What Happens After Someone is Arrested? A Closer Look at the Booking Process

Whether it’s a family member, a loved one or a close friend hearing there’s been an arrest can be nerve wrecking news.  Especially if this is their first arrest we understand you may have a lot of questions.  That’s why in today’s post we’re going to answer the question what happens after someone is arrested?  A closer look at the booking process.  Let’s begin by starting at the beginning of the process.

The Arrest.  If an incident has occurred and the police are involved they will typically take one of two actions.  In minor cases tickets or fines will be issued to the individual or the people involved.  However in more serious cases the defendant will be placed under arrest.  At this time they are read their rights and taken to a local jail, prison or court house.

The Booking Process.  After the defendant is in custody and has arrived at the local jail, prison or court house the booking process begins.  This is typically when personal belongings are confiscated and checked into a secure locker until the defendant is released and claims their belongings.  The next few steps can be done in any order and will vary depending on the institution and the individual conducting the process.

Fingerprinting.  During the booking process the defendant is fingerprinted.  Their prints are then run through a national database.  This is done to assure that they don’t have any outstanding warrants or offenses in other counties, cities or states.  Depending on the results their prints may be run through an international database especially if they have a history of crime.

Mugshots and Background Check. Another commonly known step in the booking process is when mugshots are taken of the defendant.  These pictures, just like fingerprints, are run through a database to see if they match a description of anyone who has committed a crime or offense.  In addition a background check is run on the defendant.

What Happens After Someone Has Been Arrested?  A Closer Look at the Booking Process

All these steps take place in order to verify the defendant’s identity, to uncover any past offenses and to record the information in case of a future arrest.  If you have any questions on the booking process contact 1st Choice Bail Bonds today.  We have the expertise to help you navigate your next steps after a loved one has been arrested.