Dallas County Jail Kays Tower is a medium-security detention facility located in Dallas, Texas. Part of the Lew Sterrett Justice Center campus at 111 West Commerce Street, it serves as one of three main jail buildings operated by the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department. The South Tower, officially named the Suzanne L. Kays Detention Facility, houses adult male and female inmates and plays a key role in the county’s criminal justice system. It supports daily operations for booking, housing, and rehabilitative programs while offering public access to inmate information through online tools and in-person services.
Facility Overview and Location
The Suzanne L. Kays South Tower sits within the larger Lew Sterrett Justice Center complex. This secure campus includes the North Tower, West Tower, and Kays Tower, all adjacent to the Frank Crowley Courts Building. The combined site processes over 20,000 bookings each year. The South Tower alone holds 1,008 beds and focuses on medium-security inmates serving short-term sentences or awaiting trial. Security features include controlled-access fencing, 24/7 CCTV monitoring, and electronic locks on every housing unit. The facility operates under strict protocols to ensure safety for staff, inmates, and visitors.
Online Inmate Lookup System
Dallas County provides a free online inmate search tool for the public. To use it, enter the inmate’s full legal last name, exact first name, and complete date of birth. Users pick the surname from an alphabetical list, select the birth month from a dropdown menu, and type the day (1–31) and year (1900–current). An optional race field includes categories like African American, Caucasian, Hispanic, Asian, or Other, matching county reporting standards. The system refreshes every 15 minutes and displays real-time data such as booking date, current charges, bond amount, next court appearance, and housing unit assignment.
https://www.dallascounty.org/jaillookup/search.jsp 
Booking and Daily Operations
Approximately 150 new inmates are booked into the Kays Tower each week. Each person goes through a standardized intake process that includes fingerprinting, medical screening, property inventory, and classification based on charge severity and behavior history. The facility maintains a daily roster that lists all individuals processed in the past 24 hours. This report is automatically generated every morning and is available to law enforcement, attorneys, and the public via the official inmate lookup portal. Accurate and timely data helps families track loved ones and supports legal proceedings.
Inmate Programs and Services
The Kays Tower offers several programs aimed at rehabilitation and skill development. Inmates can enroll in GED classes, vocational training courses, and substance-abuse counseling. These services are inmate-initiated and require approval from facility staff. Religious services, anger management sessions, and mental health support are also available. Participation may influence eligibility for early release or in-person visitation privileges. All programs follow state and county guidelines to promote personal growth and reduce recidivism.
Visitation Rules and Procedures
Visits at the Kays Tower are conducted primarily through video link. Three daily visitation blocks are scheduled, and each session allows up to two adults or one adult plus two minor children. Visitors must complete a visitation form, present a valid photo ID, and follow a strict dress code—no offensive graphics, revealing clothing, or gang-related symbols. In-person visits are not allowed during the first 30 days of incarceration. After this period, inmates may earn in-person privileges based on good behavior. All visits are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
https://www.inmateaid.com/visitation/dallas-county-suzanne-kays-south-tower-jail
Bond Payment Options
Bonds can be posted online at www.dallascountypackages.com using a credit or debit card. Cash or certified checks are accepted in person at the 24-hour Bond Desk located inside the Lew Sterrett Justice Center. Western Union services are currently suspended. The Bond Desk operates around the clock and can confirm bond amounts, release times, and required documentation. Telephone assistance is available at 1-800-546-6283 for questions about payment methods or eligibility.
Inmate Mail Guidelines
All mail sent to inmates must follow strict rules. Envelopes cannot contain profanity, tobacco products, bus passes, bookmarks, or calling cards. Perishable foods, clothing, or items with stains are rejected. Writing with crayons, markers, or colored pencils is not allowed. “Legal Mail” must contain only legal documents—any non-legal content will be treated as regular mail. Books must come directly from publishers or recognized bookstores. Handwritten manuscripts are not permitted. Every piece of mail is screened for contraband before delivery.
https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/sheriff/inmate-mail/
Telephone and Communication Services
Inmates communicate with the outside world through the Securus phone system. Families must set up prepaid accounts to receive calls. Phone access is limited to approved numbers and may be restricted based on disciplinary status. Calls are monitored and recorded. Video visitation uses the same platform, allowing secure remote contact. For technical support or account issues, contact Value Added Communications (VAC/GTL) at 214-962-5800.
Inmate Handbook and Policies
The official Inmate Handbook outlines rights, responsibilities, and facility rules for all three towers, including Kays Tower. It explains how to contact jail staff at (214) 761-9025, details the Securus phone agreement, and provides steps for setting up commissary and phone accounts. The handbook also covers disciplinary procedures, property storage limits, medical request processes, and emergency protocols. A copy is given to each inmate upon intake and is available online for families.
Medical and Health Services
All inmates receive a basic medical screening upon arrival. A mandatory health-service fee covers initial examinations and emergency care. Ongoing treatment for chronic conditions, mental health, and dental needs is available through contracted providers. Inmates can request medical attention by submitting a written form to their housing unit officer. Serious emergencies are handled immediately with transport to nearby hospitals if needed.
Property and Commissary
Personal belongings are stored securely during incarceration. Inmates may purchase approved items from the commissary, including hygiene products, snacks, and writing materials. Funds can be added to inmate accounts electronically through authorized platforms. Family members can deposit money online or via kiosks at the jail. All purchases are logged and subject to facility limits.
Release and Transfer Information
Release times depend on court orders, bond payments, or sentence completion. The information desk at (214) 761-9025 can confirm scheduled releases or transfers to other facilities. Inmates moving to state prisons or federal custody are processed through the West Tower. Families should verify release details in advance, as timing can change due to administrative or legal factors.
Public Access and Transparency
Dallas County prioritizes transparency by offering real-time inmate data online. The roster includes mugshots, charges, bond amounts, and court dates. Law enforcement agencies and attorneys can download daily booking reports. The sheriff’s website also provides updates on policy changes, facility news, and contact information for public inquiries.
Contact and Location Details
Address: 111 West Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75202 Phone: 214-962-5800 (VAC/GTL for phone services) Jail Information Line: (214) 761-9025 Bond Desk: Open 24/7 at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center Visiting Hours: Three daily blocks (schedule required) Website: www.dallascounty.org Map:
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the Dallas County Jail Kays Tower operates, how to find an inmate, or what services are available. Below are common concerns with clear, direct answers based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find out if someone is in the Kays Tower?
Use the official Dallas County online inmate lookup tool. Enter the person’s full legal name and date of birth. The system shows current booking status, charges, bond amount, and housing location. Results update every 15 minutes. If no record appears, the person may be in another facility or recently released. Call (214) 761-9025 for confirmation.
Can I visit an inmate in person at the South Tower?
In-person visits are not allowed during the first 30 days. After that, inmates may earn this privilege based on good behavior. Most visits are conducted via video link. You must schedule a time slot, bring a photo ID, and follow the dress code. Up to two adults or one adult with two children can attend per session.
How do I send money to an inmate?
Deposit funds electronically through approved platforms linked on the Dallas County Sheriff’s website. You can also use kiosks at the jail or mail money orders. Cash is not accepted by mail. All transactions are secure and appear on the inmate’s commissary account within 24 hours.
What items can I send in the mail?
Only standard letters on plain paper are allowed. No crayons, markers, stickers, or colored pens. Books must come directly from publishers. Do not send food, clothes, or personal items. All mail is inspected. Violations result in rejection or disciplinary action.
How do I post a bond for someone in Kays Tower?
Pay online at www.dallascountypackages.com or visit the 24-hour Bond Desk at 111 West Commerce Street. Bring cash or a certified check. Staff will confirm the bond amount and release timeline. Call 1-800-546-6283 for help. Western Union is not currently available.
Are rehabilitation programs available?
Yes. Inmates can join GED classes, vocational training, substance-abuse counseling, and religious services. Participation is voluntary and requires staff approval. Programs aim to reduce reoffending and support successful reentry into society.
Who do I call for urgent inmate information?
Call the Jail Information Line at (214) 761-9025. Staff can confirm release dates, transfer status, or medical updates. For phone service issues, contact VAC/GTL at 214-962-5800. Always have the inmate’s full name and date of birth ready.
Related Resources
- Official Detention Centers Page
- Bond Posting and Lookup Portal
- Facility Profile – Prison Roster
- Inmate Search – Independent Portal
Final Notes
Dallas County Jail Kays Tower serves as a critical component of the local justice system. It balances security, transparency, and rehabilitation while providing accessible tools for families, attorneys, and the public. Policies are designed to protect rights, ensure safety, and support successful reintegration. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources or contact the sheriff’s office directly.