Bowie County Public Records / Bowie County Arrest Records

Bowie County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Bowie County

Arrest records in Bowie County, Texas are considered public information under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including arrest records, are available to the public unless specifically exempted by law. Pursuant to § 552.021, "public information is available to the public at a minimum during the normal business hours of the governmental body."

It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement on suspicion of criminal activity, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through the judicial process. Under Texas law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.

The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains policies regarding the dissemination of criminal history record information in accordance with Texas Government Code § 411.083, which governs the dissemination of criminal history record information. While some information may be restricted based on privacy concerns or ongoing investigations, most arrest records remain accessible to the public through proper channels.

What's in Bowie County Arrest Records

Bowie County arrest records typically contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody. These records serve as official documentation of law enforcement actions and typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, or other distinguishing features)
Home address
Driver's license number (if applicable)
Fingerprints
Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Arresting officer's name and badge number
Circumstances leading to arrest
Whether force was used during arrest

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statute citations for alleged violations
Charge classification (misdemeanor or felony)
Charge severity (Class A, B, C misdemeanor or degree of felony)
Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing court
Date issued
Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
Warrant status

Booking Information:

Booking date and time
Booking number
Processing officer information
Property inventory
Medical screening results (non-confidential)

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted or not)
Conditions of release
Bondsman information (if applicable)

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Case number
Scheduled court appearances
Judge assigned to case

Custody Status:

Current detention status
Expected release date (if applicable)
Facility where detained

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Probation or parole status
Immigration holds
Protective orders
Special custody requirements

The specific content of arrest records may vary based on the circumstances of the arrest and the policies of the arresting agency. Some information may be redacted or restricted based on privacy laws, ongoing investigations, or other legal considerations.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Bowie County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Bowie County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains systems for public access to these records in accordance with Texas public information laws. Individuals may pursue the following options:

Visit the Bowie County Sheriff's Office in person:
- Request arrest records at the records division
- Complete a public information request form
- Provide identification and specify the records sought
- Pay applicable fees for copies or certified records

Bowie County Sheriff's Office
710 S. James Street
New Boston, TX 75570
(903) 628-6815
Bowie County Sheriff's Office

Submit a written request:
- Draft a formal public information request letter
- Include specific details about the records sought
- Address the request to the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Submit via mail, email, or fax
- Include contact information for response
Contact the Bowie County District Clerk:
- For arrest records related to court cases
- Request information about specific cases by name or case number
- Obtain copies of related court documents

Bowie County District Clerk
710 S. James Street, Suite 101
New Boston, TX 75570
(903) 628-6751
Bowie County District Clerk

Request records from the Texarkana Police Department:
- For arrests made within Texarkana city limits
- Complete their specific records request form
- Provide identification and pay applicable fees

Texarkana Police Department
100 North State Line Avenue
Texarkana, TX 75501
(903) 798-3116
Texarkana Police Department

When requesting arrest records, individuals should be prepared to provide:

The full name of the person in the record
Date of birth or approximate age
Date or approximate timeframe of arrest
Case number (if known)
Requestor's contact information

Pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act § 552.221, governmental bodies must "promptly produce public information for inspection, duplication, or both" upon request. The law defines "promptly" as "as soon as possible under the circumstances, that is, within a reasonable time, without delay."

How To Find Bowie County Arrest Records Online

Bowie County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenience for individuals seeking information without visiting government offices in person. The following online methods are currently available:

Bowie County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search:
- Access the Bowie County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the inmate search function
- Search by name, booking number, or other identifiers
- View current custody status and basic arrest information
- Note that this system primarily shows current inmates, not historical arrests
Bowie County District Clerk Records Search:
- Visit the Bowie County District Clerk's online portal
- Search for criminal cases by defendant name
- Access case information related to arrests
- View court dates, charges, and case status
- Some documents may require registration or fees to access
Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal History Search:
- Access the Texas DPS Crime Records Service
- Request a criminal history record check
- Pay the required fee (currently $3.00 per name search)
- Receive information about arrests statewide, including those in Bowie County
- Note that this provides conviction records, not all arrest records
Texarkana Police Department Online Resources:
- Visit the Texarkana Police Department website
- Check for arrest logs or police reports
- Access information about recent arrests within city limits
- Note that comprehensive records may require a formal request

When using online systems, users should be aware that:

Information may not be comprehensive or complete
Recent arrests may not appear immediately
Some details may be redacted for privacy or security reasons
Official certified copies typically require in-person requests
Online access may be subject to terms of use and privacy policies

How To Search Bowie County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public have several options to access Bowie County arrest records without incurring fees. While certified copies and extensive searches may involve costs, the following methods provide free access to basic arrest information:

Bowie County Jail Inmate Lookup:
- The Sheriff's Office maintains a free online inmate search
- Access current custody information at no charge
- View basic arrest details for currently incarcerated individuals
- Available 24/7 through the county website
Public Access Terminals:
- Visit the Bowie County Courthouse
- Use public access computer terminals in the District Clerk's office
- Search court records related to criminal cases
- No fee for on-site viewing (printing may incur charges)

Bowie County Courthouse
710 S. James Street
New Boston, TX 75570
(903) 628-6700
Bowie County

Local Library Resources:
- Public libraries in Bowie County may offer free internet access
- Use library computers to access public county websites
- Librarians may assist with navigating public records resources

Texarkana Public Library
600 W 3rd Street
Texarkana, TX 75501
(903) 794-2149
Texarkana Public Library

Newspaper Archives:
- Local newspapers often report on arrests
- Check newspaper websites or library archives
- Many publications maintain searchable online databases
- Public libraries typically provide free access to newspaper archives
Court Docket Observation:
- Attend public court proceedings
- Review posted court dockets (typically displayed outside courtrooms)
- Observe arraignments and other criminal proceedings
- Court schedules are generally available online or by calling the court clerk

When utilizing free resources, individuals should be aware of certain limitations:

Information may be less comprehensive than paid services
Historical records may not be readily available
Some details may be redacted or limited
Free resources typically do not provide certified copies
High-profile or recent cases may be easier to locate than older or minor cases

How To Delete Arrest Records in Bowie County

The process of removing arrest records from public access in Bowie County involves either expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access). These legal remedies are governed by specific Texas statutes and require formal court proceedings.

Expungement (Expunction):

Expungement is the complete removal of arrest records from government databases and is governed by Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55. Pursuant to § 55.01, individuals may qualify for expungement under the following circumstances:

The person was acquitted of the offense
The person was pardoned for the offense
The person was convicted but subsequently found actually innocent
The case was dismissed and the statute of limitations has expired
The person was arrested but never charged, and the statute of limitations has expired
The person completed certain pretrial diversion programs

The expungement process typically involves:

Filing a Petition for Expunction with the district court
Paying the required filing fee
Attending a court hearing
Obtaining a court order directing all agencies to destroy records
Ensuring compliance by all agencies holding records

Record Sealing (Order of Nondisclosure):

Record sealing restricts public access to criminal records while maintaining them for law enforcement purposes. This process is governed by Texas Government Code Chapter 411, specifically § 411.081. Individuals may qualify for record sealing if:

They successfully completed deferred adjudication for certain offenses
They meet waiting period requirements (varies by offense type)
The offense is eligible for nondisclosure under state law
They have no disqualifying criminal history

The record sealing process typically involves:

Filing a Petition for Order of Nondisclosure
Paying the required filing fee
Attending a court hearing
Obtaining a court order directing agencies to seal records
Waiting for implementation across all relevant databases

Individuals seeking expungement or record sealing in Bowie County should be aware that:

Certain offenses (particularly violent or sexual offenses) may be ineligible
Waiting periods apply to many types of cases
The process requires strict adherence to legal procedures
Professional legal assistance is strongly recommended
Even when granted, implementation across all agencies may take time

For specific guidance on eligibility and procedures, individuals should consult with a licensed attorney familiar with Texas expungement and nondisclosure laws.

What Happens After Arrest in Bowie County?

Following an arrest in Bowie County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process that includes several distinct phases. This process adheres to Texas state law and local procedures established by Bowie County authorities.

Booking and Initial Detention:

The arrestee is transported to the Bowie County Correctional Center
Personal information is recorded and entered into law enforcement databases
Fingerprints and photographs (mugshots) are taken
Personal property is inventoried and secured
Initial health screening is conducted
The arrestee is placed in appropriate holding facilities

Magistration (Initial Appearance):

Within 48 hours of arrest, the individual appears before a magistrate
The magistrate informs the arrestee of charges and constitutional rights
Bail or bond amounts are set based on offense severity and flight risk
In some cases, release on personal recognizance may be granted
For certain serious offenses, bail may be denied
Indigent defendants may request court-appointed counsel

Bail/Bond Process:

If bail is set, the arrestee may secure release by:
- Posting the full bail amount (cash bond)
- Securing a surety bond through a licensed bondsman (typically 10-15% fee)
- Receiving a personal recognizance bond (promise to appear)
Release conditions may include travel restrictions, regular check-ins, or other requirements

Formal Charging:

For misdemeanors: The County Attorney files charges
For felonies: The District Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury
Grand jury determines if probable cause exists to issue an indictment
If indicted, the case proceeds to the appropriate court
If not indicted, charges may be dismissed

Arraignment:

Formal reading of charges in court
Defendant enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
Trial dates and other proceedings are scheduled
Pretrial motions may be filed by defense or prosecution

Pretrial Proceedings:

Discovery process where evidence is exchanged
Pretrial hearings on admissibility of evidence
Plea negotiations between defense and prosecution
Pretrial diversion programs may be available for eligible defendants

Trial:

Jury selection (voir dire)
Opening statements by prosecution and defense
Presentation of evidence and witness testimony
Closing arguments
Jury deliberation and verdict
For bench trials, the judge determines guilt or innocence

Sentencing (if convicted):

Presentence investigation may be conducted
Victim impact statements may be presented
Judge imposes sentence based on statutory guidelines
Sentences may include incarceration, probation, fines, or combinations thereof

Post-Conviction:

Right to appeal within specified timeframes
Possible post-conviction remedies
Probation supervision if applicable
Incarceration in county jail or transfer to state prison system

Throughout this process, defendants maintain constitutional rights including the right to counsel, the right against self-incrimination, and the right to due process under the law.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Bowie County?

Arrest records in Bowie County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under authority granted by Texas Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods for various types of law enforcement records, including arrest documentation.

The standard retention periods for arrest-related records in Bowie County include:

Arrest Reports and Booking Information: Minimum of 5 years from the date of arrest
Investigation Records:
- Misdemeanors: 2 years after case closure
- Felonies: 10 years after case closure
- Capital felonies: 75 years after case closure
Fingerprint Cards and Photographs: 75 years from date of arrest
Jail Records and Custody Documentation: 5 years after release or transfer
Incident Reports: 5 years from report date
Warrant Records:
- Active warrants: Until executed or recalled
- Executed warrants: 5 years after execution

It is important to note that these are minimum retention periods. In practice, many records are maintained for longer periods or permanently, particularly with the advent of digital record-keeping systems. Additionally, different agencies within Bowie County may maintain separate records with varying retention policies:

The Bowie County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records according to law enforcement schedules
The District and County Clerks maintain court records related to arrests according to judicial records schedules
The District Attorney's Office maintains prosecution records according to legal records schedules

The retention of these records serves several important purposes:

Preservation of evidence for ongoing or future investigations
Documentation for potential appeals or post-conviction proceedings
Maintenance of criminal history information for law enforcement purposes
Statistical analysis and crime pattern recognition
Accountability and transparency in the criminal justice system

Even after physical records reach the end of their retention period, information about arrests may persist in various databases and indices. Criminal history information is typically maintained in the Texas Department of Public Safety's computerized criminal history system for the life of the individual, unless expunged or sealed by court order.

How to Find Mugshots in Bowie County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system. In Bowie County, as in other jurisdictions, mugshots typically include:

A front-facing (portrait) photograph
A profile (side-view) photograph
A booking identification number
Sometimes a height chart or date information in the background

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Bowie County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

The Bowie County Sheriff's Office as part of booking records
The Texarkana Police Department for arrests within city limits
The Texas Department of Public Safety in state criminal history files
County jail administration systems

Finding Mugshots

Individuals seeking mugshots in Bowie County have several potential avenues:

Submit a Public Information Request:
- File a formal request with the Bowie County Sheriff's Office
- Specify the individual's name and approximate arrest date
- Provide justification for the request (may be required)
- Pay any applicable fees for reproduction

Bowie County Sheriff's Office
710 S. James Street
New Boston, TX 75570
(903) 628-6815
Bowie County Sheriff's Office

Check Jail Roster Information:
- The Bowie County jail roster may include booking photos
- This information is typically available for current inmates
- Historical mugshots may require a formal records request

Can They Be Found Online

Some mugshot information may be available online through:

The Bowie County Sheriff's Office inmate search function
Third-party websites that aggregate public records
Local news media that may publish mugshots for newsworthy arrests

However, online availability is limited and subject to change based on:

County policies regarding online publication
Recent legislation restricting commercial mugshot websites
Privacy considerations for certain categories of offenders

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

For official copies of mugshots, individuals should:

Contact the arresting agency directly
Submit a written public information request
Provide specific identifying information about the arrest
Pay required fees for reproduction
Specify the intended use of the photographs

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots in Bowie County may be restricted under certain circumstances:

Juvenile arrest records are generally confidential
Expunged or sealed records are not publicly available
Ongoing investigations may limit access to certain booking photos
Privacy protections may apply to victims of certain crimes
Recent Texas legislation (Texas Business and Commerce Code § 109.005) restricts commercial websites from publishing mugshots if the arrested person was acquitted or charges were dismissed

Individuals should be aware that while mugshots are generally considered public records, their publication and distribution may have significant privacy implications and potential long-term consequences for the individuals depicted.