Dallas County Jail North Tower is a medium-security detention center in Dallas, Texas, operated by the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office. It houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or short-term confinement. The facility provides public access to inmate records, visitation scheduling, mail services, and commissary support. Located at 111 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201, it serves as one of three main detention centers alongside West Tower and the Suzanne L. Kays Center. This page covers everything you need to know about locating inmates, sending mail, visiting hours, security protocols, medical services, and how to use the official online jail lookup system.
How to Search for an Inmate in Dallas County Jail North Tower
Anyone can search for current inmates using the Dallas County Jail Lookup System. The online portal allows searches by legal name, booking identification number, or date of birth. Results show housing unit, projected release date, pending charges, and bond amount. Data updates every 30 minutes to ensure accuracy. The system is available 24/7 on the official Dallas County website. No registration is required. Families, attorneys, and media can access real-time custody status without delays. For immediate help, call the Sheriff’s Office records division at 214‑749‑0400 during business hours.
Official Contact Information and Visiting Hours
The North Tower Jail’s main phone line is 214‑653‑2930. Staff answer calls from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. For visitation scheduling, call this number or use the online portal. Visitors must apply online, present a government-issued photo ID, and pass a background check processed within 48 hours. Visits occur in designated time slots based on housing units. Each session lasts up to 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate per visit. All visitors go through metal detectors and electronic badge checks.
Mailing Address and Rules for Inmate Mail
All mail must be sent to P.O. Box 660334, Dallas, TX 75266‑0334. Each envelope must include the inmate’s full legal name, booking ID (e.g., John Doe #05123456), and housing location (e.g., Tank #11 S 14). Money orders are the only accepted form of funds and must be payable to “Inmate Trust Fund.” Electronic transfers require registration with the county-approved vendor. Letters, greeting cards, and paperback books from publishers are allowed if clearly labeled. No contraband, stickers, or hardcover books permitted. Legal mail must be sealed and marked as attorney correspondence.
Facility Overview: Security, Medical Care, and Housing
The North Tower Jail holds approximately 650 inmates on average. It features medium-security design with biometric entry, CCTV surveillance, and 24/7 alarm monitoring. The medical wing includes emergency care, mental health assessments, routine screenings, a dental clinic, and a short-stay infirmary. Inmates receive health services upon intake and as needed. Housing units are assigned by risk level. Educational programs, vocational training, and a library with over 1,200 titles are available. The facility opened in 1993 and is part of the Lew Sterrett Justice Center complex.
Commissary, Phone, and Video Visitation Services
Inmates can purchase approved food, hygiene items, and stationery through the SecurePak Inmate Commissary Program. Relatives may fund accounts online or via money order. Phone calls are provided by approved vendors; rates vary by call type. Video visitation is available by appointment through the Sheriff’s Office portal. Sessions are monitored and recorded. Funds for calls and commissary must come from verified sources. Unauthorized charges can be disputed through the records division. All purchases require inmate consent and booking verification.
Location, Parking, and Public Access
The North Tower Jail shares its address with other detention centers at 133 N. Riverfront Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75207, near the Frank Crowley Courts Building. The physical intake and visitation entrance is at 111 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201. Street parking is limited; public lots are available within two blocks. The facility is accessible via DART light rail and bus routes. All visitors must arrive 15 minutes early for processing. No weapons, bags, or electronic devices allowed inside.
Media Requests and Mugshot Releases
Media personnel can request inmate mugshots by mailing a written request to 111 West Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202, marked “Attention: Media Relations – Inmate Mugshot Request.” Requests may also be submitted online via Jail Exchange or by calling 214‑761‑9025. High-resolution images require valid press credentials. Mugshots and basic booking details are released within 24 hours of intake. Charges, bond amounts, and court dates are listed on the public roster. All releases follow Texas public record laws.
Rehabilitation Programs and Inmate Rights
Inmates have access to GED preparation, substance abuse counseling, life skills workshops, and religious services. Program eligibility depends on behavior, security level, and sentence length. The official inmate handbook outlines rights, responsibilities, grievance procedures, and disciplinary rules. Copies are available online and upon request. Mental health support includes crisis intervention and therapy sessions. All services comply with Texas Commission on Jail Standards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas County Jail North Tower
Common questions include how to find an inmate, send money, schedule visits, or check release dates. The FAQ section on the Dallas County website provides step-by-step guides, screenshots, and contact details. For technical issues with the online portal, call 214‑749‑0400. For policy questions, call 214‑653‑2930. All information is updated regularly to reflect current procedures. Families are encouraged to review the inmate handbook before sending mail or visiting.
Historical Background and Facility Evolution
Before 1983, Dallas County’s main jail was located in the George Allen Courthouse, holding about 800 inmates. The opening of the Lew Sterrett Justice Center shifted operations to modern facilities. North Tower was built in 1993 to improve safety, medical care, and program access. It now supports over 3,000 inmates across three towers. The complex remains under the Sheriff’s Office and follows state-mandated standards for health, safety, and transparency.
Related Services and Official Resources
For criminal court records, use the Dallas County Criminal Court Records database. Search by case number or defendant name to view indictments, transcripts, and sentencing orders. The Sheriff’s Office also manages inmate property, telephone services, and video visitation scheduling. All services are integrated into the online inmate information portal. Downloadable forms, handbooks, and fee schedules are available in PDF format.
Contact Details and Official Links
Dallas County Sheriff’s Office
111 W Commerce St
Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: 214‑653‑2930
Visiting Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (by appointment)
Online Inmate Search: https://www.dallascounty.org/jaillookup/search.jsp
Inmate Mail: P.O. Box 660334, Dallas, TX 75266‑0334
FAQ Section
Below are common questions about Dallas County Jail North Tower. Each answer provides clear, actionable information based on current policies and official sources.
How do I find out if someone is in Dallas County Jail North Tower?
Use the Dallas County Jail Lookup System online. Enter the person’s full name, booking number, or date of birth. Results show housing location, charges, bond amount, and release date. The database updates every 30 minutes. If no results appear, the person may be in another facility or recently booked. Call 214‑653‑2930 for real-time assistance. Always verify the spelling of the name and confirm the correct county. Records are public under Texas law.
Can I send money to an inmate at North Tower Jail?
Yes, but only through money orders sent by mail or electronic transfers via the county-approved vendor. Money orders must be payable to “Inmate Trust Fund” and include the inmate’s name and booking number. Do not send cash. Electronic transfers require online registration. Funds appear in the inmate’s account within 24–48 hours. Use the SecurePak Commissary Program to purchase approved items. Disputes over charges must be reported to the records division at 214‑749‑0400.
What are the rules for visiting an inmate at North Tower?
Visitors must apply online, show a government-issued ID, and pass a background check. Visits are scheduled in 30-minute slots. Only two visitors per inmate per session. Arrive 15 minutes early. No phones, bags, or food allowed. Dress modestly—no hats, hoods, or revealing clothing. All visits are monitored. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Failure to follow rules may result in suspension of visiting privileges. Call 214‑653‑2930 to confirm your appointment.
How do I send mail to an inmate in North Tower?
Address all mail to P.O. Box 660334, Dallas, TX 75266‑0334. Include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and housing unit. Use standard envelopes. Letters, cards, and softcover books from publishers are allowed. No stickers, glitter, or hardcover books. Legal mail must be sealed and marked. Money orders are accepted but must be payable to “Inmate Trust Fund.” Do not send cash or personal items. All mail is inspected before delivery.
Does North Tower Jail provide medical care?
Yes. The facility has a three-floor medical complex with emergency care, mental health services, dental clinics, and infirmary beds. All inmates receive health screenings upon intake. Ongoing care is available for chronic conditions, injuries, and mental health needs. Staff include nurses, doctors, and counselors. Inmates can request medical attention at any time. Services follow Texas jail standards. Family members cannot directly contact medical staff but may report urgent concerns to the Sheriff’s Office.
How often is the inmate roster updated?
The official inmate roster updates hourly. It includes name, booking number, charges, bond amount, housing unit, and mugshot. The online portal refreshes every 30 minutes. For the most current status, check the website or call 214‑761‑9025. Recent bookings may take up to 24 hours to appear. Release information is posted as soon as processing is complete. Always verify details before making travel or legal decisions.
Can I get a mugshot of an inmate from North Tower?
Yes, mugshots are public records. Request them by mail to 111 West Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202, marked “Media Relations – Inmate Mugshot Request.” Include the inmate’s name and booking number. Media must show press credentials for high-resolution images. Requests can also be made online via Jail Exchange or by calling 214‑761‑9025. Mugshots are typically released within 24 hours of booking. Fees may apply for printed copies.