How Does Booking Work at the Jail?

“Booking” at the jail will occur after a suspect has been arrested and taken into custody by the police. This process of jail booking varies a bit from one jurisdiction to another, but follows the general flow indicated in the list below:

• Suspect’s personal information is gathered by the police officer(s)
• The alleged offense (crime or misdemeanor) is recorded
• Suspect’s background is verified and checked for outstanding warrants and previous offenses
• Suspect’s fingerprints and photograph are collected
• Suspect undergoes a full body search
• Health check is used to determine whether the suspect requires medical attention or has a health issue that makes him or her a threat to others
• Personal items are taken from the suspect and held securely
• Suspect is placed in a holding cell or jail cell to await the next steps