How to Look Up Someone’s Criminal Record in PA
Are you trying to find out if someone has a criminal record in Pennsylvania? Perhaps you’re checking out a potential new neighbor, or you’re verifying the credibility of a potential employee. Whatever the reason, understanding how to access criminal records in PA can be a valuable tool for personal or professional purposes.
How to Look Up Someone’s Criminal Record in PA
To look up someone’s criminal record in Pennsylvania, you can follow these steps:
- Go to the Pennsylvania State Police Website: The Pennsylvania State Police website (pasp.org) is the central hub for accessing criminal records in the state. Click on the "Crime Data" tab and select "Criminal History" from the dropdown menu.
- Use the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PACH) System: The PACH system is an online database that allows you to search for criminal records. You’ll need to create an account and pay a fee to access the database.
- Provide Identifying Information: You’ll need to provide identifying information about the individual you’re searching for, including their name, date of birth, and social security number.
- Pay a Fee: The PACH system charges a fee for each search, which currently ranges from $8 to $15 depending on the level of detail you need.
- Review the Search Results: Once you’ve completed the search, you’ll receive a list of search results that include any criminal records found.
What’s Included in a Criminal Record Search in PA
A criminal record search in PA typically includes:
- Arrest Records: Records of arrests made by law enforcement agencies in PA.
- Conviction Records: Records of convictions in PA courts.
- Pardons: Records of pardons granted by the Governor of PA.
- Expunged Records: Records of charges that were expunged (erased) by a court.
Tips for Conducting a Successful Search
Here are some tips to help you conduct a successful search:
- Use the Right Identifying Information: Make sure you provide accurate and complete identifying information to get the most accurate results.
- Search by Name and Date of Birth: If you’re not sure of the individual’s social security number, you can try searching by name and date of birth.
- Use the Advanced Search Options: The PACH system offers advanced search options, such as searching by location or date range, which can help you narrow down your search results.
Alternatives to the PACH System
If you’re unable to access the PACH system or prefer not to use it, there are alternative options for accessing criminal records in PA:
- Contact the Local Police Department: You can contact the local police department where the individual resides or was arrested to ask about their criminal record.
- Contact the PA State Police: You can contact the PA State Police directly to ask about a specific individual’s criminal record.
- Use a Private Background Check Company: There are private companies that offer background check services, including criminal record searches.
Conclusion
Conducting a criminal record search in PA can be a valuable tool for personal or professional purposes. By following the steps outlined above and using the right resources, you can access criminal records and make informed decisions about the individuals you interact with. Remember to always verify the accuracy of the search results and to respect individuals’ privacy rights.
