Christian County, Missouri Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Christian County, Missouri?
Arrest records are public in Christian County, Missouri, pursuant to the Missouri Sunshine Law (Chapter 610 of the Missouri Revised Statutes). This legislation establishes that government records, including arrest records, shall be accessible to members of the public. The Missouri Sunshine Law operates under the principle that governmental bodies must maintain transparency in their operations, thereby ensuring accountability to the citizenry they serve. Under § 610.011, the law explicitly states that records of public governmental bodies shall be presumed open to the public for inspection and copying.
The Christian County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of their statutory duties. While certain exceptions exist regarding juvenile records and ongoing investigations, the majority of arrest records remain available for public inspection. Individuals seeking access to these records may submit requests in accordance with established procedures outlined by the relevant governmental agencies.
Can Arrest Records be Found Online in Christian County?
Arrest records can be accessed online through various official and authorized platforms in Christian County. The Christian County Sheriff's Office maintains an online database that provides limited information regarding recent arrests and inmate status. Additionally, the Missouri State Highway Patrol offers a comprehensive online system for accessing arrest reports throughout the state, including those from Christian County.
Pursuant to § 610.023 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, governmental bodies are required to make records available in a format that is reasonably accessible. Online access represents the fulfillment of this statutory obligation, allowing members of the public to obtain information without the necessity of appearing in person at governmental offices. Users should note that while basic information is typically available at no cost, detailed reports may require payment of statutory fees as established by § 610.026.
Christian County Sheriff's Office
110 W Elm Street, Suite 70
Ozark, MO 65721
417-582-5330
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
How to Look Up Christian County Arrest Records in 2025
Members of the public seeking Christian County arrest records in 2025 have multiple methods available to them, as prescribed by Missouri law. The following options are available for record retrieval:
In-person requests may be submitted at the Christian County Sheriff's Office, where staff will assist with locating and providing copies of requested records. Requestors must complete a standard form and may be required to present identification.
The Christian County Circuit Court maintains records related to arrests that have proceeded to court action. These records can be accessed through the court clerk's office or via the court's online case management system.
The Missouri Automated Criminal History System (MACHS) provides fingerprint-based criminal history information for a fee of $43.50 (effective January 1, 2025). This system offers the most comprehensive and authoritative record check available to the public.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Criminal Justice Information Services Division maintains a central repository of criminal history information, including arrest data from Christian County. Requests can be submitted through their online portal.
Christian County Circuit Court
100 W Church Street
Ozark, MO 65721
417-582-4080
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Contents of a Christian County Arrest Record
Christian County arrest records contain standardized information as required by Missouri statute § 43.503, which mandates the reporting of specific data elements for all arrests. A typical arrest record includes:
Biographical information of the arrested individual, including full legal name, known aliases, date of birth, gender, race, and physical descriptors such as height, weight, and identifying marks or tattoos.
Arrest details, including the date, time, and precise location of the arrest, as well as the arresting agency and officer identification information.
Criminal charges filed at the time of arrest, including the Missouri Revised Statutes citation for each alleged offense and the classification (felony, misdemeanor, or infraction).
Booking information, including the unique booking number assigned, fingerprint classification data, and photographic identification (commonly referred to as a "mugshot").
Custody status information, including whether the individual was released on their own recognizance, posted bond, or remains in custody pending further proceedings.
Disposition information, if available, indicating the current status of the case within the criminal justice system.
It should be noted that pursuant to § 610.100, arrest records are considered "open records" unless they are part of an active investigation or have been ordered closed by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Expungement of Arrest Records in Christian County
The expungement process in Christian County follows the provisions set forth in § 610.140 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. Individuals seeking to have arrest records expunged must file a petition with the Christian County Circuit Court in accordance with the procedures established by the 38th Judicial Circuit.
Eligibility criteria for expungement include:
A waiting period of at least three years has elapsed since the completion of any sentence or probation for a misdemeanor offense (seven years for felony offenses).
The petitioner has not been found guilty of any other misdemeanor or felony during the applicable waiting period.
The petitioner has satisfied all financial obligations related to the original case, including fines, court costs, and restitution.
The offense in question is not listed among the statutorily excluded offenses enumerated in § 610.140.5.
The petition must be filed in the court where the original case was adjudicated and must include specific information as required by statute. Upon receipt of a properly filed petition, the court will schedule a hearing not less than thirty days from the filing date. Notice of the hearing will be provided to the prosecuting attorney and any victims of the original offense.
If the court determines that the petitioner meets all statutory requirements and that expungement would be consistent with the public welfare, an order of expungement will be issued. This order directs all agencies possessing records related to the arrest to remove such records from public access, effectively sealing them from general view.
Christian County Circuit Clerk's Office
100 W Church Street, Room 303
Ozark, MO 65721
417-582-4080
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Search Arrest Records in Christian County
