Pennsylvania Arrest Records – Arrests.org PA Search

Discover the importance of accessing arrest records in Pennsylvania for personal background checks, legal proceedings, or general information gathering. Learn how to obtain arrest records through two primary sources: the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) website and the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website.

Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) Website

• Create an Account: Start by creating an account on the PATCH website to submit your request for a criminal history record check.
• Pay a Fee: Be prepared to pay a $10 fee associated with requesting a record check on the PATCH website.
• Submit Your Request: Provide essential information like your name, date of birth, and Social Security number to submit your request.
• Download Your Record Check: After processing, download your criminal history record check in PDF format, containing personal details and any associated criminal history records.

Utilizing the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Website

• Create an Account: Similar to the PATCH website, create an account on the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System website to search for and access arrest records.
• Search for the Individual’s Name: Use the search feature to locate the individual’s name and find the relevant arrest record.
• Access the Arrest Record: Obtain information such as the date of arrest, charges filed, and disposition of the case, typically free of charge.

Important Considerations

• Arrest Records vs. Criminal Records: Understand the distinction between arrest records and criminal records, with the former indicating an arrest and the latter including convictions.
• Accuracy and Completeness: Verify the information in an arrest record for accuracy and completeness before making any decisions based on it.
• Access Restrictions: Certain restrictions may apply, such as age limitations or sealed/expunged records, affecting the availability of arrest records.

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

Required Documents for Accessing Arrest Records

Before proceeding, please ensure that you have the following documents:

Utility Bill (Less than 60 days old)

Individual Access and Review Results

Upon completion of the Individual Access and Review process, you will receive one of two outcomes:

No Record – If no criminal record is found, you will receive a certified form stating that you have no PSP criminal record. This form can be saved or printed for your records.

Record – If a record is found, it indicates that the subject has a criminal record with the PSP. By double-clicking the given control number on the response, you can obtain and print a certified criminal record form.

If you require any assistance with forms or accessing your criminal history record through the PSP, our PATCH customer service is available at 888-783-797

General Crime Information

For individuals seeking general crime information, we provide easily understandable criminal record data, depicting various statistics.

Accessing Federal Criminal Records Using PACER

If you need federal criminal case information, our website offers access to the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) website. This online service allows you to retrieve docket details from appellate, bankruptcy, and district courts. You can search for a specific court or use the national index if the court’s identity is unknown.

PACER’s database is updated daily, and it requires the creation of an account to conduct searches. While registration is free, there is a nominal fee of $0.10 per page of case information, with a maximum charge of $00 (equivalent to 30 pages) for most documents. Please note that this limit does not apply to federal court transcripts, name-based searches, or non-case-specific documents.

Good news for infrequent users – access fees are waived if quarterly costs do not exceed $30. Additionally, case records are accessible to the general public through public access terminals at courthouses or the clerk of court’s office.

Requesting Criminal Records Through Pennsylvania Department of Corrections

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PA DOC) manages the state’s correctional institutions. If you are interested in criminal records for current or former inmates, you 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 detailed information about the inmate, including 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 location, incarceration history, and scheduled parole or release date.

Identifying Individuals on Probation or Parole in Pennsylvania

If you are looking for information on someone on probation or parole in Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand the distinction between these terms. Probation typically involves release from jail, while parole pertains to release from prison. While county sheriff websites may not offer probation search tools, Pennsylvania provides a resource for locating parolees.

To provide you with an overview, we have compiled data on the number of people on probation and parole in Pennsylvania, categorized by ethnic backgrounds. These figures are compared to the number of individuals under community supervision in other states across the United States.

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) manages state prisons and offers public access to information about inmates and parolees. Our user-friendly Pennsylvania DOC Inmate & Parolee Locator database is updated daily. Please ensure to select the “Parolee Locator” option for parolee searches.

You can locate parolees by their name, race/ethnicity, and more. Our website provides a reliable and informative platform for accessing arrest records and criminal history information in Pennsylvania.

Parolee Profiles: Unveiling Essential Information

Our website includes parolee profiles comprising significant details such as parole numbers, names, mugshots, demographic information, and release dates. These profiles are invaluable sources of information for individuals looking to gain insight into the criminal history of parolees in Pennsylvania.

With authority over sentences lasting two years or more in state facilities, the Pennsylvania Parole Board plays a pivotal role in parole decisions. For sentences lasting less than two years, parole may be granted at the county level. However, please note that there isn’t a comparable search tool available at the county level. To obtain probation or release dates, it may be necessary to contact the jail where the subject was held. For general inquiries, County Probation and Parole Offices can be contacted, although they typically do not disclose information about probation or parole subjects to the public.

For those seeking information about parole from federal prisons, our website offers access to the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) inmate locator tool. This tool provides historical information related to parole when searching by an individual’s name or BOP number. However, it’s important to note that being listed in the BOP repository doesn’t necessarily indicate that the subject is currently on parole.

Retrieving Pennsylvania Criminal Records Through Third-Party Services

For individuals seeking a more convenient and comprehensive way to access criminal records in Pennsylvania, our website offers third-party online services. These services provide background checks that encompass criminal history information, ensuring a straightforward process.

When utilizing third-party background check services, it’s crucial to select a reputable provider. Understanding the terms, costs, and accuracy of the information they offer is paramount. These services typically require the subject’s full name and other identifying details for comprehensive results. Notable background check services such as Instant Checkmate, TruthFinder, and BeenVerified are available for your convenience.

While these services provide quick and accessible criminal record information, it’s important to acknowledge that they may not always be as up-to-date or accurate as official government sources. Additionally, some services may require a subscription or fee for full access to their reports.

Sealing or Expunging Pennsylvania Criminal Records: Know Your Options

In Pennsylvania, individuals may be eligible to have certain criminal records expunged or sealed, ensuring limited public access to their criminal history. However, the eligibility criteria and process vary based on factors such as the type of offense, case disposition, 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 guarantees that 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 remains 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: Individuals who have successfully completed the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program in Pennsylvania 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 usually requires demonstrating eligibility based on specific criteria, such as the dismissal of charges or completion of probation or parole. Consulting with an attorney is recommended to assess eligibility and navigate the expungement process.

To determine your eligibility for expungement and ensure a smooth legal process, consulting with an attorney specializing in criminal record expungement in Pennsylvania is essential. Legal aid organizations may also offer assistance to individuals seeking expungement.

Understanding Different Types of Criminal Records in Pennsylvania

When accessing criminal records in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to comprehend the various types of records and their contents:

Arrest Records: Pennsylvania’s arrest records provide information about specific arrest incidents, including the arresting agency, booking date, and any charges filed against the individual.

Arrest Records

Arrest records provide information about individuals who have been apprehended by law enforcement authorities. These records typically include details such as the date and time of the arrest, as well as the individual’s name, date of birth, race, and sex. Local law enforcement agencies are the primary source for accessing arrest records.

Criminal History Records

Criminal history records, also known as “rap sheets,” offer a comprehensive overview of an individual’s criminal past. These records contain information about arrests, charges, convictions, and dispositions. Various agencies, including county clerks of courts, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, maintain these records.

Court Records

Court records encompass all documents related to criminal court cases, such as indictments, pleadings, motions, court orders, and trial transcripts. To access court records in Pennsylvania, individuals can contact 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 equivalent to expungements, LAOs limit the individuals 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?

To locate inmates in Pennsylvania, individuals can utilize the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) Inmate & Parolee Locator. This online tool allows users to search for inmates using criteria such as name, location, inmate number, date of birth, or committing county. The search results display comprehensive inmate profiles, including age, date of birth, conviction details, current facility, gender, height, inmate number, mugshot, names and known aliases, parole number, physical descriptors, and race/ethnicity.

For federal prisoners, the Federal Bureau of Prisons offers the BOP inmate locator tool. Users can search for inmates by BOP inmate number or name. Communication with inmates under the jurisdiction of the BOP can be conducted through email, phone, or postal mail, following the BOP communication guidelines.

How to Check for Warrants in Pennsylvania (PA)?

Pennsylvania residents have multiple options 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. Some counties may provide an online warrant feature on their websites.
• State Level: Check for warrants through the Pennsylvania State Police. This can be done 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 methods require a fee of $2

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 can be accessed through the appropriate federal channels.

Arrest Records in Pennsylvania: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to accessing arrest records in Pennsylvania, it is important to understand the process and resources available. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to navigate the state’s arrest records system.

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 $28

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.

FAQ’s

Are Criminal Records & Arrest Records Public in Pennsylvania?

Both arrest records and criminal history records are accessible to the public in Pennsylvania, as mandated by state and federal laws. However, the process, costs, and record custodians may vary. Juvenile records are typically sealed, while adult offenders may need to petition the court to withhold their records.

Welcome to our authoritative and informative guide on arrest records in Pennsylvania. Our comprehensive guide provides valuable information on criminal and arrest records searches in the state. Whether you are looking for specific arrest details or a broader overview of criminal history, we have you covered.

What Is Included on Criminal Records vs. Arrest Records Searches in Pennsylvania?

An arrest record, also known as an arrest report, contains specific information about a particular incident or detainment. On the other hand, Pennsylvania criminal records offer a more comprehensive view of an individual’s complete criminal history, including past and present arrests and cases.

When conducting an arrest record search in Pennsylvania, you can expect to find the following information:

• Arresting Agency
• Arrest Details
• Booking Date
• Current Facility
• Date of Birth
• Full Name
• Mugshot
• Race/Ethnicity
• Sex

Criminal records in Pennsylvania provide additional details and include:

• 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?

If you are seeking recent arrest information in Pennsylvania, it can be helpful to narrow down your search by determining the approximate location, time, and date of the arrest. The primary correctional facilities in the state are city and county jails. You can inquire about arrest records or detainees by contacting the local police department, sheriff’s office, or the jail directly.

For a more streamlined search, some county sheriff’s offices in Pennsylvania provide online resources for arrest reports and booking logs. However, it’s important to note that not all regions have online search capabilities. In such cases, we provide contact information for each county sheriff’s office, making it easy for you to inquire about specific arrests or inmates.

How To Contact or Get Ahold of Someone in a Pennsylvania Jail & Post Their Bail?

If you need to contact an inmate in a county jail in Pennsylvania, it is advisable to reach out directly to the jail. Each facility sets its own visiting days, hours, and communication policies. To post bail on behalf of an inmate, payments should be made to the jail where the individual is currently incarcerated. If the bail amount is not specified in arrest records or on the county jail or sheriff’s office website, 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 an 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.

Pennsylvania’s court system operates by judicial district rather than strict county boundaries. Our guide explains the best way to obtain copies of criminal records through this avenue and also covers other agencies or methods to access criminal records in the state.

For a broader overview of criminal and arrest information in Pennsylvania, including how to find marriage, divorce, birth, death, court records, and more, we recommend referring to our Pennsylvania public records search guide.