Yakima County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Yakima County?

Inmate records in Yakima County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities that document the custody, care, and control of individuals who have been arrested, detained, or incarcerated within the county's jurisdiction. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Washington State law RCW 70.48.100, which establishes requirements for jail records management.

Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:

• Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
• Inmate records document the physical custody and supervision of individuals
• Court records are maintained by the Yakima County Clerk's Office
• Inmate records are maintained by the Yakima County Department of Corrections

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking process, when an individual is first taken into custody. During intake, correctional staff collect and document identifying information, medical screening data, property inventories, and charge information. These records are continuously updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, program participation, and other significant events. Upon release, records are finalized with discharge information but maintained according to state retention schedules.

The Yakima County Department of Corrections is the primary custodian of inmate records for individuals housed in county facilities, while the Washington State Department of Corrections maintains records for those serving sentences in state prisons.

Are Inmate Records Public In Yakima County?

Inmate records in Yakima County are partially public under Washington State's Public Records Act, RCW 42.56. This law establishes the presumption that government records, including certain inmate records, are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by statute. However, the disclosure of inmate records is subject to specific limitations outlined in RCW 70.48.100, which governs jail records.

The following inmate record information is generally available to the public:

• Current inmate roster (individuals currently in custody)
• Basic booking information (name, date of birth, booking date)
• Charges for which the individual is being held
• Bail or bond amounts, if applicable
• Expected release date (for sentenced individuals)
• Facility location where the individual is housed

Certain elements of inmate records are explicitly exempt from public disclosure to protect privacy, security, and safety concerns:

• Medical and mental health information
• Personal identifying information beyond basic demographics
• Disciplinary records
• Security classification information
• Victim or witness information
• Records related to juveniles held in adult facilities

Members of the public seeking inmate information can access basic custody status through the Yakima County Jail Inmate Lookup system, which provides real-time information on individuals currently in custody. More detailed records may require submission of a formal public records request to the Yakima County Department of Corrections.

What's Included Inmate Records in Yakima County

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

Basic Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and any known aliases
• Date of birth and age
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
• Booking photograph ("mugshot")
• Assigned inmate identification number
• Last known address (not publicly disclosed)
• Fingerprints and biometric data (restricted access)

Custody Information:

• Date and time of booking/intake
• Arresting agency and officer
• Housing assignment within the facility
• Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
• Disciplinary incidents and sanctions (restricted access)
• Program participation and work assignments
• Visitation logs and approved visitor list

Charge Information:

• Current charges (felony or misdemeanor)
• Warrant information, if applicable
• Case numbers associated with charges
• Arresting agency and jurisdiction
• Court of jurisdiction (District, Superior, Municipal)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond or bail amount set by court
• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond status (posted, not posted, revoked)
• Bond conditions imposed by court

Court Information:

• Next scheduled court appearance
• Court location and department
• Judge assigned to case
• Public defender or private attorney information

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

• Length of sentence
• Credit for time served
• Projected release date
• Probation or parole eligibility dates
• Special conditions of sentence

Release Information:

• Date and time of release
• Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
• Release conditions, if applicable
• Agency assuming custody if transferred

These records are maintained in compliance with the Washington State Criminal Records Privacy Act, which governs the dissemination of criminal history record information.

Yakima County Prison System

The Yakima County correctional system operates under a multi-tiered structure designed to accommodate various levels of custody requirements. The system primarily consists of county-operated detention facilities that house pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year, as prescribed by Washington State law.

The Yakima County Department of Corrections administers the county jail facilities, which are distinct from the Washington State prison system. County facilities typically house:

• Individuals awaiting trial who have not posted bail
• Persons serving sentences for misdemeanors (up to 364 days)
• Individuals serving short felony sentences (less than 12 months)
• Temporary holds for probation/parole violations
• Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities

By contrast, the Washington State Department of Corrections manages state prisons that house individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year.

The Yakima County correctional system also maintains intergovernmental agreements with federal agencies, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Marshals Service, to house federal detainees on a contractual basis.

Yakima County Department of Corrections
111 North Front Street
Yakima, WA 98901
509-574-1700
Yakima County Department of Corrections

Types of Correctional Facilities In Yakima County

Yakima County maintains several distinct correctional facilities, each serving specific populations and security needs within the local justice system:

Yakima County Jail (Main Facility)
111 North Front Street
Yakima, WA 98901
509-574-1700
Yakima County Department of Corrections

This maximum-security facility serves as the primary detention center for Yakima County. The main jail houses pre-trial detainees, sentenced inmates serving less than one year, and individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions. The facility provides various inmate programs including educational services, substance abuse treatment, and religious services.

Yakima County Restitution Center
1917 Englewood Avenue
Yakima, WA 98902
509-574-1600
Yakima County Restitution Center

This minimum-security facility houses non-violent offenders who participate in work release programs. Residents may leave the facility for employment during the day but must return in the evening. The center focuses on rehabilitation, employment skills, and community reintegration.

Yakima City Jail
200 South 3rd Street
Yakima, WA 98901
509-575-6200
Yakima City Jail

The City of Yakima contracts with the Yakima County Department of Corrections for the housing of most inmates, but maintains a small holding facility for temporary detention of individuals arrested by the Yakima Police Department before transfer to county facilities.

Yakima County Juvenile Detention Center
1728 Jerome Avenue
Yakima, WA 98902
509-574-2100
Yakima County Juvenile Court

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders under the age of 18. The center provides educational services, counseling, and rehabilitation programs specifically designed for youth. This facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities and emphasizes rehabilitation and education.

Each facility maintains its own specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options based on the population served and security classification.

Who's in Prison In Yakima County

The Yakima County correctional facilities house a diverse population of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

• Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
• Persons who have not posted bail or bond
• Those deemed flight risks or public safety concerns by the courts
• Individuals awaiting competency evaluations or restoration

Sentenced Offenders:

• Persons convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to 364 days
• Individuals convicted of gross misdemeanors (sentences typically up to 364 days)
• Those serving short felony sentences (less than 12 months)
• Offenders participating in alternative sentencing programs

Special Populations:

• Individuals held on probation or parole violations
• Persons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
• Those temporarily housed for court appearances
• Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences

Contract Detainees:

• Federal detainees held under intergovernmental agreements
• Immigration detainees awaiting administrative proceedings
• Individuals held for other counties under mutual aid agreements

According to data from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, Yakima County facilities typically operate at or near capacity, with an average daily population that fluctuates between 700-800 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects the broader community, though with disproportionate representation of certain populations consistent with national incarceration trends.

The average length of stay varies significantly based on case type, with pre-trial felony detainees often remaining in custody for several months while misdemeanor sentences typically range from a few days to several months.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Yakima County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Yakima County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide real-time data on individuals in custody. The following procedures apply for conducting inmate record searches:

Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Visit the Yakima County Jail Inmate Lookup portal
2. Accept the terms and conditions of use
3. Enter search criteria (last name, first name, or booking number)
4. Review results showing current custody status, charges, and bail information
5. Note that the system only displays individuals currently in custody

Telephone Inquiry:

1. Contact the Yakima County Department of Corrections at 509-574-1700
2. Provide the full name and date of birth of the individual
3. Request basic custody status information
4. Be prepared to verify your identity
5. Note that detailed information may require a formal records request

In-Person Request:

1. Visit the Yakima County Department of Corrections at 111 North Front Street, Yakima, WA 98901
2. Complete an information request form at the public counter
3. Present valid government-issued identification
4. Specify the information being requested
5. Pay applicable fees for copies if records are provided

Formal Public Records Request:

1. Submit a written request to the Yakima County Public Records Officer
2. Include specific details about the records sought
3. Provide contact information for response
4. Allow 5 business days for initial response per RCW 42.56.520
5. Be prepared to pay applicable fees for research and copies

For information about individuals who may be in state prison rather than county jail, the Washington State Department of Corrections Incarcerated Search provides a statewide database of currently incarcerated individuals.

Court records related to criminal cases may be accessed through the Washington Courts Case Search portal, which includes Yakima County Superior Court records.

How To Find an Inmate in Yakima County for Free?

Yakima County provides several no-cost methods for locating individuals in custody within the county correctional system. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to family members, legal representatives, and other interested parties:

Yakima County Online Inmate Lookup:

1. Access the Yakima County Jail Inmate Lookup website
2. No account creation or login is required
3. Enter the individual's last name (minimum requirement)
4. Add first name or booking number for more precise results
5. View current custody status, charges, and bail information
6. Note that the system is updated in real-time as bookings and releases occur

Automated Telephone Information System:

1. Call the Yakima County Department of Corrections at 509-574-1700
2. Select the automated inmate information option from the menu
3. Follow voice prompts to enter the inmate's name or booking number
4. Receive basic custody status information
5. Available 24 hours per day, seven days per week

Washington State Department of Corrections Search:

1. Visit the Washington DOC Incarcerated Search portal
2. Enter the individual's name or DOC number
3. Review results for individuals in state custody
4. Access information on facility location and earliest release date
5. Useful for determining if someone has been transferred to state custody

Court Records Search:

1. Access the Washington Courts Case Search
2. Search by name to locate criminal cases in Yakima County
3. Review case information including hearing dates
4. Determine if an individual has pending court appearances
5. Access is free, though detailed document copies may require fees

These free resources provide basic custody information but may not include comprehensive details about an individual's case, medical status, or other protected information. For more detailed records, a formal public records request may be necessary, which could involve processing fees in accordance with Washington State's Public Records Act.

How To Visit an Inmate In Yakima County

Visitation with inmates housed in Yakima County correctional facilities is governed by established policies designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

• All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
• Inmates may submit visitor applications during their first week of incarceration
• Each inmate is permitted up to 8 approved visitors on their list
• Changes to visitor lists are processed on the 1st and 15th of each month
• Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
• All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification

Visit Schedule:

• Main Jail: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Restitution Center: Saturday-Sunday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Visits are typically limited to 30 minutes
• Maximum of two visitors per inmate per session
• Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
• Schedule is subject to modification during holidays or facility emergencies

What to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Vehicle keys (all other items must be secured in lockers)
• Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
• Baby care items if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)
• Visiting order confirmation (for scheduled video visits)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind
• Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras)
• Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
• Food or beverages
• Purses, bags, or backpacks
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Cash exceeding $20 (for vending machines where available)

Dress Code:

• Conservative attire required
• No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut tops, see-through materials)
• No gang-related colors or symbols
• No clothing resembling inmate attire (solid orange, khaki, or white)
• Appropriate footwear required (no flip-flops)
• No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)

Visit Types:

• In-person non-contact visits (through glass partition)
• Video visitation (on-site terminals)
• Remote video visitation (from approved devices, fees apply)
• Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
• Special visits (with prior approval from facility administration)

Visit Restrictions:

• Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
• Persons on probation or parole require written permission from their supervising officer
• Visitors with criminal histories may be denied based on security assessment
• Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination and possible suspension of privileges
• All visits are subject to monitoring and recording except attorney visits

These policies are established pursuant to RCW 70.48.090, which authorizes local correctional facilities to establish reasonable rules for the conduct of inmates and visitors.

How To Send Money to a Yakima County Inmate

Yakima 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. The following options are currently available:

Online Deposits:

1. Visit the TouchPay Payment Services website
2. Select "Yakima County Department of Corrections" from the facility list
3. Create an account or proceed as a guest
4. Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
5. Select payment amount and method (credit/debit card)
6. Complete transaction and retain confirmation number
7. Funds are typically available within 24 hours
8. Service fees apply (percentage based on deposit amount)

Lobby Kiosk Deposits:

1. Visit the Yakima County Jail lobby at 111 North Front Street, Yakima, WA 98901
2. Locate the TouchPay kiosk in the public lobby area
3. Follow on-screen instructions to identify the inmate
4. Insert cash or credit/debit card for payment
5. Obtain printed receipt as confirmation
6. Funds are typically available within 1-4 hours
7. Lobby is accessible 24 hours daily
8. Lower service fees than online deposits

Mail-In Money Orders:

1. Purchase a money order payable to "Yakima County Department of Corrections"
2. Write inmate's full name and booking number on money order
3. Include sender's full name and return address
4. Mail to: Yakima County Department of Corrections, Inmate Accounts, 111 North Front Street, Yakima, WA 98901
5. Do not send cash, personal checks, or correspondence with money orders
6. Funds typically available within 5-7 business days
7. No service fees for money orders
8. Maximum amount per money order: $300

Amount Limits:

• Maximum single deposit: $300
• Maximum weekly deposit total: $500
• Maximum account balance: $1,000
• Special approval required for higher amounts

Deposit Fees:

• Online credit/debit card: $2.95 + 3.5% of deposit amount
• Lobby kiosk (cash): $2.00 flat fee
• Lobby kiosk (credit/debit): $2.00 + 3% of deposit amount
• Mail-in money orders: No fee

Prohibited Uses of Funds:

• Bail or bond payments
• Court fines or fees
• Restitution payments
• Transfers to other inmates
• Outside purchases beyond approved vendors

Approved Uses of Funds:

• Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, clothing)
• Telephone account funding
• Medical co-pays
• Haircuts and other personal services
• Release funds upon discharge

Upon an inmate's release, any remaining balance will be returned via debit card or check. Unclaimed funds are held according to state abandoned property laws.

How To Send Jail Mail In Yakima County

Correspondence with individuals incarcerated in Yakima County facilities follows specific guidelines to ensure security and efficient processing. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations as outlined below:

General Mailing Instructions:

1. Address envelopes clearly with the following format:

   Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number
   Yakima County Department of Corrections
   111 North Front Street
   Yakima, WA 98901
   

2. Include complete return address with sender's full name
3. Use standard white envelopes (maximum size 9" x 12")
4. Write in blue or black ink only
5. Mail lacking proper addressing will be returned to sender
6. All incoming mail is opened and inspected before delivery

Permitted Mail Items:

• Personal letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
• Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical or electronic components)
• Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, 4" x 6" size only)
• Money orders (must be in separate envelope addressed to Inmate Accounts)
• Legal documents (clearly marked as "Legal Mail")
• Religious materials (subject to review by facility chaplain)

Prohibited Mail Items:

• Packages of any kind
• Cash, personal checks, or currency
• Postage stamps or pre-stamped envelopes
• Stickers, labels, or tape
• Crayon, marker, colored pencil, or glitter
• Polaroid photographs
• Laminated items
• Cardboard or hardcover materials
• Items with perfume, lipstick, or unknown substances
• Sexually explicit materials or photographs
• Gang-related content or symbols

Legal Mail:

• Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
• Must be sent by attorney, court, or legal agency
• Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
• Subject to inspection for contraband but not read for content
• Attorney must include bar number on correspondence

Electronic Messaging:

1. Visit SmartJailMail
2. Create an account and purchase message credits
3. Compose message (maximum 2,000 characters)
4. Attach photos if desired (additional fee applies)
5. Submit for review and delivery
6. Messages typically delivered within 24 hours
7. Fees apply per message and attachment

Mail Restrictions:

• Inmates in disciplinary segregation may have limited mail privileges
• Correspondence between inmates at different facilities requires approval
• Mail may be rejected if it contains threats, criminal activity, escape plans, or contraband
• Senders of rejected mail will receive notification of rejection and reason
• Appeals of mail rejection may be submitted to the facility administrator

All mail policies are established in accordance with Washington Administrative Code 137-48, which governs correspondence in correctional facilities.

Lookup Inmate Records in Yakima County

Washington State Department of Corrections inmate search

Yakima City Jail information

Yakima County Jail Inmate Lookup system

Washington Courts case search portal

Washington State criminal procedure laws