Cape Girardeau Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Cape Girardeau, Missouri?

Yes, arrest records are public in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. This accessibility is governed by the Missouri Sunshine Law, which mandates that records maintained by public governmental bodies be accessible to the public. Arrest records, as part of these documents, are included under this provision unless specific exceptions apply, such as cases involving juvenile offenders or when disclosure might obstruct ongoing investigations.

How to Look Up Cape Girardeau Arrest Records in 2024

To get Cape Girardeau arrest records, several methods are available, particularly beneficial for those conducting background checks or researching legal history. Here are the primary ways to search for these records:

  • Online Public Access Systems: These systems allow users to search for and view arrest records electronically.
  • Local Police Departments: Requesting records directly from the police department in Cape Girardeau can provide detailed arrest information.
  • County Courthouses: The courthouse in Cape Girardeau may have archives of arrest records that are accessible to the public.
  • Third-Party Services: Various online services compile public records, including arrest records, from multiple sources.

Contents of a Cape Girardeau Arrest Record

A Cape Girardeau arrest record typically includes the following information:

  • Full name and any aliases of the arrested individual
  • Date and time of the arrest
  • The agency making the arrest
  • Booking details at the detention center
  • Charges filed against the individual
  • Mugshots and fingerprints
  • Bail/bond conditions, if applicable

Expungement of Arrest Records in Cape Girardeau

In Cape Girardeau, individuals may have the opportunity to expunge, or remove, their arrest records under certain conditions. This process is typically available for those who were arrested but not convicted, or for certain convictions after a specified period of compliance and without subsequent offenses. The expungement process requires filing a petition with the court in Cape Girardeau, and it may involve a court hearing. Approval depends on meeting all legal criteria, including the nature of the offense and the individual's subsequent legal history.

Search Arrest Records in Cape Girardeau