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Seattle Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Seattle, Washington?

Arrest records are public in Seattle, Washington, pursuant to the Washington State Public Records Act (RCW Chapter 42.56). This legislation establishes the framework for public access to government-held records, including those pertaining to arrests. The Washington State Public Records Act operates under the fundamental principle that the public has the right to be informed about governmental operations and decisions, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in public institutions.

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) maintains arrest records as part of its official documentation. These records become public documents subject to disclosure under state law, with certain statutory exceptions designed to protect privacy interests, ongoing investigations, and other sensitive information as outlined in RCW 42.56.240. Members of the public seeking arrest records must submit requests through appropriate channels established by the relevant agencies.

It should be noted that while arrest records are generally accessible, certain information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws and exemptions provided in the Washington State Public Records Act. Such redactions typically include personal identifying information of victims, witnesses, or confidential informants, as well as information that might compromise ongoing investigations.

How to Look Up Seattle Arrest Records in 2025

The Seattle Police Department provides multiple avenues for members of the public to access arrest records. Individuals seeking such information may utilize the following methods:

In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the Seattle Police Department's Public Request Unit to submit requests for arrest records. The unit is located at:

Seattle Police Department Headquarters
610 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 684-5520
Seattle Police Department

Online Requests: The Seattle Police Department maintains a Records Request Center where individuals may submit requests electronically. This system allows for efficient processing and tracking of public disclosure requests.
King County Court Records: Arrest records that have resulted in court proceedings may be accessed through the King County Court system at:

King County Courthouse
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 296-9100
Seattle Municipal Court

Mail Requests: Written requests may be submitted via postal mail to the Seattle Police Department's Public Disclosure Unit. Requests must include specific information about the record being sought, including names, dates, and locations when available.

Pursuant to RCW 42.56.520, agencies must respond to public records requests within five business days. The response will either provide the record, acknowledge receipt and provide an estimated time for providing records, or deny the request with a citation to the relevant exemption.

Contents of a Seattle Arrest Record

Seattle arrest records contain standardized information as mandated by Washington State law and departmental policies. These records typically include the following components:

Biographical Information: Full legal name, date of birth, gender, race, height, weight, and other identifying characteristics of the arrested individual
Arrest Details: Date, time, and specific location of the arrest
Jurisdictional Information: The law enforcement agency that executed the arrest and the officers involved
Criminal Charges: Specific violations of law for which the individual was arrested, including relevant statute or code citations
Booking Information: Processing details including booking number, date, and facility
Photographic Documentation: Booking photographs (commonly known as "mugshots")
Biometric Data: Fingerprints and, in some cases, DNA samples collected during booking
Custody Status: Information regarding bail or bond amounts, if applicable
Case Disposition: Current status of the case within the criminal justice system

It should be noted that pursuant to RCW 10.97.050, certain information in criminal history record information may be subject to restrictions on dissemination. Additionally, juvenile records are subject to different disclosure rules under RCW 13.50.050 and may have enhanced confidentiality protections.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Seattle

The State of Washington provides legal mechanisms for the expungement, sealing, or vacation of arrest records under specific circumstances. This process is governed primarily by RCW 9.94A.640 and RCW 10.97.060, which establish the criteria and procedures for removing arrest records from public access.

Individuals seeking expungement in Seattle must meet several eligibility requirements:

Completion of all sentencing requirements
Fulfillment of a waiting period (typically 3-10 years, depending on the offense classification)
No pending criminal charges
No subsequent convictions during the waiting period
Satisfaction of all legal financial obligations

The expungement process requires filing a petition with the court where the case was adjudicated. For Seattle arrests, this is typically the Seattle Municipal Court or King County Superior Court. The petition must include:

Complete criminal history
Certificate of discharge (if applicable)
Proof of completion of all sentencing requirements
Filing fee or fee waiver request

Upon receipt of a properly filed petition, the court will schedule a hearing where a judge will determine whether the expungement serves the interests of justice and public safety. If granted, the court will issue an order directing all relevant agencies to seal or expunge the records from public access.

It is important to note that pursuant to RCW 9.94A.640(3), certain serious offenses, including most violent felonies and sex offenses, are ineligible for expungement under Washington State law.

Legal Restrictions on Arrest Record Access

While the Washington State Public Records Act establishes a presumption of openness for government records, several statutory exemptions limit access to certain arrest information. These restrictions are codified in RCW 42.56.240 and other relevant statutes.

Key restrictions include:

Juvenile Records: Pursuant to RCW 13.50.050, records pertaining to juvenile arrests are subject to enhanced confidentiality protections
Ongoing Investigations: Information that would compromise active law enforcement investigations may be withheld under RCW 42.56.240(1)
Victim and Witness Protection: Personal identifying information of crime victims, witnesses, and complainants may be redacted to protect privacy and safety
Intelligence Information: Records compiled for intelligence purposes related to investigating terrorist acts may be exempt from disclosure
Sexual Offense Cases: Certain information in sexual offense cases may be restricted to protect victim privacy
Sealed or Expunged Records: Records that have been legally sealed or expunged by court order are not available for public inspection

Government agencies must cite specific exemptions when denying access to records and provide written explanation for any redactions made to disclosed documents. Individuals who believe records have been improperly withheld may seek judicial review of the agency's decision.