Lamesa, TX Preston E. Smith Unit View
Preston E. Smith Unit is a Texas Department of Criminal Justice state prison located in Lamesa, Dawson County, Texas. It is a secure correctional facility for male offenders who have been convicted and sentenced to state custody, not a local holding facility for newly arrested pretrial detainees. The unit’s role is to house and supervise sentenced inmates, provide required security and basic services, and support state correctional operations. People arrested locally in Dawson County are typically processed through a county jail or other local law enforcement facility before any transfer to state custody occurs.
Contact and Location Information
How to Find an Inmate at Preston E. Smith Unit
To find someone held here, use the official inmate search link on this page for the facility’s roster or state inmate locator. Inmate records typically list the person’s name, identifying number, location, custody status, and may include offense or sentence information. For local jail rosters, listings often include booking date, charges, bond information, and custody status. Records may take several hours to appear after a person is booked or transferred, so a new intake may not be searchable right away. If you cannot find the person online, contact the facility or the appropriate county jail or court clerk for current custody information.
FAQs
How do I visit an inmate at Preston E. Smith Unit?
Visitation is usually scheduled under Texas Department of Criminal Justice rules, and visitors must be approved before they can visit. Check the facility’s current visiting days, hours, and scheduling requirements before traveling.
What do I need to bring when visiting Preston E. Smith Unit?
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Follow the dress code and do not bring prohibited items, because entry may be denied for rule violations.
How do I make phone or video calls with an inmate?
Inmates generally cannot receive incoming calls, but they may be able to make approved outgoing calls through the facility’s phone provider. Family members may need to create an account and follow phone or video visitation rules before receiving calls.
How do I send mail to an inmate?
Use the inmate’s full name, TDCJ number if known, and the facility mailing address. Mail is inspected, and items such as cash, contraband, or unapproved materials may be rejected.
How does the commissary work?
Commissary allows inmates to buy approved items such as snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. Family members may be able to deposit funds through an approved payment service, but deposit limits and posting times can vary.
How is bail set and how do I post bond at Preston E. Smith Unit?
Bail usually does not apply here because the facility houses sentenced state inmates. If the person has a pending local case or bond issue, contact the court, sheriff’s office, or county jail handling that case.
What happens during the intake process at Preston E. Smith Unit and when will the inmate appear in the system?
During intake, staff confirm identity, review records, assign housing, and complete required screening. Online records may not update immediately, and it can take several hours or longer after booking or transfer before the inmate appears in the system.