Yes, arrest records are public in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This accessibility stems from the Pennsylvania Right to Know Law, which mandates that government records be available for public inspection and duplication. Arrest records, as part of these public records, provide transparency and maintain public safety, allowing citizens to stay informed about law enforcement actions and criminal activities within their community.
To get Philadelphia arrest records, individuals have multiple avenues to explore, especially with the integration of online platforms in 2024. While specific online databases facilitate access, there are also traditional methods available:
A Philadelphia arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Philadelphia, individuals may have the option to expunge their arrest records under certain conditions. Expungement is generally available to those who have had their charges dropped, acquitted, or completed a diversion program successfully. The process involves filing a petition with the court that initially handled the case. The court then reviews the petition, and if deemed appropriate, orders the expungement of the arrest record, effectively removing it from public access and law enforcement databases.