Washington § 72.09.650 - Use of force by limited authority Washington peace officers — Detention of persons.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 72.09.650 — Use of force by limited authority Washington peace officers — Detention of persons., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 72.09.650. Use of force by limited authority Washington peace officers — Detention of persons.

(1) An employee of the department who is a limited authority Washington peace officer under RCW 10.93.020 may use reasonable force to detain, search, or remove persons who enter or remain without permission within a correctional facility or institutional grounds or whenever, upon probable cause, it appears to such employee that a person has committed or is attempting to commit a crime, or possesses contraband within a correctional facility or institutional grounds. Should any person be detained, the department shall immediately notify a local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the correctional facility or institutional grounds of the detainment. The department is authorized to detain the person for a reasonable time to search the person and confiscate any contraband, and until custody of the person and any illegal contraband can be transferred to a law enforcement officer when appropriate. An employee of the department who is a limited authority Washington peace officer under RCW 10.93.020 may use that force necessary in the protection of persons and properties located within the confines of the correctional facility or institutional grounds.
(2) The rights granted in subsection (1) of this section are in addition to any others that may exist by law including, but not limited to, the rights granted in RCW 9A.16.020.
[ 2001 c 11 s 1.]

Notes

Effective date—2001 c 11: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 13, 2001]." [ 2001 c 11 s 2.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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What does Revised Code of Washington § 72.09.650 cover?

Section 72.09.650 ("Use of force by limited authority Washington peace officers — Detention of persons.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 72.09.650?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 72.09.650" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

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Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

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