Gregg County Jail Visitation is available at three main facilities operated by the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office in East Texas. Families and friends can visit inmates at the Marvin A. Smith facility in Kilgore or the North and South Jails in Longview. Each location follows specific schedules, rules, and procedures to ensure safety and order. Visitors must bring a government-issued photo ID, follow dress code rules, and sign in before entering. Video visitation is also offered through the NCIC system for added convenience. This page covers all visitation hours, locations, requirements, and contact details you need to plan your visit.
Visitation Schedules by Facility
Each Gregg County jail facility has its own visitation schedule based on inmate housing and security needs. The Marvin A. Smith facility at 197 Floyd Wingo Drive in Kilgore allows visits on Thursday evenings from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM and Saturday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The North Jail at 101 West Whaley in Longview has separate times for male and female inmates. Female inmates receive visitors on Mondays from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Male inmates with last names starting with A-M can have visits on Tuesdays from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM and an extra Saturday slot. The South Jail, located on the fifth floor of the courthouse at 101 East Methvin in Longview, holds visits on Thursdays starting at 7:00 PM. Always check the official website or call ahead to confirm current times.
Required Documents and Visitor Rules
All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with proper identification. Visitors must dress modestly—no shorts, tank tops, revealing clothing, or gang-related symbols. Hats, sunglasses, and electronic devices are not allowed inside the visitation area. Everyone must sign in at the lobby desk and may be subject to a pat-down search. Food, drinks, gifts, or packages are prohibited. Only one visitor per inmate is permitted during each session unless approved in advance. Failure to follow rules may result in denied entry or future bans.
Video Visitation Through NCIC
Gregg County offers video visitation for inmates at the North Jail using the National Correctional Inmate Call (NCIC) system. To schedule a visit, create an account on the NCIC portal and upload a clear photo ID. Sessions must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. On the day of the visit, log in 15 minutes early to verify your identity and test the connection. Each video call lasts 30 minutes and is recorded for security. Extensions are rare and require approval from jail staff. Technical support is available at 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069. General questions can be sent via the protected email on the sheriff’s website. This option helps families who live far away stay connected.
Inmate Communication and Services
The Gregg County Jail Division manages phone calls, mail, and commissary services for inmates. Phone calls are prepaid through a third-party provider. Families can add minutes online or by phone. Inmates can buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery from the commissary using funds deposited into their account. All incoming mail must include the inmate’s full name and booking number on the envelope. Mail is screened for contraband before delivery. Outgoing mail from inmates is also checked. Packages are not accepted unless pre-approved for special occasions like holidays. For more details, visit the jail division page or call the main office.
How to Locate an Inmate
To find someone in Gregg County custody, use the online inmate search tool on the sheriff’s website or third-party sites like TexasJailRoster.com or InmateSearchTX.org. Enter the person’s full name or booking number to see their current location, charges, and release date if available. The system pulls data from the South Jail, North Jail, and Marvin A. Smith facility. If you can’t find them online, call the main sheriff’s office at 903-236-8400. Provide the inmate’s name and date of birth to get help. Note that some records may be delayed due to processing times.
Sending Money and Commissary
Families can send money to inmates through approved services like NCIC or TouchPay. Funds are added to the inmate’s commissary account within 24 hours. Deposits can be made online, by phone, or at kiosks located in the jail lobby. There is usually a small fee per transaction. Once funded, inmates can purchase items from the commissary list, which includes toothpaste, soap, snacks, and writing supplies. Limits may apply based on behavior or housing status. Refunds are not issued unless the inmate is released. Always keep your receipt for tracking purposes.
Mail Guidelines for Inmates
All mail sent to inmates must have the correct format: Inmate’s full name, booking number, facility address, and return address. Use only standard envelopes—no padded or cardboard mailers. Letters should be written in blue or black ink. Photos are allowed but limited to 5 per envelope and must be 4×6 inches or smaller. Do not send cash, checks, or money orders through regular mail—use the approved money transfer system instead. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores. Personal items like clothing or electronics are not accepted. Mail may be delayed if it doesn’t meet these rules.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The main Gregg County Sheriff’s Office is located at 101 East Methvin, Suite 559, Longview, TX 75601. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The main phone number is 903-236-8400. For jail-specific questions, call 903-236-1755 for the North Jail or 903-236-2540 for the South Jail. Email inquiries should go through the protected address listed on the official website. The Marvin A. Smith facility can be reached at its physical address in Kilgore. For records requests, contact the County Clerk’s Office at 903-236-8430. Always call ahead to confirm hours during holidays or emergencies.
Filing Compliments or Complaints
If you want to praise a deputy or report misconduct, contact Chief Deputy Craig Harrington. You can call 903-236-8400 or use the secure email form on the sheriff’s website. Written complaints can be mailed to 101 East Methvin, Longview, TX 75601. Include your name, contact info, date of the incident, and a clear description of what happened. The office reviews all submissions and responds within a reasonable time. Anonymous reports are accepted but harder to investigate. This process ensures accountability and helps improve community trust.
Requesting Incarceration Records
To get official records about an inmate’s stay in Gregg County Jail, submit a request to the County Clerk’s Office. Visit in person at 101 East Methvin, Longview, or call 903-236-8430. Include the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and booking number if known. You may need to provide ID and sign a consent form, especially for sensitive details. Processing takes up to 30 business days. Fees may apply for copies. These records are useful for legal cases, background checks, or personal documentation.
Facility Locations and Mailing Addresses
Gregg County operates three jail facilities. The South Jail is on the fifth floor of the courthouse at 101 East Methvin, Longview, TX 75601. The North Jail is at 101 West Whaley, Longview, TX 75601. The Marvin A. Smith facility is at 197 Floyd Wingo Drive, Kilgore, TX 75662. Each has a separate mailing address and phone line. Always verify the correct location before visiting or sending mail. Inmates may be moved between facilities, so check the roster first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gregg County Jail Visitation
Can children visit inmates? Yes, minors can visit if accompanied by a parent or guardian with valid ID. Are phones allowed during visits? No, all personal electronics must be left outside. How far in advance should I schedule a video visit? Book at least 24 hours ahead. What if I forget my ID? You will not be allowed in without it. Can I bring food for the inmate? No, outside food is not permitted. Is there a dress code? Yes, modest clothing is required—no exposed shoulders, shorts, or hats. Can I visit more than once a week? Check the schedule; some inmates have limited slots. What happens if I’m late? Late arrivals may miss their session.
Official Resources and Support
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Gregg County Sheriff’s Office website. The jail division page includes visitation rules, forms, and contact details. The NCIC portal handles video visitation scheduling and technical support. For inmate searches, use trusted sites like TexasJailRoster.com or CountyOffice.org. If you need help, call the main line at 903-236-8400. Staff can assist with questions about visits, mail, money, or records. Keep this number handy for quick access.
Related Texas Jail Resources
If you’re looking for information about other county jails in Texas, several online tools can help. Anderson County, Andrews County, and Grimes County all offer public inmate search portals. Each provides phone numbers, addresses, and visitation guidelines. While this page focuses on Gregg County, these resources may be useful for cross-referencing or travel planning. Always verify details directly with the facility before visiting.
Final Tips for a Successful Visit
Plan ahead by checking the schedule and confirming the inmate’s location. Arrive early to allow time for check-in and security. Bring only your ID and leave bags, phones, and valuables at home. Follow all dress and behavior rules to avoid issues. If using video visitation, test your device and internet connection beforehand. Stay calm and respectful—jail staff are there to keep everyone safe. A little preparation makes the experience smoother for you and the inmate.
Contact Summary
Main Sheriff’s Office: 101 East Methvin, Suite 559, Longview, TX 75601 | Phone: 903-236-8400
North Jail: 101 West Whaley, Longview, TX 75601 | Phone: 903-236-1755
Marvin A. Smith Facility: 197 Floyd Wingo Drive, Kilgore, TX 75662
Video Visitation Support: 800-943-2189 or 903-247-0069
Records Requests: County Clerk at 903-236-8430
Frequently Asked Questions
Visitation at Gregg County Jail follows strict rules to protect everyone’s safety. One common question is whether children can visit. Yes, minors are allowed if they are with a parent or legal guardian who shows proper ID. Another frequent concern is what to wear. Visitors must dress modestly—no tank tops, short skirts, or revealing clothes. Hats and sunglasses are not allowed inside. Also, only one visitor is permitted per inmate per session unless special permission is granted. Always arrive on time, as latecomers may lose their spot. If you have questions, call the jail before your visit.
Another key question involves video visitation. Many families ask how to set it up. First, create an account on the NCIC website. Upload a clear photo of your government-issued ID. Schedule your visit at least 24 hours in advance. On the day, log in 15 minutes early to verify your identity. Each session lasts 30 minutes and is recorded. Technical issues? Call 800-943-2189. Some people worry about privacy, but all calls are monitored for security. This service is especially helpful for those who live far from Longview or Kilgore.
People often ask how to send money to an inmate. The safest way is through NCIC or TouchPay. You can add funds online, by phone, or at a kiosk in the jail lobby. There’s usually a small fee. Once deposited, the money goes into the inmate’s commissary account within 24 hours. They can then buy snacks, toiletries, or stationery. Never send cash through regular mail—it will be rejected. Keep your receipt in case of errors. Refunds are only given if the inmate is released.
Mail is another common topic. All letters must include the inmate’s full name and booking number. Use standard white envelopes. Photos are okay but limited to five per envelope and must be 4×6 inches or smaller. Do not send books unless they come directly from a publisher or bookstore. Personal items like clothes or electronics are not accepted. Mail is screened for contraband, so avoid anything that could be flagged. If your letter is returned, check the format and resend.
Finally, many ask how to find out if someone is in jail. Use the online inmate search tool on the Gregg County Sheriff’s website. Type in the person’s name or booking number. The system shows their current location, charges, and sometimes release dates. If you can’t find them online, call 903-236-8400. Have the person’s full name and date of birth ready. Note that new bookings may take a few hours to appear. This tool helps families stay informed quickly.