Hey, if your loved one just popped up on Busted Newspaper Gregg County, I know that sick feeling in your gut.
Happens to a lot of families right here in Longview, Kilgore, Gladewater, and the rest of Gregg County. You’re not alone, and there are clear steps you can take today to get answers and start moving forward.
First – Get the Real Facts Fast
Go straight to the official Gregg County Sheriff’s Office website here: www.greggcountytxsheriff.org
For the live inmate roster, use this direct link: Gregg County Inmate Search
Write down the booking number, charges, bail amount, and next court date.
Call the jail anytime: Gregg County Jail 101 E. Methvin St., Suite 559, Longview, TX 75601 Main line: (903) 236-8400 Jail questions: (903) 236-1755
Be polite — they deal with this every day and will tell you exactly what’s happening.
How Bail Works in Gregg County (Simple Steps)
Most people see a magistrate within 24-48 hours. The amount depends on the charges, any record, and how strong the ties are to Gregg County (job, kids, house, how long you’ve lived here).
Three main ways to get them out:
- Cash bail – Pay the full amount to the court. Show up for every date and you get most of it back.
- Surety bond (what most families use) – Call a local bondsman. You pay them 10% (their fee — you don’t get it back) and they post the whole bail.
- Property bond – Use land or a house in Texas as collateral (risky, only if you’re certain).
Local bondsmen who know the Gregg County Jail inside and out:
- Martin Bail Bonds – (903) 757-6581 (24/7)
- American Bail Bonds – (903) 757-2679
- Second Chance Bail Bonds – (903) 475-4500
Have the booking number ready. They can usually move fast. If the number looks too high, a lawyer can ask for a reduction hearing right away.
Visiting at Gregg County Jail – Easiest Ways Right Now
Video visits (what most families do): Go to NCIC Video Visitation Create a free account (upload your ID), have your loved one add you as a visitor, then book a slot. Costs about $0.30 per minute, paid with card. Dress nicely even on video — no tank tops, short shorts, see-through clothes, or hats.
In-person visits are still possible but rules and hours change often, so always call (903) 236-8400 first. Bring valid government photo ID for every adult. Kids must be with a parent.
Sending mail: Regular letters and cards go to: Gregg County Jail, 101 E. Methvin St., Longview, TX 75601 (include full name + booking number). Legal mail and money orders go to the same address. NCIC also lets you send electronic messages and photos faster — check their site.
Why a Local Lawyer Changes Everything
The public defender will help if you qualify, but they’re swamped. A lawyer who works these Longview and Gregg County courts every week knows the judges, prosecutors, and ways to get better results — lower bail, treatment programs, or stronger defense.
Look for someone who handles criminal cases in Gregg County and actually explains things in plain English.
Good starting points:
- Lone Star Legal Aid (Longview office, free civil help that often supports families): (903) 758-9123 or lonestarlegal.org
- State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral: (800) 252-9690 — they’ll match you with someone in your budget.
Local Resources That Actually Help
- Lone Star Legal Aid Longview: 140 E. Tyler St., Suite 150, Longview, TX 75601 – (903) 758-9123
- Dial 211 – food, rent help, counseling, support groups
- Gregg County District Clerk for court dates and paperwork
One Last Thing
This feels like the worst day right now, but I’ve seen so many East Texas families come out the other side stronger. Your loved one is safe, fed, and waiting to hear your voice. Take care of yourself and the kids too — eat something, keep a little normal routine going.
You’ve already taken the hardest step by looking for real answers. One call, one visit, one court date at a time — you’ve got this.
Strength to you and your family. This chapter is tough, but it’s not the whole story. Hang in there.