Arkansas Arrest Records

Arkansas Public Records /Arkansas Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Arkansas?

Yes. Arrest records in Arkansas are considered public records under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (Ark. Code Ann. § 25-19-101 et seq.), which grants citizens the right to inspect and copy public records maintained by state and local agencies. This means that certain arrest-related information, such as booking logs, arrest reports, and court case files, may be accessible to the public through the Arkansas State Police Criminal Records Division, the Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC), county sheriff’s offices, and municipal police departments.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Arkansas?

Access to arrest records in Arkansas is primarily governed by the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), codified in Arkansas Code § 25-19-101 et seq. This law establishes the framework for public access to government records, including those related to arrests and criminal proceedings.

The Arkansas FOIA operates under the presumption that government records should be open and accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. Under this act, records maintained by public agencies, including law enforcement entities, are generally available for inspection and copying by any citizen of the state.

Additional laws that impact access to arrest records include:

Arkansas Code § 12-12-1001 to 1019, which establishes the Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC) and outlines procedures for maintaining and disseminating criminal history information
Arkansas Code § 16-90-901 to 906, which addresses the sealing of criminal records
Arkansas Rules of Criminal Procedure, which govern various aspects of criminal proceedings, including arrest procedures

The Arkansas FOIA does contain certain exemptions that may limit access to arrest records in specific circumstances. For example, ongoing law enforcement investigations may be temporarily exempt from disclosure, and certain juvenile records are subject to stricter confidentiality requirements.

It's worth noting that the Arkansas Criminal History Improvement Act also plays a role in how criminal history information, including arrest data, is collected, maintained, and shared throughout the state's criminal justice system.

What Information Is Included in a Arkansas Arrest Record?

An Arkansas arrest record typically contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records serve as official documentation of an arrest event and generally include the following details:

Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name of the arrested individual
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Address at time of arrest
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Booking number
- Detention facility information
Criminal Charges:
- Specific charges filed
- Arkansas statute citations for alleged violations
- Classification of charges (misdemeanor or felony)
- Description of the alleged offense
Case Processing Information:
- Court case number
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Bail or bond information
- Disposition of charges (if available)
Additional Information:
- Prior arrest history (if applicable)
- Warrant information (if the arrest was pursuant to a warrant)
- Incident report number
- Property seized during arrest

It's important to note that an arrest record documents only that an individual was taken into custody based on probable cause or a warrant. It does not indicate guilt or conviction. The disposition information, when included, shows the outcome of the case, which may include dismissal, acquittal, conviction, or other resolution.

The level of detail in arrest records may vary depending on the specific law enforcement agency that created the record and the circumstances of the arrest. Some records may be more comprehensive than others, particularly for more serious offenses.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Arkansas in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Arkansas involves several methods, depending on your specific needs and the type of information you're seeking. Here are the primary ways to access arrest records in Arkansas in 2025:

In-Person Requests

For the most comprehensive and official arrest records, visiting the appropriate agency in person is often the most effective approach:

Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC)
One Capitol Mall
Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 682-2222
Arkansas Crime Information Center

ACIC is the central repository for criminal history information in Arkansas. Their public counter is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding state holidays.

Local Law Enforcement Agencies For recent arrests or specific incidents, contact the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. Most sheriff's offices and police departments maintain records divisions that can assist with arrest record requests.

County Circuit Clerk's Offices Court records related to arrests can be obtained from the circuit clerk in the county where the case was processed. These offices typically operate during standard business hours, Monday through Friday.

By Mail

To request arrest records by mail:

Prepare a written request clearly stating the information you're seeking
Include the full name, date of birth, and any other identifying information of the subject
Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
Include any required fees (typically in the form of a money order)
Mail your request to the appropriate agency

For statewide criminal history information, mail requests to:

Arkansas Crime Information Center
Identification Bureau
One Capitol Mall
Little Rock, AR 72201

By Phone

Some basic arrest information may be available by phone, particularly for recent arrests:

ACIC: (501) 682-2222
Local jail booking information is often available by calling the county sheriff's office

Required Documentation

When requesting arrest records, you may need to provide:

Government-issued photo ID
Completed request form (available at most agencies or on their websites)
Notarized authorization if requesting someone else's records
Documentation of legal authority if requesting as an attorney or legal representative

Processing times vary by agency and request volume, typically ranging from same-day service for simple requests to several weeks for more comprehensive searches.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Arkansas

In 2025, Arkansas offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally. These online options provide convenient alternatives to in-person visits, though the scope and depth of information may vary.

Official Government Websites

Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC) Online Portal
The ACIC provides limited online access to criminal history information through their Online Criminal Background Check System. This system requires registration and payment of applicable fees. Users must have the subject's consent for most searches.

Arkansas Judiciary CourtConnect
The Arkansas Judiciary's CourtConnect system allows users to search court records, including those related to criminal cases following arrests. The system provides case information, hearing dates, and disposition details.

County Sheriff's Office Websites
Many Arkansas county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate rosters or recent booking information. These typically include:

Current inmates
Recent arrests (usually within the past 24-72 hours)
Basic charge information

Arkansas Department of Corrections
The ADC Inmate Search provides information on individuals currently incarcerated or under ADC supervision, including their criminal history that led to incarceration.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Arkansas?

Access to arrest records in Arkansas varies depending on the requester's identity and purpose. The state's laws establish different levels of access for various categories of individuals and organizations.

Public Access

Under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act, the general public has the right to access most arrest records. Any Arkansas citizen can request:

Basic arrest information
Booking photos
Charges filed
Court case information

However, public access may be limited for:

Ongoing investigations
Sealed or expunged records
Juvenile records (with exceptions)
Records where disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy

Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Agencies

Law enforcement and criminal justice agencies have the broadest access to arrest records, including:

Police departments and sheriff's offices
Prosecutors and courts
Probation and parole departments
Arkansas Department of Corrections
Federal law enforcement agencies

These entities have access to complete criminal history information, including records that may be restricted from public view, through the Arkansas Crime Information Center's secure systems.

Employers and Licensing Boards

Certain employers and licensing boards have statutory authority to access arrest records for background check purposes, particularly for:

Education positions (teachers, administrators, staff)
Healthcare providers
Childcare workers
Financial institutions
Security personnel
Professional licensing applicants

These entities must typically follow specific procedures outlined in Arkansas Code § 12-12-1001 et seq. and may require the subject's consent.

The Subject of the Record

Individuals have the right to access their own arrest records. To obtain personal records, individuals must:

Provide proper identification
Submit fingerprints for verification (for complete criminal history)
Pay applicable fees

Researchers and Media

Researchers and media organizations can access arrest records under the FOIA, though certain identifying information may be redacted depending on the nature of the request and applicable exemptions.

It's important to note that while arrest records may be accessible, the use of this information is subject to various restrictions, particularly in employment contexts, as discussed in later sections.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Arkansas?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in Arkansas typically involves fees that vary depending on the type of record requested, the agency providing the information, and the method of access. These fees help cover the administrative costs associated with processing requests, maintaining records systems, and providing copies.

State-Level Fee Structure

Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC)

Standard criminal history check: $25
Fingerprint-based background check: $22 (state fee) + $13.25 (FBI fee if national check is requested)
Name-based background check: $25
Additional copies: $5 each

Arkansas State Police

Accident reports: $10
Incident reports: $10
Criminal history check: $25

Arkansas Department of Corrections

Most inmate records: $10-$25 depending on the scope
Online inmate search: Free

County and Local Agency Fees

Fees at the county and municipal level vary across Arkansas. Typical fee ranges include:

County Sheriff's Offices

Incident/arrest reports: $5-$15
Booking photos: $5-$10
Certified copies: Additional $2-$5

Circuit Court Clerks

Case records: $5-$10 per case
Certified copies: $1-$5 per page
Complete case files: Variable based on page count

Municipal Police Departments

Incident/arrest reports: $5-$20
Certified copies: Additional $1-$5

Payment Methods

Most agencies accept the following payment methods:

Cash (in-person requests only)
Money orders
Cashier's checks
Credit/debit cards (at some agencies and for online services)
Personal checks (varies by agency)

Fee Waivers

Some agencies may waive fees in certain circumstances:

For indigent individuals (proof of financial hardship required)
For certain governmental or law enforcement purposes
For victims requesting records related to their case

Online Access Fees

Online access to arrest records often involves separate fee structures:

Arkansas Judiciary CourtConnect: Free basic search; $5 for detailed reports
ACIC Online Background Check System: $25 per search
Third-party providers: Variable subscription or per-record fees

It's advisable to contact the specific agency holding the records you seek to confirm current fees, as these may change over time. Some agencies provide fee schedules on their websites or can quote fees upon request before processing.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Arkansas

Arkansas maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record, the severity of the alleged offense, and the outcome of the case. Understanding these retention periods is important for individuals seeking records or considering options for record sealing.

Standard Retention Periods

Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC)

Felony arrest records: Permanent retention
Misdemeanor arrest records: Minimum of 10 years
Non-conviction records (dismissed charges): 5 years from date of arrest
Arrests resulting in deferred adjudication: Retained until completion of deferral period, then may be eligible for sealing

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

Arrest reports: Typically 7-10 years minimum
Booking photos and fingerprints: Often retained indefinitely
Incident reports related to arrests: 5-7 years minimum

Arkansas Court System

Felony case records: Permanent retention
Misdemeanor case records: Minimum of 10 years
Traffic violations: 3-5 years
Sealed records: Maintained separately with restricted access

Factors Affecting Retention

Several factors can influence how long arrest records are maintained:

Severity of Offense: Records for serious felonies (especially violent crimes, sex offenses, and Class Y felonies) are typically kept permanently.
Case Disposition: Records of arrests that result in convictions are generally kept longer than those resulting in dismissals or acquittals.
Subsequent Criminal Activity: If an individual has multiple arrests, earlier records may be retained longer than standard policy.
Statutory Requirements: Specific Arkansas laws mandate minimum retention periods for certain categories of records.
Court Orders: Judicial orders may modify standard retention schedules in specific cases.

Digital vs. Physical Records

With the transition to digital record-keeping, many arrest records that might have been destroyed in physical form are now retained indefinitely in electronic databases. This technological shift has effectively extended retention periods for many records.

The Arkansas Electronic Records and Signature Act (A.C.A. § 25-31-101 et seq.) provides the legal framework for maintaining electronic records, including arrest information.

Records Eligible for Earlier Removal

Some arrest records may be eligible for earlier removal from public access through sealing or expungement processes (discussed in a later section). However, even sealed records are typically maintained by law enforcement agencies for internal purposes, though with restricted access.

It's important to note that even after local agencies may purge records according to their retention schedules, information about arrests may still exist in state and federal databases, private background check companies, and news archives.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Arkansas Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released in Arkansas, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted to balance public access rights with privacy concerns and legal protections. Understanding these redactions helps requesters know what information they can expect to receive and what will be withheld.

Commonly Redacted Information

Personal Identifiers

Social Security numbers
Driver's license numbers
Financial account information
Date of birth (may be partially redacted, showing only year)
Home addresses of certain protected individuals
Phone numbers and email addresses

Sensitive Case Information

Names and identifying information of confidential informants
Information that would compromise ongoing investigations
Grand jury proceedings and testimony
Juvenile suspect information (in most cases)
Sexual assault victim identities
Child abuse victim identities

Medical and Health Information

Medical conditions and history
Mental health evaluations
Substance abuse treatment information
Information protected under HIPAA

Law Enforcement Sensitive Details

Undercover officer identities
Tactical information
Confidential investigative techniques
Information that could endanger officer safety

Statutory Restrictions

Several Arkansas laws specifically restrict certain information in arrest records:

Arkansas Code § 12-12-312 restricts disclosure of certain criminal history information
Arkansas Code § 9-27-309 protects juvenile records
Arkansas Code § 16-90-1104 addresses confidentiality of sealed records
Arkansas Code § 12-18-910 protects child maltreatment investigation information

Special Categories of Protected Records

Juvenile Records Arrest records for individuals under 18 are generally confidential, with limited exceptions for:

Certain serious offenses
Cases where juveniles are charged as adults
Limited access by schools and certain agencies

Sealed or Expunged Records Records that have been legally sealed or expunged through court order are restricted from public disclosure, though they remain accessible to law enforcement.

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Cases Special protections apply to victim information in these sensitive cases, including:

Victim addresses and contact information
Specific details of assaults
Safety planning information

Pending Investigations Information related to open investigations may be temporarily redacted until the investigation concludes.

When requesting arrest records, agencies typically review documents and apply appropriate redactions before release. The level of redaction may vary depending on who is requesting the records and their legal authority to access certain information.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Arkansas

In Arkansas, the process of sealing or destroying arrest records is governed by the Comprehensive Criminal Record Sealing Act of 2013, codified at Arkansas Code Annotated § 16-90-1401 through § 16-90-1419. The Act provides a uniform procedure for eligible individuals to restrict public access to arrest, charge, and conviction records. Importantly, Arkansas law does not physically “destroy” records; instead, records are sealed, meaning they are removed from public view but remain accessible to law enforcement and certain agencies.

Eligibility to Seal Arrest Records

Individuals may be eligible to seal arrest records if:

The charges did not result in a conviction (dismissal, nolle prosequi, acquittal).
The individual was arrested but never formally charged.
Certain misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies were resolved, and the statutory waiting period has elapsed.
Probation or court-ordered programs were successfully completed.
Pardoned offenses are eligible for sealing.

Ineligible records include serious violent felonies, Class Y felonies, and certain sex offenses.

Procedure to Seal Arrest Records

File a Petition to Seal
- The petition must be filed in the circuit or district court where the arrest occurred.
- Petition forms are available through the Arkansas Judiciary.
Serve Notice
- The prosecuting attorney must be served with the petition. The prosecutor has 30 days to file an objection.
Court Review
- If no objection is filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. If an objection is filed, a hearing is scheduled.
Order to Seal
- If granted, the court issues an order sealing the arrest record. The order is forwarded to the Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC) and the Arkansas State Police.

Agencies Involved in Record Sealing

Arkansas State Police – Criminal Records Division
One State Police Plaza Drive, Little Rock, AR 72209
Phone: (501) 618-8500
Official Website: Arkansas State Police
Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC)
322 South Main Street, Suite 615, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 682-2222
Official Website: Arkansas Crime Information Center
Arkansas Judiciary – Administrative Office of the Courts
625 Marshall Street, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 376-3660
Official Website: Arkansas Judiciary

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Arkansas?

Arrest records in Arkansas are subject to strict rules on how they may be used, disclosed, and considered by employers, landlords, licensing boards, and members of the public. While the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (Ark. Code Ann. § 25-19-101 et seq.) guarantees access to many public records, the Comprehensive Criminal Record Sealing Act of 2013 (Ark. Code Ann. § 16-90-1401 et seq.) and other state and federal laws place important limitations on the use of arrest records.

Employment Restriction

Ban the Box Law – Under Arkansas Act 990 of 2017, state agencies are prohibited from asking about criminal history, including arrests, on initial job applications. Criminal background checks may only be considered later in the hiring process.
EEOC Guidelines – Employers in Arkansas must also comply with federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) standards, which restrict the use of arrests alone as grounds for denying employment. Only convictions, or arrests directly relevant to job duties, may be considered.
Expunged or Sealed Records – Once an arrest record has been sealed under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-90-1417, it cannot be used by private employers in making hiring decisions. Individuals may lawfully state that the arrest “never occurred.”

Licensing Boards and Professional Regulation

Many Arkansas professional licensing boards are authorized to review criminal history as part of background investigations. However:

Sealed or expunged arrests may not be used against applicants.
Boards must follow statutory “rehabilitation consideration” standards before denying a license based on arrest history.
Certain sensitive professions (law enforcement, childcare, health care) may access more detailed criminal history through the Arkansas State Police Criminal Records Division.

Housing and Tenant Screening

Landlords may conduct background checks using public arrest and conviction records.
They must comply with Fair Housing Act provisions and cannot discriminate based solely on arrest records.
Sealed arrest records are not available to landlords.

Credit, Loans, and Financial Transactions

Arrest records cannot legally be used by banks or financial institutions in evaluating loan applications, except where federal or state regulations require criminal background checks (e.g., federally insured banks under FDIC rules).

Education and Student Records

Schools and universities may request background checks for certain positions or programs (especially involving minors).
Arrests alone may not be used to exclude a student or employee unless directly tied to safety risks or statutory disqualifications.

Law Enforcement and Judicial Use

Law enforcement agencies in Arkansas retain access to complete arrest histories, even when sealed, for investigative purposes.
Courts may review sealed arrests when considering sentencing in future cases or when required by statute.

Key Agencies Responsible for Enforcement

Arkansas State Police – Criminal Records Division
One State Police Plaza Drive, Little Rock, AR 72209
Phone: (501) 618-8500
Official Website: Arkansas State Police
Arkansas Judiciary – Administrative Office of the Courts
625 Marshall Street, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 376-3660
Official Website: Arkansas Judiciary
Arkansas Crime Information Center (ACIC)
322 South Main Street, Suite 615, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 682-2222
Official Website: Arkansas Crime Information Center