Washington Inmate Lookup

Spokane Police Department

Use this website for informational purposes only.

The Spokane Police Department, located in Spokane, Washington, is responsible for maintaining law and order in the city. This department is a crucial element of the local government's commitment to public safety. It operates under a community policing model, which emphasizes building strong relationships between officers and the communities they serve.

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Services and Divisions

The Spokane Police Department is structured into various divisions, each focusing on specific areas of law enforcement:

  • Patrol Division: This division is the most visible, with officers patrolling the city to deter and respond to crime.
  • Investigative Division: Specializes in investigating crimes and gathering evidence.
  • Traffic Unit: Focuses on enforcing traffic laws and investigating accidents.
  • K-9 Unit: Uses specially trained dogs to assist in law enforcement duties.
  • SWAT Team: Handles high-risk operations requiring specialized skills and equipment.

Community Engagement

The department is known for its community engagement efforts. These include community policing initiatives, public safety programs, and educational outreach. These efforts aim to foster trust and cooperation between the police and the Spokane community.

Arrest Warrants Search

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes the police to arrest an individual suspected of a crime. In Spokane, warrants are issued based on probable cause and must specify the alleged crime.

Searching for Arrest Warrants in Spokane

The Spokane Police Department maintains a database of active arrest warrants. This information is accessible to the public for transparency and safety reasons.

Online Resources

  • Spokane Police Department Website: The official website provides information on how to search for arrest warrants.
  • Public Records Request: Citizens can request access to arrest warrant information through a public records request.

In-Person Inquiry

Individuals can also visit the Spokane Police Department for warrant information. However, it's important to note that if there's an outstanding warrant for an individual's arrest, this could lead to immediate detainment.

Legal Assistance

If someone finds that there is a warrant for their arrest, it is advisable to seek legal counsel. Lawyers can provide guidance on how to proceed and ensure that the individual's rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Recent Arrests

Checking Recent Arrests

To check if someone has been recently arrested by the Spokane Police Department, one can use several methods:

  1. Spokane Police Department's Arrest Log: The department often maintains an arrest log or blotter, which is a record of recent arrests. This can be accessed on the Spokane Police Department's website.

  2. Public Safety Building: Visiting the Public Safety Building in Spokane can provide information on recent arrests. It is advisable to have the individual's full name and date of birth for a more efficient search.

  3. Online Jail Inmate Rosters: Spokane County Jail maintains an online inmate roster, which includes individuals recently arrested and currently in custody.

  4. Media Reports: Local news outlets often report on significant arrests made by the Spokane Police Department.

Understanding the Arrest Process in Spokane

When an individual is arrested in Spokane:

  1. Booking Process: The individual is taken to the police station or county jail, where they undergo the booking process, including fingerprinting, photographing (mugshot), and collecting personal information.

  2. Holding and Bail: After booking, the individual may be held in a cell. Bail may be set, which allows the person to be released until their court date.

  3. Arraignment: The arraignment is the first court appearance, where charges are read, and pleas are entered.

Public Access to Arrest Information

Arrest records are generally considered public information. However, access might be restricted if the case involves juveniles, sensitive personal information, or ongoing investigations.

Legal Considerations and Rights

Individuals arrested are entitled to certain rights, including:

  • Miranda Rights: The right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
  • Legal Representation: It’s crucial for the arrested individual to seek legal representation, especially before making any statements.

Post-Arrest: What Happens Next?

After an arrest:

  1. Criminal Charges: The prosecutor decides whether to file criminal charges based on the evidence.
  2. Court Proceedings: If charges are filed, the case proceeds through pre-trial motions, possible plea bargains, and potentially a trial.

Expungement of Arrest Records

Under certain conditions, individuals can apply for expungement of their arrest records, which, if granted, legally allows them to treat the arrest as if it never occurred.

Contacting an Attorney

For individuals involved in an arrest or their family members, contacting a criminal defense attorney is crucial for navigating the legal system and protecting their rights.

Active Warrant Lookup

Methods to Find an Active Warrant in Spokane, WA

Online Warrant Search

Court Records

  • Spokane County District Court: Check the court's website for access to public records, which may include information on active warrants.

Contacting Law Enforcement

  • Direct Inquiry: You can directly contact or visit the Spokane Police Department or Spokane County Sheriff's Office for information on warrants.

Third-Party Services

  • Online Databases: Various online services provide warrant searches, but it's important to verify their legitimacy and accuracy.

Considerations in Warrant Search

  • Confidentiality and Risk: If you believe there might be a warrant in your name, consider contacting an attorney to make inquiries on your behalf.
  • Accuracy of Information: Always verify the information with an official source.

Obtaining Police Records

Requesting Police Reports

Online Requests

In-Person or Mail Requests

  • Spokane Police Department: Visit the department or send a mail request. Contact details and forms are usually available on their website.

Required Information

  • Specific Details: Provide specific information about the incident, such as case number, date, location, and names of involved parties, if known.

Fees and Processing Time

  • Costs: There may be a fee for copying and processing.
  • Time Frame: Processing time varies and may take several weeks, depending on the nature of the request.

Limitations on Access

  • Privacy Laws: Some reports may be restricted due to privacy laws, especially those involving juveniles or sensitive cases.

Background Checks in Spokane

Conducting a Background Check

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

  • Police Department and Sheriff's Office: They can provide criminal background checks. Contact them for specific procedures and requirements.

State Resources

Online State Databases

  • WATCH (Washington Access to Criminal History): This is the official online portal for criminal history information in Washington State.

Required Information

  • Consent and Identification: For a detailed background check, consent from the person being checked and proper identification are typically required.

Purpose and Scope

  • Employment, Licensing, Personal: Background checks are often used for employment, licensing, or personal reasons. The scope of the check may vary based on the purpose.

Legal Considerations

  • Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): If using a third-party service, ensure they comply with the FCRA, which governs how background checks must be conducted and used.

Most Wanted List

The Most Wanted List in Spokane is a public tool used by the Spokane Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to disseminate information about individuals who are considered highly dangerous or who have committed serious crimes and are currently at large.

Purpose of the Most Wanted List

  • Public Awareness: The list raises public awareness about dangerous fugitives.
  • Community Assistance: It encourages community participation in locating and safely apprehending these individuals.

Accessing the Most Wanted List

  • Spokane Police Department Website: The list is often featured on the Spokane Police Department's official website.
  • Social Media and News Outlets: Updates about the Most Wanted individuals are sometimes shared through social media channels and local news broadcasts.

Information Included

  • Suspect Details: The list includes names, photos, descriptions, and details of the alleged crimes.
  • Contact Information: Information on how to report sightings or provide tips to law enforcement is usually provided.

Public Interaction

  • Reporting Sightings: The public is encouraged to report any sightings or information but advised not to approach these individuals, as they can be dangerous.

Legal Disclaimer

  • Accuracy and Updates: The list is subject to regular updates, and all information should be verified with the Spokane Police Department for accuracy.

Sex Offender Registry

The Sex Offender Registry in Spokane is a system maintained by the Spokane Police Department that keeps track of individuals convicted of sex offenses. It's a tool to help protect and inform the community.

Purpose of the Registry

  • Public Safety: The registry is intended to mitigate the risk posed by sex offenders by making their information available to the public.
  • Legal Compliance: It ensures that sex offenders comply with legal requirements following their conviction and release.

Accessing the Registry

Information Available

  • Offender Details: Includes the offender's name, photograph, address, and details of their offense.
  • Risk Assessment: Information about the offender’s assessed risk level may also be available.

Legal Restrictions and Requirements

  • Residency Restrictions: Sex offenders in Spokane may be subject to certain residency restrictions, preventing them from living near schools or playgrounds.
  • Regular Updates: Offenders are required to update their information regularly, with frequency depending on their risk level.

Using the Registry Responsibly

  • No Vigilantism: The registry is not to be used for unlawful purposes like harassment or vigilantism.
  • Verifying Information: Always verify the current status of information with the Spokane Police Department.

Bail Bonds

Bail bonds are a financial arrangement used to secure the release of an individual who has been arrested and charged with a crime. The bail is set by the court and serves as a guarantee that the defendant will appear for their court dates.

Types of Bail Bonds

  1. Surety Bonds: Obtained through a bail bondsman, who charges a fee (typically 10-15% of the bail amount) and may require collateral.
  2. Cash Bonds: The full bail amount is paid in cash to the court.
  3. Property Bonds: Property, such as real estate, can be used as collateral for the bail amount.
  4. Personal Recognizance: In some cases, the defendant may be released without a financial guarantee, based on their promise to appear in court.

How to Post Bonds

Through a Bail Bondsman

  1. Find a Licensed Bail Bondsman: Choose a reputable and licensed bail bondsman.
  2. Provide Necessary Information: Supply details about the arrested individual, including the jail location, full name, booking number, and the bail amount.
  3. Pay the Fee: Pay the non-refundable fee required by the bondsman.
  4. Sign the Agreement: Understand and sign the bond agreement, which outlines your obligations.

Posting Cash Bonds

  1. Contact the Jail or Court: Find out the process and where to go to post bail.
  2. Prepare the Full Amount: Arrange to have the full bail amount in the acceptable form (often cash or cashier’s check).
  3. Complete the Transaction: Go to the designated place (jail or court) and complete the bail transaction.

Using Property as Collateral

  1. Assessment of Property Value: Ensure your property has sufficient equity to cover the bail amount.
  2. Legal Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents, such as proof of ownership and property valuation.
  3. Court Process: The court may require a hearing to approve the property bond.

Responsibilities After Posting Bail

  • Ensure Court Appearance: The primary responsibility is to ensure that the defendant appears in court on the designated dates.
  • Compliance with Bail Conditions: There may be specific conditions set by the court that the defendant must adhere to.

Consequences of Failing to Appear

  • Loss of Bail Money: If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail amount may be forfeited.
  • Bail Bondsman Recovery: If a bail bondsman is involved, they may employ a bounty hunter to locate and return the defendant to custody.

Getting Bail Money Back

  • After Court Proceedings: Bail money (excluding bondsman’s fee) is typically returned after the court proceedings, provided all conditions were met.

Useful Resources

Recent Arrests

City of Spokane Valley Crime Reports
Spokane County Sheriff's Office Offender Search
Spokane Municipal Court Records
Spokane Police Department Records


Police Reports

City of Spokane Valley Crime Reports
Eastern Washington University Police Daily Crime and Fire Logs
Spokane City Traffic Operations Division Traffic Alerts
Spokane County Most Wanted
Spokane County Pistol Permits & Gun Licenses
Spokane County Police Records
Spokane County Sheriff's Office Offender Search
Spokane County Sheriff's Office Sex Offender Search
Spokane Municipal Court Records
Spokane Parking Tickets
Spokane Police Department
Spokane Police Department Records
Spokane Valley Police Department


Location and Contact Details

Official Address

9000 West Airport Drive, Spokane, Washington, 99224

Official Phone Number

509-455-6429

Official Website

www.spokanecounty.org/detentionservices

Type

Special Jurisdiction

Full Time Sworn Officers

16

Full Time Civilians

6

Part Time Sworn Officers

1

Part Time Civilians

2

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