Where is the Fort Bend County Jail? The Fort Bend County Jail is located at 1410 Williams Way Blvd, Richmond, TX 77469. The jail is operated by the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. To search for an inmate or get information about someone in custody, call (281) 341-4735 or use the online jail inquiry system.
If you or someone you love has been arrested in Fort Bend County, you likely have urgent questions about the booking process, bail, visitation, and what happens next. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Fort Bend County Jail, city jails, juvenile detention, and how to navigate the criminal justice system in Fort Bend County.
At Varghese Summersett, our Houston-area Fort Bend criminal defense lawyers have helped thousands of people get out of jail and fight their charges. With more than 1,600 dismissals and 800 charge reductions, our team of 70+ legal professionals includes former prosecutors who know how the system works from the inside. We offer free consultations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call (281) 805-2220 now to speak with an attorney who can help.
Fort Bend County Jail Contact Information
Here is the essential contact information for the Fort Bend County Jail:
- Address: 1410 Williams Way Blvd, Richmond, TX 77469
- Main Phone: (281) 341-4735
- Fax: (281) 341-4733
- Jail Inquiry Portal: fortbendcountytx.gov/node/76
- Inmate Search: Search for an Inmate in Custody
How Do I Find an Inmate in Fort Bend County Jail?
Fort Bend County provides several ways to search for inmates currently housed in the jail. The fastest method is using the online inmate search tool on the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office website. You can search by the inmate’s first and last name, date of birth, or booking number.
If you cannot locate someone online, call the jail directly at (281) 341-4735. Keep in mind that recently arrested individuals may not appear in the system immediately. Booking can take several hours, and there may be a delay before their information becomes publicly available.
If the person was arrested by a city police department (Sugar Land, Missouri City, Katy, etc.), they may still be in that city’s holding facility before being transferred to the county jail. See the city jails section below for more information.
For inmates who have been transferred to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), use the state’s offender locator at TDCJ Offender Search.
What Is the Booking Process at Fort Bend County Jail?
After an arrest in Fort Bend County, the defendant is transported to the Fort Bend County Jail for booking. This process typically takes anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on how busy the jail is. During booking, jail staff will complete the following steps:
- Record the defendant’s personal information, including name, date of birth, and address
- Take fingerprints and photographs (mugshots)
- Document the charges and arresting agency
- Conduct a medical screening
- Inventory and store personal property
- Assign a housing unit based on the charges and security classification
Once booking is complete, the defendant will be held until they can see a magistrate judge, who will set bail and advise them of their rights. In Texas, this must occur within 48 hours of arrest.
How Does Bail Work in Fort Bend County?
Bail is a financial guarantee that a defendant will return to court for all required appearances. In Fort Bend County, bail can be posted in several ways:
Cash Bond: The full bail amount is paid directly to the jail. This money is returned (minus any court fees) after the case is resolved, assuming the defendant appeared at all court dates.
Surety Bond: A bail bondsman posts the bond in exchange for a non-refundable fee, typically 10% of the total bail amount. If the defendant fails to appear, the bondsman is responsible for the full amount.
Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond: The defendant is released on their promise to return to court without paying bail. These bonds are typically reserved for non-violent offenses and defendants with strong community ties.
Attorney Bond: In some cases, an attorney can post bond on behalf of their client. This can expedite the release process significantly.
Our bail bonds lawyers can help you understand your options and work to secure the lowest possible bail. In some cases, we can arrange for release before you even reach the jail by coordinating with law enforcement and the court. Call (281) 805-2220 to discuss your situation.
What Are Typical Bail Amounts in Fort Bend County?
Bail amounts in Fort Bend County vary based on the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and flight risk. While each case is unique, here are some general ranges for common offenses:
- Class B Misdemeanor (First DWI): $500 to $1,500
- Class A Misdemeanor (Assault): $1,000 to $5,000
- State Jail Felony (Drug Possession): $2,500 to $10,000
- Third-Degree Felony: $5,000 to $25,000
- Second-Degree Felony: $10,000 to $50,000
- First-Degree Felony: $25,000 to $100,000+
- Aggravated Offenses: $50,000 to $500,000+
These are estimates only. A skilled defense attorney can often argue for a lower bail amount or more favorable bond conditions at your magistration hearing or in a subsequent bond reduction hearing.
What Are My Rights After Being Arrested?
If you’ve been arrested in Fort Bend County, you have constitutional rights that law enforcement must respect. These include:
The Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to answer questions from police beyond providing your name and basic identifying information. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
The Right to an Attorney: You have the right to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. If you cannot afford one, the court will appoint a lawyer to represent you.
The Right to Know the Charges: You must be informed of the charges against you within a reasonable time after your arrest.
The Right to a Speedy Trial: You have the right to have your case resolved in a timely manner.
The single most important thing you can do after an arrest is contact a criminal defense attorney before speaking to anyone about your case. Officers may try to get you to talk, but politely invoking your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney is always the smartest choice.
Fort Bend County Jail Visitation Rules
Fort Bend County Jail uses video visitation for all inmate visits. In-person contact visits are not permitted. Here’s what you need to know about visiting someone at the jail:
Onsite Video Visitation
- Schedule: Sunday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Free Visits: Each inmate is allowed two free onsite video visits per week
- Advance Booking: Visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance
- Visit Length: Each visit is 25 minutes
- Children: Visitors 16 years old or younger must be accompanied by an adult
- Monitoring: All visits may be monitored and recorded
Remote Video Visitation
- Schedule: Available daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Provider: Remote visits are conducted through Securus Technologies
- Cost: Remote visits must be purchased in advance through securustech.net
Visitors should arrive on time and be prepared to follow all facility rules. Inappropriate behavior or dress code violations may result in visit termination. You must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list and present valid identification.
How Do I Send Money to an Inmate in Fort Bend County?
Inmates at Fort Bend County Jail need funds in their commissary account to purchase phone time, snacks, hygiene items, and other necessities. There are several ways to add money to an inmate’s account:
- Online: Through Securus Technologies at securustech.net
- Mobile App: Using the Securus smartphone app
- Kiosk: Using the lobby kiosk at the jail
- Phone: By calling the Securus customer service number
- Money Order: Mailed to the jail with the inmate’s name and booking number
All deposits are subject to service fees, and there may be limits on how much money can be deposited at one time. Always include the inmate’s full legal name and booking number to ensure the funds reach the correct person.
How Do I Send Mail or Messages to an Inmate?
Fort Bend County Jail offers both traditional mail and electronic messaging options.
eMessaging (Digital Mail)
eMessaging and digital mail are handled through Securus Technologies. You can send electronic messages through the Securus website or smartphone app. This is often faster than traditional mail and allows for quicker communication.
Traditional Mail
When mailing letters, address them as follows:
Inmate’s Full Name, Booking Number
Fort Bend County Jail
1410 Williams Way Blvd
Richmond, TX 77469
All incoming mail is inspected for contraband. The following items are generally prohibited:
- Scented paper or stickers
- Polaroid or Instax photographs
- Nude or sexually explicit images
- Content promoting illegal activity
- Stamps or stationery in excessive quantities
Magazines and books must be shipped directly from the publisher or an approved retailer like Amazon. They cannot be mailed by friends or family members.
Fort Bend County City Jails
If someone is arrested within city limits in Fort Bend County, they may first be taken to a city jail or holding facility before being transferred to the Fort Bend County Jail. City jails are typically short-term holding facilities where arrestees are processed before being moved to the county jail for longer detention.
Here are the primary city jails within Fort Bend County:
Sugar Land Police Department Jail
Arrests within Sugar Land city limits may result in initial booking at the Sugar Land PD holding facility. Contact Sugar Land Police Department at (281) 275-2020 for inmate status, then check the Fort Bend County Jail inquiry system if the person has been transferred.
Missouri City Police Department Jail
Missouri City operates a short-term holding facility. Inmates are typically transferred to Fort Bend County Jail for longer detention. Call Missouri City PD at (281) 403-8700 to confirm location, then use the county jail search if transferred.
Katy Police Department Jail
Katy straddles Harris, Fort Bend, and Waller counties. Arrests in the Fort Bend portion of Katy may result in booking at Katy PD’s holding facility before transfer to the appropriate county jail. Contact Katy PD at (281) 391-4848.
Richmond Police Department Jail
Richmond operates a municipal holding facility for short-term detention. Most longer holds are transferred to Fort Bend County Jail. Contact Richmond PD at (281) 342-2849.
Rosenberg Police Department Jail
Rosenberg PD maintains a short-term holding facility. Contact the department at (832) 595-3700 for inmate information, then check the county jail system if the person has been moved.
Stafford Police Department Jail
Stafford operates a city jail for short-term holds. Inmates are typically transferred to the county jail after initial processing. Contact Stafford PD at (281) 261-3950.
Important: City jails generally do not have public online inmate search systems. If you’re looking for someone who was recently arrested by a city police department, call that department’s non-emergency or jail line first. If they indicate the person has been transferred, use the Fort Bend County Jail online search.
Fort Bend County Juvenile Detention Center
If a juvenile (under 17) is arrested in Fort Bend County, they are taken to the Fort Bend County Juvenile Detention Center, not the adult jail. The juvenile detention facility is operated by Fort Bend County Juvenile Probation.
Contact Information
- Phone (Visitation/Level Checks): (281) 633-7308
Juvenile Visitation Schedule
Visitation at the juvenile detention center follows a specific schedule and requires advance authorization:
- Monday: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: Level 5 visits from 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM (call to confirm child’s level)
Juvenile Visitation Rules
- Only visitors on the child’s “Authorized Visitation Sheet” may visit
- Only the Juvenile Probation Officer can add visitors to the authorized list
- Visitors must show valid ID and pass through a metal detector
- No purses, bags, or phones allowed in the visitation area
- Visits are at least 15 minutes long
- The last group of visitors is admitted 15 minutes before the end of visitation
Juvenile Inmate Search: There is no public online inmate search for juveniles. Information is controlled through Juvenile Probation and the child’s assigned case officer.
If your child has been detained, contact our Fort Bend juvenile defense lawyers immediately. We are one of only two Texas law firms with multiple attorneys board-certified in juvenile law.
Fort Bend County Detention Facilities Quick Reference
| Facility | Type | Phone | Inmate Search |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Bend County Jail 1410 Williams Way Blvd, Richmond | Main Adult Jail | (281) 341-4735 | Online Search |
| Fort Bend Juvenile Detention | Juvenile Facility | (281) 633-7308 | Call Juvenile Probation |
| Sugar Land PD Jail | City Holding | (281) 275-2020 | Phone only; check county if transferred |
| Missouri City PD Jail | City Holding | (281) 403-8700 | Phone only; check county if transferred |
| Katy PD Jail | City Holding | (281) 391-4848 | Phone only; check county if transferred |
| Richmond PD Jail | City Holding | (281) 342-2849 | Phone only; check county if transferred |
| Rosenberg PD Jail | City Holding | (832) 595-3700 | Phone only; check county if transferred |
| Stafford PD Jail | City Holding | (281) 261-3950 | Phone only; check county if transferred |
What Happens After Bail Is Posted?
Once bail is posted, the release process can take several hours. The jail must verify the bond, process paperwork, and return the defendant’s personal property. During busy times, this process may take longer.
Upon release, the defendant will receive paperwork with their court date and any bond conditions they must follow. Common bond conditions in Fort Bend County include:
- No contact with the alleged victim
- Stay-away orders from certain locations
- Curfews
- Drug or alcohol testing
- GPS monitoring
- Surrender of firearms
Violating bond conditions can result in immediate arrest and revocation of bail. It’s essential to understand and comply with all conditions while your case is pending.
Fort Bend County Criminal Courts
Criminal cases in Fort Bend County are heard in several courts depending on the severity of the offense:
Justice of the Peace Courts: Handle Class C misdemeanors (fine-only offenses) and magistration hearings.
County Courts at Law: Handle Class A and Class B misdemeanors, including first-offense DWI, assault, and theft under $2,500.
District Courts: Handle all felony cases, from state jail felonies to capital murder.
The Fort Bend County Justice Center is located at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle in Richmond. This is where most criminal court proceedings take place.
What Should I Look for in a Fort Bend County Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Not all criminal defense attorneys are the same. When your freedom is on the line, you want a lawyer with experience in Fort Bend County courts, a track record of success, and the resources to thoroughly investigate and defend your case. Here’s what sets Varghese Summersett apart:
- Former Prosecutors: Several of our attorneys previously worked as prosecutors, giving us insight into how the other side builds cases.
- Board Certifications: We have attorneys board-certified in criminal law and juvenile law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
- Proven Results: More than 1,600 dismissals and 800+ charge reductions.
- Team Approach: With 70+ legal professionals, we have the resources to handle even the most complex cases.
- 24/7 Availability: Criminal emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Neither do we.
What to Expect from Varghese Summersett
When you hire our firm, you’re not just getting an attorney. You’re getting an entire team dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome in your case. From your first call, you’ll experience the difference:
- Immediate response from our intake team
- Free consultation with a licensed attorney
- Clear explanation of the charges and potential consequences
- Honest assessment of your options and defense strategies
- Regular updates and responsive communication throughout your case
We understand how stressful an arrest can be for you and your family. Our goal is to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for your future.
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Fort Bend County Criminal Defense Videos
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Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Bend County Jail
How long does it take to get released from Fort Bend County Jail after posting bond?
Release times vary depending on how busy the jail is, but most people are released within 2 to 8 hours after bond is posted. During weekends or holidays, the process may take longer. Having an attorney coordinate your release can sometimes speed up the process.
Can I bail someone out of Fort Bend County Jail at any time?
Yes, the Fort Bend County Jail accepts bond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, the person must first go through booking and see a magistrate before bail can be posted. Cash bonds can be posted at the jail, while surety bonds are handled through licensed bail bondsmen.
What if I can’t afford bail in Fort Bend County?
If you cannot afford bail, your attorney can request a bond reduction hearing and argue for a lower amount or a personal recognizance bond. The judge will consider factors like your criminal history, ties to the community, and the nature of the charges.
Can I visit someone in Fort Bend County Jail in person?
Fort Bend County Jail does not allow in-person contact visits. All visitation is conducted through video, either onsite at the jail (Sunday through Friday, 8 AM to 6:30 PM) or remotely from home through Securus (daily, 8 AM to 9 PM). Visits must be scheduled in advance, and inmates receive two free onsite visits per week.
How do I find out if someone was arrested by a city police department in Fort Bend County?
City jails in Fort Bend County (Sugar Land, Missouri City, Katy, etc.) do not have public online inmate searches. Call the arresting agency’s non-emergency line to check if the person is still in their custody. If they’ve been transferred, use the Fort Bend County Jail online search system.
Where do juveniles go when arrested in Fort Bend County?
Juveniles are taken to the Fort Bend County Juvenile Detention Center, not the adult jail. There is no public online search for juvenile inmates. Contact Juvenile Probation at (281) 633-7308 for information.
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An arrest is frightening, but it doesn’t have to define your future. The sooner you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony charge, Varghese Summersett has the experience and resources to fight for you.
Call (281) 805-2220 now for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and start working on your case immediately.