Arrest Records La County are official documents that detail an individual’s arrest history within Los Angeles County. These records include names, booking dates, charges, arresting agencies, mugshots, and case dispositions. They are maintained by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, municipal police departments, and the Superior Court. Anyone can request these records for personal, legal, or research purposes. Access is free through public portals or available for a fee at government offices. Records are updated regularly and reflect real-time data from county detention facilities and law enforcement databases. This page explains how to find, request, and use arrest records in LA County accurately and legally.
How to Request Arrest Records in Person
To get official arrest records in person, go to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office Records Division at 4700 Ramona Blvd, Monterey Park, CA 91754. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call (626) 587-9100 for questions. You must bring a government-issued photo ID and the full legal name of the person whose record you’re requesting. Staff will provide a printed arrest report, citation details, and the date and time of the incident. If the person has an active warrant, they will be detained immediately, and officers will review the warrant on-site.
Online and Mail Request Options
The Sheriff’s Department also accepts online and mail requests at 211 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Walk-ins are welcome from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays. For mailed requests, include a signed form, copy of ID, and payment. Fees range from $10 for basic reports to $25 for certified copies. Processing takes up to five business days. PDFs are emailed upon completion. Out-of-state requests require a notarized authorization letter. This service ensures secure handling of sensitive legal documents.
Police Administration Building Records Center
Another official location is the Los Angeles County Police Administration Building at 100 West 1st St, Room PI-137, Los Angeles, CA 90012. The Records Center operates Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call (213) 974-3040 for assistance. Each request costs $16 and includes charge sheets, dispositions, and arrest dates. Applicants must complete a Records Request Form, provide a notarized statement of purpose, and show a driver’s license or passport. Certified copies for court use are available. Records are typically ready within three business days.
Free Third-Party Search Portals
Free online portals offer instant access to LA County arrest records without fees. These sites pull data nightly from the Sheriff’s Department, District Attorney’s Office, and city police via the county Open Data API. Users can search by name, date of birth, or booking number. Results show full names, birth dates, arrest dates, charging agencies, and brief offense descriptions. Mugshots and incident numbers are often included. No registration or payment is required. However, these sites do not store extra personal data beyond what is legally public.
Los Angeles County Inmate Search Tool
The Los Angeles County Inmate Search tool lets the public locate current detainees. Enter a full name or date of birth to see facility location, booking date, housing unit, and projected release date. The system updates every 15 minutes. If no results appear, call (213) 473-6100 or contact the specific jail directly. Major facilities include Men’s Central Jail at 425 West Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. This service helps families, attorneys, and researchers track inmate status in real time.
Understanding Record Types: Arrest vs. Conviction
Arrest records show when someone was taken into custody, but do not prove guilt. A conviction requires a court judgment. Many arrests do not lead to charges or result in dismissed cases. Always check the disposition status—such as “charged,” “acquitted,” or “dismissed”—before drawing conclusions. The Sheriff’s Department provides both arrest and court disposition data. For full case details, contact the Los Angeles County Superior Court Criminal Division at (213) 974-3040 or visit their website.
Expungement and Sealing of Records
Expungement removes an arrest from public view under California Penal Code § 1203.4. To apply, file form CR-180 with the Superior Court, attach a certified arrest report, and prove completion of any court-ordered programs. Filing fees range from $75 to $100. The court reviews requests within 30 days and may schedule a hearing. Sealing a record under § 851.2 keeps it confidential but accessible to law enforcement. It requires no convictions for five years. Both processes improve background check outcomes.
Data Accuracy and Update Frequency
LA County arrest records are updated multiple times daily. The Sheriff’s Department syncs data with jails, courts, and police agencies every 10 to 15 minutes. Third-party sites refresh nightly using the Open Data API. However, minor delays can occur during high-volume periods. Always verify critical information with official sources. Errors should be reported to the Records Division at (626) 587-9100. The county does not guarantee 100% accuracy but corrects mistakes promptly.
Legal Use and Privacy Considerations
Arrest records are public under California Government Code § 6250. They may be used for employment screening, tenant verification, or personal safety checks. However, using them to harass, discriminate, or defame is illegal. Employers must follow Fair Credit Reporting Act rules when using records for hiring. Never assume guilt based solely on an arrest. Always review the final court outcome. The Sheriff’s Department warns against misuse and supports lawful, ethical access.
Common Reasons People Search Arrest Records
- Background checks for jobs or housing
- Verifying someone’s legal history
- Preparing for court proceedings
- Researching local crime trends
- Locating missing persons or family members
Fees and Payment Methods
Official records cost between $10 and $25 depending on the type and certification level. Payments are accepted in cash, check, or money order at physical locations. Online requests may use credit cards. No fees apply for basic searches on third-party portals. Certified copies for legal use cost more due to processing and notarization. Always ask for a receipt. Refunds are not issued for completed requests.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept?
Arrest records remain public indefinitely unless expunged or sealed. Even dismissed cases stay in databases unless legally removed. Juvenile records are treated differently and often sealed automatically at age 18. Adults must petition the court for removal. The Sheriff’s Department retains records for decades. Digital archives date back to the early 2000s, with some paper records preserved from the 1990s.
Difference Between County and City Records
LA County covers unincorporated areas and runs the Sheriff’s Department and county jails. City police—like LAPD—handle arrests within city limits. Both report to the same court system, but records are stored separately. Always check both sources for complete information. The Sheriff’s Office manages county-wide data, while city departments keep local logs. Use the county portal for jail bookings and city sites for specific incident reports.
Accessing Mugshots and Booking Photos
Mugshots are included in arrest records and available through official requests or third-party sites. They show the person’s appearance at the time of booking. Photos are not released if the case is sealed or involves minors. Some websites publish mugshots for free, but removal requests can be made if the record is expunged. The Sheriff’s Department does not charge extra for mugshots when requesting full reports.
Role of the District Attorney’s Office
The District Attorney’s Office decides whether to file charges after an arrest. Their records include charging documents, plea agreements, and trial outcomes. These are linked to arrest data but stored separately. Request DA records through the Public Records Act. Contact (213) 974-2121 or visit 210 West Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Their data helps confirm if an arrest led to prosecution.
Using Arrest Records for Research
Researchers can download bulk data via the county Open Data API. Formats include CSV and JSON. Data sets cover arrest dates, locations, charges, and demographics. Universities, journalists, and nonprofits use this for crime analysis. Always cite sources and respect privacy. The API updates every 12 hours. Registration is free but required for high-volume access.
Common Mistakes When Searching Records
- Assuming all arrests equal convictions
- Ignoring name variations or aliases
- Using outdated third-party sites
- Failing to check disposition status
- Not verifying with official offices
Contact Information for Assistance
For help with arrest records, contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Records Division at (626) 587-9100. Visit 4700 Ramona Blvd, Monterey Park, CA 91754, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The Civil Process Branch at 110 N Grand Ave, Room 525, Los Angeles, CA 90012, handles expungement questions at (213) 974-1111. For court records, call the Criminal Division at (213) 974-3040.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how to access, interpret, and use arrest records in Los Angeles County. Below are detailed answers to the most common concerns, based on official policies and real-world scenarios. These responses clarify legal rights, procedural steps, and practical tips to ensure accurate and lawful use of public data.
Can I get someone else’s arrest record in LA County?
Yes, arrest records are public under California law. Anyone can request them using the person’s full legal name. You do not need to be related or have a reason. However, you must provide valid ID when requesting in person. If the person has an active warrant, they may be detained during the visit. Third-party websites also allow anonymous searches. Always respect privacy and avoid using records for harassment or discrimination.
How long does it take to receive arrest records by mail?
Mail requests take up to five business days to process. Include a completed form, copy of ID, and payment. The Sheriff’s Department emails PDFs or sends hard copies by postal mail. Rush service is not available. For faster results, visit in person or use free online portals. Delays may occur during holidays or high-volume periods. Call (626) 587-9100 to check status.
Are arrest records the same as criminal records?
No. Arrest records show custody events, while criminal records include charges, trials, and convictions. An arrest does not mean guilt. Many cases are dismissed or result in acquittal. Always check the disposition status. The Superior Court provides full criminal histories. Use both arrest and court data for complete background checks. Misinterpreting arrest data can lead to unfair judgments.
Can I remove my arrest record from public view?
Yes, through expungement or sealing. File form CR-180 with the Superior Court for expungement. Pay $75–$100 and provide proof of program completion. The court reviews in 30 days. Sealing under Penal Code § 851.2 requires no convictions for five years. Both hide records from public searches but allow law enforcement access. Contact the Civil Process Branch at (213) 974-1111 for help.
Why do some websites charge for free public records?
Third-party sites charge for convenience, not access. They compile data from multiple sources and offer search tools, filters, and alerts. The information is still public, but they add value through organization and speed. Official county sources are free but may require more effort. Never pay for basic records you can get directly from the Sheriff’s Office. Use paid services only for advanced features.
What if I find incorrect information in an arrest record?
Report errors immediately to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Records Division at (626) 587-9100. Provide your name, the subject’s name, and details of the mistake. The department corrects inaccuracies within 10 business days. For court-related errors, contact the Criminal Division Clerk at (213) 974-3040. Keep copies of all communications. Accurate records protect everyone’s rights.
Do juvenile arrest records appear in public searches?
Generally, no. Juvenile records are sealed by law and not available to the public. Exceptions exist for serious offenses or if the minor is tried as an adult. Once the person turns 18, most records remain confidential unless unsealed by court order. Adults cannot access juvenile files without permission. This protects young people’s futures and encourages rehabilitation.