Overview of Pierce County Detention Center
The Pierce County Detention Center, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a medium-security jail primarily housing adult male and female inmates. The facility accommodates both pre-trial detainees and those serving short sentences for non-violent offenses like theft or robbery. Operated by the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, the detention center has a capacity of approximately 1,300 inmates and is divided into two sections: the “Main Jail,” which opened in 1985, and the “New Jail,” added in 2003.
The center focuses on maintaining order and safety while providing inmates access to legal and medical services, commissary options, and rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism.
Contact Information for Pierce County Detention Center
- Address: 910 Tacoma Ave S, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Phone Numbers:
- Main Jail Reception: (253) 798-4590
- Administration: (253) 798-4668
- Email: Not publicly available
- Website: Visit the Pierce County Sheriff’s website for more information.
Visiting Information for Pierce County Detention Center
Visiting inmates at Pierce County Detention Center is structured to ensure the safety and security of the facility. Face-to-face and video visitation are available, but both types of visits must be scheduled in advance by the inmate. The visiting hours vary throughout the week, and visits are generally limited to one hour per session.
- Visiting Hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
- No visits on Mondays and Thursdays.
- What to Bring:
- A valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
- Up to two adults and two children may visit an inmate at one time.
- Dress Code: Visitors must dress appropriately; revealing or provocative clothing is not allowed.
- What Visits are Like: Visits are conducted in a monitored environment to ensure compliance with facility regulations. Each visit is timed, and visitors may not visit the same inmate more than once per day.
For more information or to schedule a visit, call (253) 798-4590.
How to Book a Visit at Pierce County Detention Center
To book a visit at the Pierce County Detention Center, the inmate must arrange the visit and provide your name and date of birth to the facility. Visitors must sign up 45 minutes prior to their visit and cannot arrive late. Be sure to check for cancellations or schedule changes with the inmate before arriving.
- Booking Process:
- The inmate schedules the visit.
- Visitors must provide ID and follow check-in procedures.
- Ensure your name is on the inmate’s approved visitor list.
- What You’ll Need:
- Valid ID, appropriate clothing, and adherence to the facility’s visitor guidelines.
How to Get to Pierce County Detention Center
Pierce County Detention Center is located in downtown Tacoma, close to major highways, making it accessible for visitors coming from various directions.
- From I-5 South: Take exit 133 for I-705 N/WA-7, follow signs for City Center, then exit onto A Street. Continue on S Yakima Ave until reaching the facility.
- From I-5 North: Take exit 132 for S 38th Street, merge onto S Sprague Ave, and follow signs to S Yakima Ave until you arrive at 910 Tacoma Ave S.
Parking is available in the surrounding area, but spaces may be limited during peak visitation hours.
What is Life Like Inside Pierce County Detention Center?
Life inside the Pierce County Detention Center involves a structured routine with opportunities for inmates to participate in educational and vocational programs. Inmates receive regular meals, access to healthcare, and the ability to communicate with loved ones through phone calls and visits. However, the facility has faced challenges, including staffing shortages, which have impacted visitation availability and daily operations.
Recent news reports have highlighted incidents such as inmate deaths and delays in court hearings, prompting ongoing investigations into detention practices.
Famous Prisoners at Pierce County Detention Center
While Pierce County Detention Center primarily holds local detainees and non-violent offenders, it has occasionally housed individuals involved in high-profile cases, including suspects in notable criminal trials in the Tacoma area. The names of these inmates, however, are typically kept confidential to protect legal proceedings and privacy.
FAQs about Pierce County Detention Center
Where is Pierce County Detention Center located?
- The facility is located at 910 Tacoma Ave S, Tacoma, WA 98402.
How can I contact an inmate at Pierce County Detention Center?
- You can reach an inmate through phone services provided by Securus Tech or by sending mail to the facility address.
What are the visiting hours at Pierce County Detention Center?
- Visiting hours are from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM on select days. No visits are allowed on Mondays and Thursdays.
What should I bring to a visit at Pierce County Detention Center?
- Visitors must bring a valid photo ID and comply with the dress code. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Can I send mail to an inmate at Pierce County Detention Center?
- Yes, you can send letters and greeting cards. However, all mail is inspected by facility staff.
How do I book a visit to Pierce County Detention Center?
- Visits must be scheduled by the inmate in advance. Visitors should arrive early and follow facility guidelines.
What is the inmate capacity of Pierce County Detention Center?
- The facility has a capacity of approximately 1,300 inmates.
Does Pierce County Detention Center offer video visitation?
- Yes, video visitation is available and must be scheduled in advance.
What is life like inside Pierce County Detention Center?
- Inmates follow a structured routine and have access to various services, including medical care and rehabilitation programs.
How can I find an inmate at Pierce County Detention Center?
- You can search for inmates using the Pierce County online inmate lookup tool available on their official website.
Conclusion
The Pierce County Detention Center plays a crucial role in the Tacoma community, providing safe and secure housing for local detainees. Visitors should follow the center’s guidelines to ensure smooth visits, and those seeking more information can contact the facility directly. For additional resources or inmate searches, visit the official Pierce County Sheriff’s website.
Sources:
Visit Pickens Correctional Facility