Starr County Jail – Rio Grande City, TX

Starr County Jail is in Starr County, Texas and is the primary jail for the county. Know somebody locked up at Starr County Jail? This site gives you all about anything you might want to know about Starr County Jail,like the following: Find an inmate at Starr County Jail. Find inmate mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. Bailing out of jail. Intake procedures. Court information and records. And much, much more.

The prospect of getting arrested and going to jail is a scary and daunting situation, not only for the person who gets locked up, but also their family and friends. The goal of this guide is to give information and advice you need to make helping someone get out of jail a lot easier. If you have specific questions, please feel free to ask it in the comment section below, and also any comments or feedback that might help other people in the same situation would be welcome.

Do you know someone that has gone to jail and don’t know how to contact them?

Has a family member or friend that has been arrested and you don’t know how to find out what jail they’re in?

In order to find out who is in jail at Starr County Jail you will need to click on their web site and perform an inmate lookup.

The Starr County Jail Inmate Search is a list of people who have been arrested and are in custody, including custody status, bail amount, and times the inmate can have visitors. Also, you can get the same information about anybody arrested and booked or discharged within the past 24 hours. Prisoners are listed alphabetically by last name. You can get the information quicker if you enter your friend or family member’s full name, birth date, or arrest number.

If the person you are looking for might be in another jail you should check the other Texas county jails in our Texas County Jail Guide: Texas County Jails Listing

A mugshot, also called a jail booking photo, is a picture that the jail takes when you are booked into jail. They will take one face photo and a profile photo. Your name and intake number will be in the photos, and they are on file.

Mugshots of people who have been arrested can be seen online, or you can see them at the Starr County Jail. When viewing online you will need to enter their full name, and an arrest date.

Trying to figure out how to get your mugshot taken off of the Starr County Jail site? This can be tricky, since the mugshot is a matter of public record. To get your mugshot removed you need to file a ‘Petition to Expunge’. Basically, this means that the record of your arrest will be sealed, and unavailable to the public. Unfortunately, this happens very rarely.

To learn more about removing your mugshot, the different mugshot websites, and the mugshot removal websites: How To Remove Your Mugshot from the Internet

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Naturally, if you’re locked up, your only thought is about when and how you will get out. After you’ve been booked, a bail amount will be set by the magistrate. If there is no bail set this might mean that you will either be released on your ‘own recognizance’ until your court date, or you don’t get released while you wait for your court date.

If you are released from jail you are required to promise to go to your court date, and until that date you will not be permitted to travel out of the county.

In most cases, prisoners in the Starr County Jail will be given an early release in exchange for good behavior if they don’t break the rules and act right while incarcerated.

If you prove to be trustworthy, you may be allowed to do work release. You will have to go back to jail each day after work, or you could be permitted to move to a halfway house instead of jail.

Bail is the amount of money that you have to pay to the courts to be released from jail pending trial. The amount of bail that is set depends on the crime you’ve been charged with. You or someone you know will have to pay 10% of the amount that was determined in order for you to get out of jail. If you don’t go to your scheduled court date, whoever paid your bail will lose that money.

You have to call the Starr County Jail or the County Courthouse. If you have all the pertinent information, including name, address and date of birth, they will tell you what their bail is set at. Also, you can check their bail amount and status on the jail website.

Having to bail someone out of jail is never a fun thing, but thankfully, its easy if you have the money. To start with, you need to know if they have a “Cash Bond Only” situation. If this is the case, you won’t be able to use a Bail Bondsman. Take cash only to the jail – they will not take a personal check. As soon as you’ve paid the bail bond, the person will get released. If the conditions of bail are not violated, you’ll get the bail money back.

If their bail has been set too high, or you just can’t afford it, you should hire a bail bondsman. Bondsmen will generally charge a fee of 10-15% of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and sometimes with a minimum fee of $100. This money will not be returned to you and must be paid in cash. If the bail has been set really high, the bail bondsman will usually use your personal assets as collateral for the bond in addition to their charges.

To contact a bail bondsman visit our page about: Find a bail bondsman

Have you ever had to find a bail bondsman either for yourself, a family member or friend? If you have, leave a comment below and tell your story, and let us know how it worked out.

Click here to leave a comment

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

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The intake process takes you through each of these steps:

• They’ll put you in a holding cell. If the jail is busy, you will have to wait, sometimes for many hours, before you get processed.
• First, must answer some questions, such as what your legal name is, street address, birth date and an emergency contact.
• Also, you will also be asked about your medical and psychological history.
• You’ll be given an inmate ID number.
• Your fingerprints will be taken.
• You will get your mugshot taken.
• All of your personal property will be taken away from you and stored until you get released.
• They will allow you to use the telephone in order to call a member of your family, friend, or bondsman to arrange bail.
• If they expect that you will make bail and be released quickly, you might be allowed to wear your street clothes, if not you will be given a jail uniform.

Have you ever been booked into jail? If you have, please share your experience so others can benefit from your story. How long did it take to get processed? What was your treatment like? Can you share any tips that will help other people that get arrested to get through the procedure?

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Once bail has been posted, you will get released from jail. Getting discharged from jail may take anywhere from 15 minutes to hours or even all day long. In simple terms, the quicker you post bail, the sooner you will be released. Also, how fast you get released will depend on whether you’ve got a bond amount or if a magistrate still needs to determine the amount of bail to be set. For minor charges, you will be booked and get released without having to post bail. When you get to the end of your sentence and are given a release date, plan to get discharged in the morning.

In the event there is a, or if you have to begin your jail sentence, it is highly recommended that you follow the law and turn yourself in willingly. If you have a warrant, report to the jail intake center, and let them know that you think there may be an outstanding arrest warrant out for you. The officer will verify that you have an outstanding arrest warrant, and if they verify that you have one, you will be taken into jail custody. If you have a jail sentence to serve, report to the jail at the exact time and date that the sentence order states. Be sure that you are not late to report. Make sure that you only bring necessary items when you go to jail, for example a driver’s license or even your ID, prescription medication, as well as the sentencing order from court.

In order to have visitors, inmates must give each visitor’s name and date of birth to the jail before anyone can visit them. Your visitor’s names will go in a log of approved visitors as an Authorized visit. Each visitor will have to provide acceptable photo identification. Visitors showing up late or that is not on the visitation list will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Jail visitation policies are always changing, so we suggest that you review the jail site before you try to go to visitation.

The only phone calls that inmates are allowed to make are made through a jail approved pre-paid phone account or phone card . Phone calls made in jail are generally more expensive than phone calls made outside of jail. There is no limit to when you can make phone calls, how long you can talk, and how often you can make calls, but bear in mind that every inmate wants to use the phone too, so they can call their family. If you break the jail rules, your ability to use the phone might get reduced or forbidden.

The Starr County Jail phone number is: (956) 487-4552

All mall sent to inmates has to be sent using the actual US Postal Service, and not courier or delivery, or hand delivered. You cannot use any other form of mail delivery. You must write or type the person’s name, prisoner number, and jail address on the letter. Do not send anything in a package, padded envelope, bag, or an envelope with any metal in it. Any mail sent to inmates is opened and reviewed by the officers at the jail, and will get sent back if it can’t be delivered.

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

Starr County Jail
100 East 6Th Street
Rio Grande City, TX 78582

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Starr County Jail
100 East 6Th Street
Rio Grande City, TX 78582

The inmate mail policy at Starr County Jail changes frequently, so it would be best to review the the Starr County Jail website before you send a letter.

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If you have been arrested, you should know you still have rights, and an important one is the right to request a lawyer. You won’t get many phone calls in jail, so you would be wise to have a friend or family member locate an attorney when you talk to them. You’re probably asking yourself ‘but do I really need a lawyer’ You are not required to have an attorney for some criminal charges, a criminal lawyer will make sure you know your rights, look after your best interests and help you find your way through the criminal justice system that you are now faced with. The sooner you hire a lawyer to represent you and work on your charges, the better.

For more information about how to find an attorney, click: How to Find an Attorney

If you need an attorney, but can’t afford an attorney, a Public Defender will be assigned to you. The Public Defender Office has access to independent investigators, experts in forensics as well as social case workers. You will be reassured to know that Public Defenders are bona-fide lawyers, admitted to the State Bar and are fully licensed to handle your case.

Have you ever had to use a court appointed attorney? What was your experience?

Court records are a matter of public record. Court records include a case file with a docket sheet and each of the documents and motions in your case. You can access your court case records using the online service, or at the Starr County Clerk of Court.

The Clerk of Court is a member of the court that manages court records. The Clerk of Court also administer the oath when court is in session, and also read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All records and documents related to your court case are kept at Starr County Clerk of Court office.

Court fees are all costs associated with your case, which include filing charges, motion and claim fees, and court appearance fees. If you can’t afford to pay these fees and have a Public Defender, you can get a waiver for these fees.

The Starr County magistrate acts as the judge who presides on your court case. They do many different things, which include deciding a bail amount, issuing warrants for arrest, and presiding over preliminary court hearings and detention hearings.

A pre-sentencing report is put together to include background information and as much detail about the defendant’s life history, which the judge will take into consideration when decide your sentence. Information will be gathered from the person on trial, the defendant’s family, and, if applicable, the victim. Keep in mind you are able to request to get a copy of the report before you are sentenced, so you have the opportunity to review it for accuracy and completeness, and correct any mistakes.

After you are convicted of a crime, you will be sentenced. There are a number of different options, ranging from community service, house arrest, and probation, to even incarceration in either jail (short term) or prison (long term). Depending on sentencing guidelines and the severity of your crime, you could be locked up immediately, or given a date that you must turn yourself into jail to serve out your sentence.

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Are you trying to find out if a family member or friend is incarcerated, or has gone to jail in the past?

To find this out you should query the Starr County jail website and do an inmate search lookup, and do a search using:

• The inmate’s name.
• Birth date.
• Their booking date if you know it.
• and their jail inmate ID.

If you’re not sure if this person is in jail or not, you can also call the jail get confirmation.

If you think you have an outstanding warrant for your arrest, you can check arrest warrants online or you can call the court. This requires a first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask them. Bear in mind that if there is an arrest warrant out for you, they will take you into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s first and last name, as well as their arrest date, contact the Starr County jail, either by phone, in person, or you can check online. Records of arrests are in the public record and these records are accessible to anyone.

A Civil Process is when you get served with legal papers, like , subpoenas, and arrest warrants. You can find these by contacting the Starr County Sheriff’s office, by phone or online.

All registered sex offenders have to be registered and listed on the sex offender databases required by the area they live in. The people on these databases have been convicted in a court of law of a sex offense. You are able to view these listings on the website, but you should know that you won’t find the actual address, but only the block of the address that they registered.

Court Records are public records and available to anyone. Court Records include a case file that contains a docket sheet and all documents and filings filed in your court case. You are able to access your court records on the website, or at the clerk’s office of the court in the jurisdiction where the case was filed.

Each and every state maintains a record of someone’s criminal history. These state databases are linked together and you can track criminal backgrounds from any other state. Go to county courthouse and check in person or you can check online. It helps to know which county the crime occurred in, and if the crime was in a different state entirely, you may have to pay for a more complete search.

When you look up a person’s criminal records you will get a report detailing any arrests, charges, or convictions that may be on a person’s record for crimes, which include:

• DUI.
• Drug Possession of Drug Trafficking.
• Kidnapping.
• Sex offenses which could include rape, and sexual assault.
• Violent crimes.
• Theft, breaking and entering.

During a criminal records search, you will not find out if that person has had any infractions like moving violations:

• Tickets for speeding.
• Lost their driver’s license or license revoked or suspended.
• Any accidents.
• Other moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

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

Have you ever needed to find criminal records? Was it easy? Did you do your search online or did you call the courthouse? Did you get information that was correct? There are many reasons that people search for criminal records, and your comments may help other people that are in the same situation.

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Most Wanted

The FBI has their list of the Top Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Starr County, the Sheriff keeps their own list of most wanted criminals and fugitives.

FBI Ten Most Wanted List: Link


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Everyone knows that serving a jail sentence in Starr County Jail is no fun, eventually you will get used to the routine that is set for you. Inmates get an alarm for wake-up each morning at 6:00AM, and next you’ll have roll call. Then you will have breakfast. When you finish breakfast you will have to work in the program that has been assigned to you. 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 Starr 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 Starr 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 people in jail can change, so review the 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 Starr County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Starr 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 Starr 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.

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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:

• The right to protection from the accused.
• The right to notification.
• The right to attend proceedings.
• The right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• The right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• The right to restitution.
• The right to a speedy trial.
• 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 tell 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 spent any time at Starr County Jail? Do you know anybody that is a prisoner there? Have you ever been to visit someone at Starr County Jail?

If you have, then we would like you to write your review about it. Write down your experience so other people can learn what to expect.

Things you can write in your comment:

• Conditions in Starr County Jail.
• Jail and pod facility and layout
• Jail staff and Guards
• Commissary and food
• Visitation
• The other inmates.
• Prisoner safety
• Jail gangs
• Activities and programs


Write a Review of Starr County Jail

Tell Your Story

Anybody that’s ever been locked up has a story about it. How’d you end up in jail? Were you fairly treated? How was day to day life at Starr County Jail? What about the other inmates? How did getting locked up affect your life?

Click here to tell about all about it

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you make friends in jail? Need to reconnect with an inmate you met while you were incarcerated? Write your message below.

Send a message to Starr County Jail


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