Getting arrested is one of those experiences nobody wants to go through. The flashing lights, the handcuffs, the ride in the police car—it’s all overwhelming and scary. But what happens next? Where do people go after they’re arrested, and what should you expect if you or someone you love finds themselves in this situation?
When someone gets arrested in Oklahoma, they’re typically taken to a local detention facility. If you’re in the Tulsa area, that usually means heading to the Tulsa County jail. This is where arrested individuals are processed, booked, and held until they can see a judge or post bail.
The Booking Process: What Really Happens
Once you arrive at a detention facility, the booking process begins. This isn’t like checking into a hotel—it’s a detailed procedure that can take several hours. First, officers record your personal information: name, date of birth, address, and the charges against you. They’ll take your photograph (the infamous mugshot) and your fingerprints.
Next comes the property inventory. Everything in your pockets gets documented and stored. Your phone, wallet, keys, jewelry—all of it goes into a sealed bag with your name on it. You’ll get a receipt, and you’ll get everything back when you’re released, assuming nothing is considered evidence…