King County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In King County?

Inmate records in King County are official government documents maintained by the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) that document the custody status and relevant information of individuals held in county correctional facilities. These records constitute the official documentation of an individual's incarceration history within the county jail system, as distinguished from court records which document legal proceedings.

Pursuant to Washington State Public Records Act RCW 42.56, inmate records are created at the time of booking and intake into a King County correctional facility. The record creation process begins when an individual is processed into custody, with information collected including:

• Biographical and demographic data
• Arrest information
• Booking photographs
• Charge information
• Custody classification
• Housing assignments
• Disciplinary records
• Medical screening information (subject to privacy restrictions)
• Visitation logs
• Release information

Inmate records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect changes in status, housing assignments, court appearances, and other relevant events. Upon release, records are maintained according to the Washington State Records Retention Schedule, though they transition from active to archived status.

The legal definition and parameters for inmate records are established under RCW 70.48.100, which governs jail records and booking information in Washington State.

Are Inmate Records Public In King County?

Inmate records in King County are partially public under Washington State law. The Washington Public Records Act (PRA) RCW 42.56 establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate records, are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by statute.

Under current law, the following inmate record components are generally considered public information:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information
• Charges filed
• Custody status
• Expected release dates (for sentenced individuals)
• Facility location

However, significant exemptions exist under RCW 42.56.240 for certain types of information contained within inmate records:

• Medical and mental health records
• Information that would compromise facility security
• Records pertaining to juveniles
• Information that would endanger an individual's safety
• Certain investigative records

The King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention maintains a publicly accessible inmate lookup system that provides limited information consistent with these legal parameters. This system allows members of the public to verify if an individual is currently in custody and obtain basic information about their status.

It is important to note that while mugshots (booking photographs) are technically public records in Washington State, King County does not routinely publish these images online as part of their inmate lookup system, though they may be obtained through formal public records requests in many circumstances.

What's Included Inmate Records in King County

Inmate records in King County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth
• Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Booking number/inmate ID
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity (as self-reported or observed)

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking
• Arresting agency
• Booking officer
• Custody classification
• Housing assignment
• Disciplinary incidents and hearings
• Grievances filed
• Property inventory

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges (initial and amended)
• Charge severity (felony, misdemeanor)
• Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
• Warrant information (if applicable)
• Case numbers

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount(s)
• Bond type
• Bond status (posted, denied)
• Court-ordered conditions of release

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Judge assigned
• Court dates
• Court appearances
• Court orders

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Sentence length
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Sentence conditions
• Good time/work time credits
• Probation/parole eligibility

Release Information:

• Release date and time
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions
• Post-release supervision requirements

Access to specific components of these records varies based on the requestor's identity, purpose, and applicable exemptions under the Washington Public Records Act.

King County Prison System

The King County correctional system operates under the authority of the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD), which manages the county's jail facilities for adults and separate detention facilities for juveniles. This system primarily houses individuals awaiting trial, serving sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state prison facilities.

The King County correctional system is distinct from the Washington State Department of Corrections, which operates state prisons for individuals serving felony sentences longer than one year. County facilities focus on pre-trial detention, short-term sentences for misdemeanors and some felonies, and providing reentry services for those returning to the community.

The King County jail system currently houses approximately 1,900 inmates daily across its facilities, though capacity and population fluctuate based on criminal justice trends, court backlogs, and policy changes.

For information regarding the King County correctional system, members of the public may contact:

King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention
500 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-296-1234
King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention

Types of Correctional Facilities In King County

King County operates several distinct correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations:

King County Correctional Facility (KCCF)
500 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-296-1234
King County Correctional Facility

The KCCF, located in downtown Seattle, is the county's primary intake and detention facility. This maximum/medium security facility processes approximately 30,000 bookings annually. The facility houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates, with a capacity of approximately 1,250 individuals. KCCF provides medical services, mental health treatment, educational programs, and religious services.

Maleng Regional Justice Center (MRJC)
401 4th Avenue North
Kent, WA 98032
Phone: 206-205-9700
Maleng Regional Justice Center

The MRJC in Kent serves as a secondary adult detention facility with a capacity of approximately 650 inmates. This facility houses both pre-trial and sentenced individuals, primarily from the south King County region. The MRJC includes courtrooms, allowing for judicial proceedings to take place on-site, reducing transportation needs.

Community Corrections Division (CCD)
401 4th Avenue North
Kent, WA 98032
Phone: 206-477-0600
Community Corrections Division

The CCD administers alternative sentencing programs including work release, electronic home monitoring, and community work programs. These alternatives allow eligible individuals to serve their sentences while maintaining employment and community connections.

King County Children and Family Justice Center
1211 East Alder Street
Seattle, WA 98122
Phone: 206-263-9300
King County Juvenile Detention

This facility houses juvenile detainees (under 18) and includes juvenile courtrooms and support services. The juvenile detention component is operated by DAJD, while other youth services are provided by partner agencies.

Who's in Prison In King County

The King County jail population consists of several distinct categories of individuals:

Pre-trial Detainees: The majority of individuals in King County custody (approximately 65-70%) are awaiting trial and have not been convicted of the charges for which they are being held. These individuals are detained either because they could not post bail, were denied bail due to public safety concerns, or are being held on a no-bail warrant.

Sentenced Misdemeanants: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses (crimes punishable by up to 364 days in jail) serve their sentences in county facilities. These offenses typically include DUI, simple assault, theft under $750, trespassing, and similar lower-level crimes.

Short-term Felony Sentences: Some individuals convicted of lower-level felonies with sentences of less than one year may serve their time in county jail rather than state prison.

Transfer Pending: Individuals who have been sentenced to state prison (sentences over one year) but are awaiting transfer to a Department of Corrections facility.

Contract Inmates: King County occasionally houses inmates from other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, or cities) based on interagency agreements.

Probation/Parole Violators: Individuals who have violated terms of community supervision may be held in county jail pending hearings or as a sanction.

According to data from the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention, the average daily population includes:

• Approximately 75-80% male and 20-25% female inmates
• Racial demographics that include approximately 40% White, 30% Black, 10% Hispanic/Latino, 5% Asian/Pacific Islander, 3% Native American, and 12% other/unknown
• Age distribution primarily between 18-55 years, with the largest segment being 25-34 years old
• Average length of stay of approximately 21 days, though this varies significantly based on case type and status

How To Search for Inmate Records In King County in 2026

Members of the public seeking information about individuals in King County custody may utilize several methods to access inmate records. The King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention currently provides multiple options for locating inmate information:

Online Inmate Lookup System:

1. Visit the King County Subject Lookup tool
2. Enter the individual's name (last name, first name) or booking number if known
3. Review search results, which include:
   • Full name
   • Booking number
   • Facility location
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Next court date (if scheduled)

Telephone Information System:

1. Call the King County Jail Inmate Information Line at 206-296-1234
2. Follow automated prompts to search by name or booking number
3. The system provides basic custody status information

In-Person Inquiry:

1. Visit the public counter at either the King County Correctional Facility in Seattle or the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
2. Provide the name of the individual you are inquiring about
3. Staff can provide publicly available information about custody status

Public Records Request: For more detailed inmate records beyond basic custody information:

1. Submit a formal public records request through the King County Public Records Request Portal
2. Specify the information sought and the individual's identifying information
3. Requests are processed according to Washington Public Records Act timelines
4. Some information may be redacted pursuant to exemptions under RCW 42.56

For individuals seeking information about someone in Washington State prison (rather than county jail), the Washington Department of Corrections Incarcerated Search provides a separate database.

How To Find an Inmate in King County for Free?

King County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody:

Online Subject Lookup Tool: The most efficient method for locating an inmate at no cost is through the King County Subject Lookup portal. This free online database is updated regularly and provides:

1. Current custody status
2. Facility location
3. Booking date
4. Charges
5. Next court date information

To use this system:

• Enter the person's last name and first name
• For more precise results, include middle initial if known
• Alternatively, search by booking number if available
• Review matching records, which display current inmates only

Automated Telephone System: The King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention maintains a free automated phone system at 206-296-1234. This system provides:

1. Verification of custody status
2. Basic booking information
3. Next court date (if scheduled)

Juvenile Detention Inquiries: For locating juveniles (under 18) in detention:

1. Call the dedicated juvenile detention line at 206-263-9300
2. Due to additional privacy protections for minors, limited information is available
3. Staff may require proof of relationship to the juvenile

Court Records Search: The Washington Courts Case Search provides free access to court case information, which may indicate if someone is in custody:

1. Search by name to locate case numbers
2. Review case information for custody status indicators
3. Note that court records may not reflect real-time custody status

Visiting Information Desks: During normal business hours, the public information desks at both King County jail facilities provide free verification of an individual's custody status:

King County Correctional Facility Information Desk
500 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

Maleng Regional Justice Center Information Desk
401 4th Avenue North
Kent, WA 98032
Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

How To Visit an Inmate In King County

Visitation with inmates in King County correctional facilities follows established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important personal connections. The following guidelines apply to all visits:

Visit Types:

• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, social workers)
• Personal visits (family, friends)
• Video visits (remote option)

Visit Rules and Procedures:

1. All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
2. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an authorized adult
3. Visitors must clear security screening before each visit
4. Visitors with active warrants or criminal cases pending may be denied entry
5. Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
6. Maximum of two visitors per inmate per visit session

Visit Schedule:

• Professional visits: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
• Personal visits: Vary by housing unit and facility
• Video visits: Available 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
• Visit duration: 30 minutes for in-person visits; 30 or 60 minutes for video visits

Specific visiting hours for each housing unit are available on the King County Jail Visitation page.

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Visiting registration confirmation (for scheduled visits)
• Essential medical items (with prior approval)
• Vehicle keys (no other keys permitted)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches)
• Cameras or recording devices
• Food or beverages
• Tobacco products or vaping devices
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20

Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to the facility dress code, which prohibits:

• Revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
• Gang-affiliated clothing or colors
• Clothing with offensive language/images
• Hats (except religious headwear)
• Excessively baggy clothing
• See-through fabrics

Visit Restrictions: Visitation privileges may be suspended or modified under the following circumstances:

• Facility lockdown or emergency
• Disciplinary action against the inmate
• Visitor misconduct during previous visits
• Court-ordered no-contact provisions
• Medical quarantine

All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and public health considerations. Current visitation rules are governed by Washington Administrative Code 137-28-360, which establishes standards for correctional facility visitation.

How To Send Money to a King County Inmate

King County provides several methods for depositing funds into an inmate's account. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.

Deposit Methods:

1. Online Deposits

   • Visit the King County Inmate Account Deposits portal
   • Create an account or log in
   • Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
   • Complete payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
   • Service fees: 3.5% for credit/debit cards, $1.50 for electronic checks
   • Funds typically available within 1-2 hours

2. Kiosk Deposits

   • Self-service kiosks are located in the lobby of both jail facilities
   • Available 24/7 for cash or credit/debit card deposits
   • Maximum single deposit: $300
   • Service fee: $2.00 per transaction
   • Funds available immediately

3. Mail-In Money Orders

   • Send money order (no personal checks) to: King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention Inmate Accounts 500 Fifth Avenue Seattle, WA 98104
   • Include inmate's full name and booking number
   • No service fee
   • Processing time: 3-5 business days

4. In-Person Deposits

   • Visit either jail facility during business hours (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday)
   • Cash or money orders accepted
   • No service fee
   • Funds available same day

Amount Limits:

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit: $500
• Maximum account balance: $950
• Special approval required for higher amounts

What Money Can Be Used For:

• Commissary items (hygiene products, snacks, clothing)
• Telephone calls
• Video visitation fees
• Medical co-pays
• Release funds

What Money Cannot Be Used For:

• Payment of fines or restitution (separate process)
• Bail or bond payments (separate process)
• Transfers to other inmates
• Outside purchases

Additional Information:

• Funds remaining at release will be returned via debit card
• Deposits from victims of the inmate's alleged crime may be rejected
• Suspicious transactions may be investigated and held
• All deposits are subject to collection of court-ordered financial obligations pursuant to RCW 72.09.480

For questions regarding inmate accounts, contact: King County DAJD Inmate Accounts Phone: 206-296-1234 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

How To Send Jail Mail In King County

Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in King County facilities follows specific guidelines to ensure security while maintaining important connections. All mail, except legal/privileged correspondence, is subject to inspection.

General Mail Guidelines:

1. Addressing Requirements:

   • Clearly print the inmate's full name and booking number
   • Use the appropriate facility address:

   For King County Correctional Facility:

   Inmate Full Name, Booking Number
   King County Correctional Facility
   500 Fifth Avenue
   Seattle, WA 98104
   

   For Maleng Regional Justice Center:

   Inmate Full Name, Booking Number
   Maleng Regional Justice Center
   401 4th Avenue North
   Kent, WA 98032
   

2. Return Address Requirements:

   • Sender's full name required
   • Complete return address required
   • Mail without return address will be rejected

Permitted Mail Items:

• Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no Polaroids, maximum size 4"x6")
• Money orders (see money sending guidelines)
• Paperback books and magazines (must be sent directly from publisher or approved vendor)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Hardcover books
• Packages or padded envelopes
• Plastic or metal items of any kind
• Stickers or adhesive labels
• Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
• Perfumed or scented items
• Cash or personal checks
• Postage stamps or envelopes
• Sexually explicit materials
• Gang-related content
• Items larger than 9"x12"

Legal/Privileged Mail:

• Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" or "Privileged Correspondence"
• Must include attorney bar number or official agency letterhead
• Opened in the presence of the inmate
• Not read by staff but inspected for contraband

Electronic Messaging: King County currently offers a secure electronic messaging system:

1. Create an account on the King County Inmate Email System
2. Purchase message credits
3. Compose and send messages (subject to same content restrictions as physical mail)
4. Messages typically delivered within 24 hours
5. Fees: $0.50 per message, photos $0.50 additional

All mail procedures comply with Washington Administrative Code 137-48, which governs inmate mail in correctional facilities.

For questions regarding mail policies, contact: King County DAJD Mail Room Phone: 206-296-1234 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Lookup Inmate Records in King County

Subject Lookup tool for adults in King County jails

King County Jail Inmate Search Portal

Washington State Department of Corrections Incarcerated Search

Washington Courts Case Records Search