BEXAR COUNTY—The visitation process at the Bexar County jail is changing, and for most it means visitors won't be coming face to face with inmates anymore.
Bexar County plans to gradually phase out most in-person visitation by implementing video visitation. This is where visitors will come and speak to loved ones via video conference.
Bexar County sheriff Susan Pamerlau said the facility, just one block away from the jail, is going to increase the opportunities for families to visit by 141 percent.
Right now, visitors may wait for hours just to see loved ones because of security procedures at the jail. The facility will make things easier.
“This is light and airy and much more accepting for children. The jail is not a place for children. So We're excited about that kind of improvement because it's really family friendly,” said Pamerlau.
There is no charge to use the video visitation. But the Sheriff does anticipate some growing pains as loved ones get used to the video conference and not the in person visits. The visitation will be rolled out in phases.
Families can begin registering online right now. Those who can't go online can register here in person beginning Friday.