Federal Arrest & Criminal Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an arrest record?
An arrest record documents the detention and booking of a person by law enforcement. It typically includes the date, time, location, charges, arresting agency, booking photo (mugshot), and bail amount. An arrest record is NOT a conviction, it only means the person was taken into custody.
Are arrest records public?
In most states, booking records and jail rosters are public under open-records laws. However, some states restrict access to arrest records that did not lead to conviction, especially after a certain time period. Juvenile arrest records are generally sealed.
How long do arrest records stay on file?
Arrest records remain in law enforcement databases indefinitely unless expunged or sealed by court order. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), consumer reporting agencies cannot report arrests (without disposition) older than 7 years for employment screening, but the underlying record still exists in government systems.
What is the difference between an arrest record and a criminal record?
An arrest record documents a single booking event. A criminal record (or rap sheet) is the full history of arrests, charges, convictions, sentences, and incarcerations compiled by state repositories and the FBI. A person can have arrest records without any convictions on their criminal record.
Can I get my arrest record expunged?
Most states allow expungement of arrest records where charges were dropped, dismissed, or resulted in acquittal. Some states automatically seal non-conviction arrest records after a waiting period. Expungement laws, eligibility, and procedures vary significantly by state.
Where are mugshots stored?
Mugshots are stored in three places: (1) the booking agency database (sheriff or police), (2) the state criminal repository, and (3) the FBI CJIS database. Many counties publish mugshots on their jail roster websites. Some states have passed laws restricting commercial mugshot websites from charging fees for removal.
What is a warrant search?
A warrant search checks active arrest warrants, court orders authorizing law enforcement to arrest a specific person. Warrants are issued when a person fails to appear in court (bench warrant), when probable cause supports an arrest (arrest warrant), or as part of a fugitive investigation. Some counties publish active warrant lists online.