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North Carolina Arrest Records

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Are Arrest Records Public in North Carolina?

Yes, arrest records in North Carolina are generally considered public information under the state's public records laws. North Carolina follows the principle that government records, including those related to arrests, should be accessible to citizens to ensure transparency in the criminal justice system.

The North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C. General Statutes § 132-1) establishes that public records, which include arrest records, are the property of the people. Therefore, these records are typically available for inspection and copying by any person, with certain exceptions and limitations.

However, it's important to note that while arrest records are generally public, there are specific circumstances under which certain information may be restricted or redacted. These exceptions are designed to protect privacy rights, ongoing investigations, and other sensitive information as outlined in state and federal laws.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in North Carolina?

Several laws govern access to arrest records in North Carolina:

  1. North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C. General Statutes § 132): This is the primary law governing public access to government records, including arrest records. It establishes the presumption that government records are open to public inspection.

  2. North Carolina Criminal Justice Information System Statutes (N.C. General Statutes § 114-10 to 114-10.1): These provisions regulate the collection, storage, and dissemination of criminal history information.

  3. North Carolina Identity Theft Protection Act (N.C. General Statutes § 75-60 to 75-66): This law includes provisions that protect personal identifying information that might be contained in public records.

  4. North Carolina Expungement Laws (N.C. General Statutes § 15A-145 to 15A-152): These statutes outline the procedures for expunging arrest records under certain circumstances.

  5. Federal Regulations: The FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy and other federal regulations also impact how criminal justice information, including arrest records, is handled in North Carolina.

These laws collectively establish a framework that balances the public's right to access information with individuals' privacy rights and the integrity of the criminal justice system.

What Information Is Included in a North Carolina Arrest Record?

A typical North Carolina arrest record contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. This information generally includes:

  • Full name of the arrested individual
  • Date of birth
  • Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
  • Photograph (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints
  • Date and time of arrest
  • Location of arrest
  • Arresting agency
  • Charges filed
  • Case or docket number
  • Warrant information (if applicable)
  • Booking information
  • Bail or bond amount (if applicable)
  • Court appearance dates
  • Disposition of the case (if available)
  • Sentence information (if convicted)

It's important to note that the completeness of arrest records may vary depending on the stage of the criminal justice process and the agency maintaining the records. Some information may be updated as the case progresses through the system.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in North Carolina in 2025

There are several methods to obtain arrest records in North Carolina:

  1. In-Person Requests: You can visit the local law enforcement agency where the arrest occurred or the clerk of court in the county where the case was processed. Bring identification and be prepared to fill out a request form.

  2. Mail Requests: Many agencies accept written requests for arrest records. Include the full name of the individual, date of birth, approximate date of arrest, and any other identifying information that might help locate the record.

  3. State Bureau of Investigation (SBI): For comprehensive criminal history information, you can request records from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.

    North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation
    3320 Garner Road
    Raleigh, NC 27610
    Phone: (919) 662-4500
    North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation

  4. Administrative Office of the Courts: For court records related to arrests and subsequent proceedings.

    North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts
    901 Corporate Center Drive
    Raleigh, NC 27607
    Phone: (919) 890-1000
    North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts

  5. Department of Public Safety: For records related to individuals who have been incarcerated in state facilities.

    North Carolina Department of Public Safety
    512 North Salisbury Street
    Raleigh, NC 27604
    Phone: (919) 733-2126
    North Carolina Department of Public Safety

When requesting records, be prepared to provide identification and pay any applicable fees. Processing times vary by agency and the complexity of the request.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in North Carolina

North Carolina offers several online resources for accessing arrest records:

  1. North Carolina Department of Public Safety Offender Public Information Search: This database allows searches for current inmates and those on probation or parole. NC DPS Offender Search

  2. North Carolina Court System's Public Records Search: The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts maintains an online database of court records. NC Courts Public Records Search

  3. County Sheriff's Office Websites: Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup tools or arrest logs. For example:

  4. Municipal Police Department Websites: Some larger police departments maintain online arrest logs or databases.

  5. North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation: The SBI provides limited online access to sex offender registry information and other public safety data. NC SBI Public Records

When using online resources, be aware that the information may not be complete or up-to-date. For the most accurate and comprehensive records, it's often best to contact the relevant agency directly.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in North Carolina?

Under North Carolina law, arrest records are generally accessible to:

  1. General Public: Most arrest records are available to any member of the public, though certain information may be redacted.

  2. Media Organizations: Journalists and news outlets have the same access rights as the general public.

  3. Employers: Employers may access arrest records for background checks, subject to certain limitations under state and federal law, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

  4. Licensing Boards: Professional licensing boards may review arrest records when evaluating applications.

  5. Government Agencies: Law enforcement, courts, and other government agencies have broader access to complete records.

  6. The Arrested Individual: The subject of the record has the right to access their own arrest records.

  7. Attorneys: Legal representatives can access their clients' records.

  8. Researchers: Academic and policy researchers may access arrest data, often in anonymized form.

While access is generally broad, certain restrictions apply to juvenile records, expunged records, and records that have been sealed by court order. Additionally, the use of arrest record information is regulated, particularly in employment contexts.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in North Carolina?

Yes, there are typically fees associated with obtaining arrest records in North Carolina. These fees vary depending on the agency providing the records and the type of request:

  1. State Bureau of Investigation (SBI): The fee for a criminal history record check is $14.00 per name searched.

  2. County Sheriff's Offices: Fees typically range from $5 to $25 per record, depending on the county.

  3. Municipal Police Departments: Similar to sheriff's offices, fees generally range from $5 to $25.

  4. Court Records: The Administrative Office of the Courts charges $25 for certified copies of court records. Non-certified copies may cost less.

  5. Online Access: Some online databases may charge subscription fees or per-record fees.

Many agencies accept payment by cash, check, money order, or credit card. Some online systems require credit card payment. Fee waivers may be available in certain circumstances, such as for indigent individuals seeking their own records for employment purposes.

It's advisable to contact the specific agency in advance to confirm current fees, as these may change over time.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in North Carolina

North Carolina maintains arrest records for extended periods, often permanently, unless specific actions are taken to expunge or seal them. The retention periods vary based on several factors:

  1. Arrest Records with No Charges Filed: These records are typically maintained for at least 5 years but may be kept longer depending on agency policies.

  2. Misdemeanor Convictions: Records of misdemeanor convictions are generally permanent unless expunged.

  3. Felony Convictions: Records of felony convictions are permanent unless expunged under limited circumstances.

  4. Dismissed Charges or Not Guilty Verdicts: These records remain on file permanently unless expunged through a court order.

  5. Juvenile Records: These are generally sealed when the individual turns 18, but certain serious offenses may be maintained longer.

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety and the State Bureau of Investigation maintain criminal history information according to state record retention schedules established under N.C. General Statutes § 121-5 and administered by the State Archives of North Carolina.

It's important to note that even if official records are expunged, information may persist in private databases, news reports, or other sources not subject to state record retention laws.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in North Carolina Arrest Records?

Certain information is typically redacted or restricted in North Carolina arrest records to protect privacy and sensitive information:

  1. Social Security Numbers: These are generally redacted from public versions of arrest records.

  2. Driver's License Numbers: These are typically redacted to prevent identity theft.

  3. Financial Account Information: Bank account numbers and similar information are redacted.

  4. Medical Information: Health-related information is protected under various privacy laws.

  5. Juvenile Information: Records involving minors are subject to stricter confidentiality.

  6. Victim Information: In certain cases, particularly involving sexual offenses or domestic violence, victim identifying information may be redacted.

  7. Informant Information: Details that could identify confidential informants are restricted.

  8. Active Investigation Information: Details that could compromise ongoing investigations may be temporarily restricted.

  9. National Security Information: Information related to national security may be restricted.

  10. DNA and Biometric Data: While fingerprints are part of arrest records, detailed biometric data may be restricted.

These redactions are governed by various provisions in the North Carolina Public Records Act, particularly N.C. General Statutes § 132-1.1 through § 132-1.10, which outline specific categories of information that are not subject to public disclosure.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in North Carolina

North Carolina law provides several pathways for sealing (expunging) arrest records under specific circumstances:

  1. Charges Dismissed or Not Guilty Verdict: Under N.C. General Statutes § 15A-146, individuals may petition for expungement if charges were dismissed or resulted in a not guilty verdict.

  2. First-Time Nonviolent Offenses: Under N.C. General Statutes § 15A-145, certain first-time offenders may be eligible for expungement after waiting periods ranging from 1 to 15 years, depending on the offense.

  3. Juvenile Records: Under N.C. General Statutes § 7B-3200, juvenile records may be expunged under certain conditions.

  4. Identity Theft Victims: If someone was arrested due to identity theft, they may petition for expungement under N.C. General Statutes § 15A-147.

  5. Drug Offenses: Certain drug offenses, particularly those committed before age 22, may be eligible for expungement under N.C. General Statutes § 15A-145.2.

The expungement process typically involves:

  1. Filing a petition with the court in the county where the arrest occurred
  2. Paying filing fees (typically $175, though fee waivers may be available)
  3. Obtaining a certificate of good character (for some types of expungements)
  4. Attending a hearing (in some cases)
  5. Waiting for the court's decision

If granted, the expungement order directs all state agencies to seal or destroy records related to the arrest. However, certain government agencies may retain non-public records of the expungement.

Legal assistance is highly recommended for navigating the expungement process, as the requirements are complex and vary based on the specific circumstances of each case.

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in North Carolina?

North Carolina law imposes several limitations on how arrest records can be used:

  1. Employment Discrimination: Under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, employers should not automatically disqualify applicants based solely on arrest records without convictions, as this may have a disparate impact on protected groups.

  2. Housing Discrimination: Similar to employment, housing providers should not automatically deny housing based solely on arrest records without convictions.

  3. Expunged Records: It is illegal to use or disclose expunged records for any purpose, including employment decisions, under N.C. General Statutes § 15A-153.

  4. Background Check Regulations: The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act and North Carolina law regulate how consumer reporting agencies can report arrest information. Generally, arrests that did not result in conviction cannot be reported after seven years.

  5. Ban the Box Policies: Some North Carolina municipalities have adopted "Ban the Box" policies that prohibit asking about criminal history on initial job applications for government positions.

  6. Professional Licensing: While licensing boards may consider criminal history, they are often required to consider factors such as the nature of the offense, its relation to the profession, and evidence of rehabilitation.

  7. Commercial Use: Using arrest records for commercial solicitation (such as attorneys soliciting potential clients) is restricted in some contexts.

Violations of these limitations can result in civil liability, administrative penalties, or in some cases, criminal charges. Individuals who believe their arrest records have been misused may have recourse through various state and federal laws.

Lookup Arrest Records in North Carolina

Various agencies in North Carolina maintain and provide access to arrest records. Below is a comprehensive list of the primary agencies where you can lookup arrest records:

State Repository for Criminal History Records

North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation
3320 Garner Road
Raleigh, NC 27610
Phone: (919) 662-4500
North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation

State Department of Public Safety

North Carolina Department of Public Safety
512 North Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604
Phone: (919) 733-2126
North Carolina Department of Public Safety

State Court System

North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts
901 Corporate Center Drive
Raleigh, NC 27607
Phone: (919) 890-1000
North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts

State Supreme Court

North Carolina Supreme Court
2 East Morgan Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 831-5700
North Carolina Supreme Court

Attorney General's Office

North Carolina Department of Justice
114 West Edenton Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: (919) 716-6400
North Carolina Department of Justice

County Sheriff's Offices

  1. Wake County Sheriff's Office
    330 South Salisbury Street
    Raleigh, NC 27601
    Phone: (919) 856-6900
    Wake County Sheriff's Office

  2. Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office
    700 East 4th Street
    Charlotte, NC 28202
    Phone: (980) 314-5000
    Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office

  3. Guilford County Sheriff's Office
    400 West Washington Street
    Greensboro, NC 27401
    Phone: (336) 641-3694
    Guilford County Sheriff's Office

  4. Forsyth County Sheriff's Office
    301 North Church Street
    Winston-Salem, NC 27101
    Phone: (336) 727-2112
    Forsyth County Sheriff's Office

  5. Cumberland County Sheriff's Office
    131 Dick Street
    Fayetteville, NC 28301
    Phone: (910) 323-1500
    Cumberland County Sheriff's Office

  6. Durham County Sheriff's Office
    510 South Dillard Street
    Durham, NC 27701
    Phone: (919) 560-0897
    Durham County Sheriff's Office

  7. Buncombe County Sheriff's Office
    60 Court Plaza
    Asheville, NC 28801
    Phone: (828) 250-4503
    Buncombe County Sheriff's Office

  8. New Hanover County Sheriff's Office
    3950 Juvenile Center Road
    Castle Hayne, NC 28429
    Phone: (910) 798-4200
    New Hanover County Sheriff's Office

  9. Union County Sheriff's Office
    3344 Presson Road
    Monroe, NC 28112
    Phone: (704) 283-3789
    Union County Sheriff's Office

  10. Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office
    30 Corban Avenue SE
    Concord, NC 28025
    Phone: (704) 920-3000
    Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments

  1. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
    601 East Trade Street
    Charlotte, NC 28202
    Phone: (704) 336-7600
    Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department

  2. Raleigh Police Department
    6716 Six Forks Road
    Raleigh, NC 27615
    Phone: (919) 996-3335
    Raleigh Police Department

  3. Greensboro Police Department
    100 Police Plaza
    Greensboro, NC 27402
    Phone: (336) 373-2222
    Greensboro Police Department

  4. Durham Police Department
    602 East Main Street
    Durham, NC 27701
    Phone: (919) 560-4427
    Durham Police Department

  5. Winston-Salem Police Department
    725 North Cherry Street
    Winston-Salem, NC 27101
    Phone: (336) 773-7700
    Winston-Salem Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in North Carolina

  1. Federal Bureau of Investigation - Charlotte Field Office
    7915 Microsoft Way
    Charlotte, NC 28273
    Phone: (704) 672-6100
    FBI Charlotte

  2. U.S. Marshals Service - Eastern District of North Carolina
    310 New Bern Avenue, Room 774
    Raleigh, NC 27601
    Phone: (919) 856-4153
    U.S. Marshals Service - Eastern District of NC

  3. Federal Bureau of Prisons - Butner Federal Correctional Complex
    Old NC Highway 75
    Butner, NC 27509
    Phone: (919) 575-4541
    Federal Bureau of Prisons - Butner Complex

  4. U.S. District Court - Eastern District of North Carolina
    310 New Bern Avenue
    Raleigh, NC 27601
    Phone: (919) 645-1700
    U.S. District Court - Eastern District of NC

Counties in North Carolina
Avery Brunswick Burke Carteret Catawba Chatham Davie Durham Gaston Guilford Henderson Johnston Lee Lenoir Macon Moore New Hanover Onslow Pasquotank Pitt Randolph Rockingham Rowan Union Vance Wake Wayne Wilson
Other Public Records Categories in North Carolina
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