City Of Houston Jail Mykawa Inmate Search gives families, legal teams, and the public fast access to real-time custody data for people held at the Houston Southeast Jail on 8300 Mykawa Road. The system shows current inmates only—once someone is released or moved, their name disappears from the list. Users can look up records using a booking number, last name, or date of birth. Each result includes full name, booking date, expected release, housing block, bond status, and security level. You can filter by crime type or parole status and download lists as PDF or CSV files. A “Suggest an edit” link lets users flag outdated info. For live help, call 713‑247‑5400 for inmate services or 713‑738‑5300 for general questions.
How to Use the Mykawa Inmate Search Tool
The online search tool is simple and built for speed. Type in a booking number if you have it—this gives the most accurate match. If not, use the person’s last name and narrow results by adding their date of birth. The system checks records nightly against official court and jail databases. Results appear instantly and show only people currently in custody. You’ll see charges, bond amounts, court dates, and where they’re housed. Security levels—minimum, medium, or maximum—are shown too. These levels depend on sentence length, past crimes, and behavior. Use the export buttons to save records for legal or personal use. Always double-check with jail staff if you’re acting on behalf of an inmate.
Bond Payment and Release Process at Harris County
All bond payments for Houston City Jail detainees go through the Joint Processing Center at 700 North San Jacinto Street, Houston, TX 77002. The Bonding Window never closes—it’s open 24 hours a day, every day, even holidays. You can pay with cash, cashier’s check, money order, or credit card. Each payment gets a receipt number stored in the county’s electronic ledger. This number is vital for tracking and refunds. Bonds are set by judges based on charge severity, flight risk, and criminal history. Once paid, the system updates within minutes. The inmate usually leaves within one to four hours, depending on processing time. Families should keep receipts and call 713‑755‑2700 for bond questions.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling
Visiting someone at the Mykawa facility requires planning. First, submit a Visitor Application Form online or in person. Bring a valid photo ID every time you visit. Dress code is strict: no shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothes. Phones, bags, and food aren’t allowed inside. Visits happen on weekends and some weekdays—check the official schedule before coming. Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week. Only two adults can visit at once. Children under 17 must be with a parent or guardian. Schedule visits through the jail’s online portal. Late arrivals may lose their slot. Call 713‑247‑5400 if you have special needs or emergencies.
Sending Mail and Money to Inmates
Mail must include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and the jail’s address: 8300 Mykawa Road, Houston, TX 77048. Use standard envelopes—no padded mailers or photos. All mail is inspected. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers. Money can be sent electronically through the jail’s approved vendor. You’ll need the inmate’s name and booking number. Deposits post within 24 hours. Cash isn’t accepted by mail—only money orders or cashier’s checks. Keep receipts for all transactions. Inmates can use funds for commissary items like snacks, hygiene products, and phone calls. Call the inmate services line for deposit issues.
Security Levels and Housing Assignments
Inmates at the Mykawa jail are placed in minimum, medium, or maximum security units. Minimum security is for low-risk offenders with short sentences. Medium security houses those with longer terms or minor rule violations. Maximum security is for high-risk individuals or those with violent histories. Housing affects privileges: minimum-security inmates may work outside the jail, while maximum-security inmates have limited movement. Classification reviews happen every 90 days. Factors include behavior, mental health, and court progress. Families can’t request changes, but lawyers can appeal through proper channels. The system updates housing info nightly.
Court Dates and Legal Resources
Every inmate has a court date listed in their record. This includes municipal, county, and federal hearings. If the date changes, the online roster updates within 24 hours. Families should confirm dates with the Harris County District Clerk or the inmate’s attorney. The jail doesn’t reschedule court appearances. For legal help, contact the Public Defender’s Office or a private lawyer. The District Attorney’s number is 713‑755‑5800. Probation questions go to 713‑755‑2700. Always bring ID and paperwork to court. Missed dates can lead to additional charges or higher bonds.
Contact Numbers and Office Hours
Use these direct lines for fast answers: Inmate Services—713‑247‑5400; General Jail Info—713‑738‑5300; Bond Office—713‑755‑2700; Adult Probation—713‑755‑2700; Arrest Warrants—713‑755‑6055; Sheriff Public Info—713‑755‑5300; District Attorney—713‑755‑5800; Drug Court—713‑755‑4610; DWI Court—713‑755‑4523; Juvenile Services—713‑222‑4103; Juvenile Probation—713‑222‑4100. Most offices operate Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except the Bonding Window, which never closes. For after-hours emergencies, call the main jail line.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t assume the online roster includes released inmates—it only shows current ones. Don’t send cash by mail—it will be returned or lost. Don’t visit without a completed application and ID—you’ll be turned away. Don’t call the main line for bond payments—use the Joint Processing Center. Don’t expect instant updates—some systems refresh every 15 minutes, others nightly. Always verify info with jail staff before making decisions. Keep records of all calls, payments, and visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I search for an inmate using just their first name?
No. The system requires a last name, booking number, or date of birth. First names alone return too many results. Always use the most specific info available.
How often is the inmate roster updated?
The roster updates every 15 minutes for active bookings. Releases and transfers appear within one hour. Nightly syncs ensure accuracy with court and state databases.
What happens if I pay a bond but the inmate isn’t released?
Call the Bond Office at 713‑755‑2700 immediately. Have your receipt number ready. Most delays are due to paperwork or court holds. The office will explain the hold and next steps.
Can I visit if I have a criminal record?
It depends. Non-violent offenders may visit with approval. Violent or recent convictions usually bar access. Submit your application early—background checks take time.
Is mugshot data available online?
Yes, if the jail publishes it. Not all photos are public due to privacy laws. Check the inmate’s record or contact the Sheriff’s Public Info line.
How do I report wrong info on the roster?
Click “Suggest an edit” on the inmate’s profile. Include your name, contact info, and details. The jail reviews reports within 48 hours.
Can I call an inmate directly?
No. Inmates can make outgoing calls only. Families must set up a prepaid account through the jail’s phone vendor. Incoming calls aren’t allowed.
Official Resources
For the most accurate data, always refer to official sources. The City of Houston’s jail information page is at https://www.houstontx.gov/courts/jail_information.html. Harris County Sheriff’s Office updates rosters at their public site. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice links city jails to state records. Bookmark these pages and check them before visiting or sending money.
Address: 8300 Mykawa Road, Houston, TX 77048
Main Phone: 713‑247‑5400
General Info: 713‑738‑5300
Visitation Hours: Check online portal weekly
Bond Payments: 24/7 at 700 N. San Jacinto St.