NC Arrests.org: Search North Carolina Arrest Records

Navigate North Carolina’s legal landscape seamlessly with our comprehensive guide, offering insights into arrest records, criminal proceedings, probation statuses, warrant details, prisoner records, and the sex offender registry. Whether you’re conducting a background check or seeking specific information, our resource equips you with the tools for a hassle-free search. Simplify your quest for knowledge and access essential information effortlessly.

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According to the North Carolina General Statutes u00a7 132-6-6.2, criminal and arrest records are generally accessible to the public, with exceptions for sealed, expunged, or juvenile records. The North Carolina General Assembly mandates the prompt provision of public records, including criminal and arrest records, to members of the public.

While most public agencies do not charge fees for uncertified copies of public records that exceed the cost of production, some third-party websites offer convenient and faster search services for a fee.

Differences Between Criminal Records & Arrest Records

Criminal records and arrest records serve different purposes. Arrest records provide information about an individual’s interaction with law enforcement when taken into custody for an alleged crime, including charges, bond amounts, and arresting agencies.

Criminal records, on the other hand, contain information about individuals who have been convicted of crimes in court, including court case numbers, dates of conviction, and any guilty pleas.

Criminal Records Include:

  • Full names
  • Date of birth (DOB)
  • Age
  • Sex
  • Race
  • Case numbers
  • Court information
  • Addresses (former and present)
  • Type of conviction
  • Guilty pleas (if any)
  • Date of conviction
  • Court charges (felony or misdemeanor)
  • Date of release
  • Mug shot (photograph)
  • Former arrest records
  • Date of disposition

Arrest Records Include:

  • Names of the arrested individuals
  • Booking numbers
  • Court case numbers
  • Age
  • Address
  • Gender
  • Arresting agency
  • Date of arrest
  • Arrest location
  • Cell Number
  • Charges
  • Warrant information
  • Severity of charges
  • Bail amount

How to Access North Carolina Arrest Records for Free

Accessing North Carolina arrest records can be done at no cost through county sheriff’s offices, local police departments, and city jails. Many county sheriff’s departments provide online rosters for public viewing, and physical visits or phone inquiries are also options.

It’s important to note that information on current arrests may be withheld if it jeopardizes an ongoing investigation or infringes on an offender’s privacy. However, criminal discovery rules require this information to be made available to the public in most cases, including the date of arrest, reasons for arrest, and the arresting agency.

Conducting an Arrest Records Search via North Carolina County Sheriff’s Offices

County sheriff’s offices are a valuable source for recent arrest information. North Carolina has 100 counties, each with its own sheriff’s office. Many of these offices maintain online rosters and mugshot databases, making it easy to search for individuals in custody.

If an online roster is not available, individuals can visit the sheriff’s office in person or contact them by phone. Sheriff’s offices are typically the most reliable means of accessing recent arrest information.

Expert Guide to Conducting Arrest Record Checks

When it comes to conducting arrest record checks, it is crucial to follow a meticulous step-by-step process that provides users with thorough and accurate information. Understanding the legal intricacies and motivations behind record checks is essential in order to navigate the process effectively.

Begin your search by utilizing the online resources available for North Carolina municipal jails and police departments. By checking the inmate rosters of county jails as well as city jails in local police departments, you can gain access to recent arrest information. However, it is important to note that not all cities maintain online rosters. In such cases, interested individuals can contact the local law enforcement agencies directly for this information.

To streamline your search, utilize search engines and enter the phrase “name of the city North Carolina arrest search” to determine if the local police department hosts an online inmate roster. Additionally, partnering with reputable platforms like Citizens Connect can provide access to online arrest reports from various police departments in North Carolina.

The following North Carolina towns and cities have their arrest logs searchable through Citizens Connect:

  • Aberdeen, North Carolina
  • Bessemer City, North Carolina
  • Forest City, North Carolina
  • Pinehurst, North Carolina
  • Southern Pines, North Carolina
  • Greensboro, North Carolina

Once you have obtained the necessary information, you may want to contact an inmate or assist them in posting bail. Communication with inmates can be established through in-person visitations, video visitations, outbound calls, or mail. Each facility has its own protocols, so it is advisable to contact the respective sheriff’s office to understand the specific procedures.

In-person visitations generally have strict dress codes and limited visitation times. Accompanied children may be allowed, and visitors must present a government-issued ID. For outbound calls, inmates typically have the ability to make collect calls, but they cannot receive calls. When sending mail to inmates, ensure that it complies with the facility’s guidelines, including providing full names and addresses of both the sender and recipient, and avoiding contraband, violent materials, and profanity.

When it comes to posting bail for an inmate, the courts in North Carolina may set different types of bonds depending on the offense committed. These include cash bonds, unsecured bonds, written promises to appear, and secured bonds. The purpose of bail is to ensure the defendant’s attendance in court, and it should not be excessive according to the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

There are three main ways to set bail for a defendant:

  • Paying the Entire Amount: This involves paying the full bond amount to the court, which may not be feasible for most individuals.
  • Collateral: Instead of paying the full amount, the courts may accept collateral such as property in exchange for the bond.
  • Hiring a Bondsman: Many individuals turn to bail bondsmen who can provide the necessary funds in exchange for a fee. The bonding company ensures the full bond amount is eventually paid.

By following these expert guidelines and understanding the legal procedures involved in arrest record checks, you can navigate the process with confidence and ensure accurate and reliable information.

Guide to Conducting Arrest Record Checks in North Carolina

When it comes to conducting arrest record checks in North Carolina, it is important to follow a meticulous step-by-step process to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal requirements. By understanding the legal intricacies and motivations behind record checks, individuals can navigate the process with confidence and ease.

Understanding Bond Amounts and the Role of Lawyers

When an individual is arrested, they may be required to pay a bond amount to secure their release from custody. Typically, this amount is set by the court and is a percentage of the total bond amount, usually capped at 15%. However, it is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if the case is completed.

To potentially reduce the bond amount, it is highly recommended to seek the services of a lawyer. A knowledgeable lawyer can advocate on behalf of the defendant and present compelling arguments to the court, potentially resulting in a lower bond amount. By doing so, individuals can preserve their financial resources, allowing them to hire a defense lawyer without incurring excessive expenses.

Accessing North Carolina Criminal Records

There are various avenues through which individuals can access North Carolina criminal records. These include:

  • North Carolina Department of Public Safety and State Bureau of Investigation: Individuals can search for criminal records through these agencies, which provide comprehensive information.
  • Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER): Appellate court records and federal offense records can be retrieved using the PACER database. While searching is free, there may be nominal costs associated with accessing certain records.
  • County Courts: County courts maintain court records and information on ongoing court cases. Individuals can request criminal records from these courts.

Searching for Court and Criminal Records

Interested individuals have multiple search options when it comes to court and criminal records in North Carolina. These include:

  • Case Number: Records can be searched by specifying the case number.
  • Name: Searching records by entering the name of the individual.
  • Attorney: Finding records associated with a specific attorney.

Remote Public Access Program (RPA) and Statewide Access

The Remote Public Access Program (RPA) offered by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts (NCAOC) serves as a centralized repository for accessing criminal records. This program provides the same information available at public terminals in North Carolina courthouses.

In addition to the RPA, individuals can perform statewide and real-time criminal background checks through the Automated Criminal/Infractions System (ACIS) and the Civil Case Processing System (VCAP).

It is important to note that third-party entities can also provide remote electronic access to court records, although this service comes with a cost and requires registration.

Obtaining Copies of Criminal Records

Copies of North Carolina criminal records can be obtained from various agencies, including law enforcement agencies and the courts. Here are some options:

  • NC Department of Public Safety Background Checks: The NC Department of Public Safety collaborates with the court system to provide background checks for a fee of $14.
  • North Carolina Court System: Individuals can request copies of criminal records from the court system, subject to applicable fees.

By following these steps and utilizing the available resources, individuals can conduct thorough and accurate arrest record checks in North Carolina.

The North Carolina Court System: Complete Database of Convictions and Charges

The North Carolina Court System contains a comprehensive database of convictions and charges made by state, county, and city law enforcement agencies against offenders..

State Bureau of Investigation Background Checks

The State Bureau of Investigation serves as the primary central repository for criminal information in North Carolina. We facilitate finger-based background checks, also known as the “Right to Review” your North Carolina record. Our website provides detailed information on the cost of these background checks, which is $14.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Background Checks

For federal background checks, the Federal Bureau of Investigation offers identity history summary checks. These finger-based criminal history background checks can be accessed through our website at a processing fee of $18.

Contact Local County Courts

Members of the public can also contact their local county courts to obtain copies of these records. Our website provides a table with the relevant contact information for each county court.

Accessing Probation or Parole Information in North Carolina (Finding Someone on Probation and Parole in NC)

Finding whether an offender is on probation or parole is a simple and straightforward process facilitated by the North Carolina Department of Corrections. Our website provides access to an easy-to-use parole database, which is also used to locate offenders.

The North Carolina Post-Release Supervision & Parole Commission is an independent agency responsible for overseeing the release of eligible offenders in accordance with the North Carolina General Statutes.18.

Parole and Probation in North Carolina

In North Carolina, parole constitutes the conditional and supervised release of an offender before the completion of their prison sentence. On the other hand, probation is a court-ordered release without imprisonment, unless otherwise specified by law.

Comparison of Probation and Parole Across States

To provide insight into the prevalence of probation and parole in North Carolina relative to other states, the following image illustrates:

  • The total number of probationers and parolees in North Carolina
  • A comparison with other states across the United States
  • The ethnicities of individuals under community supervision (combined probationers and parolees) in North Carolina.

Structured Sentencing in North Carolina

In 1994, the N.C General Assembly eliminated parole and enacted Structured Sentencing. This mandates that offenders who commit crimes on or after October 1, 1994, must serve 100% of the minimum sentence and 85% of the maximum sentence. Once these requirements are met, they are released on post-release supervision.

Parole Eligibility

Those who committed crimes before October 1, 1994, are still eligible for parole.

Probation Search Procedure

To perform a probation search, simply use our parolee search tool, select the “Active Probation/Parolee” radio button, and input the required bio-data such as names, offender number, birth date, and even an age range. Upon selecting an offender, the status of the probation shows as active, and the inmate status shows as inactive.

Sealing and Expunging Criminal Records in North Carolina

Thanks to the new expungement law signed in 2017, known as Senate Bill 445, sealing and expunging criminal records in North Carolina has become a faster and easier process. This law aims to reduce the wait time to expunge felony convictions and non-violent misdemeanors. Some key components of the change include:

  • Misdemeanor convictions can be expunged after 5 years instead of 15 years.
  • Felony convictions can be expunged after 10 years instead of 15 years.
  • There is no limit on the number of dismissals that can be expunged.
  • Law enforcement and prosecutors will still have access to these records.

Guide to Expunction: Removing Criminal Convictions and Charges

Discover the intricate process of expunction, which allows individuals to remove their criminal convictions or dismissed charges from their records. While expunctions do not grant complete immunity from all consequences of past records, they play a vital role in matters such as federal immigration determinations.

Criteria for Petitioning for Expunction

  • Meet required waiting periods.
  • Pay all court-related costs and provide proof of payment.
  • Must not be on probation or parole.
  • Have no criminal summons or warrant for arrest.
  • Have no open criminal cases or pending criminal charges.

Filing for a Petition for Expunction

  • File the petition for expunction with the clerk of court in the county where the charges were filed.
  • Each expunction statute has its own unique filing process, and the petition forms can be found here, along with detailed instructions.
  • Some petitions may require additional supporting documents, such as affidavits of good character from acquaintances of the petitioner.
  • A filing fee of $175 is generally required, although certain expunction statutes may waive this fee for dismissed charges or non-guilty verdicts.
  • Some petitions may involve a court hearing to assess the petitioner’s character.
  • Due to the necessary criminal record checks and hearing scheduling, the process may take several months.
Expunction Process Image

Self-Filing for Expunction: A Complex Process

While it is possible to self-file for expunction, the lengthy and intricate nature of the process leaves little room for error. Any mistakes in filing can lead to significant delays in an already year-long process. Therefore, it is highly recommended to enlist the services of an experienced attorney.

Locating Individuals in Federal and North Carolina State Prisons

For individuals searching for prisoners in North Carolina, there are 57 state prisons spread throughout the state, as well as a federal prison located at The Federal Correctional Complex near Butner. The North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections (NC DAC) maintains a comprehensive database for state prisoners, while the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) handles federal prison records.

Federal Prisoner Search

Use the Federal Prison Inmate Locator to find federal inmates housed at the facility in Butner maintained by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BPO).

North Carolina State Prisoner Search Image

The North Carolina State Prisoner Search tool offers two convenient methods for locating state prisoners in North Carolina: searching by the offender’s last name or their BOP Register Number. This fee-free search tool requires no registration.

North Carolina State Prisoner Locator Tool

The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction provides two valuable resources for locating state prisoners: the North Carolina State Prisoner Locator Tool and the Automated System Query (ASQ) Tool. Both tools utilize the same comprehensive database, but the ASQ Tool allows users to generate custom reports based on specific criteria.

Using the Prison Locator Tool

This versatile tool functions as both a prison locator and a people finder, allowing users to search for individuals using offender bio-data, such as names, offender numbers, gender, date of birth (DOB), and more.

Using the ASQ Tool

The ASQ Tool enables users to search based on various criteria, including ‘probation’ and ‘community supervisions,’ and then match these criteria with ‘entries’ or ‘exits’. This advanced search method offers additional flexibility for obtaining precise information.

Communicating with State Prisoners Image

Communicating with State Prisoners in North Carolina

Families can communicate with state prisoners in North Carolina through mail. However, inmates receive only copies of the mail, not the original copies. All mail undergoes processing to ensure safety and security.

It is crucial to note that all mail for inmates should be sent to the company’s facility in Maryland using the following format:

Name & Opus Number Name of Prison (not abbreviated) P.O. Box 247 Phoenix, MD 21131

This mailing system is designed to prevent the smuggling of contraband into prison facilities, and all mail must be approved before being delivered to offenders.

Inmates in the general population, with the exception of those in central prison, can also make phone calls out of prison but cannot receive calls. In case a family member has an emergency that they need to communicate to an offender, they should contact the facility to explain the situation to staff members and provide relative contact information for emergency verification.

GTL (Global Tel*Link) has a contract with the NCDOC (North Carolina Department of Corrections), allowing family and friends to purchase telephone time for calls.

How to Determine If You or Someone Else Has an Arrest Warrant

The state of North Carolina defines an arrest warrant as consisting of the accused person’s alleged crime, a direction to arrest the accused person, and the authorization to hold the person to answer for the alleged crimes, based on probable cause supported by oath or affirmation.

Unlike some other states, North Carolina does not have a centralized database or search tool for retrieving warrant information for its citizens. However, interested individuals have several options to obtain this information, including:

  • Querying the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI).
  • Some county sheriffs may provide a warrant list.
  • Contacting local county courts.
  • Using third-party websites.

Querying The NCSBI

Due to the Right to Review Process mentioned earlier, members of the public can run a criminal history check with the NCSBI, which will also include warrant information. To do so, send a written request to:

  • Civilian Services Unit: Right to Review PO Box 29500 Raleigh, North Carolina 27626

Requesters should fill out the Request Form-Right to Review and mail it to the above address along with a $14 certified check or money order payable to the NC State Bureau of Investigation.

Background Check Process in North Carolina

  • County Courts: The process should take 2 calendar weeks. As the responsibility of issuing warrants lies with the courts, citizens may contact the county courts using the Court Locator Tool to ascertain the status of warrants. The clerks of courts would be the point of contact for this.
  • County Sheriff’s Office: To see if someone has a warrant out for their arrest, most county sheriff’s offices in North Carolina provide arrest warrant details upon request or have a dedicated online page for warrants. For example, the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office website mentions that citizens can contact their office, and they’ll provide warrant details.
  • Third-Party Websites: Some third-party websites may offer a search service that may be used to obtain warrant information for a fee. They generally make the process much simpler since requesters don’t need to scour around government websites trying to find this information.

How To Get a Background Check Done for Personal or Professional Purposes in North Carolina

Government agencies in North Carolina are mandated to ensure some professionals, such as caregivers and those engaged in volunteer work, complete background screenings to ensure they don’t have North Carolina arrest records. Many occupations that require state-issued licenses, such as pharmacists and real estate appraisers, will need background checks completed.

These background checks are mandated to ensure public safety and to maintain a high quality of professionalism by individuals to whom these licenses are issued. Background checks primarily fall on the shoulders of:

  • The North Carolina Court System: Allows the general public to check others’ criminal history
  • The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI): For professional uses
  • Third-party vendors: For professional uses

While it is possible for members of the public to perform a background check on someone else in North Carolina for personal reasons and without consent, background checks that are completed for professional purposes must conform to the guidelines set by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Expertly Navigate the Background Check Process

Discover the intricacies of conducting record checks and gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework surrounding background checks. Our step-by-step instructions will guide you seamlessly through the process, shedding light on the complexities and motivations behind record checks.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Fair Credit and Reporting Act (FCRA) play crucial roles in regulating background checks.

Guidelines set forth by the EEOC ensure that employers cannot use background checks to undermine equal employment opportunities. Employers must obtain consent from potential employees for conducting background checks, and employees have the right to review the results, rectify mistakes, and appeal any decisions resulting from the checks.

Background Check Process via North Carolina’s State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI)

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) serves as the CJIS Systems Agency (CSA) for the state. It provides background check services for employers, licensing entities, and individuals.

Agencies seeking access to criminal history record information (CHRI) must have a contract with NCSBI known as an access agreement. This ensures compliance with statutory authority and enables checks on applicants and/or employees.

Personal Background Checks

Individuals can request personal background checks under both North Carolina State and Federal laws. These checks help determine if someone has a criminal record and require consent.

NC State Fingerprint-Based Check

The NC State Fingerprint-Based Check, conducted by the SBI, includes a response letter and costs $14. Complete the Request Form-Right to Review for this check.

National Finger-print-Based Check

National checks can be conducted through the FBI. The online option takes 3-5 days, while the mail option takes up to 2 months. Proceed to Identity History Summary Checks to initiate the process.

Background Checks by Employers and Licensing Entities

Employers and licensing entities can conduct background checks through the NCSBI. These checks are vital for ensuring the safety and integrity of their organizations.

Access Criminal Background Check Services in North Carolina

In North Carolina, individuals can access criminal background check services through the North Carolina Court System and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. These services provide valuable information about criminal records.

To initiate the background check process through the North Carolina Court System, visit their Criminal Background Check page. Determine the specific type of background check you require and complete Form AOC-CR-314. Please note that this search is limited to a single county and must be conducted through the clerk of the superior court office.

Guiding Users Through the Arrest Records Process with Expert Instructions

To access the valuable information we provide, simply submit the form along with a $25 fee (accepted in the form of a money order, credit card, or cash) to the county court clerk’s office.

North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS)

  • Gain access to the criminal records of individuals who have served prison sentences through the NC Department of Adult Corrections.
  • For information related to individuals who may have committed sex offenses, refer to the NC Sex Offender Registry, further discussed in the following section.

National Sex Offender Search

Locate sex offenders on a national level with our comprehensive National Sex Offender Search.

Third-party Vendors or Criminal Background Check Companies Endorsed by the North Carolina Judicial Branch

Unofficial records can also be obtained through third-party vendors. While they obtain information from the N.C. Administrative Office of the Courts (NCAOC) pursuant to a licensing agreement, the accuracy of information from these vendors is not guaranteed.

How To View & Search the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry

Established in 1996 as per North Carolina Code § 14-208.5, the North Carolina Sex Offender and Public Protection Registry requires persons convicted of sex crimes to register with law enforcement agencies. This registry serves as a tool to educate the public and enhance community safety.

Find offenders using the Felony Registry and Online Directory:

  • By First and Last Name
  • By Address or Nearby Address
  • Using Their Sex Offender Registration Number
  • By Latitude and Longitude for General Areas or Areas without an Actual Address

Your Rights Regarding Criminal Records & Arrest Records Under North Carolina Laws

While the North Carolina General Statutes § 132-6-6.2 and the Freedom for Information Act (FOIA) provide public access to criminal and arrest records at the state and federal levels, certain laws protect citizens’ rights by limiting access to specific records.

These laws are enforced by government agencies, including the Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Fair Credit and Reporting Act (FCRA).

FCRA: The FCRA imposes guidelines, including a 7-year look-back rule, allowing consumer reporting agencies (CRAs) to report an individual’s criminal history. Look-back periods may vary between states.

EEOC: Employers are obligated to disclose criminal convictions during background checks. Refusing job offers based on convictions that occurred many years before the application is a violation of EEOC laws. The EEOC enforces workplace civil rights to prevent employee discrimination.

Additionally, certain criminal records in North Carolina are not subject to public access, including criminal investigation records and records related to public security.

Expunction: North Carolina has passed Senate Bill 445, reducing the waiting time for expunctions of felony and misdemeanor convictions. Sealed or expunged criminal records allow individuals to legally deny a conviction. However, expunctions do not exempt offenders from all consequences, especially in matters related to federal immigration.

Juvenile Records: Certain criminal records, particularly those involving extreme cases such as felonies and murder, or records that may endanger inmate and facility personnel safety, are not subject to public scrutiny, except by court order.

Ban The Box: North Carolina’s “ban the box” law, established by Executive Order No. 158 in 2020, prohibits employers from inquiring about a potential employee’s criminal background in job applications. Such inquiries are reserved for later stages in the hiring process, typically as a conditional offer of employment. Job applications cannot include questions about expunged records, dismissed charges, charges leading to not-guilty verdicts, or pardoned convictions. “Ban the box” laws ensure fair evaluation of job applicants.

Guide to Accessing No-Cost Arrest Records and Criminal Histories in North Carolina

Conducting a personal named-based criminal background check without an individual’s consent in North Carolina is permissible through the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and the county courts. However, it’s crucial to follow federal and local laws when conducting checks for professional purposes, such as employment, property management, licensing, and more.

Accessing North Carolina criminal records may seem complex and daunting, but with our step-by-step instructions, you can easily navigate the process. We shed light on the legal intricacies and motivations behind record checks, ensuring you understand the process thoroughly.

FAQ’s

What Are Arrest Records and Criminal Histories?

Arrest records and criminal histories are official documents that provide a comprehensive record of an individual’s interactions with law enforcement agencies. They include details of arrests, charges, court proceedings, convictions, and any associated sentences or penalties. These records are maintained by various law enforcement agencies and the courts and are used to document an individual’s criminal activities.

How Can I Access No-Cost Arrest Records and Criminal Histories in North Carolina?

You can access no-cost arrest records and criminal histories in North Carolina through the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and county-level court websites. These online resources allow you to search for and retrieve records related to arrests, convictions, and court proceedings. It’s important to note that while access is typically free, some specific documents or services may incur fees.

Are Arrest Records and Criminal Histories Public Information in North Carolina?

Yes, arrest records and criminal histories are generally considered public information in North Carolina. However, certain restrictions and privacy laws may apply to sensitive information, such as juvenile records or records involving victims of certain crimes. It’s important to be aware of these restrictions when requesting or accessing such records.

Can I Obtain Records for All Counties in North Carolina at Once?

While you can access arrest records and criminal histories for all counties in North Carolina, the process typically involves searching each county’s records individually. Each county maintains its own database of records, and you may need to visit their respective websites or contact their local offices for comprehensive information.

What Information Should I Have to Conduct a Search for Arrest Records and Criminal Histories?

To conduct a search for arrest records and criminal histories in North Carolina, it’s helpful to have the individual’s full name and, if possible, additional identifying information such as their date of birth. This can narrow down the search results and help ensure you find the correct records associated with the person you are interested in.