Tacoma City Jail Inmate Lookup

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The Tacoma Police Department, Washington (WA), serves as the primary law enforcement agency in the city, safeguarding the lives and property of its residents. The office operates efficiently with a mission to create a safe and thriving community. Linked closely to the department, the Tacoma City Jail, acts as a local detention facility ensuring lawful containment of offenders. This correction facility boasts a secure environment, adhering to mandated regulations and standards, thus maintaining the rights and welfare of all inmates.

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Inmate Roster and Who's in Jail

For a comprehensive inquiry about inmates confined in the Tacoma City Jail, WA, the detention center provides a detailed 'Inmate Roster' or 'Who's in Jail' listing.

To access this, follow the steps below:

1. Visit the official Inmate Lookup Tool provided by the police department.
2. Enter requisite details, such as Booking Number, Last Name, First Name, or Date of Birth. An option to search by release date is also available for those who seek information on recently released inmates.
3. Click 'Search' to retrieve a list of matching inmates.

The search results usually furnish a range of information about the offender, including their booking number, full name, date of birth, release date, and criminal charges.

While the process is user-friendly, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth offender lookup:

• Ensure correct spelling and accurate information for a precise search.
• The 'Last Name' and 'First Name' fields are case-sensitive, requiring exact letter cases.
• If unknown, leave the 'Booking Number' field empty. The system can retrieve information using only names or date of birth.

Please note that the Tacoma jail roster is continually updated to maintain its accuracy and relevance, enabling users to acquire up-to-date inmate information.

The Tacoma jail roster often includes:

• The specific jail or prison location where the inmate is housed.
• The booking date, giving an idea of how long the individual has been in custody.
• Projected release date, if any, to keep informed of any changes in the inmate's status.
• Detailed court information, including case numbers and the name of the court where charges were filed.
• Bail or bond conditions, if applicable, that indicate the amount required for the inmate's temporary release pending trial.

While accessing the offender search tool, users may find a varying level of detail. Sometimes, the level of provided information depends on the rules and regulations of the jurisdiction overseeing the detention facility. Confidential or sensitive information may be excluded from the public roster to protect the rights and privacy of inmates.

Remember, information gleaned from the online roster is meant for public knowledge and not to be used to harass or threaten inmates or their families. Respect for privacy and ethical use of the information is paramount.

The Tacoma Police Department encourages those facing issues with the inmate lookup process or needing more detailed information to contact the correction facility directly. Their dedicated staff can assist with more in-depth searches or provide guidance on navigating the online system. Please be prepared to provide specific details about the inmate for a more focused assistance.

Recent Arrests

The Tacoma Police Department, WA, ensures transparency and public safety by making arrest records available. If you wish to verify if someone has recently been arrested by the Tacoma Police, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Recent Arrests Portal associated with the Tacoma Police Department.
2. Enter the individual's name or date of the arrest, if known.
3. Review the generated list to find the desired information.

Additional details on recent arrests often encompass:

• The nature or type of crime committed.
• The exact time and location of the arrest.
• The arresting officer's badge number and name.
• The inmate's current status, such as whether they have been released on bail or remain in custody.

To enhance public trust, the Tacoma Police Department may provide summaries or briefings on significant arrests or events, which can be found in the 'News and Updates' section on their official website.

Mugshots and Police Reports

Mugshots are photographic records taken of suspects or inmates during the booking process. Here's a brief guide on mugshots and police reports in Tacoma:

1. Mugshots: Typically, the police department captures front and side-profile images of an arrested individual. To access these mugshots:
   • Visit the Mugshot Database.
   • Input the name or booking number of the individual.
   • Browse the results to locate the relevant photograph.
2. Police Reports: For obtaining a copy of a police report in Tacoma:
   • Submit a written request to the Tacoma Police Department's Records Division, specifying the details you are looking for.
   • Some reports may require payment of a fee. Make sure to check the current rates and include payment, if applicable.
   • Note that certain reports, especially those ongoing investigations or containing sensitive information, might not be available to the public.

Warrant Lookup

To determine if someone has an outstanding warrant in Tacoma, WA:

1. Visit the Tacoma Warrant Lookup Tool.
2. Input the person's name or date of birth.
3. Review the search results to determine if a warrant exists for that individual.

Remember that active warrants denote an individual's pending arrest. Therefore, should you discover someone has an outstanding warrant, refrain from taking any direct action. Instead, notify the Tacoma Police Department immediately. They will provide guidance or deploy the necessary resources to address the situation.

Bookings and Releases

Bookings: When an individual is arrested by the Tacoma Police Department, they are transported to the Tacoma City Jail for the booking process. This involves:

1. Taking the arrestee's personal details, such as name, date of birth, and physical descriptions.
2. Recording the alleged crime details.
3. Collecting personal belongings for storage until the individual's release.
4. Taking fingerprints and mugshots.
5. Assigning the inmate to a specific cell or block based on the nature of the alleged crime, behavior, and other factors.

The public can access booking details from the Tacoma jail roster, which is frequently updated to reflect recent bookings.

Releases: An inmate's release from the Tacoma City Jail can occur due to:

1. Serving the full sentence.
2. Posting bail or bond.
3. Acquittal.
4. Transfer to a different detention facility.
5. Other legal reasons.

Release records can also be found on the Tacoma jail roster. The details often mention the date and reason for the release.

Background Checks

For individuals or businesses needing background checks in Tacoma, WA, the Tacoma Police Department's Records Division offers this service. This provides a comprehensive overview of an individual's criminal history within Tacoma. To request a background check:

1. Fill out the Background Check Request Form.
2. Pay the required fee (amounts may vary).
3. Wait for processing; the duration might differ based on the volume of requests.

Most Wanted List

The Tacoma Police Department occasionally compiles a "Most Wanted" list, spotlighting individuals sought for serious crimes or repeated offenses. This list aims to garner public assistance in locating these individuals. Access the Tacoma Most Wanted List for current entries. Always exercise caution and report any information directly to the police rather than engaging any listed individual.

Sex Offender Registry

Tacoma, WA, adheres to state guidelines regarding the registration and tracking of sex offenders. Residents can access the Sex Offender Registry to review registered offenders in their neighborhoods. It's essential to use this information responsibly, ensuring the safety and rights of all community members.

Bail Bonds

Bail bonds are financial guarantees ensuring that an arrested individual will appear in court as required. If the arrestee cannot afford the bail amount, they can seek assistance from a bail bonds agency.

In Tacoma, several bail bond agencies collaborate with the Tacoma City Jail, providing services round the clock. Once a bond is posted, the inmate's release process begins, but it may take a few hours before the individual is released.

To engage a bail bondsman:

1. Ensure the person is indeed in Tacoma City Jail.
2. Contact a reputable bail bonds agency in Tacoma.
3. Provide the inmate's details and the bail amount.
4. Comply with the agency's terms, which usually involve paying a percentage of the bail amount as a fee.

Remember, if the accused doesn't appear in court, the bond agency might employ a bounty hunter to locate and return the individual to custody, and the bail amount might be forfeited.

Inmate Mail

Communication with loved ones plays a crucial role in an inmate's well-being and rehabilitation. Tacoma City Jail, WA, permits inmates to receive mail under specific guidelines.

Process of Sending Mail to an Inmate:

1. Address the envelope as follows:

[Inmate's Full Name]
[Inmate's Booking Number]
Tacoma City Jail
[Address of the Jail]
Tacoma, WA [Zip Code]

2. Ensure the return address is clearly mentioned, including your full name and address.

Guidelines for Sending Mail to Inmates:

1. Letters should be written on plain white, lined paper. Avoid using colored, perfumed, or decorated paper.
2. Only use blue or black ink.
3. Do not include any items within the letter, such as money, jewelry, or any form of contraband. This will result in confiscation, and the letter might not be delivered.
4. Pictures are often allowed but should be non-polaroid, non-nude, and not exceed a certain size (usually 4" x 6").
5. Avoid discussing any illegal activities in the letters.
6. Mail may be inspected for security reasons. Ensure the content adheres to jail policies to prevent confiscation or non-delivery.

Sending Money to Inmates

Financial support from loved ones can assist inmates in purchasing essential items like toiletries, snacks, and stationery. Here's how money can be sent to inmates in Tacoma City Jail:

Methods for Sending Money:

1. Online Deposits: Use jail-approved online platforms or services. There might be a fee associated with this method.
2. Money Orders: Address the money order to the inmate's full name and booking number. Mail it to the jail's address. Ensure your name and address are visible.
3. Jail Kiosk: Some jails have kiosks in their lobby where money can be deposited directly to an inmate's account.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money:

1. All funds are subject to verification. There might be a short waiting period before the inmate can access the deposited money.
2. There's often a limit on the amount of money that can be sent or deposited within a certain period.
3. The sender's name and address must be provided when sending funds. Anonymously sent money might not be accepted.
4. If the inmate owes fines, a percentage of the money sent might be used to offset those fines.

Always consult the Tacoma City Jail's official guidelines or call their helpline before sending mail or money to ensure you're adhering to the most current regulations.

Visitation

Building connections and maintaining relationships while incarcerated can be instrumental in an inmate's well-being and rehabilitation. Tacoma City Jail, WA, has set procedures and guidelines for inmate visitation.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit:

1. Pre-Approval: Before visiting, you may need to get pre-approved by filling out a visitation application. The jail reviews the application, and, if approved, you can schedule a visit.
2. Scheduling: Contact the Tacoma City Jail's visitation department or check their online portal to schedule your visit. Unscheduled visits might not be entertained.
3. Arrival: Arrive at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled visitation time to go through the necessary security checks.

Rules and Regulations for Visits:

1. Dress Code: Ensure you adhere to the Tacoma City Jail's dress code. Inappropriate or revealing clothing might result in visitation denial.
2. Identification: Carry a valid government-issued photo ID.
3. Personal Belongings: Personal items like bags, mobile phones, and electronic devices may not be allowed in the visitation area. Lockers or storage might be available.
4. Behavior: Maintain decorum during the visit. Any disruptive behavior could lead to immediate termination of the visit.
5. Minors: Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult guardian.

Visitation Hours:

While specific visitation hours can vary and should be confirmed directly with Tacoma City Jail, a general schedule might look like:

• Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Weekends: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Holidays may have different timings.

Inmate Communications

Maintaining contact with loved ones can be a source of comfort for inmates.

Inmate Call System:

Inmates at Tacoma City Jail have access to phones during specified hours. They can make outgoing calls but cannot receive incoming calls. Here's how the system generally works:

1. Collect Calls: Inmates can make collect calls, wherein the receiving party will be charged for the call.
2. Prepaid Account: The inmate or their loved ones can set up a prepaid account, which gets deducted as calls are made.
3. Duration: Call duration might be limited to ensure fair access to all inmates.

Regulations and Guidelines for Use:

1. Recorded Conversations: For security reasons, all calls might be monitored and recorded, except those with legal representatives.
2. Restricted Numbers: Inmates cannot call restricted, blocked, or international numbers.
3. Behavior: Using the call system inappropriately, making threats, or discussing illegal activities could lead to privileges being revoked.
4. Call Timing: Inmates have specified hours during which they can make calls. Outside of these hours, the phone system may be deactivated.

When receiving a call from Tacoma City Jail, it's crucial to be aware of these guidelines to ensure the inmate doesn't lose their communication privileges. Always check the official Tacoma City Jail website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information and specifics on visitation and communication systems.

Location and Contact Details

Official Address

1638 East 29th Street, Tacoma, WA, 98404

Official Phone Number

253-680-5656

Official Website

http://www.doc.wa.gov

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search

1. How do I search for an inmate in the system?

To search for an inmate in the system, visit the official website of the respective state's Department of Corrections or the county jail's website. These sites typically have an "Inmate Locator" or "Inmate Search" feature that allows you to enter the inmate's name or identification number to retrieve their details.

2. Can I search for inmates by name?

Yes, most inmate search systems allow users to search for inmates using their full name. However, providing additional details like date of birth or inmate ID can refine the search and yield more accurate results.

3. How accurate is the inmate search?

The accuracy of an inmate search largely depends on the quality and timeliness of the data maintained by the institution. While efforts are made to keep databases updated, there can be occasional discrepancies or delays in reflecting recent changes.

4. What information will be displayed during an inmate search?

Typically, the search will display the inmate's name, inmate ID, current facility, sentence details, and expected release date, among other relevant details.

5. Are all inmates listed or are some excluded?

Most inmate search systems aim to list all inmates. However, some individuals, especially those recently arrested or transferred, might not be immediately listed. Furthermore, juveniles or inmates in protective custody might be excluded from public searches for privacy and security reasons.

Arrests Lookup

1. How can I lookup someone's arrest record?

You can look up someone's arrest record through local law enforcement agencies, county sheriff's websites, or third-party public record databases. Some states also offer centralized databases for this purpose.

2. Are arrest records public information?

In most jurisdictions, arrest records are considered public information. However, access can be limited or restricted for ongoing investigations, juvenile records, or in cases where disclosure might jeopardize an individual's safety.

3. What details are included in the arrest lookup?

An arrest record typically includes the individual's name, mugshot, charges, booking date, and any bond or bail information.

4. Is there a delay between an arrest and its appearance on the system?

Yes, there can be a delay ranging from a few hours to several days depending on the jurisdiction, processing times, and system updates.

Jail Bookings

1. What is a jail booking?

A jail booking is the process of recording an individual's information and details of their arrest after they are taken into custody. This includes taking mugshots, fingerprinting, and recording personal details and charges.

2. How can I find out if someone has recently been booked into jail?

You can find this information through the local jail's booking log or online database. These platforms usually provide a list of recent bookings, often within the past 24-72 hours.

3. How long after an arrest does the booking process usually take?

The booking process can vary, but typically takes a few hours. Factors that can affect the duration include the jail's current workload, the number of detainees, and any additional processing required for specific charges.

Inmate Calls

1. Can I call an inmate directly?

No, inmates cannot typically receive direct calls. However, they can make outgoing calls to approved numbers.

2. How do inmates make outgoing calls?

Inmates make outgoing calls through a jail or prison-approved phone system. These calls are typically made collect, or through prepaid accounts set up by their family or friends.

3. Is there a fee for inmate calls?

Yes, there's usually a fee for inmate calls. Rates can vary widely based on the facility, call duration, and whether the call is local or long-distance.

4. Can inmate calls be recorded?

Yes, most inmate calls are recorded and may be monitored for security reasons. Inmates are typically informed that their calls are being recorded.

Inmate Mail

1. How can I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, address the letter with the inmate's full name, inmate ID, and the facility's address. Ensure you follow the facility's guidelines on mailing to prevent the mail from being rejected.

2. Are there restrictions on what can be sent to inmates?

Yes, jails and prisons have strict guidelines on what can be sent to inmates. Common restrictions include no contraband, no explicit content, and limits on magazine/book subscriptions. Always check the specific facility's guidelines before sending anything.

3. How often is mail delivered to inmates?

Mail is typically delivered to inmates daily, excluding weekends and holidays. However, delivery frequency can vary by facility.

4. Is inmate mail screened or read?

Yes, for security reasons, all incoming and outgoing inmate mail is typically screened. It can also be read, except for legally privileged correspondence with attorneys.

Visitation

1. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?

Visits can usually be scheduled by contacting the facility directly or through their online scheduling system, if available. Some facilities require visitors to be on an approved visitor list.

2. What are the rules and regulations for visitation?

Rules vary by facility but often include dress code requirements, identification verification, limitations on items brought into the visiting area, and restrictions on physical contact.

3. How long are visitation sessions?

Visitation lengths can vary but typically range from 30 minutes to an hour. The duration might be extended for special circumstances or reduced during high-traffic times.

4. Can children visit inmates?

Children can usually visit inmates, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some facilities have special rules or days designated for child visitation.

Sending Money

1. How can I send money to an inmate?

Money can be sent to inmates through postal money orders, cashier's checks, or through approved third-party services. Many facilities also offer online deposit options.

2. Are there limits on how much money I can send?

Yes, there are typically limits on the amount of money that can be deposited in an inmate's account within a specific time frame.

3. What can inmates use the money for?

Inmates can use the money for purchasing commissary items like snacks, personal care products, stationery, and sometimes phone credits.

4. Are there fees associated with sending money?

Depending on the method used, there might be fees associated with depositing money into an inmate's account.

Posting Bond

1. How can I post bond for an inmate?

Bond can be posted at the jail or detention center where the inmate is held. This can be done in cash, through a bail bond agency, or sometimes using property as collateral.

2. What forms of payment are accepted for bond?

Most facilities accept cash, cashier's checks, and surety bonds through bail bond agents.

3. When is the bond refunded?

If paid directly, the bond is refunded after the court case concludes, minus any applicable fees. If a bail bond agent is used, the fee paid to them is not refundable.

4. What happens if the inmate does not appear in court?

If the inmate fails to appear in court, the bond is forfeited. If a bail bond agency was used, they might employ bounty hunters to locate and return the individual to custody.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

1. How can inmates access legal assistance?

Inmates can request a public defender or access legal resources provided by the jail or prison. They can also hire a private attorney.

2. Is legal assistance provided for free?

Public defenders are provided to those who cannot afford private attorneys. However, inmates might be assessed for eligibility based on their financial situation.

3. How can I hire an attorney for an inmate?

You can directly contact and hire a private attorney on behalf of an inmate. The attorney will then make arrangements to communicate with and represent the inmate.

Release

1. How can I find out when an inmate is being released?

Release dates are typically listed in the inmate's record on the facility's website. However, for exact release dates or times, it's best to contact the facility directly.

2. What are the procedures for an inmate's release?

Upon release, inmates go through a discharge process which includes returning facility property, receiving personal property, and completing paperwork. Inmates might also be given transportation options or resources if available.

3. Are there post-release programs available?

Many jurisdictions offer post-release programs aimed at reintegration, including job placement, counseling, and housing assistance.

Criminal Records Lookup

1. How can I lookup someone's criminal record?

Criminal records can be accessed through state or county repositories, local courthouses, or third-party online services.

2. What information is included in a criminal record?

A criminal record includes personal identification details, arrest records, conviction records, and sentences. It might also include parole or probation information.

3. Are all criminal records public?

While many criminal records are public, certain records, such as those expunged or sealed, might be restricted from public view.

4. How can I correct or challenge information on a criminal record?

To correct or challenge information, you'd need to contact the agency maintaining the record, typically the state's Department of Justice or local police department, and provide documentation to support the requested change.

Background Check

1. What information is included in a background check?

A background check can include criminal records, employment history, education verification, credit history, driving records, and personal references, depending on the purpose of the check.

2. How long does it take to get the results of a background check?

Turnaround times vary but can range from a few hours to several days or even weeks, depending on the depth and scope of the check.

3. Can I request a background check on someone without their permission?

For basic background checks, you might not need permission. However, for more comprehensive checks, especially those for employment, housing, or credit purposes, you typically need the individual's consent.

4. What are the legal uses of background checks?

Background checks are commonly used for employment, housing, lending decisions, and other areas where trust or safety is a concern. They must be used in compliance with local laws and regulations, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) in the U.S.