Odd Peak
Law

Where can I find arrest records?

If you or someone you know has been arrested, you may want to have the arrest record made for the event. These arrest records include identifying details, as well as the charges leading up to the arrest. Luckily, there are many ways to find an arrest record, which I will detail below.

  • Use an online public records database

An online public records database is simply a web-based service that uploads public records from every state in the US. While some may be inconsistent, or inaccurate, in their reporting, SpyFly maintains an incredible standard. They possess over 30 billion documents published by the United States. Importantly, many of the public records on SpyFly contain identical information to what has been published by the US, meaning that they can be trusted as a reliable and safe source of information.

If you’re trying to obtain an arrest record, SpyFly will be able to provide results in moments. All you need to do is provide them with a name, and the state of the person you’re searching for, and you’ll be able to uncover results at incredible speeds. Another noteworthy aspect is that SpyFly is confidential, and won’t report your search to anyone (including the person you’re searching). If you’re trying to investigate someone close to you, then this is likely the best option to allow you to approach the investigation on your own terms, rather than having them uncover it to an embarrassing degree.

  • Visit a sheriffs’ office

Whenever an arrest is made, the arrest record is made as well. The police station responsible for said arrest is certain to possess the arrest record, and by visiting them, you can access it too. All you need to do is visit the station, and speak with an officer on duty. They’ll be able to assist you in your search and provide you with as much information as they can.

However, if the department isn’t digitized, and you have the wrong station, then you’ll likely need to visit a different police department. Many records are only kept locally, so they might not be able to provide you with what you’re looking for. If you choose to go down this route, be prepared to spend a significant amount of time searching for the arrest record.

  • Visit a county courthouse

All arrest records need to be filed at a county courthouse. If you want to access them there, then all you need to do is visit the courthouse, and speak with a county clerk. They’ll be able to process your request and provide you with what information they have on hand. However, keep in mind that a clerical fee is likely to be charged. Importantly, many county clerks are overloaded with work, and won’t be able to process your request for several days, or longer, if they’re too busy.

If the county courthouse doesn’t have access to digital records, or if you have the wrong courthouse, then you’ll likely be sent on a similar chase as with the police departments. Be prepared to spend some time waiting to gain access to the arrest record if this is the route you wish to use.

  • Visit an attorneys’ office

Many lawyers pay for access to a comprehensive legal database. If you would like to use them to uncover an arrest record, you can simply visit an attorney, and request the arrest record you’re looking for. 

However, keep in mind that most lawyers are unlikely to help you pro bono. You will either need to already be a client or pay a hefty consultation fee for their services. 

SpyFly provides consumers affordable, immediate access to public record information. Federal laws prohibit businesses from using SpyFly’s service to make decisions about employment, insurance, consumer credit, tenant screening, or for any other purpose subject to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq.