Matagorda County Jail – Bay City, TX

Matagorda County Jail is in Matagorda County, Texas and is the primary correctional facility for the county. Do you know somebody in Matagorda County Jail? This guide will tell you info about everything related to Matagorda County Jail,such as: Find out who’s in jail at Matagorda County Jail? Find inmate mugshots. The jail’s address and phone number. How to post bail. Booking and intake procedures. Court information and records. And lots more.

The thought of getting arrested and going to jail is a daunting and scary idea, not only for whoever is incarcerated, but also their family, friends, and loved ones. This guide is meant to give you information and advice that you need to make going to jail a little less stressful. If you have specific questions, feel free to ask it in the comment section below, and also any tips or comments that would help other people in the same situation is much appreciated.

Do you have a family member, loved one, or friend that is in jail and need to find out where they are?

Do you know a friend or family member who has been arrested and you don’t know how to find them?

In order to see who is in jail at Matagorda County Jail you need to go to their link and do an inmate search.

The Matagorda County Jail Inmate List has information on people who have been arrested and are in jail, which includes status, how much their bail is, and visiting hours. Also, you can get info for anyone booked or released within the past 24-hour period. Prisoners are listed in alphabetical order by last name. You’ll be able to get their inmate information fast if you have their first and last name, birth date, or inmate ID.

If the person you’re searching for is incarcerated at a different jail you can check our Texas county jail guide: List of all county jails in Texas

A mugshot, also known as a intake photograph, is a photo taken by the police when you get booked into jail. A mugshot is make of one frontal photo and a side photo. Your full name and jail booking number will be in the photos, and they are kept on file.

Mugshots of people who have been arrested are on the website, or you can view them at the Matagorda County Jail. When you search for mugshots on the website you have to input the inmate’s legal name, and a booking date, if you have it.

Trying to figure out how to have your mugshot taken down from the Matagorda County Jail site? This is difficult, as your mugshot is a matter of public record. To get your mugshot removed you need to file a Petition to Expunge with the court. What this means is 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 a more in-depth article about getting your mugshot removed, the many different websites with mugshots, and the mugshot removal websites: How To Get Your Mugshot Taken Down

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If you are in jail, your main thought is about when you get out. After you’ve been booked, your bail will be set by the magistrate. If no bail is set this may mean that you will either get released, pending trial, or you have to stay in jail until your trial.

If you do bail out you will have to agree to go to your court date, and until then you can’t leave the area.

In most cases, prisoners at Matagorda County Jail will be given time off for good behavior if they follow the rules and conduct themselves properly while they’re in jail.

If you do exhibit good behavior and the jail believes you can be trusted, you might be given work release detail. You will have to stay jail at the end of the day after work, or you may be permitted to sleep in a halfway house instead of living at the jail.

Bail is the amount of money that you have to pay to the court system to be released from jail until you go to court. The amount you will have to pay all depends on what crime you are charged with and how serious it is. Someone will have to pay to the courts 10 percent of the total amount set in order to get out of jail. If you miss your court appearance, whoever posted your bail won’t get their money back.

To find out how much bail money you will need to bail someone out of jail will need to call the Matagorda County Jail or the County Courthouse. If know the pertinent information, like name, address and date of birth, they’ll tell you what their bail is set at. Also, you can see the bail amount on the Matagorda County Jail site.

Having to bail a friend or family member out of jail is never fun, but thankfully, its easy if you have the money. First of all, figure out if it is a Cash Only Bond. If this is the case, you will not be able to use the services of a bail bondsman. Take cash only to the jail – they won’t take a check. Once the cash bond has been paid, the prisoner will be released into your care. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, you’ll get your money back.

If their bail has been set too high, of if you can’t pay it, you should try to hire a bail bondsman. Bondsmen will generally charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and usually charge a minimum fee of $100. The amount you pay to the bondsman will not be returned to you and must be paid in cash. If bail is very large, the bail bondsman might require that they use your assets, such as home, property or cars, as collateral for the bond.

If you need a bail bondsman click here: Bail bondsman

Have you ever used a Bail Bondsman for someone you know or yourself? If you have, please share your experience in a comment below, and let us know how things turned out.

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

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The jail intake procedure takes you through the following steps:

• You will be placed in a waiting area or cell. If the jail is really busy, you will have to wait, sometimes for many hours, before you get processed.
• Firstly, you must answer some questions, such as your legal name, your address, birthdate and contact person.
• They’ll also ask about your medical and mental history.
• You will be issued an inmate number.
• You will be fingerprinted.
• You will have a front and profile photo taken for your mugshot.
• Any property you have will get taken away from you and stored until you get released.
• They will let you make a telephone call so you can get in touch with a member of your family, friend, or bail bondsman.
• If you are expected to be released shortly, you will be allowed to keep wearing your own clothes, otherwise you will be issued a jumpsuit.

Have you ever been arrested and gone through processing at jail? If so, please tell your story. How long did you have to wait? Were you treated fairly? Can you tell us secrets that could help other people that get arrested make it through jail processing?

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Once you are able to post bail, you will get discharged from jail. Getting discharged from jail takes between 30 minutes to all day. So, the faster you can post bail, the sooner you will get discharged. How quickly you get discharged can depend on whether or not you’ve got a cash bond amount or if the magistrate has to figure out how much to set your bail at. For a minor charge, you will be booked and get released without having to post bail. When you have served your sentence and know the release date, plan to be released between 9am and noon.

If you have a, or if you must report to start a sentence, it is highly recommended that you do the right thing and turn yourself in. If it is for a warrant, go down to the jail intake area, and tell an officer that you think they might have a warrant for your arrest. They will do a record check, and if so, they will ask that you surrender yourself and you will be taken into custody. If you are reporting to serve out your sentence, go to the jail at the time and date that the sentence order states. Be sure that you get don’t get there late, or they may decide to arrest you. Make sure that you only bring required items when you go to jail, for example a driver’s license or even state issued ID, any prescription medication you might take, and the official sentencing order.

The inmate have to list each visitor’s full name to the jail in advance. Your visitor’s names will be put into the visitation log for the requesting inmate. Each and every visitor is required to provide acceptable photo identification. Visitors showing up late or without a visiting order will be turned away.
The Matagorda County Jail visitation procedures change often, so make sure that you double-check the official site before you go.

Phone calls that inmates are allowed to make from jail are made through a jail approved pre-paid phone account or phone card . These phone calls are usually more expensive than phone calls made at home. Inmates are able to make phone calls, with restrictions on when you can make phone calls, how long you can talk, and how often you can make calls, but inmates should keep in mind that there are a limited number of phones, so all the inmates must share phone time. If you break the jail rules, an inmate’s ability to use the phone may be limited or forbidden.

The Matagorda County Jail phone number is: 979-245-5526

All mail must be sent via US Postal Service. You must not use any other method of delivery. You have to write or type the inmate’s name, inmate number, and the address of the jail on the outside of the letter that you send. Do not mail a package or box, envelope with padding, plastic bag, or an envelope with metal inside. All mail will be opened and read and examined by the officers at the jail, and the mail will be sent back if they decide it is inappropriate.

Use this address when sending a letter to someone incarcerated at Matagorda County Jail:

Matagorda County Jail
2323 Avenue E
Bay City, TX 77414

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Matagorda County Jail
2323 Avenue E
Bay City, TX 77414

The mail policy at Matagorda County Jail can change, so check the official website when you send a letter to an inmate there.

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Even if you’ve been arrested, you have rights, the most important of which is your right to request a lawyer. You only get so many phone calls when you get arrested, so you would be wise to have a friend or family member locate an attorney when you call them. You may be asking yourself ‘do I really need an attorney?’ While you are not required to have one, an attorney will advise you about your rights, help protect your interests and help you understand the legal system. The quicker you get a lawyer involved with your charges, the better.

For more information on how to find a lawyer, read our guide: How to Find a Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested and cannot afford an attorney, the courts will assign you a public defender, which is a free lawyer. The Public Defender Office is staffed by independent investigators, forensics experts and case workers. Public Defenders are actual lawyers that are admitted to the Texas State Bar Association and are fully licensed to practice law and represent you in court.

Have you or someone you know had to use a Public Defender or court appointed attorney? Do you think they properly handled your case?

Court records are public records. They contain a file containing a docket sheet and all of the documents and motions that have been filed. You have the ability to access court records via the online service, or by going to the Clerk of Court.

The Matagorda County Clerk of Court is a member of the court who manages access to court records. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath for all court participants, and read the jury’s verdict. All records and documents associated with your case are maintained at Clerk of Court.

Court costs and court fees are the fees and charges associated with your court case, such as filing charges, motion and claim fees, and court appearance fees. If you cannot afford these fees and have a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees.

A Magistrate is the type of judge who presides on your court case. Magistrate judges do many different things, like deciding a bail amount, writing arrest warrants, and presiding over preliminary court proceedings and detention proceedings.

A pre-sentencing report is completed to include information about the defendant’s background and details of the arrestee’s life and history, which the judge will consider when determining a sentence. Information will be requested from the defendant, the defendant’s family, and in some circumstances the victim of the crime. Don’t forget you can ask to get a copy of the report before you are sentenced, so you can correct any mistakes that it contains.

After you are convicted of a crime, you will be sentenced. The presiding judge in your case will weigh several options when determining your sentence, which include community service to probation, to incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on sentencing guidelines and the severity of your crime, you may be immediately taken into custody, or given a date that you are required to turn yourself into jail to serve your jail time according to your sentence.

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

To do so, you need to access the Matagorda County jail website, and search by:

• Name.
• Birthdate.
• Approximate booking date.
• and their jail ID.

If you’re not sure if this person is in jail, you should call the jail confirm whether they’ve been arrested or not.

If you believe you have a warrant out for your arrest, you can access arrest warrants inquiry on the Matagorda County court website or you can call the jail. You have to have the person’s first and last name. Or, you can just go down to the jail and ask them. You should be clear that there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you will be taken into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s name, and possibly an arrest date, contact the jail, by phone, in person, or look online. Records of arrests are in the public record and these records are available to anyone.

A Civil Process is when someone has been served with papers, like warrants. You can find these by going to the Matagorda County Sheriff’s office, online or by phone.

All registered sex offenders are listed and registered on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. Those listed on these databases have been tried by jury and convicted in a court of law of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information on the website, but bear in mind that you won’t see the precise address, but only the neighborhood block that they live on.

Court Records are public records. Court Records include a case file that includes a docket and any of the documents filed in the court case. You are able to access the court records on the website, or at the clerk’s office of the court in the county where the case was filed.

Each state maintains a record of people’s criminal history. These databases are all linked so you are able to track criminal histories from other states. You can go to the Matagorda County Courthouse and check in person, or you can check online. It helps to know which county the crime occurred in, and if it was in a different state entirely, you may have to pay for a more comprehensive search.

When you look up someone’s criminal record you are able to get a listing of all the arrests, charges, or convictions for any crimes, which can include:

• DUI.
• Drug Possession.
• Kidnapping.
• Sex offenses which could include rape, and sexual assault.
• Violent crimes like assault or murder.
• Breaking and entering, theft, larceny.

But, when you do a criminal records check, in most cases will not be able to see if they has had:

• Speeding or reckless driving.
• Lost their driver’s license or license revoked or suspended.
• Accidents.
• Minor infractions or moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To search for this kind of information, you will have to do a search for their driving history.

Have you ever had to look for criminal records online? Was it easy? Did you search online or did you make a phone call to the jail? Did you get information that was correct? There are plenty of reasons that folks look up criminal backgrounds and records, and your feedback might help other people that are in the same situation.

Click here to share your story

Most Wanted

For Federal crimes, the FBI keeps a list of the Top Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Matagorda County,The Sheriff’s Department maintains their own list of the top most wanted criminals in the county.

FBI Top Ten Most Wanted List: Link


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

While the prospect of getting locked up in the Matagorda County jail is no fun, soon you will become accustomed to the daily routine there. All inmates get a wake-up alarm at about six in the morning, and then you’ll have roll call. After roll call you will eat breakfast. When you finish eating breakfast participate 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 Matagorda 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 Matagorda 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 procedure to send funds to inmates at Matagorda County Jail might change, so you should visit the official Matagorda 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 Matagorda County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Matagorda 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 Matagorda County Jail

Requirements:

• You must be over the age of 21.
• You must possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You must be a US Citizen.
• You must pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You must pass a drug test.
• You must have a good level of fitness.
• You must be in good health.
• You must 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 leave a comment


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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.

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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 incarcerated at this jail? Do you know someone that spent time there? Have you ever been to visit someone at this jail?

If you have, then we would like you to write a review about it. Write about your jail experience because others can find out what to expect.

What to write in the review:

• Conditions at the jail.
• Jail and pod layout and facility
• Jail staff and Guards
• Food and commissary
• Visitation Days
• Inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Gangs
• Prisoner programs and activities


Write Your Review

Tell Your Story

Anyone who’s ever been arrested and sent to jail has a story about it. How’d you end up in jail? Did you experience fair treatment? What was it like in jail? What were the other inmates like? How did it affect you to go to jail?

Click here to post a comment

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you make friends in jail? Do you want to get in touch with somebody you met in jail? Post a message to them below.

Send a message to people still locked up at Matagorda County Jail


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