Arrests.org PA – Search Pennsylvania Arrest Records
Accessing arrest records in Pennsylvania is essential for various reasons, such as personal background checks, legal proceedings, or general information gathering. In the Keystone State, you can obtain arrest records through two primary sources: the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) website and the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of accessing arrest records in Pennsylvania, detailing the steps, fees, and important considerations.
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Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) Website
The PATCH website, maintained by the Pennsylvania State Police, offers individuals the opportunity to request criminal history record checks for themselves or others. Here’s how to navigate the process:
- Create an Account: To get started, you will need to create an account on the PATCH website. This account will be used to submit your request for a criminal history record check.
- Pay a Fee: There is a fee associated with requesting a record check on the PATCH website. As of the latest information available, the fee is $10. Be prepared to make this payment during the request process.
- Submit Your Request: Once you have an account and have paid the fee, you can submit your request for a criminal history record check. This process typically involves providing essential information like your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
- Download Your Record Check: After your request is processed, you will receive access to your criminal history record check. This report is usually available for download in PDF format. It will contain information such as your personal details and any associated criminal history records.
Utilizing the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Website
The Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website provides access to court records, including arrest records, for the entire state. Follow these steps to access arrest records through this platform:
- Create an Account: Similar to the PATCH website, you will need to create an account on the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website. This account will enable you to search for and access arrest records.
- Search for the Individual’s Name: Once you have an account, use the search feature to find the individual’s name whose arrest record you are interested in. This will help you locate the relevant record in the system.
- Access the Arrest Record: Upon locating the individual’s record, you will have access to information such as the date of arrest, the charges filed, and the disposition of the case. It’s worth noting that accessing arrest records on this website is typically free of charge.
Important Considerations
- Arrest Records vs. Criminal Records: It’s crucial to understand that arrest records are not the same as criminal records. An arrest record simply indicates that an individual has been arrested by law enforcement, while a criminal record includes convictions for specific crimes.
- Accuracy and Completeness: Arrest records can sometimes be inaccurate or incomplete. Therefore, it’s essential to verify the information in an arrest record before making any decisions based on it.
- Access Restrictions: Certain restrictions may apply to accessing arrest records in Pennsylvania. For example, individuals under the age of 18 or those convicted of certain crimes may not be able to access their own arrest records. Additionally, some arrest records may be sealed or expunged, rendering them unavailable to the public.
Are Criminal Records & Arrest Records Public in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, both arrest records and criminal history records are accessible to the public, as mandated by the state’s Right to Know Law and the federal Freedom of Information Act. These laws guarantee public access to federal documents and proceedings unless legally restricted.
However, it’s important to note that the process for obtaining arrest records differs from that of obtaining copies of criminal records, and the associated costs and record custodians may vary. Additionally, juvenile records are typically automatically sealed from public view, while adult offenders need to petition the court to withhold their criminal records.
To simplify the process and determine which government agencies or record custodians to contact for each type of record, this comprehensive guide provides guidance. For a broader overview of criminal and arrest information in Pennsylvania, including how to find marriage, divorce, birth, death, court records, and more, you may want to refer to our Pennsylvania public records search guide.
What Is Included on Criminal Records vs. Arrest Records Searches in Pennsylvania?
An arrest record, also referred to as an arrest report, contains information about a specific incident or detainment. It is specific to a particular arrest. In contrast, Pennsylvania criminal records are more comprehensive, encompassing an individual’s complete criminal history, including arrests and cases from the past and present, as opposed to just one isolated event.
In Pennsylvania, an Arrest Record Includes:
- Arresting Agency
- Arrest Details
- Booking Date
- Current Facility
- Date of Birth
- Full Name
- Mugshot
- Race/Ethnicity
- Sex
Criminal Records in Pennsylvania Consist Of:
- Current Facility
- Date of Birth
- Fingerprints
- Full Name & All Known Aliases
- Mugshot
- Pending Cases
- Prior Arrests
- Prior Convictions & Case Details
- Race/Ethnicity
- Sex
How To Find Pennsylvania Arrest Records or Recent Arrests for Free: View Arrest Logs, Mugshots & Determine Why Someone Is in Jail?
For individuals seeking recent arrest information in Pennsylvania, narrowing down the search by determining the approximate location, time, and date of the arrest can be helpful. The primary correctional facilities in the state are city and county jails, and you can inquire about arrest records or detainees by contacting the local police department, sheriff’s office, or the jail.
Below, you’ll find information on the best methods to ascertain whether someone was arrested in Pennsylvania, where they are currently held, and whether you can access mugshots if the arresting agency provides an online search tool or inmate roster.
Search Arrests Through the County Sheriff’s Offices of Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, those looking for arrest reports often find them on the websites of county sheriff’s offices where the arrests occurred. While some cities and counties offer inmate search resources and daily arrest or booking logs online, not all regions have online arrestee search capabilities.
If online access to Pennsylvania arrest records is not available in a particular county, the sheriff’s office’s contact information is provided instead. Phone numbers for all county sheriffs’ offices are also listed, making it easy for individuals to call the relevant office and inquire about specific arrests or inmates.
How To Contact or Get Ahold of Someone in a Pennsylvania Jail & Post Their Bail?
To contact inmates in county jails throughout Pennsylvania, it is advisable to reach out directly to the jail, as each facility sets its own visiting days, hours, and communication policies. For example, the communication system used by Union County Jail may differ from that of Allegheny County Jail, so it’s best to check with the specific jail office for accurate information.
To post bail on behalf of an inmate in jail, payments should be made to the jail where the individual is currently incarcerated. If the bail amount is not specified on the county jail or sheriff’s office website or in arrest records, interested parties can contact or visit the local sheriff’s department or applicable jail to inquire about the bail process or amount. Options for bail payment include:
- Cash bail (paying the full bail amount set).
- Enlisting the assistance of a bail bondsman and paying them at least 10% of the total bail amount as a nonrefundable fee.
Posting bail serves as assurance that the subject will appear at their court hearings. Any bail paid (except for the nonrefundable bondsman fee) will be reimbursed when the subject attends the relevant court hearing.
How To Access Pennsylvania Criminal Records Through Local & State Agencies?
In Pennsylvania, criminal records can be obtained through various methods, including certain courts, clerks of the court, or the state police. Additionally, background check services may provide insights into an individual’s criminal history when other avenues prove unfeasible.
While most states offer criminal records through county courts, Pennsylvania’s court system operates by judicial district rather than strict county boundaries. The following guide explains the best way to obtain copies of criminal records through this avenue and also covers other agencies or services that serve as record custodians.
Find Criminal Records Through Pennsylvania County Clerks of Courts or Courts of Common Pleas
In Pennsylvania, an individual’s criminal record or “rap sheet” can be accessed through the relevant clerk of courts or through the trial courts in Pennsylvania, known as the “Courts of Common Pleas.” There is one such court for each of the 60 judicial districts in the state, with most of these districts aligning with counties. However, seven judicial districts represent two counties each.
To initiate the search, you can find the location and contact information for each Pennsylvania Clerk of Courts responsible for maintaining criminal case records for their county’s Court of Common Pleas. You can also access public records through Pennsylvania’s Unified Judicial System. Here’s how:
- Visit the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania’s Courts of Common Pleas webpage.
- Scroll down to the “Find a Court” dropdown menu.
- Select the relevant county from the dropdown menu and click “View Details” for that county on the map image. This will lead you to the chosen county’s Court of Common Pleas webpage, which will include the courthouse address, phone number, and hours of operation.
You can then call or visit the courthouse or clerk of court to inquire about specific records. Keep in mind that there may be a small fee required for obtaining copies of records.
Search Criminal Records Through the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP)
Another option to access criminal records is through the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), a repository of public records. Requests to the PSP can be made online or via mail, but certain conditions govern the information accessible and the individuals allowed to view it.7
Here’s a breakdown of the process and request methods, including associated costs:
Requesters can use the Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH), operated by the Pennsylvania State Police, to conduct criminal history record checks.8 PATCH allows any member of the public to access online Pennsylvania criminal records.
The cost for each record request is $22, payable through credit card transactions on the PATCH website (American Express, Discover, Mastercard, or Visa). Records will be sent via email. A PATCH login can be created to track the record’s status (saved on the PATCH website for a year). Both registered and unregistered users can perform searches.
While PATCH serves as a convenient option for many seeking to verify a person’s criminal record, it may not be suitable for all users. For instance, requesters needing a notarized criminal history record check must mail their request form. Similarly, those seeking Pennsylvania arrest records might find it more efficient to contact their local law enforcement agency for recent arrests or consult court documents for prior arrests.
Individuals opting for the mail-in option need to complete the PSP Criminal History Request Form (SP 4-164), enclose it in an envelope with the $22 fee per record check (payable by money order to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania), and mail it to:9
Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository – RCPU 1800 Elmerton Avenue Harrisburg, PA 17110-9758
The third and final option to obtain criminal records through the Pennsylvania State Police involves filling out a Request for Individual Access & Review (Form SP 4-170).10 This request focuses on a criminal record search within the PSP repository alone; records held by other agencies will not be included in these criminal history checks.
If granted, the report will provide comprehensive criminal history information hosted by the PSP, including non-conviction details. This option is available only to the subject of the search or their legal guardian, who must present a notarized affidavit of legal representation.
To obtain an Individual Access and Review, requesters must submit Form SP 4-170, a $20.00 money order made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and one valid form of identification.10 The submitted identification should include the subject’s current address. Send these documents to the Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository at the address provided above.
Acceptable types of ID or proof of residency documents include:
- Deed
- Department of Corrections Identification Card
- Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
- Mortgage
- Passport
- Residential Lease or Rental Agreement
- State Issued Driver’s License or Photo I.D.
- U.S. Military Identification
- Utility Bill (Less than 60 days old)
Upon review, the results of the Individual Access and Review will yield one of two outcomes:
- No Record – Users receive a certified form stating they have no PSP criminal record, which can be saved or printed.
- Record – Indicates that the subject has a record with the PSP. By double-clicking the given control number on the response, requesters can obtain and print a certified criminal record form.
For assistance with forms or accessing their criminal history record through the PSP, requesters can call the PATCH customer service at 888-783-7972.
For individuals seeking general crime information, the PSP provides criminal record data in an easily digestible format, depicting various statistics.
Access Federal Criminal Records Using PACER
To obtain federal criminal case information, you can utilize the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) website. This online service facilitates the retrieval of docket details from appellate, bankruptcy, and district courts. You can either search for a specific court or use the national index if the court’s identity is unknown.
PACER’s database is updated daily, but it necessitates the creation of an account before you can conduct searches. While registering for an account is free, users are required to pay a nominal fee of $0.10 for each page of case information, with a maximum charge of $3.00 (equivalent to 30 pages) for most documents. However, it’s important to note that this $3.00 limit does not apply to federal court transcripts, name-based searches in the database, or documents that are not specific to a particular case.
For infrequent users of the PACER database, there is good news – access fees are entirely waived if the quarterly costs do not exceed $30. Additionally, case records are accessible to the general public via public access terminals located at the courthouse or the clerk of court’s office where the case was originally heard.
Request Criminal Records Through Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PA DOC) is responsible for the state’s correctional institutions, including prisons and halfway houses. Individuals interested in criminal records for current or former inmates can access information through the PA DOC’s Inmate Locator tool. Here’s how:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections’ Inmate Locator webpage.
- Enter the inmate’s first name, last name, or inmate number.
- Click the “Search” button to view a list of matching results.
Each entry provides the inmate’s full name, inmate number, date of birth, race, sex, supervision status, and the facility where they are held. By clicking on the inmate’s name, you can access additional details such as the inmate’s location, incarceration history, and scheduled parole or release date.
How to Identify Individuals on Probation or Parole in Pennsylvania?
If you’re seeking information about someone on probation or parole in Pennsylvania, it’s essential to understand the distinction between these terms. Probation typically involves release from jail, while parole generally pertains to release from prison. While county sheriff websites typically don’t offer probation search tools, Pennsylvania does provide a resource for locating parolees.
To give you an idea of the number of people on probation and parole, the following data represents the combined total of probationers and parolees in Pennsylvania, categorized by their ethnic backgrounds. Additionally, these figures are compared to the number of individuals under community supervision (including probation and parole) in other states across the United States.
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) manages the state prisons and offers the public access to information about inmates and parolees under its jurisdiction. Their online search tool, the Pennsylvania DOC Inmate & Parolee Locator, is a user-friendly database that receives daily updates. Please make sure to select the “Parolee Locator” option rather than “Inmate Locator,” as this database can be used for both types of searches.
You can locate parolees by their name, race/ethnicity, DOC parole number, or date of birth. Parolee profiles include details such as the individual’s parole number, name, mugshot, demographic information, and release date.
The Pennsylvania Parole Board has authority over sentences lasting two years or more, which are served in state facilities. For sentences of less than two years, parole may be granted at the county level. Unfortunately, there isn’t a comparable search tool at the county level. To obtain information about probation or release dates, you may need to contact the jail where the subject was held. County Probation and Parole Offices can also be contacted for general inquiries, but they typically do not disclose information about probation or parole subjects to the public.
For information about parole from federal prisons, you can utilize the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) inmate locator tool. This tool may provide historical information related to parole when searching by an individual’s name or BOP number. However, being listed in the BOP repository doesn’t necessarily indicate that the subject is currently on parole.
Retrieve Pennsylvania Criminal Records Through Third-Party Services
For those seeking a more straightforward way to access criminal records in Pennsylvania, third-party online services are available. These services offer convenient and comprehensive background checks that often include criminal history information.
When using third-party background check services, it’s essential to choose a reputable provider and understand the terms, costs, and accuracy of the information they offer. These services typically require you to provide the subject’s full name and other identifying details. Some well-known background check services include Instant Checkmate, TruthFinder, and BeenVerified.
Keep in mind that while these services can provide quick and accessible criminal record information, they may not always be as up-to-date or accurate as official government sources. Additionally, they may require a subscription or fee for full access to their reports.
How To Seal or Expunge Pennsylvania Criminal Records?
In Pennsylvania, individuals may be eligible to have certain criminal records expunged or sealed, preventing public access to their criminal history. However, eligibility criteria and the process can vary based on the type of offense, the disposition of the case, and the individual’s age at the time of the incident. Here’s an overview of expungement and sealing options:
Juvenile Expungement: Juvenile records in Pennsylvania are typically automatically sealed when the individual reaches age 18 or five years have passed since the final disposition of the case, whichever comes later. Sealing means the records are not accessible to the public.
Limited Access Orders (LAO): For certain non-violent offenses, individuals who have completed their sentence and met specific criteria may request a Limited Access Order (LAO). An LAO restricts public access to the criminal record but does not expunge it. The record is still accessible to law enforcement agencies and other authorized entities.
Expungement of Summary Offenses: Summary offenses in Pennsylvania can often be expunged if the individual remains arrest-free for five years after the case is closed. The process typically involves filing a petition for expungement with the court.
ARD Program Expungement: If an individual has successfully completed the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program in Pennsylvania, they may be eligible to have their record expunged.
Expungement of Misdemeanors and Felonies: Expunging misdemeanor or felony records in Pennsylvania can be more challenging and typically requires demonstrating eligibility based on specific criteria, such as the dismissal of charges or completion of probation or parole. Consult with an attorney to assess eligibility and navigate the expungement process.
It’s essential to consult with an attorney who specializes in criminal record expungement in Pennsylvania to determine your eligibility and guide you through the legal process. Legal aid organizations may also offer assistance to individuals seeking expungement.
Understanding the Different Types of Criminal Records in Pennsylvania
When accessing criminal records in Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand the various types of records and their contents:
Arrest Records: Arrest records in Pennsylvania provide information about a specific arrest incident, including the arresting agency, booking date, and any charges filed against the individual at the time of the arrest. They may also include details like the individual’s name, date of birth, race, and sex. Arrest records are typically available at local law enforcement agencies.
Criminal History Records: Pennsylvania criminal history records, often referred to as “rap sheets,” provide a comprehensive overview of an individual’s criminal history, including arrests, charges, convictions, and dispositions. These records are maintained by various agencies, including county clerks of courts, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.
Court Records: Court records in Pennsylvania include all documents related to criminal court cases, such as indictments, pleadings, motions, court orders, and trial transcripts. These records are accessible through the relevant court of common pleas or clerk of courts offices.
Inmate Records: Inmate records are maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and provide information about individuals currently incarcerated in state correctional facilities. These records include details such as inmate names, inmate numbers, dates of birth, incarceration locations, and release dates.
Limited Access Orders (LAO): Limited Access Orders are court orders that restrict public access to certain criminal records. While not full expungements, LAOs limit who can view the records, typically to law enforcement agencies and authorized entities.
Expunged Records: Expunged records are criminal records that have been completely removed or destroyed, making them unavailable to the public. Expungement is a legal process that can vary depending on the type of offense and eligibility criteria.
How to Locate an Inmate in a Pennsylvania State Penitentiary or Federal Prison?
Pennsylvania lacks a specific felony registry, but there are resources accessible to the public for locating both state and federal inmates. Typically, state prisons house more violent offenders, while those accused or convicted of federal crimes such as drug smuggling, treason, or perjury are detained in federal correctional facilities.
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) oversees the management of 23 state correctional facilities, 40 contract facilities, 14 community correction centers, one training academy, and one boot camp. On average, the DOC supervises around 36,000 state inmates.
To locate any of these inmates, individuals can utilize the Pennsylvania DOC Inmate & Parolee Locator. By choosing the “inmate” option and entering search criteria such as name, location, inmate number, date of birth, or committing county, interested parties can perform a search and review the displayed inmate profiles. This service provides access to various details about each DOC inmate, including:
- Age
- Date of Birth
- Conviction Details
- Current Facility
- Gender
- Height
- Inmate Number
- Mugshot
- Names & Known Aliases
- Parole Number
- Physical Descriptors
- Race/Ethnicity
For locating federal prisoners, the Federal Bureau of Prisons offers the BOP inmate locator tool, which allows searches by either BOP inmate number or name. Inmates under the jurisdiction of the BOP can be contacted through email, phone, or postal mail, following the BOP communication guidelines.
How to Check for Warrants in Pennsylvania (PA)?
Pennsylvania residents have several methods to check for warrants at the local and state levels:
Local Level: Obtain warrant information by contacting the relevant sheriff’s office or police department or checking the county website, which may have an online warrant feature.
State Level: Check for warrants through the Pennsylvania State Police by either filling out a PSP Criminal History Request Form (SP 4-164) and mailing it to the Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository or using the online option called PATCH. Both options require a fee of $22.
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania also offers a statewide warrant check. Users must create an AOPC account to search for warrants initiated by the Magisterial District Judge System (MDJS) or the Common Pleas Criminal Court Case Management System (CPCMS). The search results will include active warrants and inactive warrants less than a year old.
Federal warrants issued by the U.S. Marshals are hosted in their WIN system, which is not accessible to the public.
A Summary of Pennsylvania Background Checks
Background checks serve various purposes, including employment, firearm purchases, housing, licensure, and security clearance. Employers conducting background checks for professional purposes must adhere to state and federal laws and obtain the subject’s permission.
Background checks for personal reasons are not subject to these regulations, as long as the information is not misused. Pennsylvania offers two primary types of background checks:
Level 1 Background Checks: These are name-based searches of local records, often at the county or state level, for employment and criminal records. You can request these checks through the PSP for $22, either online via PATCH or by mailing a Criminal History Request Form (SP 4-164) to the Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository.
Level 2 Background Checks: These involve submitting the subject’s fingerprints to the FBI, providing more comprehensive historical information. Level 2 checks access nationwide data through the FBI, making them suitable for industries like healthcare or jobs involving children or the elderly. Pennsylvania IdentoGO offers Level 2 checks certified through the FBI, with a fee of $23.85.
How to Access Pennsylvania’s Sex Offender Registry and Information on Sexually Violent Predators (SVP) and Sexually Violent Delinquent Children (SVDC)
In Pennsylvania, individuals convicted of sex crimes are closely monitored, with their updated whereabouts readily accessible to the public for safety reasons. The Pennsylvania Sex Offender Registry provides comprehensive offender search options, including by city, county, zip code, municipality, offender name, or geographic radius.
To initiate a search, simply choose the preferred search type or criteria. Additionally, Pennsylvania maintains a separate registry for Sexually Violent Predators (SVP) and Sexually Violent Delinquent Children (SVDC), which includes information about both adult and minor individuals who have been convicted of violent sexual crimes.
Once you input your search criteria and perform the online search, the system will display a list of results. You can click on any offender’s profile to access their information and view a relevant photo from the registry’s mugshot database. Typically, sex offender profiles include details such as:
- Category of Offense
- Current Offender Status
- Employment Addresses
- First and Last Name
- Known Aliases
- Mugshot
- Residential Addresses
- Year of Birth
For a broader nationwide search, you can utilize the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW). This website offers search options based on the offender’s name or location, allowing you to specify a search radius.
Your Rights Regarding Criminal and Arrest Records in Pennsylvania
Entities performing background checks or accessing criminal records for professional purposes must comply with relevant laws, including the federal Freedom of Information Act and Pennsylvania’s Right to Know Law. Pennsylvania’s “ban the box” law (18 Pa C.S.A. Statute 9125) prohibits employers from using criminal history information unless it pertains to the job responsibilities.
Federal and state laws overseen by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission must be followed by potential employers conducting background checks. Expungements in Pennsylvania are subject to the laws outlined in 18 Pa C.S.A. Statute 9122, which includes erasing non-conviction and acquittal information.
Individuals conducting personal background checks on themselves are not bound by these laws and can access criminal history information without consent, as long as it is not used for harmful purposes. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protects consumer information in background checks.