Yakima County Jail Booking gives the public instant access to current inmate records, including full names, booking numbers, admission dates, release schedules, charges, bond amounts, and upcoming court dates. The system is managed by the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office at 128 N 2nd Street, Yakima, WA 98901, and runs 24/7. During business hours, call the Records Division at (509) 894-3300 for help. The online portal updates every 15 minutes and shows live booking photos, crime types, housing units, and court calendars. A downloadable PDF guide explains how to visit, send money, or request records. Confidential data like arrest reports are protected under Washington law (RCW 70.48.100), but law enforcement can get them through a FOIA request with a case number.
How to Search for an Inmate in Yakima County
Anyone can search for an inmate using the official Yakima County Inmate Lookup tool. Enter the person’s full legal name, booking ID, or birthdate. Results appear in seconds and show mugshots, housing location, bond amount, and next court date. The search works on phones, tablets, and computers. It’s free and does not require an account. For out-of-state families, staff at (509) 894-3300 can verify basic info over the phone. Always use the most recent booking number for accuracy. The roster refreshes every 15 minutes, so new arrests show up fast.
What Information Is Public in Yakima County Jail Records?
The jail roster includes names, booking photos, charges, bond amounts, housing units, and court dates. This data is public under Washington state law. However, arrest reports, forensic details, medical records, and personal identifiers are not shared. Only law enforcement or authorized agencies can access those through a formal FOIA request. The jail protects privacy while staying transparent. Families and attorneys can see enough to plan visits or legal steps. Media requests for mugshots go to the Media Relations Office at 509-574-1700.
Visiting an Inmate: Rules, Hours, and Requirements
Visits happen at 104 N 1st Street, across from the main jail entrance. Hours are 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. Weekend evenings may have extra slots. All visitors must bring a government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license or passport. A background check through Securus is required before approval. Remote video visits are available via the Securus Mobile App for iOS and Android. Download the app to schedule, check status, or get alerts. No more than two visitors per inmate per session. Children under 18 must be with an adult.
Sending Money to an Inmate Trust Account
Money can be sent by mail or online. For mail, use a sealed envelope addressed to Yakima County Jail. Write the inmate’s full name, housing unit, and booking number clearly. Mark “For Deposit Only” on the outside. Only checks, money orders, or cashier’s checks are accepted. Do not send cash. The finance office adds funds within two business days. A receipt is mailed if requested. Online deposits use the county’s e-payment system linked from the Inmate Lookup page. Fees may apply. Keep your confirmation number for tracking.
Yakima County Jail Facilities and Security Levels
The main jail holds over 1,400 inmates across minimum, medium, and maximum security units. The Department of Corrections employs more than 250 staff, including officers, nurses, and counselors. Programs include GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and job training. The annex facility at 111 North Front Street handles overflow and special cases. Both sites follow strict safety rules and daily inspections. Inmates are assigned based on behavior, risk level, and court orders. Transfers between units happen as needed.
Court Dates, Hearings, and Legal Updates
Every inmate’s next court date appears on the public roster. Users can sort by name, charge, or hearing time. The system pulls data directly from the county clerk’s office. Changes due to continuances or emergencies update within hours. Attorneys and families should check daily. Missed hearings can lead to bench warrants. The V.I.N.E. portal lets victims track case progress and get alerts. For detailed dockets, visit the Washington State Courts website or call the Yakima County Clerk.
Emergency Contacts and Support Services
The Yakima County Sheriff’s Office handles all jail operations. For non-emergency questions, call (509) 894-3300. Media inquiries go to 509-574-1700. Victims can register for free notifications through V.I.N.E. at vine.wa.gov. Mental health crisis support is available 24/7 through the jail’s medical team. Families in distress can contact the county’s social services line at (509) 574-2900. All calls are confidential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yakima County Jail Booking
People often ask how to find an inmate, when visits are allowed, or how to send money. Others want to know if mugshots are public or how to get arrest reports. Some worry about safety, privacy, or legal rights. Below are clear answers to the most common questions based on current policies and state law.
How often does the Yakima County Jail roster update?
The roster updates every 15 minutes to reflect new bookings, releases, and transfers. This ensures families and attorneys see the latest status. The timestamp at the top of the page shows when it was last refreshed. During busy times, such as weekends or holidays, updates may happen even faster. The system pulls data directly from the jail’s central database, so there’s no delay. Users can refresh their browser to see changes instantly. This real-time access helps avoid confusion about an inmate’s location or court schedule.
Can I visit an inmate without being on the approved list?
No. All visitors must pass a background check through Securus before approval. You cannot visit unless your name is on the inmate’s visitor list. The inmate adds names during intake or later through staff. Once approved, you’ll get a confirmation code. Bring this and your ID to the visitation center. Walk-ins are not allowed. If you’re denied, you can appeal by calling the jail’s visitation office. Reasons for denial include past violations, criminal history, or safety concerns.
Are booking photos (mugshots) available to the public?
Yes, mugshots appear on the public roster and are considered public record. However, media or third parties must request them through the Media Relations Office at 509-574-1700. The jail does not email or mail photos directly to individuals. Photos are removed if charges are dropped or expunged. Under Washington law, publishing mugshots online is allowed but controversial. The jail balances transparency with privacy rights. Always verify the person’s identity before sharing any image.
How do I request arrest reports or jail records?
Arrest reports and internal records are not public. Only law enforcement, attorneys, or authorized agencies can get them. Submit a FOIA request to the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office. Include the case number, inmate name, and reason for the request. Processing takes 5–10 business days. Fees may apply for copies. Some records are permanently sealed, especially in juvenile or sensitive cases. For court documents, use the Washington Courts Case Search tool instead.
What happens if an inmate misses their court date?
If an inmate misses court, the judge may issue a bench warrant. This means the person will be arrested and held without bail until the next hearing. The jail notifies the court immediately. Families should monitor the roster daily. If the inmate is sick or has an emergency, their attorney must inform the court. Failure to appear can add new charges, increase bond, or delay release. Always keep contact info current with the jail’s records office.
Can I send packages or letters to an inmate?
Letters are allowed but must follow strict rules. Use plain white envelopes with black ink. Include the inmate’s full name, booking number, and your return address. No stickers, drawings, or colored paper. Packages are not accepted except for approved medical items. All mail is inspected for contraband. Books must come directly from publishers or bookstores. Softcover only—no hardcovers. Send mail to: Yakima County Jail, 111 North Front Street, Yakima, WA 98901. Rejected items are returned or destroyed.
How do I check if someone was released from Yakima County Jail?
Use the Inmate Lookup tool and search by name or booking number. If no results appear, the person has likely been released. The roster only shows current inmates. For confirmation, call (509) 894-3300 during business hours. Staff can verify release dates and final charges. Released inmates may still have pending court dates elsewhere. Check the state DOC website for prison transfers. Always keep records of your search for legal or personal use.
Official Website: https://www.yakimacounty.us/2240/Inmate-Lookup
Phone: (509) 894-3300 (Records Division)
Visiting Hours: 8:45 a.m.–10:15 a.m. and 1 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Address: 111 North Front Street, Yakima, WA 98901