Official Government Sources
Benwood Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Benwood, West Virginia government websites.
About Benwood City Government
The governing body of Benwood, West Virginia, is the Benwood City Council, which consists of 5 elected members. Council members are elected at-large and serve terms of 4 years. The current council includes Mayor Edward J. "Eddie" Hargus, along with council members William "Bill" McCauley, John "Johnny" McCauley, and others whose terms and positions may vary with elections.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Benwood is $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
Benwood City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Benwood City Hall, located at 200 Main Street, Benwood, WV 26031. Residents are encouraged to attend to engage with council members and participate in local governance.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Benwood is $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
Benwood City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Benwood City Hall, located at 200 Main Street, Benwood, WV 26031. Residents are encouraged to attend to engage with council members and participate in local governance.
About Benwood, West Virginia
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Marshall County, West Virginia, the small city of Benwood offers a unique blend of history, community, and natural beauty. With a population hovering around 1,200, Benwood is characterized by its tight-knit neighborhoods and a rich heritage that dates back to its founding in the late 19th century. The city flourished due to its strategic location alongside the Ohio River, which facilitated commerce and transportation. Over the years, various neighborhoods, such as the historic district and the residential areas near the riverfront, have developed, attracting families and individuals who appreciate the serene lifestyle. The local economy initially thrived on industries like coal mining and manufacturing, though today it has diversified, with several small businesses, retail shops, and local service providers contributing to its vibrancy. What truly sets Benwood apart is its strong sense of community, exemplified by local events, parks, and recreational opportunities that emphasize the city’s commitment to fostering connections among its residents.
Law enforcement in Benwood is primarily served by the Benwood Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and order within the city. In addition to the Benwood Police, the Marshall County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in overseeing law enforcement across the broader county. For those seeking arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal histories, the process begins at the local level with the Benwood Police Department. Individuals can visit the department in person or contact them by phone for initial inquiries. If further information is needed, records can also be requested from the Marshall County Sheriff's Office, located nearby. For comprehensive criminal history checks, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Investigation serves as the state repository, where residents can access statewide criminal records. Online lookup portals may offer an additional layer of convenience for those seeking information without needing to visit multiple locations in person.
The judicial system that serves Benwood falls under the Marshall County Circuit Court, which handles a range of civil and criminal matters. Accessing court records can be achieved both online and in person through the Clerk of the Court's office. For those who prefer digital access, the court’s website may provide various resources, including case dockets and filings. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained from the Marshall County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, with requests made in person or through their online services. Additionally, property records are managed by the county assessor and recorder, where individuals can find information regarding property ownership and assessments, with some resources available online. The West Virginia Freedom of Information Act allows citizens to request general public records, which typically have a response time ranging from 5 to 10 business days. This act ensures transparency within local government operations, further enhancing community trust and engagement in Benwood.
Law enforcement in Benwood is primarily served by the Benwood Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and order within the city. In addition to the Benwood Police, the Marshall County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in overseeing law enforcement across the broader county. For those seeking arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal histories, the process begins at the local level with the Benwood Police Department. Individuals can visit the department in person or contact them by phone for initial inquiries. If further information is needed, records can also be requested from the Marshall County Sheriff's Office, located nearby. For comprehensive criminal history checks, the West Virginia State Police Bureau of Investigation serves as the state repository, where residents can access statewide criminal records. Online lookup portals may offer an additional layer of convenience for those seeking information without needing to visit multiple locations in person.
The judicial system that serves Benwood falls under the Marshall County Circuit Court, which handles a range of civil and criminal matters. Accessing court records can be achieved both online and in person through the Clerk of the Court's office. For those who prefer digital access, the court’s website may provide various resources, including case dockets and filings. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained from the Marshall County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, with requests made in person or through their online services. Additionally, property records are managed by the county assessor and recorder, where individuals can find information regarding property ownership and assessments, with some resources available online. The West Virginia Freedom of Information Act allows citizens to request general public records, which typically have a response time ranging from 5 to 10 business days. This act ensures transparency within local government operations, further enhancing community trust and engagement in Benwood.
Benwood, West Virginia Public Records & Government Resources
Benwood West Virginia Archives and Genealogy
West Virginia Archives genealogy and historical records for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Northern District of West Virginia for Benwood.
West Virginia Courts – Benwood Case Search
West Virginia Courts case search for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Vital Records
West Virginia Bureau of Public Health vital records for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Inmate Search
West Virginia Division of Corrections inmate search for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Missing Persons
West Virginia State Police missing persons for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Sex Offender Registry
West Virginia State Police sex offender registry for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Criminal History Records
West Virginia State Police criminal history records for Benwood.
Benwood West Virginia Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Benwood.
City of Benwood
Directory of Benwood city records and information 430 Main Street Benwood WV 26031 Ph (304) 232-4320 Fax (304) 232-3393
Benwood Police Department
Law enforcement services 430 Main Street Benwood WV 26031 Phone: (304) 232-2121 Fax: (304) 232-1111
Benwood Volunteer Fire Department
Fire and emergency services 434 Main Street Benwood WV 26031 Phone: (304) 232-0174
Benwood-McMechen Library
Benwood library services, reference materials and research assistance 201 Marshall Street McMechen WV 26040 Phone: (304)
Marshall County Chamber of Commerce
Benwood business listings directory 604 Jefferson Avenue Moundsville WV 26041 Phone: (304) 845-2773 Email: chamber@marsh
Benwood, U.S. Census Bureau
Population and demographic information Benwood WV 26031
Benwood West Virginia Civil and Criminal Courts
Search for criminal cases, divorces and other civil filings
Benwood Archives and History
Births, deaths, marriages and other historical records West Virginia Division of Culture and History 1900 Kanawha Boulev
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Inmate Search and Community Corrections
Search for inmates, parole violators, death row inmates and more 1325 Virginia St. East Charleston, WV 25301 304-558-211
About Benwood
The governing body of Benwood, West Virginia, is the Benwood City Council, which consists of 5 elected members. Council members are elected at-large and serve terms of 4 years. The current council includes Mayor Edward J. "Eddie" Hargus, along with council members William "Bill" McCauley, John "Johnny" McCauley, and others whose terms and positions may vary with elections.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Benwood is $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
Benwood City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Benwood City Hall, located at 200 Main Street, Benwood, WV 26031. Residents are encouraged to attend to engage with council members and participate in local governance.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Benwood is $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
Benwood City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Benwood City Hall, located at 200 Main Street, Benwood, WV 26031. Residents are encouraged to attend to engage with council members and participate in local governance.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Benwood, Marshall County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Marshall County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the Moundsville Police Department, Cameron Police Department, and McMechen Police Department. Each agency has jurisdiction over its respective city or town, while the sheriff's office covers the broader county area. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring comprehensive law enforcement coverage across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Northern Regional Jail and Correctional Facility serves Marshall County and is located in Moundsville. The facility handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate lookup is available through the West Virginia Regional Jail & Correctional Facility Authority's online portal. Visitation rules require scheduling in advance and adherence to strict guidelines. Bail and bond processes follow West Virginia state law, allowing for cash, property, or surety bonds to secure release pending trial.
Court Records
Marshall County is served by the Marshall County Circuit Court, located in Moundsville. This court handles major civil and criminal cases, including felonies and significant civil disputes. The Magistrate Court, also in Moundsville, deals with misdemeanors, traffic violations, and small claims. Court records, case filings, and criminal dockets can be accessed through the Circuit Clerk's office, which provides both in-person and online services for public convenience.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Marshall County encompass felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Marshall County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Background checks can be conducted through the West Virginia State Police, which provides comprehensive criminal history reports. The West Virginia Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for residents seeking detailed background information.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Marshall County are maintained by the Marshall County Sheriff's Office. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the office directly. These records typically include the individual's personal information, charges, and arrest details. Under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, public access to arrest records is permitted, though certain restrictions apply to protect ongoing investigations or sensitive information.
Public Records Access
Public records in Marshall County are accessible under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The County Clerk's office provides access to vital records, property records, and marriage licenses. The Circuit Clerk's office handles court records and filings. Both offices offer online portals for certain records, though some requests may require in-person visits. Typical turnaround times vary depending on the complexity of the request and the specific office's workload.
Economy & Demographics
Marshall County's economy is largely driven by energy production, particularly coal and natural gas extraction, which are significant employers in the region. The county also benefits from manufacturing and agriculture, contributing to its economic diversity. The presence of the Ohio River facilitates transportation and trade, further enhancing the county's economic profile compared to its neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Benwood, West Virginia, you will be transported to the Marshall County Jail for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Marshall County Court. Under West Virginia law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the West Virginia State Police. The Marshall County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.wvdcr.com/resources/inmate-search where you can look up current detainees.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia?
The Benwood-McMechen School District is located in Marshall County, West Virginia. According to the West Virginia Department of Education, the district's most recent performance data shows that the district has a graduation rate of 87.3%, a dropout rate of 2.2%, and a student proficiency rate of 68.2%.
3
What are the crime statistics for Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia?
Unfortunately, there is no available crime data for Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia. The closest available data is for Marshall County as a whole. According to the West Virginia State Police, in 2019 there were a total of 1,845 reported crimes in Marshall County, including 1,072 property crimes and 773 violent crimes.
4
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia Library?
The Benwood Public Library in Marshall County, West Virginia provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and West Virginia government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, which governs access to government documents in West Virginia. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Benwood West Virginia Archives and Genealogy at https://www.wvculture.org/history/wvsamenu.html. Contact the Benwood Public Library reference desk at (304) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
5
Where is the Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia Public Library located?
The Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia Library is located at 301 Marshall Street, Benwood, WV 26031.
6
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia?
Fingerprinting services for Benwood, West Virginia residents are provided at the Benwood Police Department, which serves Marshall County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Benwood Police Department at (304) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the West Virginia State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the West Virginia State Police at https://www.wvsp.gov/about/Pages/CriminalHistory.aspx.
7
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records for Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia, you will need to contact the Marshall County Clerk's Office.
The vital records available from the Marshall County Clerk's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. You will need to provide proof of identity and a fee to obtain these records.
The vital records available from the Marshall County Clerk's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. You will need to provide proof of identity and a fee to obtain these records.
8
About background check
A background check in Benwood, Marshall County, West Virginia typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in West Virginia. Criminal background checks are processed through the West Virginia State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for West Virginia residents. The West Virginia State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.wvsp.gov/about/Pages/CriminalHistory.aspx. Under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.
Nearby Cities in Marshall County, West Virginia
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county: