Pierce County, Washington Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Pierce County, Washington?
Arrest records are public documents in Pierce County, Washington, pursuant to the Washington State Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). This legislation establishes that government-held records, including those pertaining to arrests, shall be accessible to the public with limited exceptions. The transparency of these records serves multiple purposes, including maintaining accountability of law enforcement agencies and providing community members with information necessary for legal proceedings and public safety considerations.
The Pierce County Sheriff's Department and other local law enforcement agencies are required by law to maintain these records and make them available upon proper request. Members of the public seeking arrest records may obtain them through various official channels, though certain information may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or personal privacy in accordance with RCW 42.56.240.
Can Arrest Records be Found Online in Pierce County?
Pierce County arrest records are available through several online platforms maintained by county and state agencies. The Pierce County Legal Information Network eXchange (LINX) serves as the primary digital repository for court and arrest information within the jurisdiction. This system allows authorized users to access arrest data, court calendars, and case information remotely.
The Washington State Patrol also maintains a criminal history database that includes arrest information from Pierce County and other jurisdictions throughout the state. Access to these online records may require payment of statutory fees as outlined in RCW 10.97.100, which authorizes agencies to charge for the dissemination of criminal history record information.
Online access to these records is subject to certain limitations and restrictions. Specifically, some sensitive information may be redacted or restricted in accordance with state privacy laws and judicial orders. Users should be aware that the most comprehensive records are typically available through formal requests rather than online portals.
How to Look Up Pierce County Arrest Records in 2025
Members of the public seeking Pierce County arrest records may utilize several official methods to obtain this information. The following procedures have been established to facilitate public access while maintaining appropriate security protocols:
Online Database Access: The LINX Search system provides public access to arrest records and court information. Users may search by name, case number, or other identifiers to locate relevant records.
In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the Pierce County Sheriff's Department Records Division to submit formal requests for arrest records.
Pierce County Sheriff's Department
930 Tacoma Avenue S
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7530
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PMWritten Requests: Written requests for arrest records may be submitted to the Records Division by mail. Requests must include the subject's full name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest.
Washington State Patrol: For comprehensive criminal history information, including arrests across multiple jurisdictions, requests may be submitted to:
Washington State Patrol Criminal Records Division
P.O. Box 42633
Olympia, WA 98504-2633
(360) 534-2000
Official Website
Pursuant to RCW 10.97.080, requestors must provide proper identification when seeking arrest records. Fees for record retrieval are established by statute and agency policy, with current rates available on the respective agency websites.
Contents of a Pierce County Arrest Record
Pierce County arrest records contain standardized information as required by Washington State law and local protocols. These records typically include the following elements:
- Full legal name of the arrested individual and any documented aliases
- Date of birth and demographic information
- Date, time, and location of the arrest
- Statutory citation and description of alleged offenses
- Arresting agency and officer identification
- Booking information, including booking number and facility
- Biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs
- Physical descriptors (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Custody status and bail information
- Case disposition if available
In accordance with RCW 10.97.050, certain information may be withheld from public disclosure, particularly in cases involving juveniles, sexual assault victims, or ongoing investigations. Additionally, arrest records may be linked to court case numbers that provide access to subsequent judicial proceedings through the Pierce County Superior Court or District Court systems.
Expungement of Arrest Records in Pierce County
Under Washington State law, individuals may petition for the expungement or sealing of arrest records under specific circumstances. The process, governed by RCW 10.97.060 and related statutes, provides a mechanism for removing arrest information from public access when certain criteria are met.
Eligibility requirements for expungement in Pierce County typically include:
- Cases resulting in acquittal or dismissal
- Arrests not leading to charges within the statutory timeframe
- Successful completion of diversion programs
- Satisfaction of waiting periods for specific offense categories
- Demonstration of rehabilitation and compliance with all court orders
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the Pierce County Superior Court. Forms and procedures are available through:
Pierce County Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Petitioners should be aware that expungement in Washington State does not physically destroy records but rather restricts their dissemination to the public. Certain government agencies, including law enforcement and courts, may retain access to expunged records for official purposes as permitted by RCW 10.97.060(3).
Legal assistance is advisable when pursuing expungement, as the process involves complex statutory requirements and procedural rules. The Pierce County Bar Association maintains referral services for individuals seeking legal counsel for expungement matters.
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