Nationwide Inmate Records Online Check

Jail records, court & arrest records, mugshots and even judicial reports

About Washington State Department of Corrections

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The correctional system in Washington State is a broad network of institutions and programs responsible for housing and rehabilitating individuals convicted of crimes. It is managed by several entities, including the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC), county sheriff's offices, city police departments, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. This system is designed to uphold the law, protect society, and rehabilitate offenders.

The system encompasses state prisons, county jails, city jails, and federal prisons. Each type of institution has a distinct purpose, ranging from short-term detention for individuals awaiting trial to long-term confinement for those convicted of serious crimes. Each entity within the correctional system provides resources for locating and connecting with inmates.

Types of Correctional Institutions in Washington State

State Prisons

State prisons are managed by the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC). These are long-term facilities for individuals convicted of felonies. The DOC operates twelve prisons across the state.

County Jails

County jails in Washington State are overseen by individual county sheriff's departments. They primarily house individuals who are awaiting trial or serving sentences for less severe crimes, usually misdemeanors. Each of the state's 39 counties operates at least one jail.

City Jails

City jails are run by city police departments. Like county jails, they typically hold individuals who are awaiting trial or serving short sentences. However, city jails are usually smaller and have fewer resources than county jails.

Federal Prisons

Federal prisons are managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. These facilities house individuals convicted of federal crimes. In Washington State, there are two federal prisons.

Inmate Search Options in Washington State

State Prisons

The Washington State DOC provides an online offender search feature that allows you to look up inmates by name or DOC number. For offline inquiries, you can contact the DOC directly at (800) 430-9674.

County Jails

Each county jail in Washington State provides its own methods for locating inmates. Some counties, such as King County, offer online search databases. Others require you to call the jail or sheriff's department directly for information.

For counties without an online search tool, contact the respective county sheriff's office directly.

City Jails

City jails often require you to contact them directly for inmate information. Check with the specific city police department for further instructions.

Federal Prisons

The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains an inmate locator on its website where you can search for inmates by name or registration number. You can also contact the specific federal prison for more information.

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Types of Correctional Facilities in Washington

Washington Prisons and Jails