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Arizona Arrest Records

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Are Arrest Records Public in Arizona?

Yes. In Arizona, arrest records are considered public records under the Arizona Public Records Law (A.R.S. § 39-121), which establishes that all records maintained by government bodies must be open to inspection by any member of the public unless specifically exempted by law. This means that arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies, such as the Arizona Department of Public Safety and local police departments or sheriff’s offices, are generally accessible upon request.

However, access is not unlimited. Certain details may be withheld to protect privacy, ongoing investigations, or sensitive law enforcement techniques. For example, juvenile arrest records and information that could endanger public safety are often restricted. Individuals, employers, or organizations seeking records must typically submit a request through the relevant agency, and in some cases, formal identification or payment of fees may be required before records are released.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Arizona?

Access to arrest records in Arizona is primarily governed by the Arizona Public Records Law, codified in Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Title 39, Chapter 1, Article 2. The core provision is A.R.S. § 39-121, which states that "public records and other matters in the custody of any officer shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours."

Additional relevant statutes include:

  • A.R.S. § 39-121.01: Outlines procedures for record keeping and defines the duties of officers and public bodies regarding public records.
  • A.R.S. § 39-121.03: Addresses request for copies, printouts, or photographs and the reasonable fees that may be charged.
  • A.R.S. § 39-123: Specifies information that is exempt from public inspection.
  • A.R.S. § 39-124: Addresses the release of information identifying victims of certain crimes.

For criminal history records specifically, A.R.S. § 41-1750 establishes the Central State Repository for criminal history record information within the Arizona Department of Public Safety and outlines who may access this information and for what purposes.

Additionally, the Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure contain provisions related to court records in criminal cases, which may include arrest information.

These laws collectively establish a presumption of openness while also recognizing certain privacy interests and practical limitations on access to arrest records.

What Information Is Included in a Arizona Arrest Record?

An Arizona arrest record typically contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. The standard information included in these records is as follows:

  • Personal Identifying Information:

    • Full legal name
    • Date of birth
    • Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
    • Photograph (mugshot)
    • Fingerprints
    • Address at time of arrest
    • Social Security Number (often partially redacted in public versions)

  • Arrest Details:

    • Date and time of arrest
    • Location of arrest
    • Arresting agency
    • Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
    • Booking number
    • Charges filed (Arizona Revised Statutes citations)
    • Description of alleged offense
    • Weapon information (if applicable)

  • Case Processing Information:

    • Court case number
    • Court of jurisdiction
    • Arraignment date
    • Bail or bond amount
    • Detention status
    • Preliminary hearing information

  • Disposition Information (if available):

    • Court proceedings
    • Plea information
    • Case outcome (conviction, dismissal, acquittal)
    • Sentencing details (if convicted)

The completeness of information may vary depending on the stage of the criminal justice process and the agency providing the record. Records maintained by the arresting agency may differ somewhat from those maintained by the courts or the Arizona Department of Public Safety's Central State Repository.

Additionally, juvenile arrest records typically contain similar information but are subject to stricter confidentiality protections under Arizona law.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Arizona in 2025

In 2025, Arizona residents and other authorized individuals can obtain arrest records through several official channels. The process varies depending on which agency maintains the records and the purpose of the request.

From the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS)

The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains the Central State Repository for criminal history information, including arrest records.

Arizona Department of Public Safety
2102 W. Encanto Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85009
(602) 223-2000
Arizona Department of Public Safety

To request records from DPS:

  1. Complete a Criminal History Records Check application form
  2. Submit a full set of fingerprints (unless exempt by statute)
  3. Provide valid government-issued photo identification
  4. Pay the required fee
  5. Submit your request in person, by mail, or through an authorized electronic submission process

DPS offers both record review (for individuals checking their own records) and criminal history background checks (for authorized purposes).

From County Sheriff's Offices

Each county sheriff's office maintains records of arrests made within their jurisdiction.

For example:

To obtain records from a sheriff's office:

  1. Submit a public records request form (available on their websites or in person)
  2. Provide specific information about the arrest (name, date, case number if known)
  3. Present valid identification
  4. Pay any applicable fees

From Municipal Police Departments

City police departments maintain records of arrests within their jurisdictions.

For example:

The process typically involves:

  1. Completing a public records request form
  2. Providing specific information about the arrest
  3. Showing identification
  4. Paying applicable fees

From Arizona Courts

Court records related to arrests can be obtained through the relevant court:

  • Arizona Supreme Court
    1501 W. Washington St.
    Phoenix, AZ 85007
    (602) 452-3300
    Arizona Supreme Court

  • Superior Court in the county where the case was filed (e.g., Maricopa County Superior Court)

Most courts now offer online access to case information through the Arizona Judicial Branch's Public Access portal, though detailed records may require in-person requests.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Arizona

Arizona offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally, making the process more convenient for authorized users. Here are the primary online methods for finding arrest records in Arizona:

Arizona Department of Public Safety Online Services

The Arizona Department of Public Safety offers limited online access to criminal history information. While full criminal history records typically require fingerprint submission, the DPS website provides information about the process and downloadable forms.

Arizona Judicial Branch Public Access Portal

The Arizona Judicial Branch maintains an online case lookup system that allows users to search for court cases, which often include information about arrests. The system includes:

  • Public Access to Court Case Information: Search by name or case number across multiple courts
  • eAccess: More detailed case information for registered users (fees may apply)
  • Court Connect: Enhanced access to case documents in participating counties

County Sheriff's Office Websites

Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup systems that provide information about recent arrests and current jail inmates:

Municipal Police Department Websites

Larger city police departments often provide online access to recent arrest information:

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Arizona?

In Arizona, access to arrest records varies depending on the type of record, the requesting party, and the intended use of the information. While the Arizona Public Records Law creates a presumption of openness, there are important distinctions in who can access different levels of arrest information.

General Public Access

Under A.R.S. § 39-121, members of the general public can access:

  • Basic arrest information (name, charges, date of arrest)
  • Court records related to arrests
  • Mugshots (in most cases)
  • Booking information
  • Case disposition information

However, the general public may face restrictions on accessing:

  • Complete criminal history reports
  • Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
  • Sealed or expunged records
  • Records where disclosure would invade privacy or compromise an investigation

Individual Access to Own Records

Any individual has the right to review their own criminal history record maintained by the Arizona Department of Public Safety by submitting fingerprints and proper identification, as outlined in A.R.S. § 41-1750(G)(1).

Authorized Access for Specific Purposes

A.R.S. § 41-1750 specifically authorizes access to complete criminal history records for:

  • Criminal justice agencies for administration of criminal justice
  • Government agencies conducting authorized background checks
  • Employers for evaluating employees or applicants (with proper authorization)
  • Licensing boards for evaluating applicants
  • Financial institutions for employment purposes
  • The Arizona Board of Fingerprinting
  • Defense attorneys (for their clients' records)
  • Authorized researchers (with identifying information removed)

Special Provisions for Certain Professions

Arizona law mandates background checks, including arrest record reviews, for certain professions, including:

Restrictions on Commercial Use

Arizona law restricts the use of public records, including arrest records, for commercial purposes without specific declaration of such use and compliance with A.R.S. § 39-121.03.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Arizona?

Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining arrest records in Arizona. These fees vary depending on the agency providing the records, the type of record requested, and the purpose of the request. All fees are established pursuant to A.R.S. § 39-121.03, which allows agencies to charge reasonable fees for copies, printouts, or photographs of public records.

Arizona Department of Public Safety Fees

The Arizona Department of Public Safety charges the following fees for criminal history record information:

  • Record Review (individual checking own record) $20
  • Full Criminal History Background Check $65
  • Fingerprint Clearance Card $67 (paid) $63 (volunteer)
  • Duplicate Fingerprint Clearance Card $25

County Sheriff's Office Fees

Fees vary by county, but typical charges include:

  • Maricopa County Sheriff's Office:

    • Incident/Arrest Reports: $5 for first 5 pages, $1 per additional page
    • Photos: $5 per photo
    • Audio/Video: $25 per CD/DVD

  • Pima County Sheriff's Department:

    • Incident/Arrest Reports: $5 for first 10 pages, $0.50 per additional page
    • Photos: $5 per photo
    • Audio/Video: $20 per CD/DVD

Municipal Police Department Fees

City police departments typically charge similar fees:

  • Phoenix Police Department:

    • Police Reports: $5 for first 10 pages, $1 per additional page
    • Photos: $10 per photo
    • Audio/Video: $25 per CD/DVD

  • Tucson Police Department:

    • Police Reports: $5 flat fee for most reports
    • Photos: $5 per photo
    • Audio/Video: $20 per CD/DVD

Court Record Fees

The Arizona Judicial Branch charges fees for accessing court records related to arrests:

  • Case Documents: $0.50 per page
  • Certified Copies: $30 for first page, $0.50 per additional page
  • Electronic Access Subscription (for frequent users): Varies by court

Fee Waivers

Under Arizona law, fees may be waived or reduced if:

  • The request is in the public interest and not for commercial purposes
  • The requester demonstrates financial hardship
  • The records are requested by another government agency for official purposes

It's advisable to contact the specific agency from which you're requesting records to confirm current fees, as these may change over time. Many agencies now accept credit card payments, while others may require cash, check, or money order.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Arizona

Arizona maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying by agency type and record classification. The state does not have a universal expiration date for arrest records, and many are kept permanently.

State-Level Record Retention

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) maintains the Central State Repository for criminal history information according to A.R.S. § 41-1750. These records are typically kept for the lifetime of the individual, with some exceptions:

  • Felony Arrests: Maintained permanently
  • Misdemeanor Arrests: Maintained for at least 25 years
  • Non-conviction Data: May be purged after specific time periods if ordered by a court

The Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records establishes retention schedules for government agencies, including law enforcement. According to these schedules:

  • Arrest Reports: Minimum retention of 25 years
  • Booking Records: Minimum retention of 10 years
  • Fingerprint Cards: Permanent retention
  • Mugshots: Minimum retention of 25 years

Local Agency Record Retention

Local law enforcement agencies generally follow the state's minimum retention guidelines but may keep records longer:

  • County Sheriff's Offices: Most maintain arrest records for 25 years to permanently
  • Municipal Police Departments: Typically follow the 25-year minimum retention for arrest records

Court Record Retention

The Arizona Supreme Court establishes retention schedules for court records through Supreme Court Rule 29:

  • Felony Case Files: 50 years to permanent retention
  • Misdemeanor Case Files: 5-10 years after case disposition
  • Traffic Case Files: 3-5 years after case disposition

Factors Affecting Record Retention

Several factors may affect how long arrest records are maintained:

  1. Case Disposition: Records of arrests resulting in convictions are typically kept longer than those resulting in dismissals or acquittals.

  2. Record Sealing or Expungement: If a record is sealed or expunged by court order, it may be removed from public access but often remains in restricted government databases.

  3. Juvenile Records: Under A.R.S. § 8-349, juvenile records may be destroyed when the individual turns 25 if certain conditions are met.

  4. Set Aside Orders: Even when a conviction is "set aside" under A.R.S. § 13-905, the arrest record typically remains in the system, though with notation of the set aside.

It's important to note that even if physical records are destroyed according to retention schedules, electronic records may be maintained longer, particularly in the Central State Repository.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Arizona Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Arizona, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted to protect privacy rights, ongoing investigations, and vulnerable individuals. The following categories of information are commonly redacted or restricted in Arizona arrest records:

Personal Identifying Information

  • Social Security Numbers: Redacted pursuant to A.R.S. § 44-1373, which prohibits disclosure of SSNs in public documents
  • Driver's License Numbers: Typically redacted to prevent identity theft
  • Financial Account Numbers: Bank accounts, credit card numbers, and other financial identifiers
  • Dates of Birth: Often partially redacted, showing only the year
  • Home Addresses: May be redacted, particularly for certain protected individuals

Victim Information

Under A.R.S. § 39-124, information identifying victims of the following crimes is restricted:

  • Sexual offenses
  • Child abuse
  • Domestic violence
  • Stalking or harassment

This includes names, addresses, contact information, and other identifying details of victims.

Juvenile Information

Information related to juvenile arrests is heavily restricted under A.R.S. § 8-208 and is generally not available to the public, with limited exceptions for:

  • Juveniles charged as adults
  • Certain serious offenses as specified by statute
  • Authorized agencies and individuals with legitimate need

Ongoing Investigation Information

Information that might compromise an ongoing investigation may be temporarily restricted, including:

  • Witness statements
  • Investigative techniques
  • Undercover officer identities
  • Confidential informant information

Medical and Health Information

Protected under both state law and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act):

  • Medical conditions
  • Treatment information
  • Mental health evaluations
  • Substance abuse treatment records

Other Protected Information

  • Grand Jury Proceedings: Sealed under Rules of Criminal Procedure 12.8
  • Sealed or Expunged Records: Not available to the public
  • Attorney-Client Communications: Protected by privilege
  • Confidential Informant Identities: Protected under A.R.S. § 39-123
  • Information that would invade personal privacy: Subject to balancing test under Arizona case law

Special Protections for Certain Individuals

Additional redactions may apply to protect:

  • Law enforcement officers
  • Judges and prosecutors
  • Witnesses in sensitive cases
  • Individuals in witness protection programs

When requesting arrest records, be aware that the level of redaction may vary depending on who is requesting the records and for what purpose. Government agencies and criminal justice entities typically have access to more complete records than members of the general public.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Arizona

Arizona law provides several mechanisms for sealing, setting aside, or in limited cases destroying arrest records. The process varies depending on the circumstances of the arrest and subsequent case disposition.

Setting Aside Convictions

The most common remedy in Arizona is "setting aside" a conviction under A.R.S. § 13-905. While this doesn't completely seal or destroy records, it does provide significant benefits:

  1. Eligibility: Most convictions are eligible except:

    • Dangerous offenses
    • Offenses requiring sex offender registration
    • Offenses involving serious physical injury
    • Offenses involving a deadly weapon
    • Offenses where the victim was under 15 years old

  2. Process:

    • File an "Application to Set Aside Conviction" with the court where the case was handled
    • Include case number, date of conviction, and supporting documentation
    • The prosecutor has 30 days to respond
    • The court will schedule a hearing if necessary

  3. Effect: If granted, the judgment of guilt is set aside, and the person is released from all penalties and disabilities resulting from the conviction.

Sealing Records of Arrest, Conviction, or Sentence

As of January 1, 2023, Arizona implemented a new record sealing law under A.R.S. § 13-911, which provides a more robust mechanism than the previous "set aside" process:

  1. Eligibility: Varies by offense level with waiting periods:

    • Class 2 or 3 misdemeanors: 2 years after completion of sentence
    • Class 1 misdemeanors: 3 years after completion of sentence
    • Class 4, 5, or 6 felonies: 5 years after completion of sentence
    • Class 2 or 3 felonies: 10 years after completion of sentence
    • Certain offenses are ineligible, including dangerous offenses, sex offenses, and offenses against minors

  2. Process:

    • File a petition with the court where the case was handled
    • Serve the prosecutor with a copy of the petition
    • The court will schedule a hearing
    • The petitioner must prove eligibility by a preponderance of the evidence

  3. Effect: If granted, the record is sealed from public view, though still accessible to law enforcement and certain government agencies.

Purging Department of Public Safety Records

For arrests that did not result in conviction, you may request that the Arizona Department of Public Safety purge your record under A.R.S. § 41-1750(M):

  1. Eligibility: The arrest must have:

    • Not resulted in a conviction or pending charges
    • Been dismissed, resulted in no charges being filed, or resulted in acquittal

  2. Process:

    • Submit a written request to the DPS Records Unit
    • Include certified court documentation showing case disposition
    • Provide fingerprints for identification purposes

Juvenile Record Destruction

Juvenile records may be eligible for destruction under A.R.S. § 8-349:

  1. Eligibility:

    • The person must be at least 18 years old
    • All terms of disposition must be completed
    • No pending criminal charges
    • No adult felony convictions

  2. Process:

    • File a petition with the juvenile court
    • The county attorney may object
    • The court will hold a hearing to determine if destruction is appropriate

Practical Considerations

  • Multiple Agencies: You may need to contact each agency that has your records (courts, police departments, sheriff's offices)
  • Private Databases: Even if government records are sealed, information may persist in private databases
  • Legal Assistance: Consider consulting an attorney specializing in record clearing
  • Fingerprints: You may need to submit fingerprints to ensure the correct records are identified

For all record sealing or destruction processes, it's advisable to consult with an attorney familiar with Arizona criminal record procedures.

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

Arizona law imposes several important limitations on how arrest records can be accessed and used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These limitations are designed to balance public access to information with individual privacy and fairness concerns.

Employment Limitations

Arizona has enacted several protections regarding the use of arrest records in employment:

  • Ban the Box for State Employment: Executive Order 2017-07 prohibits state agencies from asking about criminal records on initial job applications, delaying such inquiries until later in the hiring process.

  • Arrest Records Without Convictions: Under A.R.S. § 13-904(E), an employer cannot use an arrest record not followed by a conviction as the sole basis for denying employment, unless the arrest is for a serious offense and charges are still pending.

  • Set Aside Convictions: When a conviction has been set aside under A.R.S. § 13-905, employers are encouraged (though not required) to disregard the conviction in hiring decisions.

  • Sealed Records: Records sealed under A.R.S. § 13-911 cannot be disclosed to employers except in specific circumstances involving public safety positions.

Housing Limitations

While Arizona does not have specific state laws limiting the use of arrest records in housing decisions, landlords must comply with federal Fair Housing Act guidelines, which caution against blanket policies rejecting applicants with arrest records as potentially having a disparate impact on protected classes.

Commercial Use Restrictions

Arizona law restricts the commercial use of public records, including arrest records:

  • Under A.R.S. § 39-121.03, anyone requesting public records for commercial purposes must:
    • Identify the commercial purpose
    • Provide assurance the records won't be used for a different purpose
    • Pay fees that may be higher than for non-commercial requests

Background Check Limitations

The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) imposes limitations on consumer reporting agencies that provide background checks:

  • Arrest records older than seven years generally cannot be reported (with exceptions for positions with high salaries or specific responsibilities)
  • Employers must obtain written consent before conducting background checks
  • Individuals must be notified if information in a background check leads to adverse action

Limitations on Government Agency Sharing

A.R.S. § 41-1750 restricts which agencies can access complete criminal history information and for what purposes, limiting the dissemination of arrest records outside authorized channels.

Penalties for Misuse

Misuse of arrest records can result in:

  • Civil liability under various privacy and defamation laws
  • Administrative penalties for licensed professionals
  • Criminal charges for certain types of misuse, such as identity theft

Expunged and Sealed Records

  • Records sealed under Arizona's new sealing law (A.R.S. § 13-911) have strict limitations on who can access them and how they can be used
  • Juvenile records that have been destroyed under A.R.S. § 8-349 cannot be used for any purpose

These limitations do not prevent all uses of arrest records. Law enforcement, courts, and certain government agencies retain access to complete criminal history information even when it's restricted from public view.

Lookup Arrest Records in Arizona

State-Level Agencies

  • Arizona Department of Public Safety – Criminal History Records Section (State Repository for Criminal History Records)
    Address: 2222 W. Encanto Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85009
    Phone: (602) 223-2222
    Official Website: Arizona DPS Criminal History Records

  • Arizona Department of Public Safety (State Police / State Department of Public Safety)
    Address: 2102 W. Encanto Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85009
    Phone: (602) 223-2000
    Official Website: Arizona Department of Public Safety

  • Arizona Attorney General’s Office – Department of Law
    Address: 2005 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85004
    Phone: (602) 542-5025
    Official Website: Arizona Attorney General

  • Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry (ADCRR)
    Address: 1601 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
    Phone: (602) 542-5497
    Official Website: Arizona Department of Corrections

  • Arizona Judicial Branch (State Court System)
    Address: 1501 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
    Phone: (602) 452-3300
    Official Website: Arizona Judicial Branch

  • Arizona Supreme Court
    Address: 1501 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
    Phone: (602) 452-3300
    Official Website: Arizona Supreme Court

  • Arizona Court of Appeals (Division One – Phoenix)
    Address: 1501 W. Washington Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85007
    Phone: (602) 452-6700
    Official Website: Arizona Court of Appeals – Division One

  • Arizona Court of Appeals (Division Two – Tucson)
    Address: 400 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
    Phone: (520) 628-6954
    Official Website: Arizona Court of Appeals – Division Two

  • Arizona State Archives (Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records)
    Address: 1901 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, AZ 85009
    Phone: (602) 926-3720
    Official Website: Arizona State Archives

  • Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records (State Library)
    Address: 1901 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, AZ 85009
    Phone: (602) 926-3720
    Official Website: Arizona State Library

County Sheriff’s Offices

Municipal Police Departments

  • Phoenix Police Department
    Address: 620 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003
    Phone: (602) 262-6151
    Official Website: Phoenix Police Department

  • Tucson Police Department
    Address: 270 S. Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701
    Phone: (520) 791-4444
    Official Website: Tucson Police Department

  • Mesa Police Department
    Address: 130 N. Robson, Mesa, AZ 85201
    Phone: (480) 644-2211
    Official Website: Mesa Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Arizona

  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Phoenix Field Office (CJIS Division Access)
    Address: 21711 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85024
    Phone: (623) 466-1999
    Official Website: FBI Phoenix

  • U.S. Marshals Service – District of Arizona
    Address: Sandra Day O’Connor U.S. Courthouse, 401 W. Washington Street, Suite 150, Phoenix, AZ 85003
    Phone: (602) 382-8768
    Official Website: U.S. Marshals – District of Arizona

  • Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) – FCI Phoenix
    Address: 37900 N. 45th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85086
    Phone: (623) 465-9757
    Official Website: Federal Bureau of Prisons – FCI Phoenix

  • U.S. Courts – PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records)
    Nationwide system, accessible online
    Official Website: U.S. Courts PACER

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