General Overview of Smith County Jail

Smith County Jail, located in Tyler, Texas, serves as a maximum-security facility that houses both male and female inmates. With a current capacity of 1,250 inmates, the jail is often close to maximum occupancy, typically holding around 1,000 inmates. This jail accommodates a variety of classifications, including minimum, medium, and maximum security sections, along with specialized areas for medical and mental health care. Operated by the Smith County Sheriff’s Office, it plays a pivotal role in the local criminal justice system and is involved in various rehabilitation programs for inmates, including educational, vocational, and mental health services​

Smith County Jail

Contact Information for Smith County Jail

Smith County Jail Visiting Information

Visitation at Smith County Jail is conducted through video link at the Low-Risk Facility located at 2811 Public Road, Tyler. Here’s a breakdown of the key visiting details:

  • Visiting Hours:
    • Female Inmates: Monday, Thursday, and Saturday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    • Male Inmates: Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
  • What to Bring: A valid photo ID is required for all visitors, and only registered visitors may attend.
  • Visitation Process: Visits are conducted virtually, meaning visitors attend the video visitation center at the Low-Risk Facility. Ensure you sign up on the day of your visit between 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM

How to Book a Visit to Smith County Jail

Booking a visit at Smith County Jail is a straightforward process:

  1. Go to the Low-Risk Facility on the day of the visit and sign up between 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM.
  2. What You Need: Bring a valid government-issued ID. Each inmate is allowed a maximum of two visitors per session. Children must be accompanied by an adult and included in the visit count.
  3. Length of Visit: Visits generally last 20-30 minutes and are conducted via video terminals at the facility. Ensure you arrive early to avoid missing your visit window

Directions and Parking for Smith County Jail

The Smith County Jail is located at 2811 Public Road in Tyler, Texas. Tyler is easily accessible via major highways including US-69 and TX-31. Upon arrival, parking is available onsite at the Low-Risk Facility, which is used for visitation purposes.

  • From Downtown Tyler: Take East Front Street to South Beckham Avenue and continue on to Public Road. The facility will be on your left.
  • Parking: Free parking is available for visitors on a first-come, first-served basis near the visitation entrance

What Is Life Like Inside Smith County Jail?

Inmates at Smith County Jail follow a structured daily schedule with designated times for meals, recreation, and work assignments. The facility offers various rehabilitation programs including GED classes, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and religious services, aiming to prepare inmates for successful reentry into society. Overcrowding has been a persistent issue, with the facility housing approximately 1,000 inmates in a space designed for 1,250​

Smith County Jail also provides mental health services and has been making efforts to better accommodate the needs of inmates with mental health challenges. However, like many correctional facilities, it faces ongoing issues such as staffing shortages and maintaining safety amid overcrowding

Famous Prisoners at Smith County Jail

While Smith County Jail has not been widely publicized for housing many high-profile inmates, it has dealt with several local cases that have attracted media attention. These include individuals involved in notable criminal activities within Smith County and nearby regions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Smith County Jail

1. What is the capacity of Smith County Jail? Smith County Jail has a maximum capacity of 1,250 inmates.

2. Where is Smith County Jail located? Smith County Jail is located at 100 East Ferguson Street, Tyler, Texas 75702.

3. How do I book a visit at Smith County Jail? You must sign up in person on the day of the visit between 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM at the Low/Medium Risk Facility.

4. What security levels does Smith County Jail have? Smith County Jail houses inmates in various security levels, including general population, maximum-security, medical, and mental health units.

5. Are there any rehabilitation programs at Smith County Jail? Yes, the jail offers educational programs, vocational training, and substance abuse and mental health treatment programs.

6. Does Smith County Jail face overcrowding issues? Yes, overcrowding has been a recurring problem at the facility, sometimes resulting in inmates being transferred to other counties.

7. How can I find out if someone is incarcerated at Smith County Jail? You can use the online inmate search tool available on the Smith County Sheriff’s website or call (903) 590-2800.

8. What are the visitation hours for male and female inmates? Visitation for male inmates is on Mondays and Saturdays, while female inmates have visitation on Tuesdays and Sundays.

9. Does Smith County Jail offer mental health services? Yes, Smith County Jail provides mental health services, including individual and group therapy.

10. What should I bring to a visit at Smith County Jail? You must bring a valid ID, and all visitors are required to adhere to dress code and security regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Smith County Jail is a modern facility that serves a crucial role in the region’s criminal justice system. Despite challenges like overcrowding and mental health concerns, the jail continues to offer vital rehabilitation services aimed at reducing recidivism and helping inmates re-enter society successfully.

Visit Shelby County Jail