Arrests.org Official ND – Search North Dakota Arrest Records
Discover how to access North Dakota’s free criminal records database and uncover information about individuals. A wealth of public records is readily accessible once you learn where to look.
In addition to North Dakota arrest records, criminal records provide comprehensive information, including incarceration details, mugshots, probation and parole status, warrants, background checks, prisoner records, the sex offender registry, and more.
Regardless of your search objective, this guide equips citizens with the necessary resources and knowledge to gain insight into someone’s past or current circumstances. Furthermore, it delves into the fair use of criminal records and antidiscrimination statutes and provides additional context regarding civil liberties.
Click Here to Search this form: https://northdakota.recordspage.org/arrest-criminal-records/
What Is Arrests.org ND?
Arrests.org ND is an online platform that gathers and organizes arrest data from law enforcement agencies across North Dakota. It provides a centralized resource for individuals who want to explore recent arrests and public booking records released by county sheriffs and police departments throughout the state.
This site is commonly used by those who wish to stay informed about public safety, check local arrest trends, or verify background information. The easy-to-use interface makes it simple to browse by name, arrest date, county, or other search filters.
What Information Can You Find on Arrests.org ND?
Arrests.org ND offers access to various public records related to recent arrests in North Dakota. This includes details such as:
Full name, age, and city of the person arrested
Date and location of the arrest
Criminal charges and charge descriptions
Mugshots (when available for public release)
Law enforcement agency involved
Bond or bail amount
Court dates and case status
Detention status or release updates
Note: Certain records, such as those involving juveniles or sealed legal cases, are excluded from public access under North Dakota law.
Where Does the Data Come From?
The arrest data featured on Arrests.org ND is gathered from official sources within the state, including:
North Dakota Highway Patrol
County Sheriff’s Offices (e.g., Burleigh, Cass, Ward)
Local police departments (e.g., Bismarck, Fargo, Minot)
These agencies provide arrest records under North Dakota’s open records laws, excluding any confidential or restricted data.
How Do You Search Records on Arrests.org ND?
Searching for arrest records on Arrests.org, ND is open to the public and does not require an account. However, registering may unlock additional features.
Basic Search Instructions
Visit the Arrests.org ND homepage
Enter a first and last name into the search bar
Optionally, add a city or county to narrow your search
Click “Search” to view relevant records
Click on a specific record to see full details
Advanced Search Filters
Users can further refine search results by applying filters, such as:
Arrest date or date range
Type of criminal offense (e.g., assault, DUI)
Specific county or jurisdiction
Age or gender filters
These options help you pinpoint the most relevant arrest records faster.
Why Use Arrests.org ND?
Instead of visiting multiple websites for each sheriff’s office or police department, Arrests.org ND brings North Dakota arrest data together in one searchable location. This makes the process more efficient for those needing quick and up-to-date information.
Whether you’re researching public safety issues, verifying a person’s history, or just staying informed, the platform offers a simple way to review arrest activity from verified sources across the state.
Who Can Access Arrest Records in North Dakota?
Under North Dakota law, most adult arrest records are public and can be accessed by anyone. This includes journalists, private individuals, researchers, and employers. However, access to some records, such as those involving minors or sealed court proceedings, is restricted by legal guidelines.
Arrests.org ND only publishes data that is legally accessible to the general public and retrieved from reliable official sources.
When Is the Information Updated?
Arrest records on Arrests.org ND are regularly refreshed to reflect the latest activity reported by local and state agencies. Updates typically occur within 24 to 72 hours after an arrest has been processed by the relevant law enforcement office.
This continuous update cycle helps ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the data displayed on the site.
Are Criminal Records and Arrest Records Publicly Accessible in North Dakota?
Under North Dakota state and federal laws, criminal records and arrest records are both open to public access. The federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) grants public access to all governmental records unless legally withheld in part or in full.
The North Dakota Open Records Statute (NDCC 44-4-18) is the set of state laws mirroring the federal FOIA laws, allowing for members of the public to request any public records by phone, postal mail, email, or any other medium unless made confidential by a specific law.
Public records such as arrest and criminal records can help interested parties find out what someone was arrested for, where they are being detained, or view their prior or current conviction(s). However, accessing each type of record requires a different process and often different associated costs, as each type of record is hosted by different agencies.
The free guide below will explain how to view or obtain an array of criminal and arrest records, and our resource on finding free North Dakota public records offers detailed information on finding all other types of publicly available information, such as marital status, court records, and more.
Certain records will remain either fully or partially undisclosed despite FOIA laws and the Open Records Statute; for example, juvenile records are automatically sealed from public access after their court case proceedings conclude.
What’s the Difference Between Criminal Records vs. Arrest Records in North Dakota?
An arrest record is somewhat similar to a criminal record but focuses on just one specific incident rather than an individual’s entire criminal history. An arrest report is a written account detailing a particular detainment, while a criminal record gives much more comprehensive information on the subject of the record, including any and all prior arrests, charges, and convictions (unless they have been sealed).
Arrest records generally include the following information:
Arresting Agency
Arrest Details (Location & Time)
Bond Amount
Charge(s)
Date of Birth
Full Name
Intake Date
Mugshot
Criminal records in North Dakota include:
Address(es)
Charge(s)
Conviction(s)
Current Facility
Date of Birth
Full Name
Known Alias(es)
Mugshot
Outstanding Warrants
Prior Detainments
Release Date
Sentencing Details
How to Find Whose in Jail in North Dakota
Arrest records can be obtained by members of the public in several ways, depending on where the arrestee was incarcerated and who made the arrest. It is helpful to know as much information about the subject as possible when seeking North Dakota arrest records to narrow down the search and find the most accurate results in the most efficient manner. Key information to have when trying to find recent arrests includes the person’s full name, as well as an approximation of the time, date, and location of the arrest.
Knowledge of which agency made the arrest can be helpful, too.
North Dakota does not have city jails, so anyone who’s in jail, not prison, will be held in county facilities. Some counties have online inmate search tools or electronic booking logs of daily arrests available on the county sheriff or jail website, often with mugshots and the reason for the arrest listed, but not all have this feature.
In cases where an online search is not available, the sheriff’s office or county jail could be called or visited in person to inquire about arrest records or to find out if someone is in jail.
How To Contact an Inmate in Jail & Post Bail (North Dakota)
To contact an inmate in a North Dakota county jail, friends and family members should check with the appropriate jail to ask about their visitation policies and hours, as each jail can set its own communication policies. Most county jails offer inmates access to phone calls, email, voicemail, and video calls, as well as certain in-person visitation days and times.
In North Dakota, bail is usually paid to the Clerk of Court at the courthouse where the case was initially heard, or that set the bail amount. However, if someone needs to post bail outside of the court’s normal hours of operation–including evenings, weekends, and holidays–bail may be posted at the jail where the subject is being held instead.
Bail can usually be paid by cash, credit card, or bail bond (explained below). For example, in Cass County, bail can be posted in cash at any time of day or night at the kiosk in the jail lobby or by credit card with someone at the front desk. Credit card and ATM fees will apply, but payments can also be made online.
Any bail fees paid are considered the property of the defendant, so all refunds (if owed) will be paid to the defendant even if someone posted bail on their behalf. The exception to this rule is if a bail bondsman’s services are used; a bail bondsman, if paid a 10% deposit (or more if bail is set unusually high), will post bail on an inmate’s behalf.
How To Look Up Criminal Records in ND (North Dakota Criminal Record Search)
This section will provide information on how to access and obtain North Dakota criminal records for either yourself or someone else. Readers will learn where criminal records are held; an agency or entity that hosts these reports is called a public records repository.
The state of North Dakota offers a couple of ways to find criminal history records, and the processes and costs (or lack thereof) associated with each will be explained so that anyone can follow this guide to check if someone has a criminal record easily.
Obtain Criminal Records Through the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)
Individuals in North Dakota can request a Criminal History Record Check through the North Dakota Office of the Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). This process allows for both name-based and fingerprint-based searches.
Request Requirements
Requests can be made for either one’s criminal record or someone else’s. However, requests for another subject’s criminal history information must include either their current address or their written consent, as explained below.
Name-Based Search: This type of search provides only exact matches. If the spelling is inaccurate or if the subject of the record check has changed their name (e.g., from a maiden name to a married name), results may not be accurate. Both name-based and fingerprint-based searches are limited to North Dakota and do not include federal or out-of-state offenses, convictions, or warrants.
Steps to Obtain a Criminal Record
To obtain a criminal record, follow these steps:
Fill out a Request for Criminal History Record Information (SFN 50744) fully and legibly (incomplete or unreadable forms will be returned).
Note: Requests for someone else’s criminal records must include either the subject’s current address OR a signed copy of the Personal Authorization for Criminal History Record Information (SFN 51156).
The searcher must also know the subject’s full name, maiden or former names (if applicable), known aliases, date of birth, and social security number, OR have their fingerprints to submit. (The BCI will notify the subject of a criminal history check being done on them if the request is not accompanied by the signed authorization form.)
If requesting a fingerprint-based search, fingerprints can be taken on an official fingerprinting card at a local law enforcement agency.
Send all forms along with the fingerprint card (if applicable) and a $15 processing fee by check or money order (made payable to the “North Dakota Attorney General”) to the BCI at:
Criminal Records Section, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, PO Box 105,4, Bismarck, ND 58502-1054 Phone: (701)-328-5500
Processing Time and Additional Information
Processing time for criminal record checks through the BCI is usually 7-10 business days, but requesters may include a pre-paid and self-addressed priority or overnight envelope for prompt delivery. Requesters who need a certified or notarized criminal record are required to submit the request in writing with their forms and payment.
The information included on general BCI criminal history record checks includes charges less than 3 years old that have been dismissed or did not result in a conviction, all convictions (no matter how old), deferred charges that have been dismissed (up to 3 years old), and custody records for both jails and prisons (up to 3 years old).
Any individual who has been granted a pardon will still have the initial conviction listed on their criminal record, but the record will also show “Pardon With Removal of Guilt,” and in such cases, the subject can legally say “no” when asked if they were convicted of the offense.
Information that is excluded from criminal records after 3 years will still be shown on regulatory or licensing criminal history record checks and will be viewable by law enforcement agencies.
Criminal history information not included in any type of North Dakota record check via the BCI includes:
Civil Judgments
Federal Records
Juvenile Records
Out-of-State Records
Traffic Offenses (some exceptions apply; contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation–NDDOT–for further questions)
Tribal Records
How To Get a Copy of Criminal Records in (ND) North Dakota
North Dakota criminal records can be easily obtained at the local or state level for free or at a low cost. Although North Dakota does not have county courts anymore, criminal history information can still be requested via the designated county Clerk of Court or Court Recorder, whose roles still exist to serve county residents and requesters.
At the state level, individuals can Request a Criminal History Record Check through the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) of the North Dakota Office of the Attorney General by submitting a Request for Criminal History Record Information (SFN 50744) and mailing the form along with a $15 check or money order made out to the “North Dakota Attorney General” to the BCI at:
Criminal Records Section, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, PO Box 1054, Bismarck, ND 58502-1054 Phone: (701)-328-5500
Requester’s Requirements for Obtaining a Criminal Record on Someone Else
Requesters seeking to obtain a criminal record of an individual must adhere to specific requirements as outlined below:
Knowledge of Subject’s Current Home Address: Requesters must possess knowledge of the subject’s current home address.
Submission of Form SFN 51156: Alternatively, requesters can choose to submit a signed copy of Form SFN 51156, also known as “Personal Authorization for Criminal History Record Information,” along with their request.
Fingerprint-Based Check: If individuals require or prefer a fingerprint-based check, they should also include their fingerprint card with the request. These fingerprint cards are obtainable from local law enforcement agencies, which may assist in mailing the card to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) on the requester’s behalf.
Requesters’ Requirements for Obtaining a Criminal Record on Another Individual
Requesters seeking access to an individual’s criminal record are obligated to fulfill specific conditions. These conditions are outlined below:
Knowledge of the Subject’s Current Home Address: Requesters must possess knowledge of the subject’s current residential address to initiate the request for a criminal record.
Submission of Form SFN 51156: Alternatively, if requesters do not know the subject’s current home address, they must submit a signed copy of Form SFN 51156. This form is titled “Personal Authorization for Criminal History Record Information.”
Fingerprint-Based Check: Individuals who require or prefer a fingerprint-based criminal record check should include their fingerprint card along with their request. These fingerprint cards can be obtained from local law enforcement agencies, which may also assist in mailing the card to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) on behalf of the requester.
The State of North Dakota Court System’s Criminal Case Record Search
The State of North Dakota Court System provides a valuable Criminal Case Record Search service for accessing criminal history information online. However, it is important to note that the results obtained through this service are not certified or considered official criminal records. This online tool is freely accessible to the public. Nonetheless, users are cautioned that the results may be incomplete or outdated due to the irregular participation and infrequent case file updates by some courts.
North Dakota Court Record Inquiry (NDCRI)
Searchers can also conduct a North Dakota Court Record Inquiry (NDCRI), which can be valuable for reviewing general information on criminal cases but will not include official or certified court records[^10^]. It is offered as a service, but the North Dakota Judicial Branch denies any responsibility for errors or omissions through the NDCRI.
Useful Resource for General Information
Although this service does not provide official criminal history record information, it can still be a useful resource for interested parties. The NDCRI is updated daily and available 24/7. Users can search by state, judicial district, or by county (most specific).
Effective Search Tips
To best narrow down the search, individuals using the NDCRI should enter as many search criteria as possible. This can include the subject’s first and last name, date filed, case status, or case type.
Public Terminals for Court-Related Documents
Public terminals are available at each District Court and the Fargo Municipal Court for viewing and printing court-related documents at no cost to the user.
Using Third-Party People Finder Services
Lastly, third-party people finder services or websites can assist searchers and provide criminal history information promptly by searching many repositories at once. These services can save the searcher a lot of time, effort, and frustration, and often charge only a nominal fee.
How to Check Probation or Parole Status in North Dakota
Before reviewing the list below, it’s important to understand that checking probation or parole status in North Dakota may require contacting the appropriate county or state agency. Online availability is limited, so direct communication is often necessary.
Finding Probation or Parole Information
Individuals hoping to find information on probation or parole can benefit from knowing that probation usually describes a release from jail, and parole often refers to a release from prison. Since county jails do not offer an online probation search, interested parties should call or visit the jail office during normal business hours for probation inquiries.
Statistics on Probation, Parole, and Community Supervision
To illustrate just how many people are on probation and parole, the following image shows the combined total of probationers and parolees in North Dakota, along with their ethnicities. Furthermore, these totals are also compared to the number of individuals on community supervision (including probation and parole) in other states across the United States.
Parole Oversight and Contact Information
As for parole from state prison, the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (ND DOCR) is responsible for oversight of all state prisons and works with the North Dakota Parole Board to set parole standards and stipulations[^11^][^12^].
The Parole Board has the ultimate jurisdiction over parole, and any member of the public with questions or concerns can contact the board by postal mail, phone, email, or fax.
Contact Information
Mail: North Dakota Parole Board P.O. Box 1898 Bismarck, ND 58502-1898
The Parole Board also offers its monthly “Parole Board Results” published on the North Dakota Parole Board website[^12^]. By clicking on the results for any month, individuals can view the online parolee database, which includes the parolees:
State I.D.
DOC Number
First & Last Name
Parole Action Taken
Parole Start Date
Deferral Information
Relevant Comments
Time Added Back
Parole or Probation Information Parole or probation information can also be discovered through a personal background check on the subject. While exploring criminal case records at the courthouse or conducting a North Dakota Court Record Inquiry (NDCRI) are alternative methods, it’s important to note that these sources may not always display parole information.
Contacting Parole and Probation Offices Searchers have the option to get in touch with Parole and Probation Offices; however, they may not always be granted access to parolee or probationary details.
Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Inmate Locator Finally, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) offers a BOP inmate locator tool.
Searching for Parole Information on Prior Federal Inmates
It can be used to search for parole information on prior federal inmates, but any information about parole found via the BOP may be outdated and simply means that the subject was eligible for parole at some point.
How to Seal a Criminal Record in North Dakota
In North Dakota, criminal records can be sealed but cannot be fully expunged or destroyed. Individuals seeking record sealing or erasure may also want to note that, even if granted, this will not remove the information from their criminal record; only from their court record.
Instead, a note will be added to the record saying that the subject has been absolved of guilt or a similar note made next to the relevant charge or conviction, such as “Pardoned–Removal of Guilt.”
Any individual found guilty or having pled guilty to a criminal offense cannot have that mark removed from their criminal history record, even if it is erased from the court file.
North Dakota Record Sealing Eligibility (NDCC 12-60.1)
To be eligible for sealing a criminal record, the individual must have:
Pled guilty to–or was found guilty of–a misdemeanor and had not been convicted of another crime for 3 years or more before filing the petition to seal.
Pled guilty to–or was found guilty of–a felony and had not been convicted of another crime for 5 years or more before filing the petition to seal.
A petition to seal a criminal record has to be filed in the existing criminal case and must include the following:
Petitioner’s first and last name
All legal names and aliases used at any time
Petitioner’s address(es) ranging from the date of the offense to the date of the petition to seal
Reasons why the petition to seal should be approved
All of the individual’s criminal history in all states, federal, and foreign courts
A disclosure of all prior petitions for pardon(s), sealing, or return of arrest record(s) whether they were granted or not
When filing a petition to seal a criminal record in North Dakota, the petitioner is required to file a proposed order and serve the petition upon the prosecuting official.
Sealing of Juvenile and Adult Criminal Records
Juvenile records are automatically sealed, but all adult criminal records must be petitioned for sealing.
How to Find an Inmate in a North Dakota State or Federal Prison
Inmates in North Dakota’s state prisons can be contacted by phone, or visited in person, and emails or video visitations are often allowed as well. The North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (ND DOCR) operates all state prisons and sets general visitation rules across the board, but each facility has the authority to implement additional visitation policies, so the relevant facility should be contacted with any questions or concerns.
General ND DOCR Visitation Policies for Family & Friends
Both general ND DOCR Visitation Policies for Family & Friends, as well as links to each facility’s specific rules, can be reviewed for further insight.
All in-person visitors must complete and submit the Visitor Application Form (SFN 7598), get pre-approval, and have their names added to the relevant inmate’s list of approved visitors before any in-person visitation will be allowed.
North Dakota State Prisons and Correctional Facilities
There are 5 state prisons and correctional facilities in North Dakota, each serving different inmate populations. Here, you will find details about these facilities, their mailing addresses, and contact information. Please note that both male and female inmates go through an initial orientation program and cannot receive packages until after completing this program.
Male Inmates
All male inmates sentenced under the jurisdiction of the ND DOCR will begin their incarceration at the North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP). Here, they will undergo a month-long orientation program to familiarize themselves with ND DOCR’s rules, policies, and available programs. After completing this orientation, male inmates will be classified as “gen pop” (general population) and may either continue to stay at the NDSP or be transferred to the James River Correctional Center (JRCC) or the Missouri River Correctional Center (MRCC).
Female Inmates
Female inmates under the jurisdiction of the ND DOCR will also undergo a similar orientation program. They will start at the Dakota Women’s Correctional and Rehabilitation Center (DWCRC). Following orientation, female inmates will be held in the general population, either remaining at the DWCRC or being placed at the Heart River Correctional Center (HRCC), which is designed for minimum-security women.
Upon completing the orientation, all ND DOCR inmates will meet with a committee to determine their custody level, assigned housing, and the specific programs that will benefit each inmate in terms of work, therapy, and educational goals during their incarceration.
ND DOCR Adult Facilities
North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP)
Address: 3100 Railroad Avenue, PO Box 5521, Bismarck, ND 58506-5521
Dakota Women’s Correctional and Rehabilitation Center (DWCRC)
Address: 440 McKenzie Street, New England, ND 58647
Telephone: (701)-579-5100
Fax: (701)-579-5101
Conveniently, an online search resource, the ND DOCR Inmate Lookup, is available to the public. It allows you to search for inmates in any of these 5 facilities and offers a mugshot database for visual reference and identification verification.
Using the ND DOCR Search
To utilize the ND DOCR search, users can follow these steps:
Enter Last Name: Type the subject’s last name, or at least the first few letters of their last name, into the search bar located on the ND DOCR Inmate Lookup page.
View Inmate List: A list of inmates will be displayed, organized by their first, middle, and last names. Each inmate entry is accompanied by their inmate ID and date of birth.
Access Inmate Profile: Users can click on any inmate profile to access further details. Each inmate profile provides comprehensive information, including the individual’s full name, date of birth, estimated release date, current facility name, address, and the subject’s mugshot.
Inmate Search in North Dakota State Correctional Facilities
Scope of Search: Any individual who uses this lookup feature will only find inmates currently held in a North Dakota state correctional facility; detainees incarcerated in county jails or outside of North Dakota in other state or federal correctional facilities will not appear in any ND DOCR search results. Even if someone is being held in one of North Dakota’s state prisons but was sentenced in another state, they still will not be included in these searches.
Types of Offenses and Locations: Though there is no particular felony registry, it may be helpful for those using this search tool to know that subjects charged with violent felonies or misdemeanors are often held in state prisons while more white-collar criminals–such as those who have committed fraud or money laundering–tend to end up in federal prisons.
Federal Inmates: North Dakota does not hold any federal prisons, but individuals sentenced to federal prisons are transferred to facilities in neighboring states; these inmates can still be contacted, and their information can still be accessed.
Federal Inmate Locator (BOP): The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is the agency that oversees all federal correctional facilities in the United States. It offers a BOP inmate locator tool available for public use and is free of charge; this database can be searched by entering the federal inmate’s name (both first and last required) with other relevant information such as race, age, and sex to narrow down the search results.
Additional Search Options: The BOP database may also be searched by the subject’s BOP register number if known by the searcher. Once a search has been completed, users can click on any of the inmates to view more information. Inmate profiles include the BOP register number, full name, age, race, sex, and release date, if applicable.
Using the Inmate Search Feature
Individuals interested in contacting, visiting, or sending money to inmates under BOP supervision can do so by navigating through the relevant tabs on the inmate profile.
How to Perform a North Dakota Arrest Warrant Search
In North Dakota, many county sheriff websites (found in the first table above) provide an online local warrant list accessible through a section commonly labeled as “Most Wanted” or simply “Warrant Search.” In cases where counties do not offer this feature, individuals can contact local law enforcement during operational hours to inquire about current or outstanding warrants. Both the local police department and the sheriff’s office can confirm the presence of active warrants.
Another resource available to search for warrants in North Dakota is the North Dakota Court Record Inquiry (NDCRI) search tool. This tool permits users to search by county or conduct statewide searches for criminal records, North Dakota arrest records, and warrants. Upon entering specific search criteria—such as name, case, date filed, citation, or attorney—a list of relevant subjects and records will be displayed.
If a red “W” is visible before the case number, it signifies the existence of an outstanding warrant for the individual.
While North Dakota residents can confirm the presence of warrants at the local level, it’s important to note that access to federal warrants issued by the U.S. Marshals and compiled in their WIN system is not available to the public.
North Dakota Background Checks Explained
Background checks in North Dakota serve various personal and professional purposes, including employment, housing, firearms acquisition, and licensing. Adoption applications, security clearance assessments, and numerous other agencies may also require background checks.
Personal background checks in North Dakota can be conducted without obtaining consent from the subject of the search, and there is no obligation to inform them of the check. These checks can involve local criminal record searches, court record reviews, or the engagement of third-party services to expedite the process. It is important to emphasize that the information obtained through personal background checks cannot be used for stalking, harassment, or hate crimes against the subject.
Professional background checks, conversely, are intended to verify personal information for employment, housing, and various approval processes. These checks require the subject’s consent and must adhere to state and federal laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), Ban the Box, and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) regulations.
The two primary types of background checks are categorized as Level 1 and Level 2.
Level 1 background checks are name-based searches that assess local records at the county or state level. They provide insights into the subject’s employment and criminal history, though they may be less accurate due to relying solely on a name.
Level 2 background checks are more comprehensive, offering national-scale results. These checks necessitate the subject’s fingerprints to be submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The information obtained includes previous addresses, marriages, employers, credit and educational history, as well as details about prior and pending criminal charges, convictions, civil judgments, arrest records, sex crimes, and past incarcerations. Level 2 background checks are often required for roles involving children, the elderly, and certain healthcare positions.
Obtaining a Level 1 background check can be done through the North Dakota Office of the Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI). Applicants can request a Criminal History Record Check, which allows for either name-based or fingerprint-based searches. Detailed instructions on conducting a Level 1 check can be found under the heading “Obtain ND Criminal Records Through the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).”
Level 2 background checks can also be obtained through the BCI, but only if mandated by state or federal law. For example, professional licensing agencies, foster care providers, and adoptive parents who are required by law to undergo a national FBI criminal background check can obtain one through the BCI. To initiate this process, individuals must collect the necessary information and forms from the relevant entity or agency that demands the background check (as requirements may vary by agency) and have their fingerprints taken by an authorized law enforcement agency.
Individuals not falling within these specified categories must request their Level 2 background check directly from the FBI, as the BCI only processes checks for approved individuals.
Background check laws, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the regulations protected by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), prohibit discrimination when conducting background checks or reviewing records.
If any employee or applicant believes they have been subjected to wrongful treatment or discrimination based on information revealed in a professional background check, they have the option to File a Charge of Discrimination through the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights or contact the EEOC.
How to Search the North Dakota (ND) Sex Offender Registry
North Dakota residents can access registered sex offender information through two online search portals, both of which are free and open to the public. At the state level, the North Dakota Sex Offender Registry offers public access to information regarding individuals with a history of sex offenses in their neighborhood or city. To utilize this registry, users can search by entering the offender’s name or specifying their location (county, city, neighborhood, or specific address) within a chosen radius. The search results encompass the entire state of North Dakota and provide options to filter for incarcerated or non-incarcerated subjects or both.
Registry Search Results
Once search criteria have been entered, users of this registry can click “Search” and will be brought to a page of registered offenders that fall under the search terms. Any offender profile can be selected to view the following information:
Searching on the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW)
The National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) provides a comprehensive search platform that yields results on a wider spectrum. This website facilitates searches based on various criteria, including:
Address Radius: You can search for sex offenders in a specific area by entering an address radius.
Name: You have the option to search using a person’s name.
Zip Code: You can narrow down your search by entering a zip code.
Name and Zip Code Combination: If you have both a name and a zip code, you can conduct a combined search.
For name-based searches, it is important to note that both the first and last names of the individual are required.
Accessing Offender Information
For further information on a certain offender, their profile can be clicked on to see what jurisdiction they’re in, details of the offense, residential and employment addresses, vehicles owned, and other personal identifiers. The NSOPW also offers features to either track or map offenders, which can be found on the subject’s sex offender profile.
Your Rights About Criminal Records & Arrest Records Under North Dakota Laws
The laws regarding arrest records and criminal records in North Dakota can be found below, as well as a summary of other laws relevant to public records, such as those about background checks.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a set of federal laws that guarantee the public’s right to access, view, and obtain public records, including arrest and criminal reports.1
North Dakota Open Records Statute (NDCC 44-4-18)
The North Dakota Open Records Statute, written into the North Dakota Century Statute as NDCC 44-4-18, is essentially the state-level Freedom of Information Act.2 Commonly called North Dakota’s “Sunshine Law”, the Open Records Statute grants the public access to all government and public entity reports, documents, audio, and other media unless withheld by law.
Juvenile Records Confidentiality
Juvenile records are automatically sealed upon conclusion of court case proceedings and are not accessible to members of the public. These records may only be obtained by court order in certain circumstances, such as for a victim’s insurance company records. All other juvenile records remain confidential unless the subject of the record gives consent for disclosure.
Anti-Discrimination Measures
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) prevent discrimination based on information disclosed in public records and work to ensure accuracy and timeliness in consumer reporting 27, 26
Accessing Arrest Records in North Dakota
In North Dakota, arrest records can be found through local law enforcement agencies such as the arresting police department or local sheriff’s office. Alternatively, North Dakota criminal records may be obtained through the relevant county’s Clerk of Court or Court Recorder, via the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, or by recruiting the help of third-party services.
FAQ’s
Understanding arrest records in North Dakota can help individuals stay informed about their legal rights and public record access. Below are some of the most common questions people ask regarding these records, along with clear and concise answers.
What information is available in North Dakota arrest records?
North Dakota arrest records typically include details about an individual’s apprehension by law enforcement. This information may consist of the person’s name, date of arrest, location of arrest, arresting agency, charges filed, and sometimes additional information like mugshots. It’s important to note that arrest records do not necessarily indicate guilt; they merely document the event of arrest.
How can I obtain a copy of my own North Dakota arrest record?
To request a copy of your own North Dakota arrest record, you can contact the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). You will likely need to fill out a request form, provide identification, and pay a nominal fee if applicable. The process may vary slightly depending on the county where the arrest occurred.
Are North Dakota criminal records available to the public?
Yes, North Dakota criminal records are generally considered public records. However, certain sensitive information, like juvenile records or sealed records, may not be accessible to the public. Anyone can request criminal records through the BCI, but the extent of information available may vary depending on the purpose of the request.
How can I perform a background check on someone in North Dakota?
You can request a background check on someone in North Dakota by contacting the BCI. Employers, landlords, and individuals can request background checks for various purposes, such as employment, rental applications, or personal safety. Keep in mind that you may need the person’s consent to run a background check on them in certain situations.
Can I access probation and parole records in North Dakota?
Probation and parole records in North Dakota are typically available to the public. These records may include information about individuals who are under supervised release, including their names, convictions, and supervision status. You can request these records from the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or the specific parole or probation office overseeing the case.
