In today’s day and age, everything is available online. If the government considers information public, then they’re very likely to put it on a department website. While this convenience is amazing, it can also be haunting. An arrest record from 1999 can very easily find its way online.
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Are Arrest Records Public?
Generally, the arrest records are considered public records. However, access to these arrest records depends on the state law and the circumstances leading to arrest.
When a suspect is arrested and taken into custody, their arrest is recorded into the public arrest record. This record is kept by the law enforcement agency, and shows the person’s arrest information, as well as their detention and confinement information. The actual criminal charges, as well as identifying information, are kept within as well.
Can Anyone Access An Arrest Record?
Whoever is interested can make an inquiry and the full details relating to the arrest will be shown. The arrest record is considered public. To inquire about an arrest record, you can use a variety of methods, such as a public records search, or visiting a county clerk or sheriff’s office directly.
Do note that some states exclude the arrest records from public records. However, this is only in specific circumstances, such as when no charges are made against the suspect.
How Much Do I Need To Pay To View Public Arrest Records?
Public records contain sensitive information, and authorities may request that you pay to view this information. The cost will often depend on how you choose to search for the public arrest records.
If you wish to use an online service, we recommend registering with SpyFly, which will only charge you a small fee for use.
Why Would You Want To Access Arrest Records Online?
Access to an arrest record can be incredibly important in many circumstances, such as:
When Vetting A Potential Employee
Employers should be keen to protect their businesses. Ensuring you avoid hiring convicted, violent criminals can be extremely important. Before calling a candidate in for an interview, checking for an arrest record can help paint a clearer picture of the person you’re speaking with, and provide insight on whether they’re the kind of person you want in your business.
Private Investigations
Public arrest records are also useful for investigating suspicious people you’ve met recently. Suppose that you have a new neighbor. Carrying out an investigation might seem like an invasion of privacy, but it’s public knowledge; knowledge that can help keep you and your family safer.
Self Check
Sometimes, you may want to investigate your name, just to make sure it isn’t connected to any serious crimes.
If you’re the kind of person who wants to do any of these things, and do it often, then we recommend using an online service, such as SpyFly.
Is there any way to make an arrest record private?
Kind of. Some states choose not to make arrest records public. Usually, this is because of perceived risks in the dispersion of this information. In these cases, you may only be able to see that someone was arrested, but not the charges. An arrest record may be private if:
- There is an ongoing investigation
- When the information can create a risk to public safety
- The arrested person can expunge the arrest record
- Some crimes when the victim might desire anonymity
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.
