Yakima City Jail Roster is a real-time public record maintained by the Yakima Police Department under Washington State law RCW 70.48.100. The roster shows who is currently in custody at the city jail, including full legal names, booking numbers, housing locations, arrest dates, charges, bond amounts, and scheduled release times. Updated regularly, this list helps families, attorneys, and community members track detainee status quickly and accurately. The most recent refresh occurred on December 2, 2021, at 3:20 p.m. PST, listing 33 individuals in custody. Each name links to a detailed profile with court dates, charge specifics, and bond conditions. This transparency supports public safety and legal rights while protecting sensitive personal data as required by state law.
How to Use the Yakima City Jail Roster Online
The official Yakima City Jail Roster is available through the Yakima Police Department’s website. Users can view all current inmates or search by name, booking number, or charge type. The system displays essential details such as booking timestamp, housing unit, and release date if known. Clicking any name opens a full profile showing specific criminal charges, total bond amount, next court appearance, and case number. The roster refreshes every few hours to reflect new bookings, releases, or status changes. It does not include mugshots, medical records, or investigative files, which are protected under RCW 70.48.100. Only authorized parties like inmates, their lawyers, or court officials can access those records with proper consent or a court order.
Yakima City Jail Facility Overview
The Yakima City Jail is located at 200 South Third Street in downtown Yakima, WA 98901. Managed by Corrections Division Manager Maritza Davis, the facility operates under the direct supervision of the Yakima Police Chief. It contains 79 beds total, with a dedicated 20-bed unit for adult male detainees awaiting trial or sentencing on misdemeanor charges within city limits. Staff includes 12 certified corrections officers per shift, one medical technician, and a custodial supervisor. Daily operations involve headcounts, health checks, security rounds, and intake processing. On average, the jail handles about 150 new bookings each month and releases roughly 130 individuals after court decisions or bail postings. Visitation is limited and conducted via video conferencing on weekday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Yakima County Jail vs. Yakima City Jail: Key Differences
Many people confuse the Yakima City Jail with the larger Yakima County Jail. They are separate facilities with different roles. The city jail only holds adults arrested for misdemeanors within Yakima city boundaries. The county jail, run by the Sheriff’s Office, houses felony suspects, longer-term inmates, and those sentenced to more than one year. The county facility also includes the Annex at 111 North Front Street, adding 30 beds to the main 120-bed jail. Both publish rosters online, but the county’s database is broader and updated every six hours. City jail records focus on short-term holds, while county records cover state-level convictions and longer incarcerations. Always check which jurisdiction made the arrest to find the correct roster.
What Information Is Public on the Yakima Jail Roster?
Under Washington law, certain inmate data must be publicly available. The Yakima City Jail Roster includes: full legal name, unique booking ID, housing location inside the jail, exact date and time of booking, scheduled release date (if set), list of charges, total bond amount, and upcoming court dates. Users can click any name to see deeper details like case numbers, warrant comments, fines, and custody status. However, photographs (mugshots), medical history, mental health notes, and ongoing investigation files are not released to the public. These protections ensure privacy and comply with state statutes. Only the inmate, their attorney, or someone with a signed release form can request restricted records. Courts may also order disclosure in special cases.
How Often Is the Yakima City Jail Roster Updated?
The Yakima City Jail Roster is updated multiple times per day, typically every 4 to 6 hours, to reflect new arrests, releases, transfers, or status changes. The last confirmed update was December 2, 2021, at 3:20 p.m. PST. Real-time accuracy depends on staff processing speed and system syncing between police, courts, and jail databases. During high-volume periods—such as weekends or holidays—delays of up to 12 hours may occur. For urgent needs, call the jail directly at (509) 575-3571 to verify an inmate’s status. The online roster remains the primary source for public access, but phone confirmation ensures the most current information, especially for legal or family emergencies.
Searching for an Inmate in Yakima City Jail
To locate someone in the Yakima City Jail, visit the official police department roster page. Use the search bar to enter the person’s last name, first name, or booking number. You can also filter results by charge type—such as DUI, theft, assault, or domestic violence—or narrow the list by booking date range. Each result shows basic info; clicking the name reveals full details. If the person isn’t listed, they may be held at the Yakima County Jail, recently released, or not yet processed. Always double-check spelling and try alternate name formats (e.g., middle initial or nickname). For help, contact the jail’s public information line during business hours.
Yakima County Jail Roster: Broader Coverage
The Yakima County Jail maintains a separate, more extensive inmate roster covering felony arrests, state prisoners, and longer sentences. Located at 111 North Front Street, the main jail has 120 beds, and the Annex adds 30 more. The county roster includes over 2,500 active records with fields like DOC ID, housing unit, projected release date, conviction type, and supervision level. Data refreshes every six hours and allows sorting by name, crime category, or release timeline. Unlike the city jail, the county system often includes mugshots and longer criminal histories. Access it through the Yakima County Sheriff’s website or third-party portals like Jailexchange. This roster serves attorneys, researchers, and families needing broader inmate tracking.
Visitation Rules at Yakima City Jail
Visitation at Yakima City Jail is strictly limited. As of 2022, all visits are conducted via video conferencing only, with no in-person meetings allowed. Sessions run Monday through Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance by calling (509) 575-3571. Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute session per week. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with valid ID. No physical contact, gifts, or outside items are permitted. The video system uses secure, monitored connections to protect privacy and security. Rules may change during emergencies or health crises, so always confirm hours before visiting.
Bond and Release Information
Bond amounts for inmates in Yakima City Jail vary based on charge severity. Typical ranges fall between $1,500 and $10,000. Minor offenses like petty theft or traffic violations may have lower bonds, while assault or repeat offenses require higher payments. Bond can be posted in cash, through a bail bondsman, or via property lien. Once paid, release usually occurs within 2 to 4 hours, depending on processing time. The roster shows current bond totals and whether payment has been made. If no bond is set, the inmate must wait for a judge’s hearing. Release dates appear on the roster when known, but delays can happen due to court schedules or administrative reviews.
Contacting an Inmate at Yakima City Jail
Inmates at Yakima City Jail can receive mail, but all correspondence is inspected for security. Letters must include the inmate’s full name and booking number, followed by: “Yakima City Jail, 200 South Third Street, Yakima, WA 98901.” Do not send cash, photos, or contraband. Use only standard envelopes and clear handwriting. Phone calls are collect-only or prepaid through approved vendors. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. For urgent messages, contact the jail staff at (509) 575-3571. Legal mail from attorneys is exempt from inspection if clearly marked. Always verify current mailing rules, as policies may update without notice.
Common Charges Listed on the Roster
The Yakima City Jail Roster frequently shows charges related to local misdemeanors. Common offenses include driving under the influence (DUI), shoplifting, disorderly conduct, domestic violence, trespassing, and minor drug possession. Each entry lists the specific statute violated, such as RCW 46.61.502 for DUI. More serious crimes like burglary or assault may start in city jail but often transfer to county custody if upgraded to felonies. The roster helps track how charges evolve through court proceedings. Users can identify trends, verify arrest details, or prepare for legal representation. Charge descriptions are brief but link to full court records upon request.
Legal Rights and Public Access
Washington State guarantees public access to jail rosters under RCW 70.48.100, promoting transparency in law enforcement. However, this right balances with privacy protections. Personal details like Social Security numbers, medical conditions, or juvenile records are never disclosed. Only verified individuals—such as the inmate, their lawyer, or a family member with written permission—can obtain sensitive files. Courts may seal records in ongoing investigations or protective cases. The Yakima Police Department follows strict protocols to redact protected data before publishing the roster. This ensures accountability while safeguarding individual rights under state and federal law.
Third-Party Inmate Search Tools
Several independent websites aggregate Yakima jail data, including PrisonRoster.com, Jailexchange, and InmateSearchWA.org. These platforms pull information from official sources but may lag behind real-time updates. They offer user-friendly filters, mugshot displays, and mobile access. However, always cross-check with the official Yakima Police Department roster for accuracy. Third-party sites sometimes include outdated or incorrect details. Use them for convenience, but rely on government portals for legal or time-sensitive matters. Most charge fees for premium reports, though basic searches are free. Avoid services that promise “instant background checks” without verification—they often violate privacy laws.
Yakima City Jail Staffing and Operations
The jail operates 24/7 with a core team of 12 corrections officers per shift, one medical technician, and a custodial supervisor. Officers conduct hourly headcounts, monitor surveillance systems, and respond to emergencies. Medical staff perform intake screenings and manage basic health needs. All personnel are state-certified and trained in de-escalation, first aid, and inmate rights. The facility follows strict safety protocols, including lockdown procedures and incident reporting. Management reports directly to the police chief, ensuring alignment with city policies. Staff turnover is low due to competitive pay and structured shifts, contributing to consistent operations and inmate care standards.
Historical Context: Yakima County and Its Jail System
Yakima County, established in 1865, spans south-central Washington and includes the city of Yakima as its seat. Home to the Yakama Nation’s reservation—the 15th largest in the U.S.—the region blends urban and rural law enforcement needs. The jail system evolved to serve a population now exceeding 260,000. Early jails were rudimentary, but modern facilities like the 79-bed city jail and 150-bed county complex reflect growing demands. Transparency laws enacted in the 1970s mandated public rosters, leading to today’s digital access. Understanding this history clarifies why two separate jails exist and how they coordinate during large-scale arrests or court events.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Yakima City Jail Roster
People often ask how to find an inmate, when the roster updates, or what information is public. Others want to know about visitation, bonds, or mailing rules. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on current policies and state law. These responses reflect official procedures as of late 2024 and are verified against Yakima Police Department guidelines. Always confirm with jail staff for time-sensitive issues.
How do I check if someone is in the Yakima City Jail?
Visit the official Yakima Police Department website and navigate to the jail roster page. Enter the person’s full name or booking number in the search field. The list shows all current inmates with basic details. Click the name to see charges, bond, and court dates. If not found, they may be in county jail, recently released, or not yet processed. For confirmation, call (509) 575-3571 during business hours. Have the person’s full legal name and date of birth ready. Avoid third-party sites for urgent checks—they may be outdated. The roster updates multiple times daily but can lag during busy periods. Always verify critical info by phone.
Can I visit an inmate at Yakima City Jail in person?
No, in-person visits are not allowed at Yakima City Jail. All visitation is done through a secure video-conferencing system available Monday to Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. You must schedule an appointment by calling (509) 575-3571 at least 24 hours in advance. Each inmate gets one 30-minute session weekly. Minors need a parent or guardian present with valid ID. No physical contact, gifts, or outside items are permitted. The system protects privacy and prevents contraband. Rules may change during emergencies, so confirm before arriving. Video visits are recorded for security and cannot be shared.
What happens after someone is booked into the jail?
After arrest, the person is taken to Yakima City Jail for processing. This includes fingerprinting, photographing (mugshot), health screening, and inventory of personal items. They are assigned a booking number and placed in a holding cell. Charges are entered into the system, and bond is set if applicable. The inmate appears before a judge within 48 hours for arraignment. If bond is posted, release occurs after paperwork clears—usually within hours. If not, they remain until trial or plea. All steps are logged and appear on the public roster. Medical or mental health concerns trigger additional evaluations by onsite staff.
Are mugshots available on the Yakima City Jail Roster?
No, mugshots are not published on the Yakima City Jail Roster. Washington law (RCW 70.48.100) classifies booking photos as confidential to protect privacy and prevent misuse. Only authorized individuals—like the inmate, their attorney, or someone with a signed release—can request them. Courts may order disclosure in specific cases, such as public safety alerts. Third-party websites sometimes display old or unrelated images, so never rely on them for identification. For legal purposes, contact the Yakima Police Records Division with proper documentation. Misuse of mugshots can lead to civil liability under state privacy laws.
How long do inmates stay in Yakima City Jail?
Most inmates stay in Yakima City Jail for a few days to several weeks, depending on their case. Misdemeanor offenders may be released after posting bond or completing a short sentence. Those awaiting trial typically stay until their court date, which could be days or months away. If charges are upgraded to felonies, the person is transferred to Yakima County Jail for longer holding. The average monthly turnover is about 130 releases from 150 bookings. Release dates appear on the roster when set, but delays happen due to court backlogs or administrative reviews. Always check the roster or call the jail for the latest status.
Can I send money to an inmate in Yakima City Jail?
Yes, but only through approved methods. The jail does not accept cash, checks, or money orders sent by mail. Instead, use the official kiosk at the jail lobby or online portals linked from the Yakima Police Department website. Funds go into the inmate’s commissary account for snacks, hygiene items, or phone calls. Transactions are secure and tracked. Minors cannot receive funds without guardian approval. Refunds are issued upon release via check mailed to the inmate’s last known address. Never send money through unverified third parties—scams are common. For questions, call (509) 575-3571 during business hours.
What should I do if I believe an inmate’s information is incorrect?
If you spot an error on the Yakima City Jail Roster—such as wrong charges, missing release date, or incorrect name—contact the jail immediately at (509) 575-3571. Provide the booking number, inmate name, and specific issue. Staff will verify and correct the record if needed. For legal discrepancies, consult the inmate’s attorney or file a correction request with the court. Do not rely on third-party sites—they often copy outdated data. The official roster is the most accurate source, but human errors can occur during data entry. Prompt reporting ensures fair treatment and upholds transparency standards under state law.
Official Website: https://yakimapolice.org/yakima-city-jail-roster/
Phone: (509) 575-3571
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 p.m.–9 p.m. (Video Only)
Address: 200 South Third Street, Yakima, WA 98901