Spokane County Detention Services manages the correctional facilities within the Spokane region, serving as a critical hub for the local justice system. Whether you are looking for a loved one, a legal representative seeking client status, or a community member researching local public records, understanding the operational structure of the Spokane County Jail is essential.

The primary facility, often referred to as the Spokane County Jail, is located in the heart of the city. However, the system also includes the Geiger Corrections Facility, which serves a different demographic of the inmate population. Navigating these systems requires specific knowledge of booking procedures, visitation schedules, and communication protocols.

Essential Contact and Location Details

For those needing immediate information, the primary headquarters for Spokane County Detention Services is the central point of contact.

  • Main Address: 1100 W. Mallon Ave, Spokane, WA 99260
  • General Information Phone: (509) 477-2278
  • Lobby Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.
  • Daily Closure: The lobby is closed for administrative transitions every day from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Before traveling to the facility, it is highly recommended to confirm the current status of the inmate or the facility's operational status via phone, as emergencies or security protocols can result in temporary lobby closures or restricted access.

How to Conduct a Spokane County Inmate Search

Locating an individual within the Spokane County correctional system can be done through several channels. The system is designed to provide transparency while maintaining the security of the facility.

Online Inmate Roster

The most efficient method for locating an adult inmate is the Spokane County Inmate Roster. This digital database is maintained by Spokane County Detention Services and is updated regularly to reflect new bookings and releases. To find someone, you typically need:

  1. The individual’s full legal name.
  2. Date of birth (to differentiate between individuals with similar names).
  3. The booking date or inmate ID number (if known).

The roster provides critical data points including the charges filed, the court of jurisdiction, bond amounts, and scheduled court dates.

Telephone Inquiries

If you do not have internet access or cannot find an individual on the online roster, you may call the booking and custody status line at (509) 477-2278. Be prepared to provide the staff with the person's legal name and date of birth. Note that staff members are limited in the amount of information they can disclose over the phone due to privacy laws and security regulations.

Juvenile Detention Inquiries

It is important to note that individuals under the age of 18 are not housed in the main county jail and will not appear on the standard inmate roster. For information regarding a minor, you must contact Juvenile Detention Services directly at (509) 477-2404. These records are subject to much stricter confidentiality laws under Washington State statutes.

Understanding the Two Primary Facilities

Spokane County operates two distinct detention centers, and knowing which one houses an inmate is vital for visitation and mail.

1. Spokane County Jail (Main Facility)

Located on West Mallon Avenue, this is a medium-security facility. It primarily houses individuals awaiting trial for various offenses, from misdemeanors to high-level felonies, as well as those serving short-term sentences. It was built in 1970 and has a maximum capacity of approximately 850 inmates.

2. Geiger Corrections Facility

Located at 3507 S. Spotted Road, Spokane, WA 99224, the Geiger facility is often used for inmates with lower security risks or those participating in specific work-release programs. It serves as an overflow facility and a place for rehabilitation-focused incarceration. If an inmate is transferred from the main jail to Geiger, their visitation and mailing procedures will change accordingly.

Visitation Rules and Scheduling

Visitation is considered a privilege at Spokane County Jail and is governed by strict rules to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and the public. Spokane County utilizes both on-site video kiosks and remote video visitation.

On-Site Visitation

On-site visits are conducted via video terminals located in the jail lobby. These visits are generally non-contact.

  • Monday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • Holidays: Schedules often change on holidays. It is advised to call ahead at least 48 hours in advance.

Remote Video Visitation

Spokane County partners with Securus Technologies to provide remote video visitation, allowing family and friends to connect with inmates from a home computer, tablet, or smartphone.

  • Cost: Remote visits typically incur a fee (approximately $0.25 per minute or a flat rate for 30 minutes).
  • Registration: You must create a Securus Video Connect account and be approved by the jail administration before you can schedule a visit.
  • Monitoring: All visits, whether on-site or remote, are recorded and monitored by jail staff. Any violation of rules can lead to the immediate termination of the session and a suspension of future visitation rights.

Dress Code and Conduct for Visitors

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Department enforces a rigorous dress code for all visitors. Failure to comply will result in denial of entry.

Prohibited Clothing

  • Mini-skirts or high-slit dresses.
  • Low-cut or revealing necklines (no cleavage).
  • Bare midriffs or "crop tops."
  • Clothing with obscene language, gang-related symbols, or offensive graphics.
  • See-through or sheer fabrics.

Identification Requirements

Every adult visitor must present a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include:

  • State-issued Driver’s License.
  • U.S. Passport.
  • Military ID.
  • State-issued Identification Card.

Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If a minor is visiting a parent, a copy of the minor’s birth certificate must be presented to prove the relationship.

Prohibited Items

Visitors are not allowed to bring personal items into the visitation area. This includes:

  • Cell phones, cameras, or any electronic recording devices.
  • Purses, handbags, and backpacks.
  • Food, drinks, or gum.
  • Strollers or baby carriers.
  • Writing utensils.

Sending Mail and Packages to Inmates

Communication through the U.S. Postal Service is encouraged as it helps inmates maintain ties with their support systems. However, all mail is inspected for contraband.

Mailing Address Format

To ensure your mail reaches the correct individual, use the following format:

Inmate Full Name and Inmate ID Number c/o Spokane County Detention Services 1100 West Mallon Avenue Spokane, WA 99260-0320

Mail Restrictions

  • Letters: Must be written on plain white paper. Do not use glitter, glue, stickers, or perfume.
  • Photos: Generally, a limited number of photos (usually 5) are allowed per envelope. They cannot be Polaroid-style and must not contain nudity, gang signs, or depictions of illegal acts.
  • Books and Magazines: These must be sent directly from the publisher or an authorized online retailer (like Amazon). Used books or books sent from individuals are not accepted.
  • Prohibited Items: Do not send cash, stamps, or envelopes. These must be purchased by the inmate through the commissary.

Inmate Commissary and Telephone Accounts

Inmates do not have access to cash but use a "commissary account" to purchase hygiene items, snacks, and stationery.

Depositing Funds

Funds can be deposited into an inmate's account through several methods:

  1. Lobby Kiosks: Located in the jail lobby, these machines accept cash and credit/debit cards.
  2. Online Deposits: Using third-party services like Access Corrections or Smart Deposit.
  3. Telephone Deposits: Calling the designated toll-free number provided on the Spokane County website.

Telephone Services

Inmates can make outgoing calls but cannot receive incoming calls. Calls are typically "collect" or paid for using a pre-paid account through Securus Technologies. It is important to set up a "Direct Bill" or "AdvanceConnect" account if your phone provider does not allow collect calls.

The Booking and Release Process in Spokane

When an individual is arrested in Spokane, they undergo a specific booking sequence that can take several hours.

  1. Identification: Fingerprints and mugshots are taken for the permanent record.
  2. Inventory: Personal belongings are confiscated and stored until the individual is released.
  3. Health Screening: A basic medical assessment is conducted to identify immediate needs or psychiatric concerns.
  4. Classification: Inmates are assigned to housing units based on the severity of their charges and their past criminal history.

Posting Bail

If a judge sets bail, it can be paid in full at the jail lobby or through a licensed bail bond agent. Bail bondsmen typically charge a non-refundable fee (usually 10% of the total bail amount) to secure the release of the defendant.

Release Procedures

Releases occur 24 hours a day, but the administrative processing can take time. Upon release, the individual’s personal property is returned, and they are provided with information regarding their next court appearance.

Public Records and Legal Confidentiality

In Washington State, jail records are generally considered confidential under RCW 70.48.100. While the fact that someone is in jail is public information, their medical records, internal disciplinary files, and specific intake statements are protected.

To request formal records, a signed waiver from the inmate or a court order is usually required. Public records requests can be filed through the Spokane County Public Records portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a jail and a prison? In Spokane, the "jail" is a short-term facility for those awaiting trial or serving sentences of less than one year. "Prison" (State Department of Corrections) is for those convicted of felonies serving longer sentences.

Can I bring a gift to an inmate during a visit? No. No items can be exchanged during visitation. All items must be sent through the mail (following strict guidelines) or purchased by the inmate via the commissary.

How do I find out an inmate’s court date? Court dates are listed on the Spokane County Inmate Roster. You can also search the Spokane County Superior or District Court websites for the specific case number.

What happens if I miss a scheduled visit? If you are late or miss a visit at Spokane County Jail, your visitation privileges for the remainder of the week may be suspended. Repeated no-shows can lead to longer suspensions.

Is medical care provided in the jail? Yes. Spokane County Detention Services provides 24/7 medical and mental health care to all detainees. If an inmate has a serious pre-existing condition, family members can contact the jail medical department to ensure necessary medications are authorized.

Summary of Spokane County Jail Operations

Navigating the Spokane County Jail system requires patience and adherence to strict protocols. Whether you are conducting an inmate search, scheduling a video visit via Securus, or depositing funds for commissary, always ensure you have the correct inmate ID and follow the facility's dress code and conduct rules. The dual-facility structure (Main Jail and Geiger) means you must verify the specific location of the inmate before making travel plans. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Spokane County Detention Services announcements or contact their general information line directly.