How to find arrest records in pa?

How to Find Arrest Records in PA

Finding arrest records in Pennsylvania can be a crucial step in various situations, such as employment background checks, conducting research for a news article, or simply wanting to know if someone has a criminal history. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to find arrest records in PA.

What are Arrest Records?

Before we dive into the process of finding arrest records in PA, it’s essential to understand what they are. Arrest records, also known as arrest reports or booking records, are documents that contain information about a person’s arrest, including the date, time, and location of the arrest, as well as the charges filed against them. These records are typically maintained by law enforcement agencies and are considered public records.

Where to Find Arrest Records in PA

There are several ways to find arrest records in PA, and we’ll cover them below:

• Local Police Departments: You can start by contacting the local police department where the arrest occurred. They may have a records section that maintains arrest records and can provide you with the information you need.
• County Sheriff’s Office: If the arrest occurred outside of a city or borough, you can contact the county sheriff’s office, which may have jurisdiction over the area.
• PA State Police: If the arrest occurred on a state highway or involved a state police officer, you can contact the PA State Police for assistance.
• PA Department of Corrections: If the person was incarcerated, you can contact the PA Department of Corrections to see if they have any records on file.

Online Resources

In addition to contacting local law enforcement agencies, there are several online resources that can help you find arrest records in PA:

• PA Crime Information Center: The PA Crime Information Center (PCIC) is a state agency that maintains a database of criminal records, including arrest records. You can search the database online and access the records for a fee.
• PA Access to Criminal History: PA Access to Criminal History is a website that allows you to search for criminal history records, including arrest records, for a fee.
• Private Background Check Services: There are also private background check services, such as BeenVerified or PeopleFinders, that can provide you with arrest records in PA for a fee.

How to Request Arrest Records in PA

If you’re unable to find the arrest records you’re looking for online, you can request them in person or by mail from the law enforcement agency that maintains the records. Here are the steps you can follow:

• In Person: Visit the law enforcement agency’s records section and ask to speak with a records clerk. Provide them with the necessary information, such as the name and date of birth of the person you’re searching for, and they will retrieve the records for you.
• By Mail: You can also request arrest records by mail. Send a written request to the law enforcement agency’s records section, including the necessary information, and a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The agency will then mail the records to you.

Fees for Arrest Records in PA

Some law enforcement agencies and online resources may charge a fee for access to arrest records in PA. Here are some fees you may encounter:

• Local Police Departments: Some police departments may charge a small fee, typically around $10-$20, for access to arrest records.
• PA Crime Information Center: The PCIC charges a fee of $15 per search, plus $1 per page for copies of the records.
• PA Access to Criminal History: PA Access to Criminal History charges a fee of $10 per search, plus $2 per page for copies of the records.
• Private Background Check Services: Private background check services typically charge a fee, which can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the service and the number of records searched.

Conclusion

Finding arrest records in PA can be a straightforward process, but it may require some effort and patience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to locate the arrest records you’re looking for. Remember to check the fees associated with accessing the records and be prepared to provide the necessary information to obtain the records.

Table: Law Enforcement Agencies in PA

Table: Online Resources

Bullet Points:

• Make sure to provide the correct name and date of birth when searching for arrest records in PA.
• Some law enforcement agencies may require you to provide identification or proof of residency before accessing arrest records.
• Private background check services may have varying fees and search parameters.
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• Always verify the accuracy of the information provided by law enforcement agencies and online resources.
• Arrest records are public records, but some agencies may have specific rules or restrictions on access.