Seattle City Jail Inmate Lookup

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is the primary law enforcement agency for the city of Seattle, Washington. The SPD's commitment to safeguarding the community reflects in their dedication to transparency, accountability, and maintaining public safety. Associated with the SPD, the Seattle City Jail, also known as the detention facility, serves as the primary holding area for individuals arrested in the city. This correction facility maintains a structured and secure environment, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both inmates and staff. The office and the detention center work in tandem to maintain law and order within the city.

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Inmate Roster and Who's in Jail

The Seattle City Jail maintains a detailed inmate roster, which provides comprehensive information about individuals currently in custody. The jail roster includes:

• Booking Number
• Last Name
• First Name
• Date of Birth
• Release Date
• Criminal Charges

Here is the procedure to search for an inmate:

1. Navigate to the Seattle Police Department Inmate Lookup page. This page will provide a search tool to lookup for individuals held in the detention facility.

2. Enter the required details. You can search by booking number or last name. It is important to spell the name correctly to ensure accurate results.

3. Review the search results. The search results will provide the booking number, the inmate's name, date of birth, release date, and criminal charges. This allows you to get an idea of who's in jail and their charges.

When searching for an offender, it's best to have as much information as possible, such as the correct spelling of their name or their booking number. This will expedite the offender search process and ensure more accurate results. Please note that the bookings and releases are updated daily, providing the most recent information about the inmates in the Seattle jail.

Detailed Inmate Roster Information

The inmate roster managed by the Seattle City Jail serves not only as a log of who's in jail, but it also aids in maintaining the transparency of the justice system and supports family members or legal representatives of the incarcerated individuals.

This roster provides a wealth of additional information beyond the basic details. For instance, the listed booking number corresponds to the specific instance of incarceration, allowing you to track repeat offenders. This unique identifier is used throughout the criminal justice system to refer to a specific arrest and booking.

The roster also includes the inmate's release date, which may be determined by a variety of factors, such as the type of offense, the discretion of the judge, and any time already served. It is worth noting that this date might change due to court decisions or other legal proceedings.

The criminal charges enumerated on the roster can provide an understanding of the gravity and nature of the offense committed. They can range from minor infractions and misdemeanors to severe felonies. Remember that these are the charges levied against the individual, not the convictions - an important distinction in the criminal justice system.

Further Tips for Offender Lookup

While the initial search can be performed with just a name or booking number, further details such as the inmate's date of birth can help refine the search, particularly in cases where individuals share the same name. It is also worth noting that this database only includes individuals currently held in the Seattle City Jail. If you cannot locate an individual, they may be in a different correctional facility, or they may have been released.

To gather more comprehensive information, you can directly contact the Seattle Police Department. The police department staff can provide additional guidance in offender lookup process. Remember to respect the rules and regulations set by the police and the correction facility during your search to maintain a cooperative environment.

Recent Arrests

The Seattle Police Department ensures that the community remains informed about recent arrests. To check if someone has been recently arrested by the police department, you can:

1. Check the SPD Blotter. The SPD Blotter is a blog maintained by the Seattle Police Department where they post news and information about recent arrests and other incidents.

2. Contact the SPD directly. You can also directly call the police department. Note that they may be unable to provide information if it is related to ongoing investigations or minors.

It's also important to note that "recent" can be relative. Information on an arrest may not be immediately available due to the time it takes to process an individual and upload the relevant data.

Mugshots and Police Reports

Mugshots and police reports are critical pieces of public record in the criminal justice system. In Seattle, these records are accessible to the public, albeit with some restrictions:

Mugshots: A mugshot, a photographic portrait typically taken after someone is arrested, is often included in the booking process. While not directly accessible online, mugshots can be obtained by making a public disclosure request to the Seattle Police Department. This can be done online via the SPD Public Request Center.

Police Reports: To obtain a police report, visit the Get a Copy of a Police Report page on the SPD website. Follow the instructions provided, which typically involve submitting an online request or contacting the SPD directly. Please note that sensitive information, such as victims' names in certain cases, may be redacted for privacy reasons.

Warrant Lookup

To find information on an outstanding warrant in Seattle, you can use the Washington Courts' Search Case Records service. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the 'Name Search' tab. Enter the first and last name of the person you believe may have a warrant.

2. Click 'Search'. The database will return a list of matching cases.

3. Check the 'Warrant' column. If there's an outstanding warrant for the person, it will be listed here.

Remember, this system only includes information for warrants issued in Washington State. If you suspect there may be warrants from other jurisdictions, you'll need to contact those jurisdictions directly. If you find information about a warrant, do not attempt to apprehend the person yourself. Instead, contact your local police department.

Bookings and Releases

Bookings and releases at the Seattle City Jail are handled promptly and efficiently. Upon arrest, the individual is booked into the jail. The booking process includes gathering personal information, taking fingerprints and mugshots, and recording the criminal charges.

Inmates can be released in various ways. Release could occur due to the expiration of a sentence, posting bail, or other legal determinations like a court order. The Seattle Inmate Lookup Service regularly updates the release information.

Background Checks

Background checks are crucial for various purposes like employment, tenancy, or certain types of licensing. To perform a background check in Seattle, you can make use of the Washington State Patrol's WATCH (Washington Access to Criminal History) system. This online service provides access to criminal history information, allowing you to perform a statewide check.

Wanted List

The Seattle Police Department's Most Wanted list represents individuals with outstanding warrants or those sought in connection to criminal investigations. This information can typically be found on the SPD's "Can You ID Me?" page. If you have any information on individuals listed on this page, you should contact SPD or Crimestoppers.

Sex Offender Registry

Information on registered sex offenders can be found using the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs' Sex Offender Registry. The registry includes the offender's name, address, and offense details. Remember, this information is meant to promote public safety, not to incite vigilantism.

Bail Bonds

Bail bonds are a method of securing an inmate's release pending trial. A bail bond company, or bondsman, provides the court with a guarantee (the bail bond) that the defendant will appear in court when ordered. In Seattle, numerous bail bond companies operate, many offering 24/7 service. For a fee—usually a percentage of the bail amount—they will post bail on your behalf. It's important to understand the responsibilities involved in entering such a contract, as failure of the defendant to appear in court will result in the bail bond company seeking to recover the bail amount from you.

Inmate Mail

Communication with the outside world is essential for those incarcerated, and the Seattle City Jail recognizes this need. Here's how to send mail to an inmate:

1. Prepare your mail: All mail should include the inmate's full name, booking number, and the facility address. The sender's complete return address must be on the envelope.

2. Content restrictions: Do not send items other than letters and photos. Certain items, including stationery, stamps, and polaroid photos, are prohibited. All correspondence may be inspected for contraband.

3. Delivery: Send your mail to the following address, replacing 'Inmate Full Name' and 'Booking Number' with the actual information:

Inmate Full Name – Booking Number
Seattle City Jail
PO Box 34986
Seattle, WA 98124-4986

Please note that inappropriate or explicit content can lead to the mail being rejected.

Sending Money to Inmates

Inmates at the Seattle City Jail can receive funds for their commissary account. These funds can be used to purchase a variety of items, including snacks, toiletries, and stationery.

Here are the methods to send money:

1. Online: Use the Jail ATM service. You will need to know the inmate's name and booking number.

2. In person: Deposit funds using the kiosk available at the jail lobby. This can be done during regular business hours.

3. Mail: Money orders can be sent via mail. Include the inmate's name and booking number. Never send cash.

Note that there may be limits on the amount that can be deposited in an inmate's account at one time, and there may be transaction fees associated with deposits. It's also important to understand that money sent to an inmate becomes their property; the sender cannot request a refund or chargeback.

Visitation

Visiting an inmate at the Seattle City Jail helps maintain their social ties and can significantly improve their morale. Here's how to arrange a visit:

1. Check the visiting schedule: Visiting hours can vary depending on the inmate's housing unit and are subject to change. It's best to check the SPD's website or call the jail directly for the most accurate information.

2. Visitor requirements: All visitors must have a valid ID. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Certain individuals, such as those on probation or parole, may not be allowed to visit.

3. On the day of visit: Arrive early, as visiting slots can be filled on a first-come-first-served basis. Respect all jail rules and regulations. Disruptive behavior can result in the visit being terminated.

Please note that visits may be monitored and are typically non-contact, meaning you will communicate through a glass partition or video system.

Inmate Communications

Inmates at the Seattle City Jail can make outgoing calls, but they cannot receive incoming calls. Here are the guidelines for the inmate call system:

1. Collect Calls: Inmates can place collect calls. These calls are charged to the receiving party's phone bill. Be aware that your phone provider must support collect calls, and fees can be quite high.

2. Prepaid Accounts: An alternative is to set up a prepaid account with a jail-approved service such as Securus Technologies. This allows the inmate to make calls that are deducted from the prepaid balance.

3. Call Rules: All calls are subject to monitoring and recording, except for legal counsel. Calls may be limited in duration to ensure all inmates have access to the phones.

4. Content: Inappropriate content, threats, or criminal activity discussed over the phone can result in penalties, including loss of phone privileges.

By understanding and respecting these guidelines, you can ensure that your communications with the inmate are uninterrupted and helpful for their well-being.

Contact Information

Seattle Police Department

• Official Mailing Address: Seattle Police Department 610 5th Avenue P.O. Box 34986 Seattle, WA 98124-4986

• Official Phone Number: (206) 625-5011 (Non-emergency)

• Official Website: Seattle Police Department

Please note that the Seattle Police Department does not publicly list a general email address. For specific inquiries, it is best to refer to the Contact Us page on their website where you can find various department contacts and services.

Seattle City Jail

• Official Mailing Address: Seattle City Jail PO Box 34986 Seattle, WA 98124-4986

• Official Phone Number: (206) 684-5600

• Official Website: The jail is managed by the Seattle Police Department and information about the jail can be found on the Seattle Police Department's website.

Before visiting in person, it's always a good idea to call ahead and confirm any details you're unsure about. Most importantly, remember to be respectful and patient when interacting with staff. They're there to maintain safety and order and to assist you in any way they can within the parameters of the law and their guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How can I find out if someone is in jail or prison?
   You can find out if someone is in jail or prison by using online inmate locator services provided by many state and county correctional departments. Additionally, third-party websites like VINElink also provide information about incarcerated individuals across the country.

2. Can I search for an inmate by their name?
   Yes, you can search for an inmate by their name. However, it's often more effective to use additional identifying information, such as their inmate ID number, date of birth, or social security number if available.

3. What information do I need to search for an inmate?
   The more information you have, the easier it will be to locate an inmate. At a minimum, you will likely need the individual's full name. Other helpful details can include the person's date of birth, social security number, and inmate ID number if known.

4. Is there a nationwide inmate search available?
   Yes, there are nationwide inmate search services available. The Bureau of Prisons maintains a database of federal inmates. Also, third-party websites like VINElink provide access to inmate records across several states.

5. Is the inmate search service free to use?
   Most inmate locator services provided by government agencies are free to use. Some third-party websites may charge a fee.

Arrests Lookup

6. How do I find arrest records?
   You can find arrest records by checking with your local county court or sheriff's office. Many jurisdictions provide online databases where you can search for arrest records. Additionally, third-party websites like Public Records provide access to arrest records from various jurisdictions.

7. What information can be found in an arrest record?
   An arrest record typically contains information such as the person's name, physical descriptors, mugshot, fingerprints, details of the alleged offense, date and location of the arrest, arresting officer's name, and any charges filed.

8. Are arrest records available to the public?
   Generally, arrest records are considered public information and can be accessed by anyone. However, laws vary by state, and in some cases, access may be limited or the information may be sealed.

9. How current are the arrest records I can lookup?
   The currency of arrest records depends on the source. Official databases maintained by law enforcement or court systems are usually updated regularly, often daily. However, third-party providers might not update their databases as frequently.

Jail Bookings

10. What does jail booking mean?
    Jail booking is the process that occurs after a person has been arrested. It involves taking the individual's personal information, fingerprints, photograph (mugshot), and conducting a criminal background check. Any personal property is also inventoried and stored.

11. What information is included in jail booking records?
    Jail booking records typically include the inmate's name, date of birth, physical descriptors, mugshot, fingerprints, information about the alleged crime, and any bail or bond conditions.

12. How do I find jail booking records?
    Jail booking records can usually be found through the same methods as arrest records. You can often find these records by contacting your local county jail or using online databases provided by your local law enforcement or third-party websites.

Inmate Calls

13. Can inmates make calls to anyone?
    Inmates can typically make calls to anyone not listed on a block list, provided they have the recipient's contact information and are not restricted due to disciplinary action. However, all calls are monitored and recorded (except legal calls), and the recipient must typically agree to accept charges for the call.

14. How do I receive calls from an inmate?
    To receive calls from an inmate, your phone number generally needs to be added to the inmate's approved call list. Inmates typically have access to telephones during specified hours and can call out to approved numbers. When you receive a call, you will usually need to accept charges for the call.

15. Are inmate calls recorded?
    Yes, all inmate calls (except those to legal counsel) are recorded and subject to monitoring by jail or prison staff.

16. How much do inmate calls cost?
    The cost of inmate calls can vary depending on the facility and the distance of the call. Rates can range from a few cents per minute to over a dollar per minute. Some facilities may also charge additional fees for using their phone services.

Inmate Mail

17. How can I send mail to an inmate?
    You can send mail to an inmate by addressing it to the inmate's full name and inmate ID number at the correctional facility's mailing address. It's important to follow all of the facility's rules and guidelines for sending mail, as all mail is inspected for contraband.

18. What are the rules for sending mail to inmates?
    The rules for sending mail to inmates vary by facility, but generally, mail must not contain contraband, explicit or violent content, or information about criminal activity. Some facilities may have additional restrictions, such as limitations on the number of pages or the use of certain materials. Always check the facility's rules before sending mail.

19. Can inmates receive any type of mail?
    Inmates can generally receive letters, photos, and some types of publications, such as books or magazines, which are often required to be sent directly from the publisher. However, they cannot receive packages or mail containing prohibited items. Specific rules vary by facility.

Visitation

20. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?
    Visits with inmates usually need to be scheduled in advance. This can often be done by calling the correctional facility or using an online scheduling system, if available. Each facility has its own rules and procedures for visitation, which you should familiarize yourself with beforehand.

21. What are the rules and regulations for visiting an inmate?
    Visitation rules vary by facility, but generally, visitors must be on an approved list, follow a dress code, and abide by rules regarding conduct during the visit. There are often limits on the number of visitors allowed at one time and the length of visits.

22. Can children visit inmates?
    Children can typically visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The visitation rules and requirements for children can vary by facility.

Sending Money

23. How can I send money to an inmate?
    You can send money to an inmate through various methods, such as online services, money orders, cashier's checks, or through services like Western Union or MoneyGram. The exact methods available depend on the rules of the particular facility.

24. What are the acceptable payment methods for sending money to inmates?
    Acceptable payment methods can include debit or credit cards (for online payments), money orders, cashier's checks, and sometimes cash (in person only). Some facilities use specific services like JPay or Access Corrections.

25. Is there a limit to how much money I can send an inmate?
    There is usually a limit on how much money you can send an inmate, but it varies by facility. Some may have a per-transaction limit, while others may have a monthly limit. You should check with the specific institution for their regulations.

Posting Bond

26. What does it mean to post bond?
    To post bond means to pay an amount set by the court that allows a person who has been arrested to be released from jail while they await their court dates. The bond is a form of guarantee that the person will appear at their future court dates.

27. How can I post bond for an inmate?
    You can post bond for an inmate by paying the full bond amount to the court or jail, or by using a bail bond service, which typically charges a fee of 10-15% of the bond amount. Some courts may also accept property as collateral for a bond.

28. What are the possible payment methods for posting bond?
    Payment methods for posting bond can include cash, cashier's check, credit or debit cards, and property in some cases. Some jurisdictions also allow surety bonds, which are provided by bail bond services.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

29. How can inmates access legal assistance while incarcerated?
    Inmates can access legal assistance in several ways. They can request a public defender if they cannot afford a private attorney, use the law library within the prison to research their case, or request assistance from legal aid organizations that help incarcerated individuals.

30. Can I hire a lawyer for an inmate?
    Yes, you can hire a lawyer for an inmate. The lawyer can assist the inmate with their case and represent them in court proceedings.

31. Are there free legal services available for inmates?
    Yes, free legal services are available for inmates who cannot afford a lawyer. These services are typically provided by public defenders or legal aid organizations, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) or the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA).

Release

32. How do I find out when an inmate will be released?
    You can typically find out when an inmate will be released by checking with the correctional facility where they are housed. Some jurisdictions provide online search tools where you can look up an inmate's release date using their name or inmate number.

33. What happens when an inmate is released?
    When an inmate is released, they are typically given any personal property that was stored during their incarceration, along with any remaining funds from their inmate account. If the inmate was sentenced to probation or parole, they will be given instructions on reporting to their probation or parole officer.

34. Can I pick up an inmate upon their release?
    You can usually pick up an inmate upon their release, but you should confirm with the correctional facility beforehand. Some facilities may have specific procedures or rules for inmate pickup.

Criminal Records Lookup

35. How can I look up someone's criminal record?
    You can look up someone's criminal record through various means, including county courthouse records, state law enforcement agencies, or online public records databases. Keep in mind that not all records are publicly available and you may need the person's consent for certain searches.

36. What information does a criminal record contain?
    A criminal record typically contains a person's identification information (name, date of birth, etc.), arrest records, charges, court proceedings, and convictions. It may also include information on probation, parole, and incarcerations.

37. Are all criminal records publicly available?
    Not all criminal records are publicly available. While many records are public, some are sealed or expunged, and access to certain types of records may be restricted by law. Juvenile records, in particular, are often not publicly accessible.

38. How accurate is the information in a criminal record lookup?
    The accuracy of a criminal record lookup depends on the source of the information. Records from official government sources are typically reliable, but human error, system limitations, or delays in updating records can result in inaccuracies. Third-party services rely on these government records, but may not update their databases as frequently.

Background Check

39. What does a background check include?
    A background check typically includes information about a person's criminal history, employment history, education, credit history, and sometimes motor vehicle records. The exact contents can vary depending on the purpose of the check and the depth of the investigation.

40. How can I perform a background check on someone?
    To perform a background check, you can use an online service or hire a professional background check company. In many cases, you will need the person's full name, date of birth, and consent. Keep in mind that laws regulating background checks vary by location and purpose.

41. Are there any legal restrictions on performing background checks?
    Yes, there are legal restrictions on performing background checks. In the U.S., the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulates the use of background checks for employment, housing, and credit transactions. You generally need written consent from the person to conduct a background check for these purposes.

42. How long does it take to get the results of a background check?
    The time it takes to get the results of a background check can vary. Online searches can often provide results instantly or within a few minutes. Professional background checks, particularly those that require verifying information at courthouses or other institutions, can take a few days to a few weeks.