfer
• Federal detainees held under intergovernmental agreements
• Immigration detainees held temporarily for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

According to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 42.09, individuals sentenced to terms exceeding one year for felony convictions are transferred to the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to serve their sentences in state prison facilities rather than county jail.

The Ellis County jail population fluctuates daily based on arrests, releases, and transfers. Current statistics on jail population can be obtained through the Ellis County Sheriff's Office or by contacting the jail administrator directly.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Ellis County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate information in Ellis County may utilize several methods to access these records. The county currently provides multiple options for conducting inmate searches:

Online Inmate Search:

1. Visit the Ellis County Sheriff's Office online records search portal
2. Select "Inmate Search" from the available options
3. Enter search criteria (last name, first name, or booking number)
4. Review search results showing current inmates matching the criteria
5. Select an individual record to view publicly available details

In-Person Search:

1. Visit the Ellis County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
2. Request inmate information at the public information counter
3. Provide identifying information about the person you are searching for
4. Staff will provide publicly available information about current inmates

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Contact the Ellis County Sheriff's Office at (972) 825-4901
2. Request information about a specific inmate
3. Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the individual
4. Basic custody status information may be provided over the phone

Public Information Request:

1. Submit a formal public information request under the Texas Public Information Act
2. Clearly specify the information being requested
3. Submit the request via email, mail, or in person to the Sheriff's Office
4. Allow up to 10 business days for a response as required by law

When searching for inmate records, it is advisable to have the following information available:

• Full legal name (first, middle, last)
• Date of birth
• Approximate date of arrest or booking (if known)
• Case number or booking number (if available)

The Sheriff's Office maintains records in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act and will provide information that is publicly available under current law.

How To Find an Inmate in Ellis County for Free?

Ellis County provides several no-cost options for locating individuals currently in custody within the county detention system. These free resources are accessible to the general public:

Ellis County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Access the Ellis County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
3. Enter the individual's last name (first name optional)
4. Review the list of current inmates matching the search criteria
5. Basic information including name, booking date, and charges is displayed at no cost

Jail Information Line:

1. Call the Ellis County Jail information line at (972) 825-4901
2. Request information about a specific inmate
3. Provide the full name and date of birth if available
4. Receive basic custody status information at no charge

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the Ellis County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
2. Request inmate information from the front desk staff
3. Provide identifying information about the person you are seeking
4. Basic custody information will be provided without charge

Public Access Terminals:

1. Visit the Ellis County Clerk's Office
2. Use the public access computers available during business hours
3. Search for court records related to criminal cases
4. Access is provided free of charge

For individuals seeking information about inmates in the Texas state prison system rather than Ellis County facilities, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice offers a free online inmate search tool that provides information about offenders in state custody.

These free resources typically provide basic information including:

• Confirmation of custody status
• Current charges
• Bond information
• Next court date (if scheduled)
• Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)

More detailed information may require a formal public information request, which could involve fees for extensive searches or document reproduction.

How To Visit an Inmate In Ellis County

Visitation with inmates housed in Ellis County detention facilities is governed by established policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
• Visitors must successfully pass security screening before entry
• Visitors with outstanding warrants may be subject to arrest
• All visits are subject to monitoring and recording except attorney visits
• Visitation may be terminated for rule violations or security concerns

Visit Schedule:

• General Population: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Visits are scheduled in 20-minute sessions
• Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
• Maximum of two visitors per inmate per session
• Inmates are limited to two visits per week

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification
• Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
• Prescription eyeglasses if needed
• Baby necessities for infant visitors (one clear bottle, one diaper)
• Locker tokens for personal item storage ($0.25)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Medications (unless medically necessary and approved)

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire required
• No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing with offensive language or images
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
• Shoes and shirts required at all times

Visit Types:

• On-site video visitation (primary method)
• In-person non-contact visits (through glass partition)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, probation officers)
• Special visits (approved by jail administration for exceptional circumstances)

Visit Restrictions:

• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
• Persons on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
• Individuals with felony convictions must receive advance approval
• Visitors who have been banned for rule violations may not visit

For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:

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

Visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security requirements. Visitors are advised to verify current policies before planning a visit.

How To Send Money to a Ellis County Inmate

Ellis 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 writing materials.

Online Deposits:

• Visit the official Ellis County inmate deposit website
• Create an account or log in
• Enter the inmate's name and booking number
• Select deposit amount
• Complete payment using credit/debit card
• Service fees apply (typically 5-8% of deposit amount)
• Funds available within 24-48 hours

Kiosk Deposits:

• Visit the kiosk located in the Ellis County Jail lobby
• Available 24/7
• Enter inmate information on touchscreen
• Insert cash or use credit/debit card
• Receive printed receipt
• Funds typically available same day
• Lower service fees than online deposits

Money Order by Mail:

• Purchase money order from post office or retail location
• Make payable to "Ellis County Inmate Trust Fund"
• Write inmate's full name and booking number on money order
• Mail to: Ellis County Sheriff's Office Inmate Trust Fund 300 S. Jackson Street Waxahachie, TX 75165
• No service fees
• Processing time: 5-7 business days

Amount Limits:

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

Deposit Fees:

• Online deposits: 5-8% of deposit amount
• Kiosk deposits (cash): $2.00 flat fee
• Kiosk deposits (credit/debit): 3% of deposit amount
• Money orders: No fee

Prohibited Items:

• Personal checks
• Cash sent through mail
• Cashier's checks
• Third-party checks
• Foreign currency

Approved Uses for Inmate Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
• Phone calls
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts
• Release funds

Restricted Uses:

• Bail or bond payments
• Fine or court fee payments
• Transfers to other inmates
• Outside purchases

All deposits are subject to verification and may be held pending investigation if suspicious activity is detected. Unused funds are returned to the inmate upon release or can be transferred to the inmate's account if transferred to another facility.

How To Send Jail Mail In Ellis County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Ellis County detention facilities must follow specific guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All incoming mail is inspected before delivery to inmates.

Mailing Address Format:

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
Ellis County Jail
300 S. Jackson Street
Waxahachie, TX 75165

Approved Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or oversized cards)
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4x6 inches or smaller)
• Money orders (made payable to the inmate)
• Legal documents
• Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages or padded envelopes
• Hardcover books or magazines
• Stickers, labels, or adhesive stamps
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Polaroid photographs
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Cards larger than 5x7 inches
• Items with glitter, perfume, lipstick, or unknown substances
• Sexually explicit or gang-related materials

Mail Regulations:

• All mail must include sender's full name and return address
• Mail without proper return address will be rejected
• Incoming mail is opened and inspected (except legal mail)
• Legal mail is opened in the presence of the inmate
• Mail may be photocopied with originals stored in property
• Contraband items will be placed in the inmate's property or destroyed
• Mail containing threats, escape plans, or criminal activity will be forwarded to investigators

Books and Publications:

• Must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor
• Soft-cover books only (no hardcover)
• Maximum of 3 books per mailing
• Subject to content review by jail staff
• Religious texts are permitted subject to security review

E-Messages:

• Available through approved third-party service
• Create account on approved vendor website
• Purchase credits for messages
• Messages subject to same content restrictions as physical mail
• Typically delivered within 24-48 hours
• Fees apply per message

All correspondence is subject to monitoring and inspection except privileged legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies. Violation of mail rules may result in disciplinary action for the inmate and possible suspension of mail privileges.

For additional information regarding mail policies, contact:

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

Lookup Inmate Records in Ellis County

Ellis County online records search

Official public records access

Open records and public information requests

Ennis detention information

Texas Department of Criminal Justice inmate search

TDCJ offender information system

Ellis County Judicial District Courts

Ellis County District Clerk records