Amarillo Police Department

The Amarillo Police Department (APD) serves as the primary law enforcement agency in Amarillo, Texas. It is dedicated to maintaining public safety, enforcing the law, and providing community support. The department operates under a structure that includes various specialized units such as patrol, investigations, traffic enforcement, and community outreach.

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Mission and Values

APD is committed to a mission of preserving peace, protecting residents, and property, and promoting a safe environment through community partnerships. Its core values emphasize integrity, professionalism, and respect for all citizens.

Department Structure and Units

Patrol Division

The Patrol Division is the frontline of APD, responsible for responding to emergency calls, conducting routine patrols, and addressing immediate law enforcement needs in the community.

Criminal Investigations

This unit focuses on investigating crimes, collecting evidence, and working closely with the legal system to ensure the successful prosecution of offenders.

Specialized Units and Programs

APD includes specialized units such as SWAT, K-9, and Traffic Enforcement. Community programs like neighborhood watch and youth engagement initiatives are also key aspects of their operations.

Arrest Warrants Search

Arrest warrants in Amarillo are legal documents issued by a judge or magistrate that authorize the police to arrest and detain a person suspected of a crime. These warrants are typically issued based on probable cause and must specify the individual to be arrested and the alleged crime.

How to Search for Arrest Warrants in Amarillo

Online Resources

The most efficient way to search for arrest warrants is through online databases. The City of Amarillo Municipal Court offers an online warrant search tool for public access.

In-Person Inquiry

Individuals can also visit the Amarillo Police Department or the Potter or Randall County Sheriff’s Offices to inquire about arrest warrants. It’s advisable to have identification and relevant information about the person in question.

Third-Party Services

There are also third-party websites offering warrant search services. However, accuracy and timeliness can vary, and some may require fees.

Legal Assistance

If a warrant is found in your name, it is important to seek legal advice. Contacting an attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed and ensure your rights are protected.

Recent Arrests

Checking Recent Arrests

Amarillo Police Department Records

To check recent arrests made by the Amarillo Police Department, individuals can request arrest records. These records typically include the name of the arrested individual, the charges, and the date and location of the arrest.

Online Resources

The City of Amarillo provides an online portal or a public access system where recent arrest records can be viewed. This information is often updated regularly to reflect the latest arrest data.

In-Person Requests

For those who prefer in-person inquiries, visiting the Amarillo Police Department’s records division is an option. It is advisable to have specific details like the name of the individual or the date of the arrest to facilitate the search.

Understanding the Arrest Process

When someone is arrested by the APD, they are typically taken to a local detention center for booking. This process includes recording personal information, taking fingerprints, and sometimes a mugshot.

Bail and Bond Information

After an arrest, information about bail or bond can usually be obtained from the Potter or Randall County Jail, depending on where the individual is detained. Bail is set based on the nature of the crime and other factors like the individual's criminal history.

Public Access to Arrest Information

While arrest records are generally public, some details may be restricted to protect the privacy of individuals involved or for ongoing investigation purposes.

Legal Representation

It is important for individuals who have been arrested or their families to consider seeking legal representation. An attorney can provide advice on dealing with the charges, the bail process, and the overall legal proceedings.

Juvenile Arrests

For arrests involving juveniles, the information is typically more restricted due to privacy laws. Inquiries about juvenile arrests often require additional legal permissions or must be conducted by a guardian or legal representative.

Rights of the Arrested Individuals

Persons arrested have certain rights, such as the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. It is crucial for these rights to be understood and exercised to ensure fair legal treatment.

Active Warrant Lookup

Steps to Find a Warrant in Amarillo, TX

Online Warrant Search

1. City of Amarillo Municipal Court Website: The most direct way to find an active warrant in Amarillo is through the City of Amarillo Municipal Court’s website. This site typically has a searchable database where you can enter the name of the individual to check for active warrants.

2. Potter and Randall Counties Websites: Since Amarillo spans both Potter and Randall counties, checking the respective county websites or their sheriff's department online resources can also be useful.

In-Person Inquiry

1. Visiting Local Law Enforcement Agencies: You can visit the Amarillo Police Department or the sheriff's offices of Potter and Randall counties to inquire about active warrants. It is advisable to have identification and any relevant details about the individual in question.

Third-Party Websites

• There are various third-party websites that offer warrant search services. Be cautious as the accuracy and timeliness of information on these sites can vary.

Police Reports

Obtaining Police Records in Amarillo

Requesting Online

1. Amarillo Police Department’s Website: Some records may be available through the APD's official website. This often includes forms or instructions on how to request specific police records.

In-Person Request

1. Visit the APD Records Division: Located at the APD headquarters, you can request police reports in person. It’s important to know the date of the incident and the names of the individuals involved.

Mail Requests

1. Written Requests: You can send a written request to the APD Records Division. This should include as much detail about the incident as possible, along with your contact information.

Fees and Identification

• Be prepared to pay a nominal fee for copies of the reports. Also, valid identification may be required, especially for reports that involve sensitive information.

Contact for Police Reports

• APD Records Division Address: 200 SE 3rd Ave, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States
• Phone: +1 806-378-4257

Background Checks

Conducting Background Checks in Amarillo

Online State Resources

1. Texas Department of Public Safety: Utilize the Texas DPS website for a comprehensive background check, which can include criminal history.

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

1. Amarillo Police Department: For local background checks, the APD can provide information limited to their jurisdiction.

Third-Party Services

1. Commercial Background Check Services: Numerous online services offer background checks. These can vary in terms of cost, comprehensiveness, and accuracy.

Purpose of Background Checks

• Background checks are used for various purposes, including employment, renting properties, and in certain volunteer situations. They typically include criminal records, but can also cover credit history, employment history, and educational background.

Legal Considerations

• When conducting a background check, it is important to comply with legal requirements, such as obtaining consent from the individual being checked if required by law.

Most Wanted List

The Amarillo Most Wanted List is a public service tool used by the Amarillo Police Department and other law enforcement agencies in the area. This list highlights individuals who are sought by the police for various crimes and are considered a priority due to the nature of their alleged offenses or their potential risk to public safety.

Accessing the Most Wanted List

Online Platforms

1. Amarillo Police Department Website: The APD regularly updates its most wanted list on its official website. This platform is accessible to the public and provides details such as names, photographs, and the alleged offenses of the wanted individuals.

2. Social Media Channels: The APD and other local law enforcement agencies often use social media to disseminate information about their most wanted individuals, reaching a broader audience.

Local News Outlets

• Local newspapers and television stations frequently collaborate with law enforcement agencies to publish and broadcast details about the most wanted individuals.

Purpose and Public Involvement

• The primary purpose of the Most Wanted List is to solicit the public's help in locating these individuals. Community members are encouraged to report any information they have regarding the whereabouts of these individuals, but are cautioned against direct engagement or confrontation.

Contact for Tips

• Amarillo Crime Stoppers: +1 806-374-4400
• APD Non-Emergency Number: +1 806-378-3038

Sex Offender Registry

Understanding the Sex Offender Registry

The Sex Offender Registry in Amarillo is a system designed to track individuals convicted of sex crimes. It is part of a broader state and national effort to monitor sex offenders and provide crucial information to the public for safety and awareness purposes.

Accessing the Registry

Online Database

1. Texas Department of Public Safety Website: The Texas DPS website maintains a comprehensive database where individuals can search for registered sex offenders. This database includes those residing, working, or attending school in Amarillo.

2. Amarillo Police Department Resources: The APD may provide additional local information or guidance on accessing the registry for those within their jurisdiction.

In-Person Inquiries

• While most information is available online, individuals can also contact or visit the APD for specific queries related to sex offenders in the Amarillo area.

Information in the Registry

• The registry typically includes the offender’s name, photograph, address, offense details, and compliance status. It is regularly updated to ensure current information is available to the public.

Legal Obligations of Registered Sex Offenders

• Registered sex offenders are required to periodically verify their information with local law enforcement, notify authorities of any changes in residence, employment, or educational status, and adhere to any restrictions placed upon them as part of their sentence or parole conditions.

Purpose of the Registry

• The primary purpose of the Sex Offender Registry is to provide the public with information that can be critical for community safety and to aid in the prevention of sexual offenses.

Bail Bonds

Bail bonds are financial agreements made to secure the release of an individual who has been arrested, pending trial. Bail is set by the court and can be paid in full or through a bail bond, which typically requires a percentage of the total bail amount as a fee.

Types of Bail Bonds

1. Surety Bonds: Obtained through a bail bondsman, who charges a fee (usually 10-15% of the bail amount) and may require collateral to secure the bond.
2. Cash Bonds: The full amount of bail paid in cash. This is refunded (minus administrative fees) if the defendant complies with all court appearances.
3. Property Bonds: Involving property as collateral, these are less common and require the property’s value to be equivalent to or exceeding the bail amount.

How to Post Bail Bonds in Amarillo

Contacting a Bail Bondsman

1. Find a Licensed Bondsman: Research and contact a licensed bail bondsman in Amarillo. They will explain their terms and fees.
2. Provide Necessary Information: You’ll need to provide details about the arrested individual, including the jail location, booking number, charges, and the bail amount.

Cash Bonds

1. Paying at the Jail or Court: To post a cash bond, go to the jail or the court where the bail was set. Be prepared to pay the full amount.
2. Receipt and Documentation: Ensure you receive a receipt and understand the terms for the return of the bail post-trial or if the charges are dropped.

Property Bonds

1. Assessment of Property Value: If opting for a property bond, an assessment of the property’s value will be required. This process can be longer and more complicated than cash or surety bonds.

Important Considerations

• Bail Bond Fees are Non-Refundable: The fee paid to a bail bondsman is non-refundable, regardless of the trial outcome.
• Collateral Risk: If collateral is involved, be aware that failure of the defendant to appear in court could result in the loss of this collateral.
• Responsibility for the Defendant: When posting bail for someone, you are taking responsibility for ensuring they appear in court.

Bail Bondsman Regulations

• Bail bondsmen in Texas are regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance, and they must adhere to state laws regarding bail bond practices.

Finding Bail Bond Services in Amarillo

• A quick online search or a visit to local directories can provide a list of licensed bail bondsmen in the Amarillo area.

Useful Resources

Recent Arrests

Amarillo Crime Stoppers Most Wanted
Amarillo Municipal Court Records
City of Amarillo Warrants
Potter County Sheriff's Office Arrest Records
Potter County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Sales
Texas Department of Public Safety Missing Persons

Police Reports

Amarillo Crime Stoppers Most Wanted
Amarillo Municipal Court Records
Amarillo Police Department
Amarillo Police Department Arrest Warrants
Amarillo Police Department Incident Reports
Amarillo Police Department Press Releases
Potter County Justice of The Peace - Precinct Two Website
Potter County Most Wanted
Potter County Pistol Permits & Gun Licenses
Potter County Sheriff's Office Arrest Records
Potter County Sheriff's Office Sex Offender Search
Potter County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Sales
Potter County Sheriff's Office Website
Texas Department of Public Safety Cold Case Homicides
Texas Department of Public Safety Missing Persons
Texas Tech Police Department Daily Crime Log

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

2201 South Washington Street, Amarillo, Texas, 79109

Official Phone Number

806-371-5163

Official Website

police.amarillo.gov/

Type

Special Jurisdiction

Full Time Sworn Officers

13

Full Time Civilians

2