What does the booking process involve?

The booking process primarily involves the documentation and recording of specific personal information related to the inmate. During this phase, vital data such as the inmate's name, identification details, reason for arrest, fingerprints, photographs, and any other pertinent information is collected and entered into the facility's records. This step is crucial, as it helps establish the inmate's identity, legal status, and the nature of their charges, which are foundational for subsequent legal proceedings and correctional management.

While personal belongings may be cataloged and medical evaluations may be conducted separately, these actions do not define the primary objective of the booking process. Additionally, assigning inmates to different facilities occurs after the booking has been completed and is based on various factors, including their behavior, medical needs, and the nature of their charges. Thus, recording specific information is critical in the booking process, serving as the official commencement of an inmate's interaction with the correctional system.