Pierce County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Pierce County
Arrest records in Pierce County are considered public records under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). This statute establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. 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. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement on suspicion of criminal activity, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through legal proceedings. Under Washington state law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exemptions may apply pursuant to RCW 42.56.240, which protects specific investigative information.
The Washington State Patrol maintains the official criminal history record information system for the state and provides guidance on law enforcement records policies. According to the Washington State Patrol's Criminal History Records Section, certain information may be redacted from public arrest records to protect ongoing investigations, confidential informants, or personal privacy in specific circumstances.
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Pierce County should be aware that while these records are generally available, certain information may be withheld or redacted in accordance with statutory exemptions. Additionally, juvenile arrest records are subject to different rules regarding public disclosure under RCW 13.50.050.
What's in Pierce County Arrest Records
Pierce County arrest records contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interaction with law enforcement during and following an arrest. These records typically include several categories of information as detailed below:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (first, middle, last)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Address at time of arrest
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Arresting officer's name and badge number
- Circumstances leading to arrest
- Whether force was used during arrest
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statute or ordinance citations
- Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor)
- Charge severity level
- Description of alleged criminal activity
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date issued
- Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
- Warrant status
Booking Information:
- Booking number
- Date and time of booking
- Booking facility
- Processing officer information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount set
- Bond type
- Whether bail was posted
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court case number
- Assigned court
- Scheduled court appearances
- Judge assigned to case
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Facility where detained (if applicable)
- Release date (if applicable)
- Release conditions (if applicable)
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history
- Criminal history summary
- Risk assessment information
- Medical screening notes (non-confidential)
- Property inventory from booking
- Emergency contact information
The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency's protocols and the circumstances of the arrest. Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of these records in accordance with Washington state law exemptions.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Pierce County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Pierce County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing arrest records:
In-Person Requests:
Individuals may submit requests in person at the Pierce County Sheriff's Department Records Division:
Pierce County Sheriff's Department
930 Tacoma Avenue South
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7530
Pierce County Sheriff's Department
Operating hours for public record requests are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays. Requestors should:
- Complete a public disclosure request form
- Provide specific information about the record sought (name, date of birth, case number if known)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable fees (currently $0.15 per page for copies)
Written Requests:
Written requests may be submitted via mail to the address above or via email to the designated public records officer. Pursuant to RCW 42.56.520, agencies must respond to requests within five business days by:
- Providing the record
- Acknowledging receipt and providing an estimated time for response
- Requesting clarification
- Denying the request with specific reasons for denial
Online Requests:
The Pierce County Sheriff's Department accepts public records requests through the county's online portal. Requestors should:
- Visit the Pierce County Public Records Request Portal
- Create an account or log in
- Complete the electronic request form with specific details
- Submit the request
- Monitor email for updates on request status
For arrest records related to specific court cases, the Pierce County Clerk's Office maintains court records:
Pierce County Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue South, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Clerk
Requestors should note that certain information may be redacted from arrest records in accordance with exemptions under state law. Processing times vary based on the complexity of the request and current department workload.
How To Find Pierce County Arrest Records Online
Pierce County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records electronically. These digital platforms offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests. The following online methods are currently available:
The primary online system for accessing Pierce County arrest records is the Legal Information Network Exchange (LINX). This comprehensive database contains information on arrests, court cases, and inmate status. To utilize this resource:
- Navigate to the Pierce County LINX system
- Select the appropriate search category (criminal cases, jail inmates)
- Enter search criteria (name, case number, date range)
- Review the results list for relevant records
- Select specific records to view detailed information
The Pierce County Sheriff's Department also maintains an online inmate roster that provides information about currently incarcerated individuals. This resource includes:
- Inmate name and booking number
- Charges
- Booking date
- Scheduled release date (when available)
- Court information
To access this information:
- Visit the Pierce County Corrections Bureau Inmate Search
- Enter the individual's name or booking number
- Review the results for custody status and basic arrest information
For court records related to arrests, the Washington State Courts search portal provides access to case information:
- Access the Washington Courts Search Case Records
- Select "Pierce County" from the jurisdiction menu
- Enter search criteria (name, case number)
- Review results for case information related to arrests
Users should be aware that online systems may not contain complete arrest record information. Some details may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws, and older records may not be fully digitized. Additionally, access to certain online systems may require registration or payment of fees for detailed information.
For the most comprehensive arrest record information, combining online searches with formal public records requests is recommended.
How To Search Pierce County Arrest Records for Free?
Pierce County residents and other interested parties may access arrest records without cost through several available channels. The following methods provide free access to arrest record information:
Public Access Terminals:
The Pierce County Sheriff's Department and Pierce County Courthouse maintain public access computer terminals that allow free on-site searches of arrest records and related court information:
Pierce County-City Building
930 Tacoma Avenue South
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7400
Pierce County
These terminals are available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM) and do not require payment for basic searches. Users should:
- Check in with reception upon arrival
- Specify the need to use public access terminals
- Be prepared to show identification
- Follow time limits if others are waiting
Online Resources:
Several free online resources provide access to Pierce County arrest information:
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The Pierce County Corrections Inmate Search allows free searches of current jail population and recent bookings.
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The Pierce County Sheriff's Department Daily Bulletin provides information about recent significant arrests and incidents at no cost.
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The Washington State Courts JIS-Link offers free basic case information searches, including criminal cases resulting from arrests.
Public Records Requests:
While copying fees may apply for physical documents, the initial submission of public records requests incurs no cost. Pursuant to RCW 42.56.120, agencies may charge for copies but not for the time spent locating records. Requestors may:
- Submit requests in person, by mail, or through the Pierce County Public Records Portal
- Specify the desire to inspect records rather than receive copies
- View records at no charge during a scheduled appointment
- Take notes or photographs of records during inspection (subject to agency policies)
Public Library Resources:
The Pierce County Library System provides free computer access that can be used to search public arrest record databases:
Pierce County Library System Administration
3005 112th Street East
Tacoma, WA 98446
(253) 548-3300
Pierce County Library System
Library staff can assist patrons in locating appropriate online resources for arrest record searches at no cost.
Users should note that while basic arrest record information is available without charge, comprehensive reports or certified copies may incur fees. Additionally, some records may require formal requests rather than being immediately accessible through free resources.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Pierce County
The process of removing arrest records from public access in Pierce County involves either expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access). These distinct legal remedies are governed by Washington state law and require specific procedures.
Expungement vs. Sealing:
Expungement refers to the complete destruction of arrest records, while sealing restricts public access while maintaining the records for limited official purposes. In Washington state, true expungement is rare, with record sealing being the more common remedy. Pursuant to RCW 10.97.060, certain arrest records may be deleted from public access under specific circumstances.
Eligibility for Record Deletion:
Arrest records may be eligible for deletion or sealing in the following circumstances:
- The arrest did not lead to charges being filed within the statute of limitations
- Charges were dismissed or resulted in acquittal
- The case resulted in a deferred sentence that was successfully completed
- The conviction was vacated under RCW 9.96.060
- The individual received a pardon
- The statutory waiting period has elapsed (varies by offense type)
Process for Sealing or Expunging Records:
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Obtain Complete Criminal History: Request a copy of criminal history from the Washington State Patrol and Pierce County Superior Court to identify all records requiring action.
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Determine Eligibility: Review records with an attorney to determine eligibility under current law. Different waiting periods apply based on offense severity.
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Prepare and File Petition: Submit the appropriate petition to the Pierce County Superior Court:
Pierce County Superior Court
930 Tacoma Avenue South, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Superior Court -
Serve Required Parties: Provide copies of the petition to the Pierce County Prosecutor's Office and law enforcement agencies holding the records.
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Attend Hearing: Present the case before a judge, who will determine whether sealing or expungement is appropriate.
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Distribute Court Order: If granted, send the signed court order to all agencies maintaining the records, including:
- Pierce County Sheriff's Department
- Washington State Patrol
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Any other agencies with custody of the records
Non-Conviction Records:
For arrests that did not result in conviction, individuals may request deletion after two years from the date of arrest under RCW 10.97.060 if no charges were filed or if charges were dismissed.
Juvenile Records:
Juvenile arrest records follow different procedures under RCW 13.50.260, with broader eligibility for sealing.
Individuals seeking to delete arrest records should consider consulting with an attorney, as the process involves complex legal requirements and varies based on individual circumstances.
What Happens After Arrest in Pierce County?
Following an arrest in Pierce County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process with several distinct phases. This process adheres to Washington state law and local court procedures.
Booking Process:
After physical arrest, individuals are transported to a Pierce County detention facility where they undergo booking, which includes:
- Documentation of personal information
- Fingerprinting and photographing
- Property inventory
- Medical screening
- Criminal history check
- Assignment to appropriate housing
The primary booking facility is:
Pierce County Jail
910 Tacoma Avenue South
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-4590
Pierce County Corrections Bureau
Initial Appearance:
Within 48 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays), arrestees appear before a judicial officer for:
- Formal notification of charges
- Determination of probable cause
- Assignment of counsel for indigent defendants
- Setting of bail or release conditions
- Scheduling of future court dates
Charging Decision:
The Pierce County Prosecutor's Office reviews arrest reports and evidence to determine appropriate charges. This review may result in:
- Filing formal charges
- Declining to file charges
- Requesting additional investigation
- Diverting the case to alternative programs
Arraignment:
If charges are filed, defendants appear for arraignment where they:
- Receive formal reading of charges
- Enter an initial plea (typically not guilty)
- Receive trial rights advisement
- Have counsel status confirmed
- Receive future court dates
Pretrial Phase:
The period between arraignment and trial involves:
- Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
- Pretrial motions and hearings
- Plea negotiations
- Case preparation
- Status conferences
Case Resolution:
Criminal cases typically conclude through:
- Plea Agreement: Defendant pleads guilty to original or reduced charges in exchange for sentencing recommendations.
- Trial: Case proceeds to bench or jury trial where evidence is presented and guilt is determined.
- Dismissal: Charges are dropped due to insufficient evidence, legal issues, or other factors.
- Diversion: Eligible defendants complete programs resulting in dismissal upon successful completion.
Sentencing:
Following conviction by plea or trial, sentencing occurs based on:
- Washington State Sentencing Guidelines
- Statutory requirements
- Presentence investigation reports
- Victim impact statements
- Mitigating and aggravating factors
Post-Conviction:
After sentencing, individuals may:
- Serve jail or prison time
- Complete probation requirements
- Pay fines and restitution
- Appeal convictions or sentences
- Petition for sentence modification
Throughout this process, arrest records are maintained and updated to reflect case progression and outcomes. These records become part of the individual's criminal history accessible through the methods previously described.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Pierce County?
Arrest records in Pierce County are maintained according to retention schedules established by Washington state law. The Washington State Archives Local Government Records Retention Schedule governs how long law enforcement agencies must preserve various types of records, including those related to arrests.
Under RCW 40.14.070, public records must be retained for specific periods before they may be destroyed or transferred to archives. For arrest records, the following retention periods generally apply:
Felony Arrests:
- Records related to felony arrests resulting in conviction: Permanent retention
- Records related to Class A felony arrests not resulting in conviction: 10 years
- Records related to other felony arrests not resulting in conviction: 5 years
Misdemeanor Arrests:
- Records related to misdemeanor arrests resulting in conviction: 5 years after case closure
- Records related to misdemeanor arrests not resulting in conviction: 3 years
Juvenile Arrests:
- Records related to juvenile arrests follow different retention schedules pursuant to RCW 13.50.270
- Most juvenile records are eligible for earlier sealing or destruction than adult records
Different agencies within Pierce County maintain separate record systems with varying retention requirements:
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The Pierce County Sheriff's Department maintains arrest reports, booking information, and investigative files according to the law enforcement records retention schedule.
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The Pierce County Prosecutor's Office retains case files according to the prosecuting attorney records retention schedule.
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The Pierce County Clerk's Office maintains court records related to arrests according to the judicial records retention schedule.
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The Washington State Patrol maintains the central repository of criminal history record information, including fingerprints and arrest data, which is generally retained permanently unless expunged by court order.
It is important to note that even after the minimum retention period has elapsed, records may be maintained longer at the discretion of the agency. Additionally, records of historical significance may be transferred to archives rather than destroyed.
The retention of arrest records serves several important purposes:
- Preserves evidence for potential future legal proceedings
- Maintains accountability and transparency in law enforcement actions
- Provides information for background checks and security clearances
- Supports statistical analysis and policy development
- Documents institutional memory and historical information
Individuals seeking information about specific record retention periods should contact the agency maintaining the records in question.
How to Find Mugshots in Pierce County
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots, or booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system. In Pierce County, mugshots are typically taken at the time of booking at the Pierce County Jail or other detention facilities. These photographs document the appearance of arrested individuals at the time they enter custody and become part of the official arrest record.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
Mugshots in Pierce County are primarily maintained by the following agencies:
Pierce County Sheriff's Department
930 Tacoma Avenue South
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7530
Pierce County Sheriff's Department
Pierce County Corrections Bureau
910 Tacoma Avenue South
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-4590
Pierce County Corrections Bureau
Additionally, municipal police departments within Pierce County maintain mugshots for arrests conducted by their officers. These photographs are typically stored in digital databases linked to case management systems and may be shared with other law enforcement agencies through information-sharing networks.
Finding Mugshots
Members of the public seeking mugshots in Pierce County may utilize several methods:
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Public Records Requests: Submit a formal public records request to the arresting agency or the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. Requests should include:
- Full name of the individual
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest
- Case number (if available)
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Court Records: For cases that have proceeded to court, mugshots may be included in the court file. These can be requested through:
Pierce County Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue South, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Clerk -
In-Person Requests: Visit the records division of the arresting agency during business hours to request mugshot copies.
Can They Be Found Online
Pierce County does not maintain a public-facing database specifically for mugshots. However, limited booking information, which sometimes includes mugshots, may be available through:
- The Pierce County Corrections Bureau Inmate Search for currently incarcerated individuals
- The Pierce County Sheriff's Department website for specific high-profile cases
- The LINX system for certain court-related records
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
To officially obtain mugshots, individuals should:
- Complete a public disclosure request form specifying the mugshot being sought
- Submit the request to the appropriate agency
- Pay applicable fees (typically $0.15 per page for printed copies)
- Provide identification if requesting in person
- Allow time for processing (response required within 5 business days under state law)
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to mugshots in Pierce County is subject to certain restrictions:
- Juvenile mugshots are generally not publicly available pursuant to RCW 13.50.050
- Mugshots related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
- Certain mugshots may be redacted or withheld if release would violate privacy rights
- Commercial use of mugshots may be restricted under Washington law
- Mugshots that have been sealed or expunged by court order are not available to the public
Individuals should be aware that while mugshots are generally considered public records, their release is subject to applicable exemptions under the Washington Public Records Act.