Thurston County Public Records /Thurston County Inmate Search

Thurston County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Thurston County?

Inmate records in Thurston County are official government documents maintained by the Thurston County Sheriff's Office and correctional facilities that document individuals in custody within the county's detention system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of information pertaining to persons who have been arrested, booked, and detained in Thurston County correctional facilities. Pursuant to Washington State RCW 70.48.100, these records are created and maintained as part of the county's statutory obligation to document individuals in custody.

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

Court records document judicial proceedings, hearings, and case dispositions
Inmate records document the physical custody and detention of individuals
Court records are maintained by the Thurston County Clerk's Office
Inmate records are maintained by the Thurston County Sheriff's Office

The creation of inmate records follows a standardized process:

Initial record creation occurs during booking/intake procedures
Records are continuously updated throughout the period of incarceration
Documentation includes movements within the facility, disciplinary actions, and program participation
Records are finalized upon release but maintained according to state retention schedules

The Thurston County Sheriff's Office is the primary custodian of these records, which serve both administrative and public safety functions.

Are Inmate Records Public In Thurston County?

Inmate records in Thurston County are generally considered public records under the Washington Public Records Act (PRA), RCW 42.56. This statute establishes the presumption that most government records, including inmate records, are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. However, certain components of inmate records may be subject to exemptions under RCW 42.56.240 which protects specific law enforcement and investigative information.

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

Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
Basic booking information and intake date
Charges filed against the inmate
Mugshots (booking photographs)
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates
Current housing facility

Certain sensitive information within inmate records may be redacted or withheld pursuant to statutory exemptions, including:

Medical and mental health information (protected under HIPAA and state law)
Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
Information that would compromise facility security
Juvenile records (subject to additional confidentiality protections)

The Thurston County Corrections Bureau maintains these records and processes public requests in accordance with state law and county policies.

What's Included Inmate Records in Thurston County

Inmate records in Thurston County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the county detention system. These records typically include:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and biometric data
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency and officer
Custody classification and housing assignment
Disciplinary records during incarceration
Visitation logs and approved visitor lists
Program participation (education, substance abuse, etc.)

Charge Information:

Current charges and associated case numbers
Warrant information (if applicable)
Criminal history within the jurisdiction
Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
Charge severity (misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, felony)

Bond/Bail Information:

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

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction (District Court, Superior Court)
Scheduled court appearances
Court case numbers
Name of assigned judge
Attorney information (public defender or private counsel)

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Length of sentence
Credit for time served
Good time/earned release calculations
Probation/community supervision requirements
Special conditions imposed by court

Release Information:

Scheduled or actual release date
Type of release (completed sentence, posted bail, court order)
Post-release supervision requirements
Transfer information (if moved to another facility)

These records are maintained in accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 137-28, which governs prison discipline and records management in correctional facilities.

Thurston County Prison System

The Thurston County correctional system operates under the authority of the Thurston County Sheriff's Office, which maintains responsibility for the detention and custody of individuals arrested within the county jurisdiction. The system primarily consists of the Thurston County Corrections Facility, which serves as the central detention center for the county. This facility houses individuals awaiting trial (pre-trial detention) and those serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor convictions.

It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system:

County jails house pre-trial detainees and those serving sentences of less than one year
State prisons house individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year
County jails are operated by the county sheriff's office
State prisons are operated by the Washington State Department of Corrections

The Thurston County correctional system interfaces with multiple criminal justice agencies, including local law enforcement departments, the Thurston County Prosecutor's Office, the courts, and probation services. This integrated approach ensures proper processing, housing, and supervision of individuals within the criminal justice system.

Thurston County Sheriff's Office - Corrections Bureau
3491 Ferguson St SW
Tumwater, WA 98512
(360) 786-5500
Thurston County Sheriff's Office

Types of Correctional Facilities In Thurston County

Thurston County maintains several correctional facilities to accommodate various custody levels and inmate populations:

Thurston County Corrections Facility (Main Jail)
3491 Ferguson St SW
Tumwater, WA 98512
(360) 786-5500
Thurston County Corrections

This is the primary detention facility in Thurston County, housing both male and female inmates. The facility accommodates various custody classifications including maximum, medium, and minimum security. It contains general population housing units, specialized medical units, and administrative segregation areas for inmates requiring separation from the general population.

Thurston County Accountability and Restitution Center (ARC)
3491 Ferguson St SW
Tumwater, WA 98512
(360) 786-5500
Thurston County ARC

The ARC is a specialized facility focused on rehabilitation and reentry programs. It houses minimum-security inmates who are participating in work release, educational programs, and other rehabilitative services. The facility emphasizes accountability while providing structured opportunities for inmates to develop skills necessary for successful community reintegration.

Thurston County Juvenile Detention Center
2801 32nd Avenue SW
Tumwater, WA 98512
(360) 709-3189
Thurston County Juvenile Detention

This facility houses juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age) who are detained pending court proceedings or serving court-ordered detention sentences. The facility operates under different regulations than adult facilities, with an emphasis on education, rehabilitation, and age-appropriate programming in accordance with RCW 13.40, Washington's Juvenile Justice Act.

Each facility maintains specific security protocols, visitation policies, and programming options based on its designated function within the county correctional system.

Who's in Prison In Thurston County

The Thurston County correctional facilities house diverse populations of individuals who have entered the criminal justice system. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals arrested and awaiting arraignment
Defendants who have been arraigned but are awaiting trial
Persons who have not posted bail or were denied bail
These individuals maintain the legal presumption of innocence

Sentenced Offenders:

Individuals serving sentences for misdemeanor convictions (up to 90 days)
Individuals serving sentences for gross misdemeanor convictions (up to 364 days)
Persons serving partial felony sentences as authorized by court order
Individuals awaiting transfer to state prison facilities

Specialized Populations:

Individuals in work release programs
Participants in drug court and other specialty court programs
Persons serving weekend or intermittent sentences
Individuals held on probation or parole violations

Other Custody Categories:

Individuals held on immigration detainers
Persons awaiting extradition to other jurisdictions
Individuals held on civil commitments
Those serving sanctions for contempt of court

According to data from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, the Thurston County jail system typically operates at 85-95% capacity, with an average daily population fluctuating between 350-400 inmates. The demographic composition generally reflects broader arrest patterns within the county, with variations in age, gender, race, and offense categories.

The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 15-30 days, while sentenced offenders typically serve terms ranging from several days to the maximum 364 days permitted in county facilities.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Thurston County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Thurston County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide public access to basic inmate data while protecting sensitive information in accordance with state law.

Online Inmate Lookup System:

Visit the Thurston County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" or "Jail Roster" section
Enter the required search criteria (name, booking number, or date of birth)
Review the results, which typically include current custody status, charges, and bond information
Note that the online system provides limited information compared to formal records requests

In-Person Records Request:

Visit the Thurston County Sheriff's Office Records Division

Thurston County Sheriff's Office
2000 Lakeridge Drive SW
Olympia, WA 98502
(360) 786-5500
Complete a Public Records Request form
Provide specific information about the inmate record being requested
Present valid government-issued identification
Pay applicable fees for document reproduction (currently $0.15 per page)
Allow processing time as required by state law (typically 5-10 business days)

Written Records Request:

Download the Public Records Request form from the Thurston County Sheriff's website
Complete all required fields, being as specific as possible about the records sought
Submit the form via mail to:

Thurston County Sheriff's Office - Records Division
2000 Lakeridge Drive SW
Olympia, WA 98502
Include contact information for follow-up questions
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting mailed response
Be prepared to pay applicable fees for document reproduction and postage

Electronic Records Request:

Email a completed Public Records Request form to records@co.thurston.wa.us
Include "Inmate Records Request" in the subject line
Provide detailed information about the specific records being requested
Include contact information for follow-up communications
Await acknowledgment of receipt (typically within 5 business days)
Respond to any clarification requests promptly

All records requests are processed in accordance with the Washington Public Records Act, RCW 42.56, which establishes timelines and procedures for government agencies responding to records requests.

How To Find an Inmate in Thurston County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Thurston County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies. These resources are designed to provide basic custody information while maintaining appropriate security protocols.

Thurston County Inmate Roster:

Access the Thurston County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" section
The roster is updated multiple times daily and includes:
- Inmate name and booking number
- Current charges
- Booking date
- Bond information
- Expected court dates
No registration or payment is required to access this public information

Telephone Inquiry System:

Call the Thurston County Corrections Facility at (360) 786-5500
Select the appropriate option for inmate information
Provide the full name and, if possible, date of birth of the person
Basic custody status information will be provided verbally
Note that detailed information may require a formal records request

Washington Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (SAVIN):

Visit the Washington SAVIN website
Select "Find an Offender"
Enter the inmate's name or identification number
This system provides custody status across participating Washington facilities
Registration is available for automated notifications about changes in custody status

In-Person Inquiry:

Visit the Thurston County Corrections Facility lobby during business hours:

Thurston County Corrections Facility
3491 Ferguson St SW
Tumwater, WA 98512
Speak with the reception staff
Provide the name and identifying information of the person being sought
Basic custody information will be provided verbally
Visitation information can also be obtained during this inquiry

These free resources provide current custody status information but may not include historical records or detailed case information. For comprehensive inmate records, a formal public records request may be necessary as outlined in the previous section.

How To Visit an Inmate In Thurston County

Visitation with inmates at Thurston County correctional facilities follows established protocols designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. All visitors must comply with facility rules and procedures.

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
Inmates may submit visitor applications during their incarceration
Each inmate is permitted up to 8 approved visitors
Visitors must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an approved adult visitor
All visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
Visitors with outstanding warrants or criminal histories may be denied entry
Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting current inmates

Visit Schedule:

General population: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Maximum security: Thursday and Saturday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM only
Work release: Saturday-Sunday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM only
Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
Visitors should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled visit time
Schedule is subject to change during holidays or facility emergencies

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Vehicle information (make, model, license plate) for parking registration
Locker key deposit ($5.00 exact change, returned after visit)
Medical necessities with prior approval (medications, mobility devices)
Baby necessities if accompanied by infant (one clear bottle, one diaper)

What NOT to Bring:

Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives)
Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, smartwatches)
Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
Food or beverages
Purses, backpacks, or large bags
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $50.00
Letters, photos, or items for inmates

Dress Code:

Conservative, appropriate attire required
No revealing clothing (shorts above mid-thigh, tank tops, low-cut tops)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing resembling inmate attire (solid orange, blue, or white)
No hats or head coverings (except religious items with prior approval)
Appropriate footwear required (no flip-flops or slippers)
Outerwear must be removed during security screening

Visit Types:

Contact visits: Available for minimum and medium security inmates
Non-contact visits: Required for maximum security inmates
Professional visits: Available for attorneys, clergy, and service providers
Video visitation: Available through the Thurston County Video Visitation System

Visit Restrictions:

Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
Providing false information may result in permanent visitation restriction
Visitors on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
Visitation privileges may be suspended for rule violations

All visitation policies are established pursuant to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 137-28-220, which governs correctional facility operations and inmate privileges.

How To Send Money to a Thurston County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Thurston County correctional facilities have several authorized methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds enable inmates to purchase commissary items, make phone calls, and pay for certain services.

Authorized Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Select "Thurston County Corrections" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow prompts to complete payment using credit/debit card
- Service fee: $2.50 per transaction up to $100.00
Lobby Kiosk
- Available in the Thurston County Corrections Facility lobby
- Thurston County Corrections Facility
  3491 Ferguson St SW
  Tumwater, WA 98512
- Accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards
- Available during normal business hours (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday)
- Service fee: $1.50 per transaction
- Receipt provided for all transactions
Money Order by Mail
- Purchase money order from post office or financial institution
- Make payable to "Thurston County Corrections" with inmate's name and ID in memo line
- Do not send personal checks or cash
- Mail to: Thurston County Corrections - Inmate Accounts
  3491 Ferguson St SW
  Tumwater, WA 98512
- No service fee for money orders
- Processing time: 3-5 business days

Amount Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00 per transaction
Maximum online deposit: $300.00 per transaction
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
Maximum account balance: $1,000.00

Transaction Fees:

Online deposits: $2.50 per transaction up to $100.00
Lobby kiosk: $1.50 per transaction
Money orders: No fee
All fees are subject to change and are set by the third-party payment processor

Prohibited Transactions:

Personal checks are not accepted
Cash sent through mail will be returned to sender
Third-party checks are not accepted
Transfers between inmate accounts are prohibited
Deposits from other incarcerated individuals are not permitted

Authorized Fund Uses:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone calls and video visitation sessions
Medical co-pays for non-emergency services
Haircuts and other personal services
Restitution and court-ordered payments

Prohibited Fund Uses:

Bail or bond payments
Payment for contraband items
Transfers to outside accounts
Payment for legal services
Gambling or betting activities

All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review in accordance with Washington State RCW 70.48.135, which governs inmate welfare funds and financial operations in local correctional facilities.

How To Send Jail Mail In Thurston County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Thurston County correctional facilities must follow established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility regulations.

Mailing Address Format:

Inmate's Full Name, ID Number
Thurston County Corrections Facility
3491 Ferguson St SW
Tumwater, WA 98512

Acceptable Mail Items:

Letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8"x10")
Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
Money orders (made payable to the inmate with ID number)
Legal documents (clearly marked as "Legal Mail" on envelope)
Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Subscription magazines (must come directly from publisher)
Newspapers (must come directly from publisher)

Prohibited Mail Items:

Packages of any kind
Hardcover books
Personal checks or cash
Postage stamps or envelopes
Stickers, labels, or tape
Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
Polaroid photographs
Cards larger than 8"x10"
Items with perfume, lipstick, or unknown substances
Sexually explicit materials
Gang-related materials
Items advocating violence or criminal activity

Mail Inspection Procedures:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband
Mail may be photocopied, with copies provided to inmates
Original items may be placed in the inmate's property
Contraband items will be documented and disposed of
Mail containing threats or planning criminal activity will be forwarded to investigators

Legal Mail Requirements:

Must be clearly marked "Legal Mail" on the envelope
Must come from an attorney, court, or legal agency
Will be opened in the presence of the inmate
Contents will be inspected for contraband but not read by staff
Legal mail is not subject to the page limit restrictions

Book and Publication Delivery:

Books must be shipped directly from publisher or approved vendor
Soft-cover books only (no hardcover books accepted)
Maximum of 3 books per mailing
Subject to content review for security concerns
Religious texts are permitted subject to security review

E-Messages:

Available through the Thurston County Inmate Messaging System
Requires account creation and prepayment
Messages are subject to the same content restrictions as physical mail
Fees apply per message (currently $0.50 per message)
Faster delivery than traditional mail

All mail procedures are established in accordance with facility security protocols and Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 137-48, which governs inmate mail in correctional facilities.