King County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in King County

Arrest records in King County are considered public records under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). This state law establishes that government records, including those created by law enforcement agencies, are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute. The Washington State Legislature has determined that maintaining open public records is essential for governmental transparency and accountability.

It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records:

• Arrest records document that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. An arrest alone does not constitute proof of guilt.
• Conviction records document that an individual was found guilty of a crime through legal proceedings, either by trial verdict or plea.

While both types of records are generally public in King County, certain exemptions may apply under RCW 42.56.240, which protects specific law enforcement and investigative information. Additionally, juvenile arrest records are subject to different confidentiality standards under Washington law.

The King County Sheriff's Office maintains policies governing the release of arrest records in accordance with the Washington Public Records Act and applicable exemptions. These policies aim to balance public access rights with privacy considerations and the integrity of ongoing investigations.

What's in King County Arrest Records

King County arrest records typically contain comprehensive information about individuals taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records generally include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Address of residence
• Identifying numbers (e.g., driver's license number)
• Fingerprints
• Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

• Date and time of arrest
• Location of arrest
• Arresting agency
• Arresting officer's name and badge number
• Reason for arrest
• Use of force information (if applicable)

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges filed
• Charge classification (misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony)
• Charge description
• Applicable statutes or ordinances
• Charge severity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

• Warrant number
• Issuing court
• Date issued
• Warrant type
• Bail amount set on warrant

Booking Information:

• Booking date and time
• Booking facility
• Booking number
• Processing officer information

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount
• Bond type
• Bond status
• Release conditions (if applicable)

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Case number
• Scheduled court appearances
• Judge assigned

Custody Status:

• Current detention status
• Expected release date (if applicable)
• Facility where detained

Additional Information May Include:

• Prior arrest history
• Known aliases
• Gang affiliations (if documented)
• Probation/parole status
• Special custody considerations
• Medical alerts

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency within King County and the circumstances of the arrest. Certain information may be redacted or withheld in accordance with exemptions under the Washington Public Records Act.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in King County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in King County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains multiple access points for record retrieval, depending on the specific information needed and its age.

To request arrest records in person:

1. Visit the King County Sheriff's Office Records Unit during regular business hours.
2. Complete a public disclosure request form, providing as much identifying information as possible about the subject of the record.
3. Present valid government-issued photo identification.
4. Pay applicable fees for record retrieval and copying.

King County Sheriff's Office Records Unit
516 3rd Avenue, Room W-150
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 263-2626
King County Sheriff's Office

To request arrest records by mail:

1. Download and complete the public disclosure request form from the King County Sheriff's Office website.
2. Include a copy of your government-issued photo identification.
3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.
4. Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order).
5. Mail the completed package to the Records Unit address.

To request arrest records online:

1. Navigate to the King County Public Records Request Portal.
2. Create an account or log in if you already have one.
3. Select "Sheriff's Office" as the department.
4. Choose "Arrest Records" as the record type.
5. Complete all required fields with as much detail as possible.
6. Submit your request and note the assigned tracking number.

Pursuant to RCW 42.56.520, agencies must respond to public records requests within five business days. The response will either provide the records, acknowledge receipt and estimate time needed for fulfillment, request clarification, or deny the request with citation to specific exemptions.

For third-party requests (requesting someone else's records), be aware that certain information may be redacted to protect privacy in accordance with state law. Criminal justice agencies may require additional verification or authorization for complete record access.

How To Find King County Arrest Records Online

King County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally. These systems offer varying levels of information and are updated according to different schedules.

The primary online resources include:

1. King County Jail Inmate Lookup System

   • This database provides real-time information about currently incarcerated individuals
   • Search by name or booking number
   • Information includes booking date, charges, and custody status
   • Access the system through the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention website

2. King County Superior Court Records

   • Search for criminal case information related to arrests
   • Access through the King County Superior Court Records Portal
   • Provides case numbers, charges, hearing dates, and case disposition
   • Requires name and date of birth for accurate searches

3. Washington State Patrol Criminal History Records

   • Provides statewide arrest record information
   • Requires payment of statutory fees
   • Offers both name-based and fingerprint-based searches
   • Access through the Washington State Patrol website

4. King County Sheriff's Office Records Request Portal

   • Submit formal public disclosure requests for specific arrest records
   • Allows tracking of request status
   • May require payment of copying fees
   • Accessible through the county's public records portal

When searching online, users should note that:

• Most systems require basic identifying information such as name and date of birth
• Some records may not be immediately available online due to processing time
• Certain information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws
• Online systems may not contain complete arrest record information
• Records for ongoing investigations may have limited availability

For the most comprehensive arrest record information, combining online searches with formal records requests often yields the most complete results.

How To Search King County Arrest Records for Free?

King County residents and other interested parties can access certain arrest record information without payment through several free resources. These no-cost options provide basic arrest data, though they may not offer the comprehensive detail available through paid services.

Free resources for arrest record searches include:

1. King County Jail Inmate Lookup

   • Provides current custody information at no charge
   • Searchable by name or booking number
   • Updated in real-time
   • Available 24/7 through the Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention website

2. King County District Court Case Information

   • Search misdemeanor cases by defendant name
   • Provides case numbers, charges, and hearing dates
   • No fee for basic online searches
   • Access through the King County District Court website

3. Public Access Computer Terminals

   • Located at King County courthouses and some public libraries
   • Provide free access to court records related to arrests
   • May require assistance from court staff for complex searches
   • Available during regular business hours

King County Courthouse
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 477-1400
King County Superior Court

4. Public Records Requests
   • Initial requests for public records do not require payment
   • Fees apply only for copying or extensive research
   • Submit through the county's online portal or in person
   • Governed by provisions in RCW 42.56.120

When utilizing free search methods, requestors should be aware of certain limitations:

• Free resources typically provide less detailed information
• Search results may not include historical arrest records
• Some systems only show current incarcerations, not past arrests
• Records may not include case disposition or outcome information
• High-volume requests may be subject to fees despite initial free access

For individuals with limited financial resources who require detailed arrest records, fee waivers may be available under certain circumstances as provided in Washington state law.

How To Delete Arrest Records in King County

In Washington State, including King County, arrest records cannot be "deleted" in the literal sense, but they may be eligible for sealing, vacating, or expungement under specific circumstances. These legal processes restrict public access to records rather than physically destroying them.

The distinction between these remedies is important:

• Record sealing restricts public access to court records but preserves them for limited official use
• Vacating a conviction removes the conviction from a person's record for most purposes
• Expungement applies primarily to non-conviction data and removes records from public view

Eligibility for these remedies depends on several factors:

1. For non-conviction records (arrests not leading to conviction):

   • May request expungement after two years from arrest date if no charges were filed
   • May request expungement after three years if charges were dismissed
   • Process governed by RCW 10.97.060

2. For conviction records:

   • Misdemeanors may be eligible for vacating after 3-5 years, depending on offense type
   • Certain felonies may be eligible for vacating after 5-10 years
   • Some offenses (violent crimes, sex offenses) are generally ineligible
   • Process governed by RCW 9.96.060 (misdemeanors) and RCW 9.94A.640 (felonies)

Steps to initiate record sealing or vacating in King County:

1. Obtain complete criminal history from Washington State Patrol
2. Gather court documents related to the case(s)
3. Complete appropriate court forms based on case type
4. File petition with the court that handled the original case
5. Pay applicable filing fees (fee waivers available for eligible individuals)
6. Attend scheduled court hearing
7. If granted, ensure orders are properly distributed to relevant agencies

King County Superior Court Clerk's Office
516 3rd Avenue, Room E-609
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 477-1400
King County Superior Court

Individuals seeking to seal or vacate records are strongly encouraged to consult with an attorney, as the process is complex and requirements vary based on specific circumstances. The King County Bar Association offers referral services for those needing legal assistance.

What Happens After Arrest in King County?

Following an arrest in King County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process with several distinct phases. This process ensures due process rights while moving cases toward resolution.

The post-arrest sequence typically proceeds as follows:

1. Booking Process

   • Arrestee is transported to a detention facility
   • Personal information is recorded
   • Fingerprints and photographs are taken
   • Personal property is inventoried and secured
   • Medical screening is conducted
   • Initial custody determination is made

2. First Appearance/Arraignment

   • Occurs within 72 hours of arrest (excluding weekends/holidays)
   • Judge informs defendant of charges
   • Constitutional rights are explained
   • Public defender is appointed if defendant qualifies
   • Bail or release conditions are established
   • Plea is entered (typically "not guilty" at this stage)

3. Pretrial Phase

   • Prosecutor reviews evidence and formally files charges
   • Discovery process begins (sharing of evidence)
   • Pretrial hearings address motions and legal issues
   • Plea negotiations may occur between defense and prosecution
   • Pretrial services may monitor released defendants

4. Case Resolution

   • Case may be resolved through:
     • Plea agreement
     • Dismissal of charges
     • Diversion to treatment programs
     • Trial by judge or jury

5. Trial (if case proceeds)

   • Jury selection (for jury trials)
   • Opening statements
   • Presentation of evidence and witness testimony
   • Closing arguments
   • Jury deliberation or judge's decision
   • Verdict announcement

6. Sentencing (if convicted)

   • Pre-sentence investigation may be conducted
   • Victim impact statements may be presented
   • Judge imposes sentence based on statutory guidelines
   • Sentencing options include:
     • Incarceration
     • Probation
     • Community service
     • Fines and restitution
     • Treatment programs

7. Post-Conviction

   • Right to appeal within specified timeframe
   • Transfer to correctional facility if incarcerated
   • Supervision by Department of Corrections if on probation
   • Payment of court-ordered financial obligations

Throughout this process, defendants maintain constitutional rights including the right to counsel, the right to remain silent, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office and the Department of Public Defense play central roles in ensuring the integrity of this process.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in King County?

Arrest records in King County are subject to retention requirements established by Washington state law and the Washington State Archives. These retention schedules ensure records are maintained for appropriate periods to serve both justice system needs and historical documentation purposes.

The primary authority governing records retention is the Washington State Archives Records Management Program, which establishes retention schedules for all government agencies, including law enforcement. Under RCW 40.14.070, public records must be retained according to these established schedules.

For arrest records specifically:

• Basic arrest information is typically retained permanently in summary form
• Complete arrest files for felony cases are generally retained for 10 years after case closure
• Misdemeanor arrest records are typically retained for 5 years after case closure
• Juvenile arrest records have specialized retention requirements based on offense type
• Fingerprint cards and photographs are maintained by the Washington State Patrol indefinitely

Different agencies maintain different components of arrest records:

1. King County Sheriff's Office retains arrest reports, booking information, and investigation files according to state schedules
2. King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention maintains booking and custody records
3. King County Superior and District Courts retain court case files related to arrests
4. Washington State Patrol maintains the central repository of criminal history information

It is important to note that even after the required retention period expires, records may not be automatically destroyed. Many records of historical significance are preserved permanently, and digital records systems have expanded the practical retention of information beyond minimum requirements.

The retention of arrest records serves several important purposes:

• Preserves evidence for potential future legal proceedings
• Provides documentation for background checks and security clearances
• Maintains historical information for statistical and research purposes
• Ensures accountability within the criminal justice system

Individuals with concerns about the retention of their arrest records should consult with legal counsel regarding potential sealing or expungement options as described in previous sections.

How to Find Mugshots in King County

Mugshots, the booking photographs taken during the arrest process, are considered public records in King County with certain limitations. These photographs serve as official documentation of an individual's appearance at the time of booking into custody.

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots are standardized photographs taken by law enforcement during the booking process. They typically include:

• Front-facing (portrait) view
• Profile (side) view
• Identifying information board or number
• Date of booking

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In King County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:

• King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention
• King County Sheriff's Office
• Municipal police departments within the county
• Washington State Patrol (for statewide records)

Finding Mugshots

To obtain official copies of mugshots in King County:

1. Submit a public records request to the arresting agency or jail facility
2. Provide specific identifying information including:
   • Full name of the individual
   • Date of birth
   • Approximate date of arrest
   • Case or booking number (if known)
3. Specify that you are seeking booking photographs
4. Pay applicable fees for reproduction

Can They Be Found Online

Some booking photographs may be available online through:

• The King County Jail inmate lookup system (current inmates only)
• Law enforcement agency websites (limited availability)
• Court records systems (attached to case files in some instances)

However, King County does not maintain a comprehensive public database of all booking photographs, unlike some other jurisdictions.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

For official copies of mugshots, contact:

King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention
500 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 296-1234
King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:

• Juvenile booking photographs have heightened confidentiality
• Photographs related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
• Certain sensitive cases (e.g., sexual assault victims) may have restricted access
• Commercial use of mugshots may be limited by Washington law

Requestors should note that while mugshots are generally available through proper channels, their publication and use may be subject to legal and ethical considerations. Washington state has enacted legislation to restrict commercial websites that post mugshots and then charge fees for removal.

Lookup Arrest Records in King County