If you are frantically searching for Smith County mugshots, you have likely landed on BustedNewspaper.com. It is one of the most visible sites for arrest logs because it posts booking photos faster than almost anyone else.
But here is the critical warning: Busted Newspaper is an automated “scraper” site. It pulls data instantly but often fails to update it.
This means you might see a mugshot of a friend who bonded out days ago, or charges that were dropped last week.
To get the truth, you need a strategy. This guide covers the Official Verification Steps for both Smith County, Texas and Smith County, Tennessee.
⚠️ Important: Which “Smith County” are you looking for?
“Smith County” refers to two major locations. Please scroll to the section that matches your state to ensure you get the correct jail information.
Option A: Smith County, Texas (Tyler)
For arrests in Tyler, Lindale, Whitehouse, and Troup.
If you are in East Texas, Busted Newspaper scrapes booking photos directly from the Smith County Jail daily. However, you should never rely on a third-party site for legal status.
Step 1: The “Truth Check” (Official Verification)
You must verify if the person is actually in custody using the official county database.
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Go to the Official Source: Visit the Smith County Judicial Search.
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Tip: Smith County uses a system called “Odyssey Public Access.” You may need to accept a disclaimer first.
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Search by Name: Enter the Last Name and First Name.
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Analyze the Status:
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“In Custody”: They are still in the jail on Elm Street.
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“Bonded Out”: They are free, even if Busted Newspaper still shows their mugshot.
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Step 2: Verified 2026 Contacts (Tyler, TX)
If you need to post bail or schedule a visit, contact the jail directly.
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Smith County Jail (Main/Downtown): 206 E. Elm Street, Tyler, TX 75702
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North Jail (Low Risk): 2811 Public Road, Tyler, TX 75702
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Phone: (903) 590-2800
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Visitation: Smith County uses Video Visitation via IC Solutions. You must register online at ICSolutions.com and schedule your visit 24 hours in advance.
Option B: Smith County, Tennessee (Carthage)
For arrests in Carthage, Gordonsville, and South Carthage.
In Tennessee, arrest records are less centralized. Busted Newspaper scrapes the Smith County Sheriff’s Office logs, but official verification requires a different tool.
Step 1: The “Truth Check” (Official Verification)
Tennessee uses a statewide notification system called VINE. It is faster and more accurate than any newspaper site.
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Use the Official Tool: Visit VINELink Tennessee.
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Select Agency: Choose “Smith County Sheriff” or search “All Agencies” in TN.
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Search by Name: Enter the Last Name.
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“In Custody”: They are currently in the jail in Carthage.
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“Out of Custody”: They have been released.
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Step 2: Verified 2026 Contacts (Carthage, TN)
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Smith County Sheriff’s Office: 322 Main Street N, Carthage, TN 37030
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Main Phone: (615) 735-2626
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Posting Bond: You typically must go to the Sheriff’s Department in person. Call ahead to ensure a Commissioner is available to accept the bond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I remove my mugshot from Busted Newspaper?
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Texas: Texas law allows public records to be published. However, if your case was Dismissed or Expunged, you can legally demand removal. You must send a certified copy of your Order of Expunction to the website’s contact email.
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Tennessee: Similar rules apply. If you were found Not Guilty, use the “Removal” link at the bottom of the Busted Newspaper site and upload your court disposition.
2. What does “Blue Warrant” mean?
If you see this on the Smith County (Texas) roster, it refers to a Parole Violation. This is serious. It usually means “No Bond” is allowed, and the inmate must wait for a hearing with the Parole Board.
3. Why does the bond say “$0.00”?
This rarely means “Free.”
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In Tyler, TX: It usually means the inmate is waiting for Magistrate Court (Morning Arraignment) to have the bond set.
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In Tennessee: It may indicate a Capias (Failure to Appear) or Probation Violation, where the judge has denied bond until a court hearing.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with Busted Newspaper or the Sheriff’s Office. Always consult the official government links provided above for the most current records.