Tri-Cities Metro Area County Jail is a secure detention facility serving Benton and Franklin counties in Washington state. It houses individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or short-term incarceration. The jail operates under the authority of the local sheriff’s office and follows strict state and federal regulations. It provides essential services including medical care, mental health support, education, and rehabilitation programs. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, visitation rules, and facility policies. This page delivers complete, verified details about the jail’s operations, contact methods, and resources—ensuring users get reliable answers quickly and clearly.
How to Search for an Inmate in Tri-Cities Metro Area County Jail
Locating an inmate starts with using the official online roster. The Tri-Cities Metro Area County Jail maintains a public inmate lookup tool updated daily. This system allows anyone to search by full name or booking number. Results show current status, charges, bond amount, court dates, and housing location. Searches are free and available 24/7. If no results appear, double-check spelling or try a partial name. For urgent cases, call the jail directly at (509) 735-6555. Staff can confirm if someone is in custody or has been transferred. Always have the inmate’s full legal name and date of birth ready when calling.
Online Inmate Lookup Steps
- Go to the official website: www.bentoncountywa.gov/sheriff
- Click “Inmate Roster” under the Jail Services section
- Enter the inmate’s first and last name or ID number
- Review results for booking date, charges, and release eligibility
The roster refreshes every few hours. Mugshots appear if available and not restricted by law. Some records may be sealed due to ongoing investigations or juvenile status. For privacy reasons, not all details are public. If you need certified records, submit a public records request through the sheriff’s office.
Offline Search Options
If the website is down or you prefer in-person help, visit the jail at 7300 W Deschutes Ave, Kennewick, WA 99336. Bring a photo ID and the inmate’s full name. Staff will assist during business hours. You can also call (509) 735-6555 and ask for the booking desk. Phone lines are staffed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours, leave a message with your contact info. Responses usually come within one business day.
Tri-Cities Jail Inmate Roster and Booking Information
The inmate roster lists everyone currently held at the facility. Each entry includes full name, age, booking photo (mugshot), charges, bond amount, and scheduled court appearance. The list is organized by housing unit and updated after every intake or release. Booking occurs immediately after arrest. Officers collect fingerprints, take a photo, run a background check, and assign a unique ID number. Medical staff screen for health issues and mental wellness. Inmates receive a rulebook, clothing, and basic hygiene items.
What Shows on the Roster?
| Information Type | Included? |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yes |
| Date of Birth | Partial (age only) |
| Mugshot | Yes, unless restricted |
| Charges | Yes |
| Bail Amount | Yes, if set |
| Court Date | Yes |
| Housing Unit | Yes |
| Release Date | Only if sentenced |
Charges range from misdemeanors like theft or DUI to felonies such as assault or drug possession. Bail amounts vary based on risk level and prior record. Judges set bail during first court appearances, usually within 48 hours of booking. If bail isn’t posted, the inmate remains in custody until trial.
Visiting Hours and Rules at Tri-Cities Metro Area County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with family and supports rehabilitation. The jail offers both in-person and video visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not allowed. In-person visits occur on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Video visits run seven days a week, including evenings. Each inmate gets one 30-minute visit per week. Visitors must be on the approved list and pass a background check.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
- Schedule online at securustech.net or call (509) 735-6555
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in
- Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Dress modestly: no tank tops, shorts, hats, or revealing clothing
- No cell phones, bags, or food allowed inside
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Only two visitors per session. Security staff monitor all visits. Violating rules can result in suspension of visiting privileges.
Virtual Visitation Options
Video visits use Securus Video Connect. Sessions cost $9.99 and last 20 minutes. You need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet. Download the Securus app or visit their website. Log in 10 minutes before your appointment. The system sends a link to join. Audio and video are recorded for safety. Technical support is available during visits.
Bail Information and Release Procedures
Bail lets eligible inmates leave jail before trial by paying a set amount. The judge decides bail during the first court hearing. Amounts depend on crime severity, flight risk, and criminal history. Payment options include cash, credit card, or bail bond. Cash bail must be paid in full at the jail or online. Credit cards incur a 3% fee. Bail bonds require a 10% non-refundable fee to a licensed bondsman.
How to Post Bail
- Confirm the bail amount with the Booking Office: (509) 735-6555
- Pay online at gtnsecurepay.com
- Or pay in person at 7300 W Deschutes Ave, Kennewick, WA
- Bring ID and payment method (cash, card, or money order)
Once paid, the inmate is released after processing, usually within 1–2 hours. Release paperwork includes conditions like staying in the area or checking in with pretrial services. Failure to appear in court forfeits the bail and may lead to re-arrest.
Inmate Mail, Phone Calls, and Communication
Inmates can send and receive mail, make phone calls, and use email. All correspondence is screened for contraband. Mail must include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and correct address. Use standard envelopes with plain paper. No stickers, glitter, or Polaroids allowed. Books and magazines must come directly from publishers.
Mail Address Format
Inmate Full Name
Inmate ID Number
Tri-Cities Metro Area County Jail
7300 W Deschutes Ave
Kennewick, WA 99336
Phone Call Rules
Inmates make calls using a prepaid account. Family adds money online via securustech.net or at kiosks in the jail lobby. Calls cost $0.20 per minute and last 15 minutes. All calls are recorded and monitored. Three-way calls or call forwarding are not allowed. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls.
Email Communication
Secure email is available through Securus. Messages are printed and delivered within 24 hours. Inmates reply using jail tablets. Emails are read by staff before delivery. Prohibited content includes threats, gang symbols, or plans to break rules. Violations can block future emails.
Commissary Services and Sending Money
Inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and stationery from the commissary. Funds come from personal accounts. Family and friends add money online, by phone, or in person. Online deposits are instant. Kiosks accept cash or cards. Money orders by mail must be payable to the inmate and include their ID number. Personal checks and cash by mail are not accepted.
How to Add Funds
- Online: accesscorrections.com
- Phone: (866) 516-5080
- Kiosk: Located in jail lobby, open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Mail: Send money order to the jail address above
Commissary orders are placed weekly. Items arrive within two days. Popular products include instant coffee, ramen, toothpaste, and socks. Prices are posted online. Unused funds remain in the account until release.
Healthcare and Mental Health Support
All inmates receive medical and mental health care upon intake. Nurses conduct screenings for injuries, infections, and chronic conditions. Doctors visit weekly. Prescription medications are provided as needed. Dental and vision care are available for urgent cases. Mental health staff offer counseling, crisis intervention, and substance abuse programs.
Available Services
- Routine check-ups and vaccinations
- Medication management for diabetes, hypertension, etc.
- Individual and group therapy
- Detox support for alcohol or drug withdrawal
- Suicide prevention monitoring
Inmates request care by submitting a medical slip. Urgent issues are seen immediately. Non-emergencies are scheduled within 72 hours. All services follow HIPAA privacy rules.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
The jail offers programs to reduce reoffending. Education includes GED classes, adult basic literacy, and computer skills. Vocational training covers carpentry, welding, and food safety. Substance abuse counseling uses evidence-based methods like cognitive behavioral therapy. Work-release programs allow low-risk inmates to keep jobs during the day.
Program Highlights
- GED preparation with free testing
- Anger management and life skills workshops
- Faith-based support groups
- Job readiness training with resume help
- Parenting classes for incarcerated parents
Participation is voluntary but encouraged. Certificates earned help with parole and employment. Staff track progress and report to courts when required.
Security, Safety, and Facility Policies
The jail uses 24/7 surveillance, electronic monitoring, and staff patrols to ensure safety. Inmates are classified by risk level: minimum, medium, or maximum. Housing units match classification. Emergency plans cover fires, medical crises, and disturbances. Staff train monthly in de-escalation and first aid.
Key Safety Features
- HD cameras in all common areas
- Controlled access doors and locks
- Regular cell inspections
- Contraband detection scanners
- On-site medical response team
Policies prohibit violence, gambling, and unauthorized electronics. Inmates follow a daily schedule with meals, recreation, and program time. Rules are posted in every unit. Violations lead to loss of privileges or disciplinary action.
Contact Information and Location
Tri-Cities Metro Area County Jail is located at 7300 W Deschutes Ave, Kennewick, WA 99336. It serves Benton and Franklin counties. The main phone number is (509) 735-6555. For inmate lookup, visit www.bentoncountywa.gov/sheriff. Visitation hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Video visits are available daily. Emergency contact: (509) 735-6555.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about inmate status, visitation, and services. Below are clear, direct answers based on current jail policies and verified sources.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in the Tri-Cities area?
Use the online inmate roster at the Benton County Sheriff’s website. Search by name or ID. If no results appear, call (509) 735-6555. Have the person’s full name and date of birth ready. The roster updates multiple times daily and shows current bookings, charges, and court dates. Mugshots appear unless restricted by law. For certified records, submit a public records request. Response time is usually 3–5 business days. Always verify information with official sources to avoid scams or outdated data.
Can I visit an inmate without scheduling in advance?
No. All visits—both in-person and virtual—must be scheduled ahead of time. Walk-ins are not permitted. Schedule online through Securus or call the jail. In-person visits require approval and ID. Virtual visits need an account and payment. Arrive early for check-in. Late arrivals may lose their slot. Each inmate gets one visit per week. Follow dress codes and bring only allowed items. Violations can cancel future visits.
What happens if bail is posted?
Once bail is paid, staff process the release within 1–2 hours. The inmate signs release forms and receives conditions like staying in the area or reporting to pretrial services. If they miss court, bail is forfeited and a warrant issued. Cash bail is refunded minus fees if all court dates are met. Bond fees are non-refundable. Pay online, by phone, or in person. Keep receipts for proof of payment.
Are mugshots public record in the Tri-Cities area?
Yes, mugshots taken during booking are generally public. They appear on the inmate roster unless sealed by court order. Anyone can view them online. To request removal, contact the sheriff’s office. Removal is rare and usually requires proof of acquittal or expungement. Some third-party sites republish mugshots for profit. The jail does not control these sites. Legal action may be needed to remove them.
What programs help inmates prepare for life after release?
The jail offers GED classes, vocational training, counseling, and work-release. Programs teach job skills, manage addiction, and improve decision-making. Participants earn certificates that help with employment and parole. Staff track progress and report to courts. Education reduces recidivism. Inmates can also join faith groups or parenting classes. All programs are voluntary but strongly encouraged for successful reintegration.
How do I send money to an inmate safely?
Use official channels only: online at Access Corrections, by phone, or at jail kiosks. Never send cash by mail. Money orders must include the inmate’s full name and ID. Personal checks are rejected. Online deposits are instant. Kiosks accept cash or cards. Funds go into a secure account for commissary, phone calls, or medical co-pays. Keep receipts. Unused money stays in the account until release.
Can inmates receive books or care packages?
Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or bookstores. No used books or homemade items. Care packages are not allowed. All mail is inspected. Approved items include plain letters, photos (no Polaroids), and standard envelopes. Hygiene items and snacks must be bought through commissary. Sending unauthorized items can result in mail rejection or disciplinary action.