Cooke County Jail – Gainesville, TX

Cooke County Jail is in Cooke County, Texas and is the jail for the area. Looking for someone locked up in Cooke County Jail? This page tells you info about anything you might want to know about Cooke County Jail: Find out who’s in jail at Cooke County Jail? Find mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. Bailing out of jail. Intake procedures and booking. Cooke County court information. And much more…

The prospect of getting arrested and going to jail is a daunting and scary idea, not only for the person who goes to jail, but also their family, friends, and loved ones. The purpose of this guide is to give information you need to make the process a little less stressful. If you have a specific question, just ask them, and also any tips or comments that would help others is much appreciated.

Do you know someone that is in jail and want to find out where they are?

Has somebody that’s been arrested and you want to find out what jail they’re in?

To look up who’s in jail at Cooke County Jail you will have to navigate to their link and use the inmate lookup.

The Cooke County Jail Inmate Search is a list of people currently in custody, which includes status, how much their bail is, and schedule for visitation. Also, you can get the same information for anyone arrested and booked or released within the past 24-hour period. Inmates are listed in alphabetical order by last name. You will be able to get their inmate information fast if you enter their name, date of birth, or inmate ID.

If your friend or loved one may be in a different jail you can look here, too: Other Jails in Texas

A mugshot, or booking photo, is a photo that the police take when you get booked into jail. A mugshot is actually one face photo and one profile photo. Your full name and booking number will be on the photos, and they are kept on file at the jail.

Mugshots of Cooke County Jail prisoners can be seen on the Cooke County Jail website, or you can see them at the Cooke County Jail. When you search for mugshots on the website you will need to input the legal name, and the arrest date, if you know it.

Do you want to have your mugshot taken down from the Cooke County Jail site? This will be difficult, since your mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot taken down you will need to file a Petition to Expunge in court. This means that your arrest record will be sealed, and will not be available to the public. Depending on your situation, this may be a longshot.

For more information about removing your mugshot, the different websites with mugshots, and the websites that offer to remove your mugshot for you: How To Remove Your Mugshot from the Internet

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Of course, once you are in jail, your main thought is about getting out. After you’ve gone through the booking process, your bail is decided by a special judge called a magistrate. If you don’t get a bail set this may mean that you will either be free to go until your court date, or you must remain in jail until your trial.

If you are released you will have to promise to go to your court date, and until that day you are not allowed to go out of town.

Usually, an inmate at Cooke County Jail will be given time off for good behavior if they don’t break the rules and conduct themselves properly while they are in jail.

If you prove to be trustworthy, you may be allowed to do work release. You will have to return to jail at the end of the day when you’re finished at your job, or you might be permitted to live in a halfway house when you are not working.

Your bail is the amount of money that you have to pay to be released from jail until your trial. The amount you will have to pay is dictated by the crime you are charged with. You will have to pay 10% of the amount that was determined before you can get discharged from jail. If you fail to show up for your scheduled court date, whoever posted your bail will lose all of the bail money.

To find out how much bail money you will need to bail someone out of jail will have to call the Cooke County Jail or the County Courthouse. If you’ve got the pertinent information, like name, address and date of birth, they will let you know the bail amount. Also, you can check their bail amount and status online.

Having to bail someone out of jail is no fun, but most of the time, it is really easy if you have the money. First of all, find out if they have a Cash Only Bond. If this is the case, you won’t be able to get a Bail Bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – they won’t accept a personal check. When you’ve paid bail, the inmate will be released to your care. If the conditions of bail are not violated, you’ll get your money back.

If the amount of bail set is large, of if you can’t pay it, you might need to use a bail bondsman. They will generally have a fee of 10-15% of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and sometimes charge a minimum of $100. This money will not be returned to you and bondsmen usually only accept cash. If bail is very large, the bail bondsman will in these cases require that they use your personal assets as collateral for the bond.

To find a local bail bondsman go to: Bail bondsman

Have you ever had to use a Bail Bondsman either for yourself, a family member or friend? If so, please share your experience in a comment below, and let us know how it worked out for you.

Click here to leave a comment

• Get Time Off For Good Behavior
• Work Release Programs
• Released For Time Served
• Be Released on a Pre-Trial Release Program
• Get Released on House Arrest
• Own Recognizance

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The jail intake procedure takes you through each of these steps:

• They’ll put you in a holding cell. When the jail is busy, you may not be processed immediately.
• First, have to answer some simple questions, such as your full name, street address, date of birth and an emergency contact.
• They’ll also ask about your medical and psychological history.
• You will be issued an inmate number.
• You will be fingerprinted.
• They will take your mugshot.
• Any personal property you have will get taken away from you and stored until you are discharged.
• You will then be allowed to make a phone call to get in touch with a family member, friend, or bail bondsman.
• If you are expected to be released quickly, you might be able to keep wearing your own clothes, otherwise you will have to change into a jail uniform.

Have you been arrested and gone through jail intake? If so, please tell your story so other people can learn from your experience. How long did it take to get processed? What was your treatment like? Can you tell us tips that could help other people that get arrested get through the procedure?

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When you finally post bail, you will be discharged from jail. The discharge process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to all day long. So, the faster bail is posted, the faster you will get discharged. Also, how fast you get released will depend on if you’ve been given a bond amount or if the magistrate has to figure out how much your bail will be. For minor offenses, you will get booked and then released on your recognizance without having to pay bail. If you have served a sentence in jail and know the discharge date, you should plan to be discharged between 9am and noon.

warrant out for your arrest, or if you need to start a jail sentence, it is highly advisable that you follow the rules and turn yourself into the authorities. If you have a warrant, report to the jail, in the reception area, and tell the intake officer that you think there is a warrant for your arrest. The officer will verify that you have an outstanding arrest warrant, and if they find one, you will be taken into custody. When reporting to serve a sentence, go down to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order lists. Be very careful that you aren’t late. Be sure to only bring required items when you go to jail, like a driver’s license or even ID, prescription medication, as well as a copy of the sentencing order.

The inmate have to give each visitor’s name and date of birth to the jail in advance of any visit. Your visitor’s names will be put in a log of visitors as an authorized visitor. Every visitor is required to provide proof of identification. Anyone that gets to visitation or any visitors that are not approved to visit will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Jail visitation policies are always changing, so it would be wise to review the official jail site before you go to the jail to visit.

All phone calls from jail are with a pre-paid phone card or account, or are collect calls . Phone calls made in jail are typically pricier than phone calls made outside of jail. There is no limit to how often you can use the phone, but bear in mind that there are a limited number of phones, so all the inmates must share phone time. If you are under any sort of disciplinary procedure, phone calls could be reduced or forbidden completely.

Phone Number: (940) 665-3471

All inmate mail is required to be sent using US Postal Service. You cannot use any other method of mail or package delivery. You must write the name, prisoner number, and the address of the jail on the letter. Do not mail anything in a box or package, padded envelope, bag, or an envelope containing metal parts. All mail sent to inmates will be opened and inspected by the staff, and will get sent back if they decide it is inappropriate.

Use this address when sending a letter to an inmate at Cooke County Jail:

Cooke County Jail
300 County Road 451
Gainesville, TX 76240

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Cooke County Jail
300 County Road 451
Gainesville, TX 76240

The Cooke County Jail inmate mail policy changes, so be sure to double check the official Cooke County Jail site before you send a letter to an inmate there.

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Even if you’ve been arrested, you have rights, one of these is your right to request an attorney. You won’t get many phone calls in jail, so it is important to get a friend or family member to find an attorney when you call them. You may be asking yourself ‘but do I really need a lawyer’ You’re not required to have an attorney in all cases, a criminal lawyer can advise you of your rights, help protect your best interests and help you find your way through the criminal justice system. The quicker you get a lawyer involved with your situation, the better off you’ll be.

For more info on this, read our guide: Find an Attorney

If you’ve been arrested and don’t have the money to hire an attorney, the courts will assign you a public defender, which is a free lawyer. In addition, the Public Defender’s Office has a number of staff such as investigators, crime scene and forensics experts and social workers. All Public Defenders are licensed lawyers who are admitted to the Texas State Bar Association and are completely licensed to handle your case.

Have you ever had to use the services of a Public Defender? How did they do?

All court records are public and available to anyone who requests them. They include a case file containing a docket sheet and all motions, documents, and evidence that have been filed in the case. You can access court records using the internet service, or at the Clerk of Court.

A Clerk of Court is a member of the court who maintains court records. They also administer the oath during court cases, and read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All records from your case are available at the office of the Clerk of Court.

Court fees are the costs from your case, such as for example filing charges, motion and claim fees, and court appearance fees. If you don’t have the money to pay these fees and have been assigned a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees and won’t have to pay them.

A Magistrate is the judge that will preside over your court case. They do many different things, like deciding a bail amount, issuing arrest warrants, and overseeing initial court appearances and detention proceedings.

Your pre-sentencing report is prepared to include information about the defendant’s background and information about the defendant’s life, which the magistrate judge will review and take into account when determining a sentence. Information, details, and character witnesses will be collected from the defendant, the defendant’s family, and in some cases the victim in the crime. Don’t forget that you can ask to have your own copy of the pre-sentencing report before you are sentenced, so you get the chance to correct any inaccurate information.

When you are convicted of a crime, you will then get sentenced. The judge will have several different options when sentencing you, including community service and probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on the severity of the crime, you might get taken into custody immediately, or you could get a date that you are required to surrender and report to jail to do your time.

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Are you trying to find out if somebody you know is incarcerated, or has ever been in jail?

To find this out you should query the jail’s website, and search using:

• Name.
• Birth date.
• Their booking date.
• and their jail inmate ID.

If you think that they are currently in jail, you can call the jail to find out.

If you believe you have a warrant out for your arrest, you can find out by checking the arrest warrants inquiry online or you are able to call the court. You have to have their first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask the officer in charge. You should know that if there is an arrest warrant out for you, you should be prepared to get taken into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s name, as well as the date of their arrest, contact the jail, by phone, in person, or you can check online. Records of arrests are in the public record and this is freely available.

A Civil Process is when you are served with legal papers, like , subpoenas, and arrest warrants. You can access civil process orders by getting in touch with the Cooke County Sheriff’s office, either by phone or through their website.

All registered sex offenders are required to be registered and listed on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. Those listed on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex or kidnapping crime. You are able to view these listings on the website, but you should know that you will not see the street address, just the block of the address that they registered.

Court Records are public records and available to anyone. Court Records include a court case file that contains a court docket and any of the documents filed in the case. You are able to access court records via the internet service ‘Public Access to Court Electronic Records’, or at the clerk’s office of the court in the county where the case was filed.

Every state maintains records of someone’s criminal background. These databases are all connected so you are able to track criminal histories from any other state. Go to county courthouse and inquire, or you can check online. It is helpful to know the county the crime was committed in, and in the event that the crime was in a different state entirely, you may have to pay for a more intensive search.

When you look up a person’s criminal records you are able to get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for the following crimes:

• DUI or DWI.
• Drug offenses such as possession or trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Rape or other sexual assault.
• Violent crimes.
• Property crimes like theft or larceny.

But, when you do a criminal records check, you won’t see if someone has had any moving violations, like:

• Speeding tickets.
• Drivers license suspended or revoked.
• Traffic accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To get driving records, you must do a driving records search.

Have you ever had to look for criminal records online? How hard was it? Did you do your search online or did you call the Cooke County courthouse? Was it correct? There are plenty of reasons that people search for criminal records, and your feedback might help other people that are in the same situation.

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Most Wanted

Everyone knows that the FBI has their list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. In Cooke County, the Cooke County Sheriff keeps their own list of most wanted criminals and fugitives.

FBI Top Ten Most Wanted List: Link


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

While the prospect of spending time in Cooke County Jail is something you wish you could avoid, in time you will settle into the daily routine there. All inmates get a wake-up alarm at 6:00AM, and next you’ll have roll call. After roll call you will have breakfast. When you finish breakfast you will work in the work program that you’ve been assigned to. This could be working in the kitchen, laundry, or some sort of manufacturing job. While this may seem tedious, it may help you when you leave jail, as you are gaining experience in a certain field of work. Other inmates go to school, while some take part in mandated treatment programs. After lunch, there will be another roll call, then back to work. Your evening will be spent either in your cell or a common room. During this time dinner is served and you will be expected to take a shower. After another roll call, it’s lights out. Even though you will be confined to your cell, there may be enough light to read or write letters. Then again, most inmates welcome lights out, and try to get as much sleep as they can.

Most people are frightened at the idea of jail because they don’t know what to expect. If you have spent any time in Cooke County Jail, your experiences would be welcomed, if it can help another person to deal with it.

Dress Code

When incarcerated, all inmates are expected to wear the Cooke County Jail uniform. This is normally a jumpsuit or scrubs. Of note to anyone visiting an inmate – you must be properly dressed. Any clothing considered inappropriate will not be permitted.

How To Send Money to an Inmate

You will have your own ‘bank account’ while in jail. This money is used to purchase items from the Commissary. Family and friends can deposit money into this account for you, and any money you earn while in prison will also be deposited into your account. Outside money can be paid in to your account via a money order, cash or check. If someone sends a check or money order, make sure that they write your inmate ID on it. The maximum amount you are allowed in your account is $290 per month.

The rules for sending money to inmates at Cooke County Jail could change, so it would be best to check the official Cooke County Jail site before you send money to an inmate.


Commissary

The commissary is the jail store. You can purchase a number of things here, such as toiletries, snacks and writing supplies. Bear in mind that you will probably want to use the commissary daily, and any infractions will get that privilege taken away from you.

Inmate Medications

If you are on any type of prescription medication, you will be allowed to continue taking it while in jail. When you are first processed, you will be asked what medication you take. You will then be referred to the jail nurse or doctor who will be in charge of monitoring your health and prescribing your medication.

Meals

You will get three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. As expected, they are very basic, but healthy. A typical breakfast might be cereal, toast, coffee and fruit. Lunch might be spaghetti, salad, bread and milk. Dinner could be chicken casserole, rice, vegetables, dessert and milk. Contrary to popular belief, prison food has greatly improved over the years, and you might find that it’s not much different from what you would eat at home.

Pods / The Yard

The jail is designed in a ‘pod’ layout, with self-contained housing arranged around an outdoor yard. Each pod has a central control station and a common room, and the inmates take turns in using the yard. The jail is designed this way to keep certain inmates together, and others away from the general population.

Gangs

As with life in general, gangs are a part of prison life. Obviously it is best to avoid becoming a part of this environment as it will only lead to trouble. When you first enter prison, you might find yourself being ‘primed’ to join a gang, or worse, you might get their attention in a negative way. The best thing to do is keep your head down and don’t get involved.


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News and Media

News

Photos / Pictures

Videos


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Jobs

Types of Jobs at Cooke County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Cooke County Jail, overseeing the day to day operations and administration of the jail. An inmate is unlikely to have much interaction with the Deputy Sheriff, unless they have committed an infraction. Detention Officers are responsible for the custody and care of the inmates. They maintain order in the jail, and handle security. A Detention Officer is assigned to a certain pod, and therefore is responsible for the same inmates each day. They get to know the inmates on a certain level and are well equipped to handle any problems that may occur.

Apply for a Job at Cooke County Jail

Requirements:

• You have to be over the age of 21.
• You have to possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You have to be a US Citizen.
• You have to pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You have to pass a drug test.
• You have to have a good level of fitness.
• You have to be in good health.
• You have to have a valid Driver’s License
• An applicant for Deputy Sheriff must possess a Law Enforcement Certification.


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Family Resources

There are resources for families of both the perpetrator of the crime and the victim. The social and emotional impact of crime is far reaching, affecting many. Families can receive professional counseling, court related assistance, social services assistance and help in navigating the criminal justice system.

If you are a family member, which resources did you find to be particularly helpful? Please let us know, as this will be helpful to other families in the same situation.

Click here to tell about all about it


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Victim Resources

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.

Victim’s Rights

The Victim Rights Act grants victims the following rights:

• Victims have the right to protection from the accused.
• Victims have the right to notification.
• Victims have the right to attend proceedings.
• Victims have the right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• Victims have the right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• Victims have the right to restitution.
• Victims have the right to a speedy trial.
• Victims have the right to be treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

The definition of victim includes:

• Spouses and children of all victims.
• Parents and guardians of minor victims.
• Parents, guardians and siblings of mentally or physically incapacitated victims or victims of homicide.
• Foster parents or other caregivers, under certain circumstances.

There are a number of services and programs designed to help victims and their families. You can find out about these services by contacting the courthouse, or local law enforcement agency.

Victim Notification

The Department of Justice Victim Notification System (VNS) is a system that provides victims with information pertaining to their case and/or any defendants in the case. You will receive a Victim Identification Number (VIN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow you to access VNS via the internet or by phone. Here, you will find information about future court hearings, historical court events, and detailed information about the defendant. This will include criminal charges filed, the outcome of charges, sentence imposed, custody location, projected release date and any other release information. The VNS website is updated daily. You will also receive any ongoing information by mail or email.

Have you, a family member or friend ever used the Victim Notification System? If so, was it effective? Did you get the information in a timely manner? Was the system difficult to use? We would like to hear from you, so please post any comments here.

Click here to share your story

Sex Offender Information and Search

All people registered as sex offenders are registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information online, but bear in mind that you will not get the exact address, rather the block that they live on.

Domestic Violence

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are services to help you. Your county will have a Domestic Violence Services office. They provide free and confidential services, such as emergency shelter information, legal advocacy, support groups and domestic violence education. They will work to help you create a safe and violence-free life, and heal from the trauma of abuse.

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.


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Reviews

Reviews of this Jail

Have you ever been locked up at Cooke County Jail? Do you have a friend or family member that spent time there? Have you ever visited an inmate in this jail?

If yes, then you should leave a comment below about it. Write down what you experienced so that other people can find out what to expect.

Things you could write in your comment:

• Conditions at the jail.
• Jail and pod facility and layout
• Staff and guards
• Jail food and commissary
• Having Visitors
• Other Inmates.
• Safety
• Gang activity
• Prisoner activities and programs


Click here to write a review

Tell Your Story

Anyone who’s been in jail has some stories to tell about the whole experience. How’d you get locked up? Were you fairly treated? What was it like in jail? What about the other inmates? How did going to jail affect your life?

Tell Your Story

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Make some good friends in jail? Are you trying to send a message to a friend from jail? Leave a message for them here.

Send a message


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