Arrest records are public documents in Boone County, Arkansas, pursuant to the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), codified under Arkansas Code § 25-19-101 et seq. This legislation establishes the public's right to access government records, including those pertaining to arrests made by law enforcement agencies within the county. The Arkansas FOIA operates under the presumption that government records shall be open to public inspection except as specifically exempted by law.
Members of the public may access these records to promote transparency in the criminal justice system, verify the accuracy of information, conduct background checks, or for research purposes. The Arkansas Supreme Court has consistently upheld the public's right to access such information, reinforcing the principle that open government serves the public interest.
Law enforcement agencies in Boone County maintain these records in accordance with state retention schedules and make them available through various channels, including in-person requests and, increasingly, through online platforms.
Boone County arrest records are accessible through several online platforms maintained by county and state agencies. The Boone County Sheriff's Office provides a digital database where members of the public may search current inmate information, outstanding warrants, and recent arrest data. This online accessibility is part of the county's commitment to public transparency and efficient information dissemination.
The Arkansas Judiciary's online case search system also provides access to court records associated with arrests in Boone County. This system, maintained pursuant to Administrative Order No. 19 of the Arkansas Supreme Court, allows users to search for cases by name, case number, or filing date.
Additionally, the Arkansas Department of Corrections Inmate Search portal provides information about individuals who have been processed through the state correctional system following arrests in Boone County and other jurisdictions.
It should be noted that while basic arrest information is available online, certain sensitive information may be redacted in accordance with Arkansas Code § 25-19-105(b), which protects personal privacy in specific circumstances.
Multiple official channels exist for accessing Boone County arrest records. Interested parties may utilize any of the following methods:
Visit the Boone County Sheriff's Office in person to submit a formal records request:
Boone County Sheriff's Office
201 N Main Street, Suite 3
Harrison, AR 72601
(870) 741-8404
Official Website
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Submit a written request to the Boone County Circuit Clerk's Office for court records related to arrests:
Boone County Circuit Clerk
100 N Main Street, Suite 301
Harrison, AR 72601
(870) 741-3720
Official Website
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Access the Boone County Court Records online portal, which provides case information for arrests that have resulted in court proceedings.
Utilize the Arkansas State Police criminal history check service for comprehensive background information, including arrest records. Requests may be submitted online or by mail with the appropriate fee as established by Arkansas Code § 12-12-1008.
Search the Harrison Police Department records for arrests made within city limits.
Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 25-19-105(a)(2)(A), agencies must respond to records requests within three business days. Fees for copies may apply in accordance with Arkansas Code § 25-19-105(d)(3).
Boone County arrest records contain standardized information as required by Arkansas law and departmental policies. These records typically include the following elements:
It should be noted that pursuant to Arkansas Code § 12-12-1510, certain information may be redacted from public arrest records, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, medical information, and information pertaining to minors.
Arkansas law provides mechanisms for the expungement of certain arrest records under specific circumstances. The process is governed primarily by Arkansas Code § 16-90-1401 through § 16-90-1419, which establishes eligibility criteria and procedures.
Individuals seeking expungement in Boone County must file a petition with the Circuit Court where the arrest or conviction occurred. Eligibility for expungement generally depends on several factors:
The expungement process typically involves the following steps:
Upon successful expungement, records are sealed from public view, though they remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and courts for specific purposes as outlined in Arkansas Code § 16-90-1416. Expunged records do not appear in standard background checks, and individuals may legally deny the existence of expunged arrests in most circumstances.
The Boone County Circuit Clerk provides standardized forms and guidance for individuals seeking expungement of arrest records.