What is the estimated number of police lockups in the U.S.?

The estimated number of police lockups in the U.S. being around 13,500 provides an understanding of the extensive network of facilities dedicated to short-term detention. These lockups are typically used by local law enforcement agencies to temporarily hold individuals who have been arrested before they are either released or transferred to longer-term detention facilities, like jails.

This figure reflects the infrastructure needed to manage immediate custody in urban and rural areas across the country, highlighting the role of local police agencies in maintaining public safety and order. The existence of this many lockups showcases the decentralized nature of law enforcement in the U.S., where local and state jurisdictions maintain their own facilities to address arrest and detention needs.

While other estimates might suggest higher numbers, the figure of 13,500 is supported by sources focusing on law enforcement infrastructure, considering various factors such as population size, crime rates, and local policing policies. This estimate is crucial for understanding the resources available for processing arrests in different communities and the varying approaches to law enforcement across the nation.