Arrest records are public documents in Black Diamond, Washington, pursuant to the Washington State Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). This legislation establishes that government-held records, including those documenting arrests, must be accessible to the public with limited exceptions. The statute serves to promote transparency in governmental operations and accountability within law enforcement agencies. Members of the public may request and review these records as part of their right to monitor the activities of public institutions.
The Washington State Public Records Act specifically mandates that law enforcement agencies maintain and provide access to arrest records, booking photos, and related documentation. These provisions ensure that citizens can access information regarding police activities and criminal proceedings within their communities. Exceptions to disclosure may apply in cases involving ongoing investigations, juvenile records, or where release would compromise privacy rights as defined under RCW 42.56.240.
Multiple official channels exist through which members of the public may access arrest records in Black Diamond. Individuals seeking such information should be aware of the following options:
Black Diamond Police Department
25510 Lawson Street
Black Diamond, WA 98010
(360) 886-0022
Black Diamond Police Department Official Website
King County District Court - Enumclaw Courthouse
1400 Griffin Avenue
Enumclaw, WA 98022
(206) 205-9200
King County District Court locations
Washington State Patrol
3000 Pacific Avenue
Olympia, WA 98504
(360) 534-2000
Washington State Patrol Official Website
Arrest records maintained by Black Diamond law enforcement agencies typically contain comprehensive information as mandated by Washington State record-keeping requirements. Standard arrest records include the following elements:
These records are maintained in accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 446-20, which establishes standards for criminal history record information. The completeness and accuracy of these records are subject to periodic audits as required by state regulations.
Washington State law provides mechanisms through which individuals may petition for the expungement or sealing of arrest records under specific circumstances. This process, formally known as "vacating" a record in Washington State, is governed by RCW 9.96.060 and RCW 10.97.060.
Eligibility criteria for expungement in Black Diamond include:
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the court of jurisdiction. For Black Diamond residents, this typically involves:
King County Superior Court
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 477-1400
King County Superior Court Official Website
Petitioners must complete the appropriate forms as prescribed by the Washington State Courts Administrative Office, including the "Motion and Declaration for Order Vacating Conviction" and supporting documentation. Filing fees apply, though fee waivers may be available for qualifying individuals based on financial need.
Upon successful expungement, records are removed from public access, though they remain available to law enforcement agencies and courts for specific purposes as outlined in RCW 10.97.050. Expunged records will not appear in standard background checks conducted by employers or housing providers.