Whether you’re seeking New Hampshire arrest records, mugshots, probation status, warrant details, prisoner records, nearby sex offender information, or background check reports, this data is made accessible through New Hampshire’s Right to Know Law and the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). However, navigating where and what to look for can be challenging.

This resource comprehensively outlines the steps to locate various public criminal records within the state of New Hampshire. Simply follow the guide and utilize the provided links to find the information you’re seeking.

This information has been authored by Attorney Robert Bailey Jr., a licensed attorney with a Juris Doctorate in Law from Widener University School of Law.

Click Here to Search Hampshire Arrest Records: https://newhampshire.recordspage.org/arrest-criminal-records

NH) Arrests & Criminal Records

Arrest Records & Criminal Records Publicly Accessible in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, criminal and arrest records are generally available to the public. There are various avenues to ascertain whether an individual possesses a criminal record in New Hampshire.

Local and state agencies in New Hampshire maintain databases and online search tools that serve as people finders for those who have been arrested or convicted of crimes. When you’re interested in understanding why someone is incarcerated, these search tools become invaluable resources for accessing daily arrest records and related information about committed crimes.

Both New Hampshire’s Right to Know Law and FOIA lay the foundation for citizens to search New Hampshire’s public records, including arrest and criminal records. However, these laws also define what criminal and arrest information can be publicly disclosed and specify situations where criminal records should not be released.

These regulations are in place to ensure that the release of such records does not compromise ongoing law enforcement investigations or infringe upon individuals’ protected rights.

It’s important to note that arrest records and criminal records are hosted by different custodians, necessitating distinct processes to successfully obtain each type. Arrest records can be obtained from state and local law enforcement agencies, while criminal records can be accessed through district/county courthouses and specific state agencies.

Access to these arrest and criminal records is influenced by these laws, alongside additional state and federal restrictions. For instance, the state prohibits the public release of juvenile records, and sealed or expunged records are removed from all government public records upon a court order.

Information Revealed When Searching Arrest Records vs. Criminal Records in New Hampshire

While arrest and criminal records contain overlapping information, they also offer distinct details. Arrest records typically become available shortly after an individual is charged with a criminal offense and may include:

  • First and Last Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Gender
  • Current Address
  • Date of Arrest
  • List of Charges (including Indictment, Complaint, and specific violated statutes)
  • Current Case Disposition with a brief explanation
  • Sentence Length (if applicable)
  • Attorney of Record
  • Appeals and Motions
  • Bail Information (including amount)

Conversely, criminal records provide a broader range of information, spanning from the date of arrest to the most recent court hearing, including:

  • Inmate ID
  • Full Name
  • Age
  • Ethnicity
  • Gender
  • Hair and Eye Color
  • Weight/Height
  • Date of Birth
  • Race
  • Date of Admission
  • Current Facility
  • Criminal Docket Number
  • Date Booked
  • All Offenses (current arrests and sentence date)
  • Incarceration History
  • Minimum and Maximum Sentence
  • Mugshot
  • Aliases

Free Methods for Finding Recent Arrests

Mugshots & Reasons for Incarceration Numerous free avenues exist for discovering recent arrests in New Hampshire, and the choice of method depends on the location of the incarcerated individual and the arresting agency.

The initial step involves gathering basic information before commencing your search. When using a state agency or court’s online directory, starting with the person’s name is an excellent approach. However, if you conduct an in-person search, you may still obtain recent arrest details alongside other valuable information, such as the city or county of arrest and the arrest date.

If you possess sufficient information, the agency or court can provide the individual’s arrest record, which typically contains fundamental details about their incarceration and general background information.

Here are the best free tools for accessing arrest records in New Hampshire:

Search Arrests Through County Jail Rosters or Contact the County Sheriff’s Office in New Hampshire

Performing a county arrest records search should be done with the awareness that not all counties contain identical information within their New Hampshire arrest records. Each county may have distinct procedures and nuances for accessing public arrest records. Some counties offer an online inmate search tool for public use.

This search tool allows you to enter the individual’s full name or partial name if you have limited information. Different counties may provide various search criteria options. After inputting the available information, you will receive a list of individuals matching your search criteria. Selecting a specific individual will provide you with their arrest and crime details, along with general information about the individual, such as incarceration information, bail amounts, and other arrest-related data.

New Hampshire (NH) Jail

How to Get in Touch with Someone Detained in a New Hampshire (NH) Jail and Facilitate Their Release?

If you need to contact someone currently incarcerated in a New Hampshire jail and wish to assist in their release, there are specific steps you can follow:

  • Contact the Jail Directly: If you know the location of the incarcerated individual, you can call the jail directly. They will provide you with essential information about visiting hours, phone communication policies, and the procedure for posting bail for the inmate.
  • Types of Bail: In New Hampshire, there are two primary types of bail. The first is “personal recognizance bail,” which allows the arrested person to be released with a written promise to appear in court. If they fail to appear, it may convert into “cash bail.”
  • Cash Bail: Cash bail requires a specific amount of money to be paid before the inmate can be released. To understand the process of posting bail for someone in custody, contact the local jail to obtain their specific guidelines.
  • Bail Bondsman: If the jail cannot provide the necessary information or assistance, you may want to consider contacting a local bail bondsman for further guidance on the bail process.
  • State Prisoners: If you are dealing with state prisoners, The New Hampshire Department of Corrections offers general information on how to visit, send mail, email, or make phone calls to inmates. Global Tel Link (GTL) is the authorized service provider for sending money and making calls to inmates. You must be on the inmate’s approved contact list and have an account to cover the costs.

How to Conduct a Criminal Records Search in New Hampshire?

If you need to perform a criminal record search in New Hampshire, follow these steps:

  • Contact County Courts: While local agencies may have New Hampshire arrest records, criminal records are primarily maintained by county courts and state agencies. If you encounter difficulties obtaining a criminal record, reach out to the Court of Clerks for assistance.
  • Free Search Options: To search for criminal records in New Hampshire without cost, consider these options:
    • District and County Courts: Visit a district or county courthouse (addresses provided below) and inquire about the procedure for searching New Hampshire criminal records specific to that court.
    • Case Access Portal: Utilize the NH criminal case search portal, but please note that access may be limited depending on your involvement in the case.
    • Department of Corrections: The Department of Corrections website offers a statewide search for criminal records in New Hampshire.

To Retrieve Criminal Records from a County’s Court and Clerk’s Office in New Hampshire

To access criminal records through a county court and clerk office in New Hampshire, follow these steps:

  • County Courthouse Website: Begin by visiting the website of the county courthouse where the individual was arrested or incarcerated. Check if they offer online search options for criminal records.
  • Contact the Courthouse: If online records are not available, reach out to the county courthouse by phone or in-person to inquire about accessing criminal records in that specific county.
  • Clerk of Court: If you’re unsure about whom to contact or where to go, contact the Clerk of Court and ask for guidance on the best way to access criminal records.

Performing a Criminal Record Search in New Hampshire Using the Case Access Portal

If you need to access criminal records in New Hampshire, you can utilize the NH Courts Case Access Portal. This portal offers comprehensive access to public arrest and criminal records, but there’s a crucial point to keep in mind.

The NH Courts Case Access Portal exclusively provides summary information for cases electronically filed in a county’s superior court to the general public. Access to all public documents is reserved for individuals who are directly involved in a case and can request the information through this portal.

To make use of New Hampshire Courts’ Public Access system, you need to follow these steps:

  • Visit the Case Access Portal.
  • Click on the “Register” option located at the top of their homepage.
  • Complete the electronic registration form and click “Next” when finished.
  • If you’ve completed everything correctly, you will receive a notification confirming your registration. Click “Finish” when you see this notice.
  • After you validate your email address, click “Log In” and enter your sign-in credentials.
  • When prompted for your “role,” select “General Public” and accept the Terms and Conditions by clicking “Submit.”
  • You will receive a final email once access has been granted.

note: If you are not a party involved in the case and require additional public records, you should contact the courthouse directly or visit in person.

Checking Criminal Records Through the New Hampshire Department of Corrections

The New Hampshire Department of Corrections maintains a public records repository where you can locate criminal records for both current and previously incarcerated inmates.

To use this search tool, your only option is to enter either the full or partial first and last name of the individual. New Hampshire’s Department of Corrections tool provides specific information about incarcerated individuals, such as their name, age, and inmate ID, as well as detailed criminal record information, which includes:

  • Case ID
  • Offense Date
  • Minimum Required Sentence
  • Maximum Sentence
  • Docket Number
  • Court

Hampshire Department of Corrections

While this tool can be utilized to check someone’s incarceration charges, it does not encompass a mugshot database or probation/parole records.

Obtaining Criminal Records in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, you have the option to request an individual’s criminal record, both at the local and state levels. At the state level, you can acquire these records from the New Hampshire State Police. These records can be accessed by anyone who pays the requisite fee.

If you’re requesting your criminal record, you can obtain confidential criminal history data, including non-conviction information, which is typically reserved for law enforcement personnel.

However, if you’re seeking the criminal records of someone else, there are regulations to follow. All applicable state and federal laws require you to obtain the individual’s consent when making such a request for professional purposes. For example, prospective employers commonly request consent as part of their job application process. This release allows them to access the individual’s criminal records without requiring notarization.

For requests made to local agencies like sheriff’s offices or county courthouses, you will need to contact them directly to determine their specific procedure for obtaining an individual’s criminal record. The processes may vary depending on the county and agency.

Determining Parole or Probation Status in New Hampshire

At times, you may want to ascertain whether an individual is currently on probation or parole. In New Hampshire, being on “probation” indicates that someone was sentenced to jail after being convicted of a misdemeanor or felony but has since been released under supervision. In some cases, an individual may be convicted of a crime and sentenced solely to probation.

Parole, on the other hand, is reserved for individuals who were convicted of a felony, sentenced to New Hampshire state prison, and have subsequently been released by the New Hampshire parole board.

To give you an idea of the prevalence of probation and parole in the state, the following image depicts the combined total of probationers and parolees in New Hampshire, categorized by their ethnicities.

New Hampshire

The New Hampshire Department of Corrections exclusively offers details about an individual’s sentence and does not maintain a database for probation or parolees. For additional information, please reach out to the county’s field division where the individual was arrested.

In New Hampshire, field divisions oversee probation and parole matters, including bail, restitution, and house arrest.

If the person in question served their sentence in a federal prison, you can utilize the Federal Bureau of Prisons for a parole search. Although it doesn’t explicitly indicate an individual’s parole status, a recent release suggests a higher likelihood of the individual being on parole.

Records in New Hampshire

To access pertinent information about individuals who have committed sexual offenses, please consult the United States Department of Justice National Sex Offender website.

Steps to Expunge or Seal Criminal Records in New Hampshire

When New Hampshire criminal records are sealed, they are removed from public access. While the records still exist, they will not be visible during background checks. When a criminal record in New Hampshire is expunged, it signifies the complete removal of any information related to an arrest, including specific charges and case disposition.

To initiate this process in New Hampshire, you must submit a request for an annulment of your criminal records. The New Hampshire courts offer a helpful checklist to assist you throughout this procedure. Depending on the severity of the offense (whether it’s classified as a misdemeanor or felony), there is a waiting period of anywhere from 1 to 10 years before you can request an annulment.

For arrests where no conviction occurred, the waiting period is minimal, but it still varies based on the specific circumstances. For more information on eligibility and time frames, please refer to New Hampshire’s Annulment of Criminal Records statute.

To determine if you qualify for an expungement, you can request a case summary from the court where the charges were filed. If you have multiple offenses you wish to expunge, you must file a separate petition for each charge.

The standard fee for filing an annulment of criminal records is $125.00, with the possibility of additional charges if your annulment necessitates further investigation by the Department of Corrections or Department of Safety.

New Hampshire State Prison

New Hampshire offers a streamlined procedure for individuals found with ¾ oz. or less of marijuana. To learn more about annulments, please visit the New Hampshire Annulment District Division 17, where you’ll find the necessary petitions, statutes, and a request checklist.

Searching for an Individual in Prison: New Hampshire State and Federal Prisons

If you need to find someone incarcerated in a New Hampshire State prison, your most effective resource is the inmate locator maintained by the Department of Corrections. This online tool allows you to search for individuals currently held in a New Hampshire state prison.

New Hampshire State Prison r

Searching on the Federal Bureau of Prison (BOP) website is restricted to using the individual’s name exclusively. It does not offer the option to search using other details like inmate number, date of birth, address, or descriptive attributes like age, hair color, or height. When searching the department’s website, it will provide information, including the facility where the inmate is currently situated. To locate federal prison inmates, you can utilize the BOP website and search for them by their name.

New Hampshire Warrant Search

If necessary, you can enhance your search results by including specific details, such as (1) gender, (2) age, or (3) race. Additionally, if you possess their inmate number (e.g., BOP Register Number), you can utilize this information for your search.

How to Conduct a Warrant Search in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire offers access to a warrant list database for individuals seeking information about active warrants.18 You can perform searches within this database using a person’s name or address. Upon a successful search, the results will display the person’s name, any aliases they may have, details of the offense(s), and a mugshot.

Furthermore, by clicking on the individual’s name, you can access more comprehensive information, including the warrant agency’s contact details, the last reported address, and descriptive information about the individual, including their race, gender, hair color, eye color, and more, if they have an active warrant.

The U.S. Marshal’s office holds responsibility for managing federal warrants that are not publicly available in a database. Federal warrant details are securely maintained within the Warrant Information System (WIN), granting access exclusively to individuals who require this information for their professional duties.

While some federal case data can be retrieved through a Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) account, please note that access is limited to ongoing cases. Furthermore, there is a fee associated with obtaining each document via this service. As a final alternative, depending on the nature of the offense, you may consider conducting a search on the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) fugitive list.

If your attempt to find a warrant is unsuccessful, you can contact the relevant clerk of court or law enforcement agency to inquire if they can provide any information.

Overview of Background Checks in New Hampshire (NH)

Background checks are often necessary for various purposes, both personal and professional. Here are some common reasons for requesting a background check:

  • Renting an apartment
  • Applying for a job
  • Purchasing a firearm
  • Obtaining a security clearance
  • Adopting a child
  • Compliance with state and federal laws by employers
  • Screening employees or volunteers working with elderly or minors

Professional background checks are typically requested to verify the accuracy of information provided by individuals.

The use of professional background checks is governed by state law, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and federal laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act. These laws provide protections such as prohibiting discrimination and requiring an individual’s consent before obtaining their background check.

Professional background checks generally fall into four levels:

  • Level 1: This level involves a name search (with SSN verification) and applies only to New Hampshire state criminal and employment records.
  • Level 2: At this level, a more comprehensive search of local records is conducted, along with a nationwide criminal history check. Level 2 checks can provide information on an individual’s criminal record (including arrests and pending cases), history of incarceration, previous addresses, civil judgments, and marital status.
  • Level 3: This level involves verifying an individual’s employment and education history.
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  • At this highest level, a detailed health and financial screening is conducted.

To perform an informal personal background check in New Hampshire, you have several options for accessing criminal and arrest records from relevant counties. These records can be obtained through state and local agencies. Additionally, you can submit a Criminal History Records Request to the New Hampshire State Police (NHSP).

New Hampshire offers three primary methods to request criminal history information:

  • In-person application at 33 Hazen Drive, Room 106A Concord, NH 03305.
  • Submission of an unnotarized application by mail.
  • Authorization for a third party to request records on your behalf (unnotarized release).

When seeking your own records, you can obtain a full confidential record. To obtain a complete New Hampshire criminal history record, you must provide additional documentation, such as a valid photo ID, whether you apply in person or by mail. Regardless of the request type, NHSP charges a $25 fee, which is reduced to $10 for qualified volunteers.

In New Hampshire, several state laws mandate individuals to acquire both a New Hampshire and FBI background check. A comprehensive list of these laws governing the release of criminal records is available.

The following state agencies and groups in New Hampshire require local and FBI background checks:

  • Banking Department (including credit unions and banking department employees)
  • Department of Health and Human Services
  • Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
  • Lottery Commission and Charitable Gaming Commission
  • New Hampshire Department of Revenue
  • Department of Safety
  • Municipal Employees and Volunteers
  • Hawker & Peddlers License
  • County Employees
  • Serve America Act Volunteers
  • Consumer Reporting Agencies

It’s important to note that personal background checks can be conducted without consent, provided they are not used for illegal purposes, such as blackmail or other criminal activities.

Understanding New Hampshire Statutes: Your Rights Concerning Arrest and Criminal Records

If you’re interested in locating information about sex offenders, you have two options:

  • You can perform a broad search using the national sex offender registry, which is maintained by the U.S. Department of Justice.
  • Alternatively, you can use New Hampshire’s sex offender registry, which is specific to the state. This state registry allows you to search for sex offenders by name, address, or county.

Once you locate the person you’re searching for, you’ll find a wealth of valuable information available on New Hampshire’s Sex Offender Registry, including:

  • Name
  • Date of the mugshot
  • Alias
  • Date of birth
  • Age
  • Race
  • Descriptive details (e.g., hair color, sex, eye color, weight, etc.)
  • Scars, marks, tattoos, and piercings
  • Last reported address
  • Court and offense information
  • Criminal history
  • Parole/Probation/Supervised Release status

Please note that these search tools are specifically for sex offenders. For a general felony registry, refer to the resources discussed earlier in this article.

New Hampshire Statutes & Your Rights Regarding Arrest Records & Criminal Records

As previously mentioned, there are limited options to prevent an individual from conducting a personal background check on your criminal or arrest records. The primary exception is that they cannot use this information to engage in any illegal activities.

However, when it comes to professional background checks, there are additional safeguards outlined by federal and state laws that must be strictly adhered to. These protections are primarily enforced through the FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) and EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission).

Furthermore, the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) and New Hampshire’s Right to Know Law impose restrictions on what information must be made publicly available. Information may be restricted if it is being used in an ongoing investigation.

If you have concerns about your arrest or criminal records, you do have options. Firstly, you may want to conduct an online search to determine what information is publicly accessible, following the instructions provided in this article.

If there is information you wish to keep private, your best course of action is to investigate whether your records are eligible for expungement or sealing.

In summary, the most effective way to access New Hampshire arrest records is to utilize a county’s inmate lookup tool or directly contact the local sheriff’s office or jail. For New Hampshire criminal records, you can choose between searching the Case Access Portal, contacting the Department of Corrections, or reaching out to the relevant local courthouse.

FAQ’s

How can I access New Hampshire’s criminal records?

To access New Hampshire’s criminal records, you can submit a request to the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of State Police, Criminal Records Unit. They maintain and provide access to criminal records in the state. You can request records through various methods, including in-person, by mail, or online through their official website. Be prepared to provide the individual’s full name, date of birth, and any other identifying information to facilitate the search. Access to certain records may be restricted to authorized personnel, such as law enforcement agencies or employers conducting background checks.

Are New Hampshire’s criminal records public information?

In New Hampshire, some criminal records are considered public information, while others are restricted. Certain information, like arrest records and court proceedings, may be publicly accessible. However, more sensitive information, such as juvenile records, sealed or expunged records, and certain arrest records, may be restricted from public view to protect individuals’ privacy and rehabilitation efforts. It’s essential to understand the specific laws and regulations governing access to different types of criminal records in the state.

How much does it cost to obtain criminal records in New Hampshire?

The fees for obtaining criminal records in New Hampshire can vary depending on the type of request and the method of access. Generally, there is a nominal fee associated with obtaining copies of records, whether through an online portal or in person. The fees help cover the administrative costs of processing requests. Be sure to check with the New Hampshire Department of Safety for the most up-to-date fee schedule and payment options.

How long does it take to receive requested criminal records in New Hampshire?

The time it takes to receive requested criminal records in New Hampshire can vary based on several factors, including the volume of requests and the method you choose for accessing the records. In some cases, you may receive records immediately through online access, while requests made by mail or in person might take longer to process. It’s advisable to plan ahead and submit your request well in advance if you have specific timing constraints.

Can I obtain someone else’s criminal record in New Hampshire?

In most cases, you cannot obtain someone else’s criminal record in New Hampshire without their explicit permission. Access to another individual’s criminal record is typically restricted to authorized entities, such as law enforcement agencies or employers conducting background checks. Unauthorized access to someone else’s criminal record can result in legal consequences. It’s essential to respect privacy and follow the proper procedures and legal requirements when requesting access to someone else’s criminal history information.