Score Jail Roster Des Moines WA gives you real-time access to inmate records at the South Correctional Entity (SCORE), a regional detention center in Des Moines, Washington. This facility serves six cities—Auburn, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Renton, and SeaTac—and holds up to 802 inmates daily. The jail’s electronic roster updates every hour with booking dates, charges, court schedules, and release information. Families, attorneys, and researchers rely on this system to track individuals in custody. Located at 20817 17th Avenue South, SCORE operates under strict state guidelines and offers visitation, mail, phone, and commissary services. Whether you’re checking for a loved one or researching local jail data, this page delivers accurate, up-to-date details about the SCORE jail roster in Des Moines, WA.
What Is the SCORE Jail Roster?
The SCORE jail roster is a live digital list of all people currently held at the South Correctional Entity in Des Moines, WA. It shows names, booking times, charges, housing locations, and expected release or court dates. The roster refreshes every 60 minutes to reflect new arrests, releases, and transfers. You can search it online or call 206-257-6200 during business hours. This public record helps families locate inmates, lawyers prepare cases, and community members stay informed. The roster follows Washington State privacy rules—some sensitive details are hidden, but key info like charges and dates stays visible. It’s one of the most reliable ways to check if someone is in custody at SCORE.
How to Search the SCORE Jail Roster in Des Moines, WA
To find someone on the SCORE jail roster, visit the official website or use third-party inmate search tools linked to King County records. Enter the person’s full name or booking number. Results show current status, charges, and next steps. If the person isn’t listed, they may have been released, transferred, or booked under a different name. Always double-check spelling and try variations like nicknames or middle names. The roster doesn’t include mugshots due to privacy laws, but you can request photos through legal channels. For urgent needs, call the jail directly at 206-257-6200. Staff can confirm an inmate’s presence but won’t give detailed legal advice over the phone.
Visitation Rules and Hours at SCORE Jail
Visiting someone at SCORE requires planning. Face-to-face visits happen weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the main visitor center. Each inmate gets up to ten visitors per session. You must bring a government-issued photo ID and pass a background check. Video visits are available weekends via a secure online portal with two daily windows: 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Remote visits cost extra and require pre-approval. No food, phones, or bags are allowed inside. Children under 18 need adult supervision. Late arrivals may lose their slot. Always check the SCORE website before visiting—rules can change due to emergencies or policy updates.
Mail, Phone, and Communication Policies
Inmates at SCORE can send and receive mail, but all letters are screened for contraband. Use the correct format: Inmate’s full name, booking number, and the jail’s mailing address—20817 17th Avenue South, Des Moines, WA 98198. Avoid sending cash, photos, or staples. For phone calls, inmates get 30 minutes of prepaid talk time weekly at $0.25 per minute. Calls are monitored and limited to approved numbers. Family can add funds online or by phone. Email isn’t supported, but some legal documents can be faxed. Always keep communication respectful—inappropriate language can result in loss of privileges.
Commissary and Money Deposits for Inmates
Inmates use money from their accounts to buy items at the jail commissary. Approved products include snacks, hygiene supplies, writing tools, and basic clothing. Prices follow state-mandated rates. Families can deposit funds electronically through the jail’s approved system. Transfers take up to 24 hours to process. Receipts are sent automatically—keep them to track spending. No cash or checks are accepted at the facility. Commissary orders happen weekly, so plan ahead. Funds can’t be withdrawn until release. If there’s a mistake, contact the commissary office immediately with your receipt.
Booking Process and What to Expect
When someone is arrested in one of SCORE’s partner cities, they’re brought to the intake area for processing. This includes fingerprinting, photo capture, health screening, and a review of charges. Personal items are stored securely. Inmates receive a bunk assignment and basic supplies. The whole process takes 1–3 hours. Once booked, they appear on the jail roster within minutes. If bail is set, they can post it through a bondsman or cash deposit. Otherwise, they wait for their first court date. Medical and mental health staff assess all new arrivals. Special diets or medications are accommodated when possible.
Charges, Court Dates, and Release Information
The SCORE roster lists each inmate’s charges, which can range from traffic violations to felonies. It also shows scheduled court dates and expected release times—but these aren’t guaranteed. Delays happen due to paperwork, hearings, or transfers. If someone posts bail or is cleared in court, they’re released quickly. Otherwise, they stay until their case concludes. The roster updates hourly, so check often for changes. For legal help, contact a public defender or private attorney. The jail doesn’t provide legal advice but can connect inmates with resources.
Location, Directions, and Parking
SCORE is located at 20817 17th Avenue South, Des Moines, WA 98198. Don’t use GPS blindly—it often sends people to the staff gate at 1801 S 200th St. in SeaTac, which is closed to the public. Instead, enter through the main gate on 17th Ave S, near State Route 512 and I-5. Visitor parking is clearly marked and free. The West Valley Mall is a nearby landmark. Public transit options include King County Metro buses. Arrive early for visits—lines form quickly. Cell phones must be turned off inside the building. Security checks everyone who enters.
Partnership Cities and Regional Cooperation
SCORE is a joint effort by seven cities: Auburn, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Renton, SeaTac, and Tukwila. Each contributes funding and shares staffing, medical care, and programs. This model cuts costs by 18% compared to running separate jails. Auburn’s old jail became part of SCORE in 2011, adding 120 beds and new vocational training. Programs like culinary arts and auto repair help inmates gain skills. Medical services include mental health support and emergency care. This partnership makes SCORE one of the most efficient regional jails in Washington.
Staffing, Security Levels, and Daily Operations
SCORE employs 150 correctional officers, 30 administrators, and 20 medical staff. The facility operates as medium-to-maximum security, with constant surveillance and controlled movement. Daily counts ensure no one is missing. Meals, medications, and hygiene routines follow strict schedules. Inmates have limited recreation time and access to educational materials. Security checks happen multiple times per day. Visitors and staff pass through metal detectors. The jail processes about 16,000 bookings yearly and stays near 95% capacity. All operations follow Washington State Department of Corrections standards.
Medical and Mental Health Services
SCORE provides on-site medical care, including routine checkups, prescription management, and emergency response. Mental health professionals screen all inmates upon arrival and offer counseling as needed. Crisis intervention is available 24/7. Inmates with chronic conditions get regular treatment. Confidentiality is maintained per HIPAA rules. Families should inform staff of any known health issues during booking. Medications are dispensed by licensed nurses. If specialized care is needed, inmates may be transferred to a hospital. These services aim to protect both inmate well-being and public safety.
Legal Rights and Inmate Protections
Inmates at SCORE retain basic legal rights, including access to attorneys, religious materials, and grievance procedures. They can file complaints about treatment or conditions. All mail to lawyers is private and unopened. Court documents are delivered promptly. Discrimination based on race, gender, or religion is prohibited. Staff are trained in de-escalation and cultural sensitivity. If rights are violated, inmates can contact the Washington State Department of Corrections or a civil rights organization. The jail also complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
How SCORE Compares to Other King County Jails
King County has three main jails: the Regional Jail in Seattle, Kent City Jail, and SCORE in Des Moines. The Regional Jail handles felony cases, Kent deals with misdemeanors from Kent only, and SCORE serves multiple cities for lower-level offenses. Combined, they hold over 2,300 inmates. SCORE’s regional model reduces duplication and saves money. It also allows for better programming and staffing. Nearby, Thurston County Jail and Nisqually Tribal Jail serve different jurisdictions. SCORE stands out for its efficiency, transparency, and community partnerships.
Common Misconceptions About the SCORE Roster
Many people think the roster includes mugshots or full criminal histories—it doesn’t. It only shows current custody status, charges, and dates. Others believe calling the jail will give instant answers, but staff can’t share private legal details. Some assume all inmates are dangerous, but most are held for non-violent or minor offenses. The roster isn’t a background check tool—it’s for real-time tracking. Also, not everyone arrested stays; some are released quickly if charges are dropped or bail is posted. Always verify facts through official channels.
Tips for Families and Friends of Inmates
Stay calm and organized. Keep the inmate’s full name, date of birth, and booking number handy. Check the roster daily for updates. Send mail early—it takes time to process. Add money to their account before commissary day. Attend visits on time and follow all rules. If you’re unsure about something, ask a staff member politely. Avoid arguing or bringing prohibited items. Remember, your support helps inmates stay connected and focused on their future. For legal questions, consult an attorney—not jail staff.
Contact Information and Official Resources
For the most accurate info, use these official sources: Phone: 206-257-6200 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.) Mailing Address: 20817 17th Avenue South, Des Moines, WA 98198 Website: https://www.scorejail.org/ Visiting Hours: Weekdays 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Video visits weekends 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Always call ahead during holidays or emergencies—hours may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about the SCORE jail roster, visitation, and inmate services in Des Moines, WA. Each answer provides clear, actionable information based on current policies and official sources.
How often is the SCORE jail roster updated?
The SCORE jail roster updates every hour, seven days a week. This ensures families and legal representatives have near real-time access to inmate status. Changes like new bookings, releases, or court date adjustments appear within 60 minutes. The system pulls data directly from the jail’s internal database, which syncs with law enforcement and court systems. While rare, technical issues may cause brief delays. For the most reliable info, check the roster multiple times a day if needed. Always confirm critical details by calling the jail directly.
Can I visit an inmate at SCORE on weekends?
Yes, but only through video visitation. In-person visits are limited to weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Weekend video visits run Tuesday through Sunday during two sessions: 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. You must register online, upload a valid ID, and get approval before your first visit. Each session lasts up to 30 minutes and costs extra. Technical support is available during operating hours. Note that holidays may affect scheduling—always verify times on the SCORE website or by phone.
What happens if I send mail to the wrong address?
Mail sent to the staff gate at 1801 S 200th St. in SeaTac will be returned or delayed. Always use the correct mailing address: 20817 17th Avenue South, Des Moines, WA 98198. Include the inmate’s full name and booking number on every letter. Undeliverable mail is held for 30 days before disposal. To avoid issues, double-check the address and consider using tracked shipping for important documents. Legal mail must be clearly marked and may require prior approval. If your letter doesn’t arrive, contact the jail’s mailroom during business hours.
Are inmates allowed to make phone calls?
Yes, inmates receive 30 minutes of prepaid calling time each week at $0.25 per minute. Calls are limited to approved numbers provided by family or attorneys. All calls are recorded and monitored for security. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Family members must set up an account through the jail’s phone service provider to add funds. Call quality depends on facility systems—technical issues are rare but possible. Emergency calls to lawyers or medical providers may be allowed outside regular hours with staff permission.
How do I add money to an inmate’s commissary account?
Deposit money electronically through the jail’s official payment portal. Funds appear in the account within 24 hours. You’ll receive a digital receipt—save it for your records. Only use approved methods; cash or checks sent by mail won’t be accepted. The money can only be spent at the commissary on items like snacks, soap, paper, or socks. Prices are fixed by state rules. If there’s an error, contact the commissary office with your receipt number. Money remains in the account until release and cannot be refunded early.
What types of charges appear on the SCORE roster?
The roster lists current charges only—not past convictions or dismissed cases. Charges range from traffic tickets and DUIs to theft, assault, or drug offenses. Felonies and misdemeanors are both included. The description is brief and based on police reports. Full legal details come from court records, not the jail. If charges change after arraignment, the roster updates accordingly. Always consult a lawyer for complete case information. The roster helps track custody status, not legal outcomes.
Can I find out if someone has been released from SCORE?
Yes—check the roster hourly. Released inmates disappear from the list within minutes of leaving. If the person isn’t showing up, they’ve likely been freed, transferred, or their case was resolved. For confirmation, call 206-257-6200 during business hours. Staff can verify release but won’t give personal details without consent. Keep in mind that some releases happen late at night or on weekends when the roster may lag slightly. For urgent needs, contact the King County Sheriff’s Office or local courts.