Spokane County Jail reports increased inmate stay lengths and demographic shifts

Spokane County officials reported significant trends in the local jail population during the recent strategic planning meeting held on March 17, 2025. The discussions highlighted a notable increase in the average length of stay for inmates, which has risen to 20 days, up from the typical 17.5 to 18 days. This increase suggests that the charges being processed are more serious, leading to longer adjudication times.

The meeting revealed that the jail is currently housing a population predominantly made up of males, with a demographic shift towards older inmates, particularly those aged 35 and above. This change in age distribution marks a departure from previous trends where younger individuals were more frequently incarcerated.

Additionally, the city of Spokane continues to be the leading agency for arrests, contributing significantly to the jail's population. The county is also responsible for a larger share of adult inmates, indicating a growing need for resources and support in managing these trends.

Officials noted that there have been six incidents of "red light status," which resulted in a total of six hours where law enforcement officers faced delays in booking prisoners into the jail. This highlights ongoing challenges in the local justice system that may require further attention and resources.

As Spokane County moves forward, these insights into jail demographics and operational challenges will be crucial for strategic planning and resource allocation to ensure effective management of the local justice system.