How to Look Up Arrest Records in PA
In the state of Pennsylvania, arrest records are public information and can be accessed by anyone. However, the process of obtaining these records can be complex and time-consuming. In this article, we will guide you on how to look up arrest records in PA, including the different methods and resources available.
What is an Arrest Record?
An arrest record is a document that contains information about a person’s arrest, including the date, time, and location of the arrest, as well as the charges filed against them. Arrest records are maintained by law enforcement agencies and are used to track an individual’s criminal history.
Why Would You Need to Look Up an Arrest Record?
There are several reasons why you may need to look up an arrest record in PA. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Employment Background Checks: Many employers require background checks on potential employees, which may include a review of their arrest record.
- Landlord or Tenant Background Checks: Landlords and property managers may conduct background checks on potential tenants, which may include a review of their arrest record.
- Personal Research: You may want to look up an arrest record to gather information about someone’s criminal history or to verify their identity.
How to Look Up Arrest Records in PA
There are several ways to look up arrest records in PA, including:
- PA State Police: The Pennsylvania State Police maintains a database of arrest records, which can be accessed online or in person.
- Local Law Enforcement Agencies: Each local law enforcement agency in PA maintains its own records of arrests, which can be accessed in person.
- Courts: Court records, including arrest records, can be accessed through the PA Courts website or in person at a local courthouse.
- Private Background Check Companies: There are several private companies that offer background check services, including access to arrest records.
PA State Police Database
The PA State Police database is a comprehensive database of arrest records in PA. You can access the database online by visiting the PA State Police website and following these steps:
- Step 1: Go to the PA State Police website (www.psp.pa.gov)
- Step 2: Click on the "Crash Reports" tab and then select "Arrest Records"
- Step 3: Enter the individual’s name, date of birth, and/or social security number to search for their arrest record
- Step 4: Review the search results to find the desired arrest record
Local Law Enforcement Agencies
Each local law enforcement agency in PA maintains its own records of arrests. You can access these records in person by visiting the agency’s headquarters or by contacting them by phone or email. Here is a list of some of the largest law enforcement agencies in PA and their contact information:
| Agency | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia Police Department | (215) 686-8912 |
| Pittsburgh Bureau of Police | (412) 323-7800 |
| Harrisburg Police Department | (717) 255-3118 |
| Allentown Police Department | (610) 437-7753 |
Courts
Court records, including arrest records, can be accessed through the PA Courts website or in person at a local courthouse. Here are the steps to access court records online:
- Step 1: Go to the PA Courts website (www.pacourts.us)
- Step 2: Click on the "Court Records" tab and then select "Online Access"
- Step 3: Enter the individual’s name, date of birth, and/or social security number to search for their court record
- Step 4: Review the search results to find the desired court record
Private Background Check Companies
There are several private companies that offer background check services, including access to arrest records. Some of the most popular private background check companies include:
- TruthFinder: TruthFinder offers a comprehensive background check service that includes access to arrest records, court records, and other public records.
- PeopleFinders: PeopleFinders offers a people search service that includes access to arrest records, court records, and other public records.
- Instant Checkmate: Instant Checkmate offers a background check service that includes access to arrest records, court records, and other public records.
Tips and Considerations
When looking up arrest records in PA, it’s important to keep the following tips and considerations in mind:
- Accuracy: Arrest records are public information, but they may not always be accurate. If you find an error on an arrest record, you should contact the law enforcement agency or court that maintains the record to correct it.
- Privacy: While arrest records are public information, some information may be redacted or restricted to protect an individual’s privacy.
- Purpose: Make sure you have a legitimate reason for looking up an arrest record, such as employment or personal research.
- Resources: There are many resources available to help you look up arrest records in PA, including online databases and local law enforcement agencies.
Conclusion
Looking up arrest records in PA can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it’s an important step in gathering information about someone’s criminal history. By understanding the different methods and resources available, you can find the information you need to make informed decisions. Remember to always verify the accuracy of the information you find and to respect an individual’s privacy.
