Whatcom County Public Records /Whatcom County Inmate Search

Whatcom County Inmate Search

What Is Inmate Records In Whatcom County?

Inmate records in Whatcom County are official government documents maintained by local correctional facilities and the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office that document individuals who are currently or were previously in custody. These records constitute a comprehensive documentation system that tracks an individual's journey through the correctional system from initial booking through release. Pursuant to Washington State Public Records Act § 42.56, these records are maintained for administrative, security, and public safety purposes.

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

Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
Inmate records document physical custody status and institutional management
Court records are maintained by the judicial branch through the Whatcom County Clerk
Inmate records are maintained by the executive branch through the Sheriff's Office

The creation of inmate records begins at the booking and intake process, where initial demographic information, photographs, fingerprints, and charge details are documented. Throughout incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect housing assignments, disciplinary actions, medical information, and program participation. Upon release, final disposition information is added and the active record is closed, though maintained according to Washington Administrative Code § 434-662-150 retention schedules.

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these records for individuals housed in county facilities, while the Washington State Department of Corrections maintains records for those in state custody.

Are Inmate Records Public In Whatcom County?

Inmate records in Whatcom County are generally considered public records under the Washington State Public Records Act § 42.56.070, which establishes the presumption that most government records are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. However, access is subject to certain limitations and exemptions designed to protect privacy, security, and ongoing investigations.

The following inmate record components are typically available for public access:

Current inmate roster (who is currently in custody)
Basic booking information and intake photographs (mugshots)
Charges filed and case numbers
Custody status and housing facility
Scheduled court dates
Bond/bail amounts
Expected release dates for sentenced individuals

Certain portions of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under RCW § 42.56.240, which protects specific law enforcement and correctional information. These exemptions typically include:

Medical and mental health information
Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
Information that would compromise facility security
Records related to ongoing investigations
Victim information and protected witness details
Juvenile records (subject to separate confidentiality laws)

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office maintains these records and provides public access through both online portals and formal public records requests.

What's Included Inmate Records in Whatcom County

Inmate records in Whatcom County contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with the correctional system. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Basic Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth and age
Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints and other biometric data
Assigned inmate identification number

Custody Information:

Date and time of booking/intake
Arresting agency and officer
Current custody status (pre-trial, sentenced, etc.)
Housing assignment within the facility
Classification level (minimum, medium, maximum security)
Disciplinary records and incident reports
Program participation and work assignments

Charge Information:

Current charges (felony or misdemeanor)
Warrant information if applicable
Case numbers for pending charges
Arresting agency case numbers
Charge severity and classification

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond/bail amount if eligible
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted, pending, denied)
Conditions of release if applicable

Court Information:

Jurisdiction of case(s)
Assigned court (District, Superior)
Scheduled court appearances
Court case numbers
Assigned judge

Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):

Conviction charges
Sentence length and terms
Credit for time served
Projected release date
Probation/parole eligibility dates
Special conditions of sentence

Release Information:

Release date and time
Type of release (bail, completion of sentence, transfer)
Release conditions if applicable
Post-release supervision requirements

These records are maintained in the Whatcom County Corrections Information Management System and are updated throughout an individual's period of incarceration.

Whatcom County Prison System

The Whatcom County correctional system operates under the authority of the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office and is designed to house individuals who are awaiting trial, serving sentences of less than one year, or awaiting transfer to state facilities. This local system is distinct from the Washington State Department of Corrections, which manages state prisons for individuals serving sentences longer than one year.

The county correctional system serves multiple functions within the criminal justice framework:

Pre-trial detention for individuals awaiting court proceedings
Incarceration for misdemeanor convictions (sentences up to 364 days)
Temporary housing for individuals awaiting transfer to state facilities
Work release programs for eligible inmates
Alternative sentencing options such as electronic home monitoring

The primary facility in the county system is the Whatcom County Jail, which operates under the direct supervision of the Sheriff's Office. The jail maintains both secure detention areas and alternative custody programs to accommodate various security and supervision needs.

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office - Corrections Division
311 Grand Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 778-6500
Whatcom County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains operational hours for public services Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays. After-hours emergency services are available 24/7 through the non-emergency dispatch line at (360) 676-6911.

Types of Correctional Facilities In Whatcom County

Whatcom County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate needs. Each facility serves a specific purpose within the county's correctional system:

Whatcom County Main Jail
311 Grand Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 778-6500
Whatcom County Corrections

The Main Jail is a secure detention facility that houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. This facility includes:

Maximum security housing units
Medium security dormitory-style housing
Special management units for inmates requiring separation
Medical housing for inmates with health concerns
Booking and intake processing center
Video visitation facilities
Programming spaces for rehabilitation services

Whatcom County Work Center
2030 Division Street
Bellingham, WA 98226
(360) 778-6450
Whatcom County Work Center

The Work Center is a minimum-security facility that houses:

Inmates participating in work release programs
Individuals serving weekend or intermittent sentences
Low-risk offenders nearing release
Participants in alternative sentencing programs

Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Center
311 Grand Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 778-6400
Juvenile Detention Services

This specialized facility houses juvenile offenders and provides:

Secure detention for youth awaiting adjudication
Educational services in partnership with local school districts
Age-appropriate programming and counseling
Separate housing from adult populations as required by federal law

Alternative Corrections Programs
311 Grand Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 778-6535
Alternative Corrections

This division manages non-custodial supervision options including:

Electronic home monitoring
Day reporting programs
Community service supervision
Pre-trial supervision services

Each facility operates under the authority of the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office and adheres to standards established by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC) and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC).

Who's in Prison In Whatcom County

The Whatcom County correctional facilities house several categories of individuals at various stages of the criminal justice process. The inmate population typically consists of:

Pre-trial Detainees:

Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
Persons awaiting arraignment or other court proceedings
Individuals deemed flight risks or public safety concerns

Sentenced Misdemeanants:

Persons convicted of misdemeanor offenses serving sentences of up to 364 days
Individuals serving multiple consecutive misdemeanor sentences
Those convicted of gross misdemeanors such as DUI or domestic violence
Persons serving sanctions for probation violations

Short-term Felony Offenders:

Individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences of less than one year
Persons awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
Those serving the final portion of a state sentence under county jurisdiction
Individuals participating in local re-entry programs prior to full release

Specialized Populations:

Work release participants who work in the community but return to custody during non-working hours
Weekend commitment individuals who serve their sentences on weekends only
Persons in custody for civil commitments such as contempt of court
Individuals held on behalf of other jurisdictions (federal, other counties, immigration)

According to the Washington State Department of Corrections, the daily population of Whatcom County correctional facilities averages between 300-400 inmates, with fluctuations based on seasonal factors, court schedules, and law enforcement activity. Approximately 70% of the population consists of pre-trial detainees, while the remaining 30% are serving sentences.

The demographic composition of the inmate population generally reflects broader criminal justice trends in Washington State, with disproportionate representation of individuals with substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and those experiencing homelessness prior to incarceration.

How To Search for Inmate Records In Whatcom County in 2026

Members of the public seeking inmate records in Whatcom County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems that provide various levels of detail depending on the search method employed:

Online Inmate Lookup:

Visit the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division website
Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" or "Custody Status" section
Enter the individual's name (last name, first name) or booking number if known
Review the results, which typically include:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Charges
- Next court date
- Expected release date (if sentenced)
- Bond information

Washington State Department of Corrections Search: For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody or are under state supervision:

Access the Washington State Department of Corrections Incarcerated Search portal
Enter the individual's name or DOC number if known
Filter results by county if needed
Review the comprehensive custody information provided

In-Person Records Request:

Visit the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Records Division during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
Complete a public records request form with as much identifying information as possible
Present valid government-issued identification
Specify the records being requested (booking information, custody status, etc.)
Pay any applicable fees for document reproduction

Written Public Records Request:

Submit a formal written request citing the Washington Public Records Act
Include the following information:
- Full name of the inmate (including any known aliases)
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate booking date (if known)
- Specific records being requested
- Your contact information for response
Submit the request via mail, email, or fax to:

Whatcom County Sheriff's Office - Records Division
311 Grand Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
Email: sheriff@co.whatcom.wa.us
Fax: (360) 778-6515

Pursuant to RCW § 42.56.520, the Sheriff's Office must respond to public records requests within five business days, either providing the records, acknowledging receipt and estimating response time, or denying the request with specific exemption citations.

How To Find an Inmate in Whatcom County for Free?

Locating an inmate in Whatcom County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county and state agencies. These free resources are designed to provide basic custody information to the public:

Whatcom County Jail Roster:

Access the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office website
Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" or "Current Inmates" section
Browse the alphabetical listing or use the search function
The roster is updated multiple times daily and includes:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Primary charges
- Custody status

Telephone Information System:

Call the Whatcom County Jail information line at (360) 778-6500
Follow the automated prompts for inmate information
Provide the inmate's full name when prompted
Receive basic custody status information
This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Washington State Incarcerated Person Search:

Visit the Washington State Department of Corrections Incarcerated Search portal
Enter the individual's name in the search fields
Review results for current location and custody status
This system includes individuals who may have been transferred from county to state custody

Court Docket Search:

Access the Washington Courts Find My Court Date portal
Enter the individual's name in the search fields
Review case information, which often includes custody status
Note upcoming court dates that may indicate current incarceration

Warrant Search: If you're unsure if someone has been taken into custody on an outstanding warrant:

Visit the Washington State Department of Corrections Warrant Search page
Enter the individual's name
Review results to determine if the person has an active warrant or has been apprehended

These free resources provide basic custody information, though they may not include comprehensive details about an inmate's status. For more detailed information, a formal public records request may be necessary. All searches should be conducted using the individual's legal name as it would appear in official records.

How To Visit an Inmate In Whatcom County

Visitation with inmates housed in Whatcom County correctional facilities is governed by established procedures designed to maintain security while facilitating important family and community connections. The following guidelines apply to all visitors:

Visit Rules and Procedures:

All visits must be scheduled in advance through the online visitation system
Visitors must register in the system prior to scheduling their first visit
Registration requires valid government-issued photo identification
Minors must be accompanied by an authorized adult
Visitors are subject to security screening prior to each visit
Visitors with active warrants or criminal cases pending may be denied entry

Visit Schedule:

Main Jail: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Work Center: Saturday-Sunday, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Professional visits (attorneys, clergy) available daily by appointment
Visit duration is typically 30 minutes per session
Inmates are limited to two social visits per week

What to Bring:

Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Visitor registration confirmation
Vehicle keys (to be stored in provided lockers)
Necessary medical items (with prior approval)
Baby care items if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper)

What NOT to Bring:

Cell phones or electronic devices
Weapons of any kind
Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
Food or beverages
Purses, bags, or backpacks
Excessive jewelry or accessories
Cash exceeding $20
Medications (unless medically necessary and pre-approved)

Dress Code:

Conservative attire required
No revealing clothing (shorts, tank tops, low-cut shirts)
No gang-related colors or symbols
No clothing with offensive language or images
No uniforms resembling law enforcement or corrections staff
Shoes and shirts required at all times
No hats or head coverings (except religious items)

Visit Types:

Video visitation (primary method at Main Jail)
In-person non-contact visits (through glass partition)
Contact visits (limited to Work Center inmates with approval)
Professional visits (separate area for attorneys, clergy, etc.)
Special visits (case-by-case approval for exceptional circumstances)

Visit Restrictions:

Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied
Disruptive behavior will result in visit termination
Visitors with felony convictions must receive advance approval
Former inmates must wait 90 days after release before visiting
Maximum of two adult visitors per session
No messages, items, or contraband may be exchanged during visits

All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility security needs and public health considerations. Visitors should verify current procedures by contacting the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Corrections Division at (360) 778-6500 prior to scheduling a visit.

How To Send Money to a Whatcom County Inmate

Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in Whatcom County correctional facilities have several approved methods for depositing funds into inmate accounts. These funds can be used for commissary purchases, telephone calls, and other approved expenses.

Approved Deposit Methods:

Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay payment portal through the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office website
- Create an account or log in as a guest
- Enter the inmate's full name and booking number
- Complete the payment using credit/debit card or electronic check
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of deposit amount)
- Funds are generally available within 24 hours
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the payment kiosk in the Whatcom County Jail lobby
- Available 24/7 for public access
- Touch screen interface accepts cash, credit, or debit cards
- Minimal processing fees for cash deposits
- Funds are typically available within 1-2 hours
- Receipt provided for all transactions
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from an approved vendor (USPS, Western Union)
- Make payable to "Whatcom County Jail" with inmate's name and booking number in memo line
- Send to: Whatcom County Jail, Inmate Accounts, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225
- No personal checks or cash accepted through mail
- No service fees, but processing takes 3-5 business days
- Include sender's full name and return address

Deposit Limits:

Minimum deposit: $5.00 per transaction
Maximum online deposit: $300.00 per transaction
Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00 per inmate
Maximum account balance: $950.00

Associated Fees:

Online credit/debit card deposits: 3.5% service fee
Lobby kiosk credit/debit card: $2.95 flat fee
Lobby kiosk cash deposits: $1.00 flat fee
Money orders by mail: No fee

Prohibited Transactions:

Third-party checks
Personal checks
Cash sent through mail
Transfers between inmate accounts
Deposits from individuals with active protection orders involving the inmate
Deposits from other incarcerated individuals

Approved Fund Uses:

Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
Telephone account funding
Medical co-pays
Haircuts and other personal services
Educational materials and program fees

Prohibited Fund Uses:

Payment of fines or restitution (separate process required)
Bail or bond payments
Transfers to outside accounts
Purchase of contraband items
Payment for services not approved by facility administration

All financial transactions are monitored and subject to review under Washington Administrative Code § 137-48-050, which governs inmate funds and property. Suspicious transactions may be investigated and potentially rejected.

How To Send Jail Mail In Whatcom County

Correspondence with inmates housed in Whatcom County correctional facilities must follow established guidelines to ensure security and proper delivery. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection according to Washington Administrative Code § 137-48-040.

General Mail Guidelines:

Addressing Requirements:
- Clearly print the inmate's full name and booking number
- Include the appropriate facility address:
Whatcom County Main Jail
[Inmate Full Name and Booking Number]
311 Grand Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225

Whatcom County Work Center
[Inmate Full Name and Booking Number]
2030 Division Street
Bellingham, WA 98226
- Include complete return address with sender's full name
- Use standard white envelope (maximum size 9" x 12")
Permitted Mail Contents:
- Personal letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope)
- Photographs (maximum 5 per envelope, no larger than 4" x 6")
- Greeting cards (non-musical, no glitter, maximum size 8" x 10")
- Money orders (following financial deposit guidelines)
- Newspaper clippings (maximum 5 per envelope)
- Printed material from verifiable sources (maximum 10 pages)
Prohibited Mail Contents:
- Cash or personal checks
- Stamps or pre-stamped envelopes
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon or marker writings
- Perfumed or scented items
- Polaroid photographs
- Hardcover books or magazines (must come directly from publisher)
- Plastic or laminated items
- Artwork using glue, glitter, or paint
- Any items creating a bulky envelope

Mail Processing Procedures:

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery
Legal mail from attorneys is opened in the inmate's presence
Contraband items are removed and either returned to sender, destroyed, or held as evidence
Mail typically takes 1-3 business days to process after receipt
Mail containing threats, criminal activity, or escape plans will be forwarded to investigators

Sending Books and Publications:

Books must be shipped directly from publisher or approved online retailer
Soft-cover books only (hardcover books are prohibited)
Maximum of 3 books per package
Religious texts are subject to the same mailing restrictions
Magazines must come directly from publisher with inmate subscription

E-Messages (if available):

Access the approved vendor through the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office website
Create an account and purchase message credits
Compose message (maximum 2,000 characters)
Attach up to 2 photos if permitted
Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours after review

All mail services are subject to temporary suspension during facility lockdowns or emergency situations. Violation of mail rules may result in rejection of correspondence and potential restrictions on an inmate's mail privileges.