Cowlitz County Inmate Search
What Is Inmate Records In Cowlitz County?
Inmate records in Cowlitz County are official government documents maintained by the Cowlitz County Corrections Department and Sheriff's Office that document the status, location, and relevant information of individuals who are in custody within the county's correctional system. These records constitute the official documentation of an individual's incarceration history from initial booking through release.
Inmate records are distinct from court records in several important ways:
- Court records document judicial proceedings, charges, and case dispositions
- Inmate records document the physical custody and management of individuals
- Court records are maintained by the Cowlitz County Clerk of Court
- Inmate records are maintained by corrections officials and the Sheriff's Office
The creation of inmate records begins at booking, when an individual is first processed into the Cowlitz County Corrections system. Pursuant to Washington State RCW 70.48.100, which governs jail records and booking information, these records include photographs, fingerprints, booking information, and other identifying data collected during intake procedures.
Throughout an individual's incarceration, these records are continuously updated to reflect:
- Housing assignments
- Disciplinary actions
- Visitation logs
- Medical information
- Court appearances
- Program participation
- Release planning
Upon release, inmate records are closed but maintained according to Washington State's records retention schedule for local government agencies.
Are Inmate Records Public In Cowlitz County?
Inmate records in Cowlitz County are partially public under Washington State's Public Records Act (PRA), RCW 42.56. This law establishes that government records, including certain inmate records, are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute.
The following inmate record information is typically available to the public:
- Current inmate roster (names of individuals currently in custody)
- Booking information (date and time of booking)
- Charges filed
- Mugshots/booking photographs
- Bond/bail amounts
- Expected release dates
- Current housing facility
However, significant portions of inmate records are exempt from public disclosure under various provisions of Washington law. According to RCW 70.48.100, which specifically addresses jail records, certain information is protected, including:
- Medical and health care information
- Personal identifying information beyond what is necessary for identification
- Information that would jeopardize facility security
- Records pertaining to juveniles
Members of the public seeking inmate information should be aware that while basic custody information is public, access to comprehensive inmate files requires proper authorization or may be restricted by privacy laws and security considerations.
What's Included Inmate Records in Cowlitz County
Inmate records in Cowlitz County contain comprehensive information about individuals in custody. These records typically include:
Basic Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- State identification number and/or booking number
Custody Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Arresting agency
- Booking officer
- Current housing assignment
- Custody classification level
- Scheduled court appearances
- Expected release date (if determined)
Charge Information:
- Current charges
- Charge severity (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge status (pending, dismissed, convicted)
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Case numbers
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond/bail amount
- Bond/bail status (posted, not posted)
- Bond/bail conditions
- Bond/bail hearing dates
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Judge assigned
- Attorney information
- Court dates and appearances
- Court orders related to custody
Sentence Information (if convicted and serving sentence):
- Sentence length
- Sentence start date
- Projected release date
- Good time/earned time calculations
- Probation/parole eligibility dates
- Special conditions of sentence
Release Information:
- Scheduled release date
- Release type (time served, bond posted, transferred)
- Post-release supervision requirements
- Release conditions
These records are maintained in the Cowlitz County Corrections Department's jail management system and are updated regularly throughout an individual's period of incarceration.
Cowlitz County Prison System
The Cowlitz County corrections system operates under the authority of the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office and primarily consists of the Cowlitz County Jail. This facility serves as the main detention center for individuals awaiting trial and those serving sentences of up to one year for misdemeanor offenses.
It is important to distinguish between the county jail system and the state prison system:
- County Jail: Operated by Cowlitz County, houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving sentences of less than one year
- State Prison: Operated by the Washington State Department of Corrections, houses individuals convicted of felonies serving sentences longer than one year
The Cowlitz County Jail functions as a local detention facility that processes arrestees from various law enforcement agencies throughout the county, including the Sheriff's Office, Longview Police Department, Kelso Police Department, and Washington State Patrol.
For information regarding the Cowlitz County corrections system, contact:
Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office
312 SW 1st Avenue
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 577-3092
Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains administrative oversight of the jail facility, while day-to-day operations are managed by corrections staff under the direction of the Corrections Chief.
Types of Correctional Facilities In Cowlitz County
Cowlitz County maintains several types of correctional facilities to accommodate different security levels and inmate populations:
Cowlitz County Jail
1935 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
(360) 577-3094
Cowlitz County Corrections
The main detention facility serves multiple functions:
- Maximum security housing for high-risk inmates
- Medium security general population housing
- Minimum security dormitory-style housing
- Special housing for inmates requiring protective custody
- Medical housing unit for inmates with health concerns
Cowlitz County Work Release Center
1935 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
(360) 577-3094
Cowlitz County Corrections
This facility allows qualifying low-risk inmates to:
- Maintain employment while serving their sentence
- Leave the facility for approved work shifts
- Return to secure custody during non-working hours
- Participate in community service programs
Cowlitz County Juvenile Detention Center
1725 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
(360) 577-3100
Cowlitz County Juvenile Services
This separate facility houses juvenile offenders and provides:
- Secure detention for juveniles awaiting adjudication
- Educational services through the local school district
- Age-appropriate programming and counseling
- Separate housing from adult offenders as required by federal law
Each facility operates under specific security protocols and programming appropriate to the population served, with the common goal of maintaining public safety while providing constitutional conditions of confinement.
Who's in Prison In Cowlitz County
The Cowlitz County Jail houses several categories of individuals who are in custody for various reasons. The inmate population typically consists of:
Pre-trial detainees who are awaiting court proceedings, including:
- Individuals who have been arrested and charged but not yet convicted
- Those who could not post bail or were denied bail
- Individuals awaiting transfer to other jurisdictions
Sentenced offenders serving terms of incarceration, including:
- Individuals convicted of misdemeanors serving sentences up to one year
- Felony offenders awaiting transfer to state prison facilities
- Probation violators serving sanctions for non-compliance
The jail also temporarily houses:
- Individuals arrested for probation or parole violations
- Those held on immigration detainers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Individuals awaiting mental health evaluations
- Federal detainees held under contract with federal agencies
According to data from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, the Cowlitz County Jail has an operational capacity of approximately 306 beds, though actual population fluctuates daily based on arrests, court proceedings, and releases.
The demographic composition of the jail population generally reflects those involved in the criminal justice system throughout Washington State, with variations based on local factors. The average length of stay for pre-trial detainees is approximately 15-30 days, while sentenced misdemeanants may serve up to one year in the facility.
Individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year are typically transferred to the Washington State Department of Corrections after sentencing, rather than remaining in the county jail for the duration of their sentence.
How To Search for Inmate Records In Cowlitz County in 2026
Members of the public seeking inmate records in Cowlitz County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county currently maintains multiple search options to accommodate different needs:
Online Inmate Lookup System:
- Visit the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Roster" or "Jail Roster" section
- Enter the inmate's name or booking number in the search fields
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Expected release date (if available)
In-Person Records Request:
- Visit the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours
- Complete a public records request form at the front desk
- Provide identifying information about the inmate
- Present valid identification
- Specify which records are being requested
Written Records Request:
- Download the public records request form from the county website
- Complete all required fields, including specific information sought
- Submit the form via mail to:
Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office
Records Division
312 SW 1st Avenue
Kelso, WA 98626
Telephone Inquiry:
- Call the Cowlitz County Jail at (360) 577-3094
- Provide the inmate's full name and date of birth if known
- Note that basic information such as confirmation of custody status may be provided by phone, but detailed records typically require a formal request
When searching for inmate records, requestors should be prepared to provide:
- Inmate's full legal name
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate booking date (if known)
- Case number (if available)
Pursuant to the Washington Public Records Act, the Sheriff's Office must respond to records requests within five business days, either by providing the records, denying the request with a specific exemption citation, or acknowledging receipt and providing an estimated timeframe for response.
How To Find an Inmate in Cowlitz County for Free?
Locating an inmate in Cowlitz County can be accomplished through several no-cost methods provided by county agencies:
Cowlitz County Jail Roster:
- Access the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the "Inmate Lookup" or "Current Inmates" section
- Search by the individual's last name and first name
- The roster is updated regularly and includes:
- Current custody status
- Booking date
- Primary charges
- Bond information
Telephone Verification:
- Call the Cowlitz County Jail directly at (360) 577-3094
- Provide the full name of the person you are inquiring about
- Staff can confirm if an individual is currently in custody
- Basic information such as next court date may be available
Washington Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (SAVIN):
- Visit the VINE Link website
- Select Washington State
- Enter the inmate's name
- This system provides custody status across participating Washington facilities
- Registration is available for custody status change notifications
In-Person Inquiry:
- Visit the Cowlitz County Jail lobby during regular business hours
- Speak with the reception staff
- Provide the name of the person you are inquiring about
- Basic custody information can be provided without a formal records request
Washington Department of Corrections Inmate Search:
- For individuals who may have been transferred to state custody, visit the Washington DOC Inmate Search
- Enter the individual's name
- This database includes all inmates in state custody, including those transferred from Cowlitz County
These free resources provide basic information about an inmate's custody status. For more detailed information, a formal public records request may be necessary, which could potentially involve fees for extensive searches or document reproduction.
How To Visit an Inmate In Cowlitz County
Visiting an inmate at the Cowlitz County Jail requires adherence to specific procedures established to maintain security and order within the facility:
Visit Rules and Procedures:
- All visits must be scheduled in advance
- Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list
- Each inmate is allowed a limited number of visitors on their approved list
- Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification
- All visitors are subject to search prior to entry
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor
Visit Schedule:
- General population: Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Maximum security: Thursday and Sunday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Work release: Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Visits are limited to 30 minutes per session
- Inmates are allowed two visits per week
What to Bring:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport)
- Vehicle keys (will be secured during visit)
- Medications needed during visit time (must be declared)
- Baby supplies if visiting with infant (limited to one clear bottle, one diaper, one small blanket)
What NOT to Bring:
- Weapons of any kind
- Tobacco products, lighters, or matches
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Purses, bags, or backpacks
- Food or beverages
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Cash exceeding $20
- Photographs or papers
Dress Code:
- Conservative attire required
- No revealing clothing (no low-cut tops, short shorts, or skirts above mid-thigh)
- No gang-related colors or symbols
- No clothing with offensive language or images
- No hats or head coverings (except religious items)
- No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
- Shoes must be worn at all times
Visit Types:
- Non-contact visits (through glass partition with telephone communication)
- Professional visits (attorneys, clergy, etc.)
- Video visitation available for certain housing units
Visit Restrictions:
- Former inmates must wait 60 days after release before visiting
- Persons on probation or parole must have written permission from their supervising officer
- Visitors who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry
- Disruptive behavior will result in immediate termination of visit
For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact:
Cowlitz County Jail
1935 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
(360) 577-3094
Cowlitz County Corrections
All visitation policies are subject to change based on facility needs and security considerations in accordance with Washington Administrative Code 289-24-200, which establishes minimum standards for visitation in local detention facilities.
How To Send Money to a Cowlitz County Inmate
Individuals wishing to provide financial support to inmates housed in the Cowlitz County Jail have several approved methods for sending funds:
Online Deposits:
- Visit the TouchPay Payment Systems website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Cowlitz County Jail" from the facility list
- Enter the inmate's full name and ID number
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction using a credit or debit card
- Service fees apply (typically 3-5% of the transaction amount)
Lobby Kiosk:
- Visit the Cowlitz County Jail lobby during regular business hours
- Locate the TouchPay kiosk
- Follow on-screen instructions
- Cash, credit, and debit cards accepted
- Reduced service fees compared to online deposits
- Funds are typically available in the inmate's account within 1-2 hours
Money Order by Mail:
- Purchase a money order from a post office or retail location
- Make payable to "Cowlitz County Jail" with the inmate's name and ID in the memo line
- Do not send cash, personal checks, or third-party checks
- Mail to:
Cowlitz County Jail
Inmate Accounts
1935 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
Amount Limits:
- Minimum deposit: $1.00
- Maximum single deposit: $300.00
- Maximum weekly deposit: $500.00
- Maximum account balance: $1,000.00
Deposit Fees:
- Online deposits: 3-5% of transaction amount
- Lobby kiosk: $2.00 flat fee
- Money orders: No fee
Prohibited Uses: Funds deposited into inmate accounts cannot be used for:
- Bail or bond payments
- Court-ordered fines or fees
- Restitution payments
- Transfer to other inmates' accounts
Approved Uses: Inmates may use funds in their accounts for:
- Commissary purchases (hygiene items, snacks, writing materials)
- Phone calls
- Medical co-pays
- Haircuts
- Release funds
All financial transactions are subject to monitoring and review by jail staff. Suspicious deposits may be investigated for potential contraband introduction or other prohibited activities. Upon release, any remaining balance in an inmate's account will be returned via debit card or check.
How To Send Jail Mail In Cowlitz County
Corresponding with inmates at the Cowlitz County Jail requires adherence to specific guidelines established to maintain facility security and efficient mail processing:
Addressing Requirements:
- Clearly print the inmate's full name and ID number (if known)
- Include your complete return address with full name
- Address envelopes exactly as follows:
Inmate Full Name, ID# (if known)
Cowlitz County Jail
1935 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
Permitted Mail Items:
- Letters on plain white, lined, or colored paper
- Greeting cards (plain cards only, no musical, pop-up, or oversized cards)
- Photographs (maximum of 5 per envelope, no larger than 4"x6")
- Money orders (must be made payable to the inmate)
- Legal documents
- Religious materials (soft-cover only, subject to review)
Prohibited Items:
- Packages or padded envelopes
- Hardcover books or magazines (must be sent directly from publisher)
- Stickers, labels, or tape
- Crayon, marker, or colored pencil writings
- Perfumed or scented papers
- Polaroid photographs
- Cash or personal checks
- Postage stamps or envelopes
- Cards larger than 5"x7"
- Any items with glitter, glue, or other adhesives
- Pornographic or sexually explicit materials
- Gang-related content
Mail Inspection Procedures: All non-legal mail is opened and inspected for contraband and compliance with jail rules before delivery to inmates. Legal mail from attorneys, courts, or government agencies is opened in the presence of the inmate.
Publication Deliveries: Books, magazines, and newspapers must be:
- Sent directly from the publisher or authorized retailer (Amazon, Barnes & Noble)
- Soft-cover only
- Free of contraband or prohibited content
- Subject to review by jail staff
E-Messages: The Cowlitz County Jail offers electronic messaging through the Smart Communications system:
- Create an account on the Smart Communications website
- Purchase message credits
- Compose and send messages to inmates
- Messages are typically delivered within 24 hours
- Character limits and content restrictions apply
All correspondence is subject to monitoring and review except privileged legal mail. Any mail containing threats, criminal activity planning, escape plans, or other security concerns may be forwarded to appropriate authorities and could result in criminal charges.
For questions regarding mail policies, contact:
Cowlitz County Jail
1935 1st Avenue
Longview, WA 98632
(360) 577-3094
Cowlitz County Corrections