How to Look Up Arrest Records in Florida?
In Florida, arrest records are public information and can be accessed by anyone who knows where to look. Arrest records can provide valuable information about an individual’s past criminal activity, and they are often used by employers, landlords, and law enforcement agencies to make informed decisions. In this article, we will guide you through the process of looking up arrest records in Florida, including the different methods, resources, and legal requirements.
What are Arrest Records?
Arrest records are documents that record an individual’s arrest, including the date, time, and location of the arrest, as well as the charges filed against the individual. These records can be maintained by local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments, sheriffs’ offices, and judicial courts.
How to Look Up Arrest Records in Florida?
There are several ways to look up arrest records in Florida:
- Online Public Access: Many law enforcement agencies in Florida provide online access to arrest records. [1] The following agencies offer online access to arrest records:
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) – www.fdle.state.fl.us
- Florida Attorney General’s Office – www.myfloridalegal.com
- Local police and sheriff’s offices
- In-Person Visits: You can visit the law enforcement agency’s office or the county court clerk’s office in the county where the arrest took place. [2] Bring a valid identification and be prepared to fill out a request form. The agency may require payment for a copy of the arrest record.
- Mail Requests: You can also request a copy of an arrest record by mail. [3] Send a written request with a self-addressed stamped envelope to the law enforcement agency or county court clerk’s office. Be prepared to provide the following information:
- Name of the individual
- Date of birth
- Date of arrest
- County where the arrest took place
Legality of Arrest Record Release
Florida law allows arrest records to be released to the public, with certain exceptions. [4] Under Florida Statute 119.071(2), arrest records can be withheld if:
- The arrest was not yet adjudicated
- The arrest was for a confidential or exempt offense
- The release of the information would cause harm to someone’s reputation or well-being
Types of Arrest Records
There are two types of arrest records:
- Arrestee Information: This type of record contains information about the individual who was arrested, including their name, address, and date of birth.
- Offense Information: This type of record contains information about the crime for which the individual was arrested, including the date, time, and location of the offense, as well as the charges filed.
Arrest Record Fees
There may be fees associated with requesting and obtaining an arrest record in Florida. [5] The following are the typical fees:
- Online Access: $5-$10
- In-Person Visit: $5-$20
- Mail Requests: $5-$15
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind that arrest records are public information: Make sure you have a valid reason for requesting an arrest record, as these records are intended for official purposes only.
- Accuracy is key: Make sure to double-check the accuracy of the information before relying on it.
- Respect the individual’s privacy: Remember that individuals have the right to privacy, so be mindful of the information you release to the public.
Table: Florida Arrest Record Law
| Statute | Description |
|---|---|
| 119.071(2) | Arrest records can be withheld if the arrest was not yet adjudicated or if the release of the information would cause harm to someone’s reputation or well-being |
| 943.053 | Arrest records must be maintained by law enforcement agencies |
| 933.06 | Arrest records can be released to the public, with certain exceptions |
Conclusion
In Florida, arrest records can be accessed through online public access, in-person visits, and mail requests. These records are public information and can provide valuable information about an individual’s past criminal activity. However, there may be fees associated with requesting and obtaining an arrest record, and there are legal requirements and exceptions that apply. By understanding the legality of arrest record release, the types of arrest records available, and the fees and tips for requesting arrest records, you can ensure a smooth and successful search for arrest records in Florida.
References
[1] Florida Department of Law Enforcement. (n.d.). Public Access. Retrieved from https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/content/getcontent.aspx?id=124 [2] Florida Attorney General’s Office. (n.d.). Arrest Records. Retrieved from https://www.myfloridalegal.com/arrestRecords/ [3] County Court Clerk’s Office. (n.d.). Obtaining a Copy of an Arrest Record. Retrieved from https://www.myfloridalegal.com/arrestRecords/ [4] Florida Statute 119.071(2). (2022). Public Records – Exemptions – 119.071(2). Retrieved from https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Crafted/119/sections