Somerset Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Somerset, Pennsylvania?

Yes, arrest records are public in Somerset, Pennsylvania. This openness is rooted in the Pennsylvania Right to Know Law, which mandates that government records be accessible to the public. This law aims to promote transparency and accountability in governance, allowing citizens to access various records, including those related to arrests.

How to Look Up Somerset Arrest Records in 2024

To get Somerset arrest records, individuals have several options available. It is important to note that some of these records might be accessible online. Here are the methods you can use to search for arrest records in Somerset:

  • Visit the local Somerset police department or sheriff's office for access to arrest records.
  • Check with the Somerset County courthouse, where records of arrests made in legal proceedings may be held.
  • Utilize any public online portals provided by Somerset or Pennsylvania state for digital records access.
  • Contact third-party agencies that legally collect and distribute arrest records, though verification of their authorization is recommended.

Contents of a Somerset Arrest Record

A Somerset arrest record typically includes the following information:

  • Full name and any aliases of the arrested individual
  • Date and time of the arrest
  • Details of the charges against the individual
  • Booking agency
  • Photograph of the arrested individual (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints
  • Personal information such as date of birth and physical characteristics

Expungement of Arrest Records in Somerset

In Somerset, the expungement of arrest records is permitted under specific conditions. Individuals who have been arrested but not convicted, or who have completed a diversionary program such as probation, may be eligible to have their arrest records expunged. The process involves filing a petition with the court in Somerset County, where the arrest occurred. The court then reviews the petition and determines whether the expungement is justified based on the circumstances and the applicant's criminal history.

Search Arrest Records in Somerset