Ohio Arrest Records

Ohio Public Records /Ohio Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Ohio?

Yes. Arrest records in Ohio are generally considered public records under the Ohio Public Records Act (Ohio Rev. Code § 149.43), which grants citizens the right to access government records. This means that booking information, arrest logs, and related case filings are typically available through local police departments, county sheriff’s offices, and the courts. The Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), a division of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, serves as the central repository for statewide criminal history information.

However, access is limited in certain circumstances. Detailed criminal history reports, including fingerprint-based records, are restricted and may only be obtained by the individual named in the record, law enforcement agencies, or authorized employers and licensing boards. Juvenile arrest records are confidential under Ohio Rev. Code § 2151.14, and records that have been sealed or expunged under Ohio Rev. Code § 2953.31 et seq. are not available to the public. Additionally, information related to active investigations or containing sensitive personal identifiers may be exempt from disclosure.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Ohio?

Access to arrest records in Ohio is primarily governed by the Ohio Public Records Act, codified in Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 149.43. This law establishes that all public records shall be promptly prepared and made available for inspection to any person during regular business hours.

Several key legal frameworks impact access to arrest records in Ohio:

Ohio Public Records Act (ORC 149.43): Defines public records and establishes the right of access to government records, including most arrest records.
Ohio Criminal Records Sealing Law (ORC 2953.31-2953.36): Outlines procedures for sealing criminal records, including arrest records, under certain circumstances.
Ohio Juvenile Law (ORC 2151.358): Provides special protections for juvenile records, which are generally not public.
Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) Regulations: Governs how the state's central repository for criminal history information operates and provides access to records.
Federal Privacy Act of 1974: While a federal law, it impacts how certain arrest records that are maintained in federal systems can be accessed.
Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy: Federal guidelines that affect how criminal justice information, including arrest records, is stored and shared.

The Ohio Supreme Court has consistently upheld the public's right to access government records, including arrest information, while also recognizing certain exceptions to protect privacy and ongoing investigations.

What Information Is Included in a Ohio Arrest Record?

Ohio arrest records typically contain comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. Standard information included in an Ohio arrest record includes:

Personal Identifiers:
- 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
- Names of arresting officers
- Charges filed
- Statutory citations for alleged violations
- Incident report number
Case Processing Information:
- Booking information
- Detention facility
- Bond/bail information
- Court case number
- Initial appearance date
- Plea information
Disposition Information:
- Court outcomes (if available)
- Sentencing details (if convicted)
- Dismissal information (if applicable)

Arrest records document the fact that a person was arrested and charged with a crime, not that they were convicted. The presumption of innocence applies until a conviction is secured through proper legal proceedings.

Some information may be redacted or restricted based on the nature of the case, the age of the offender, or other factors as outlined in Ohio law.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Ohio in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Ohio can be accomplished through several official channels. The process varies depending on whether you're seeking your own records or those of another individual.

In-Person Requests

Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)
1560 State Route 56 SW
London, OH 43140
(740) 845-2000
Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

BCI is the central repository for criminal history information in Ohio. You can visit their office to request records with proper identification.
Local Law Enforcement Agencies
Visit the police department or sheriff's office where the arrest occurred. Bring identification and be prepared to complete a request form.
County Clerk of Courts
Each county's clerk of courts maintains records of arrests that resulted in court cases. Visit the clerk's office in the county where the arrest occurred.

Mail Requests

To request arrest records by mail:

Write a letter clearly stating the information you're seeking
Include the full name and date of birth of the subject
Provide your contact information
Enclose the required fee (typically $25-$35)
Send to the appropriate agency (BCI or local law enforcement)

Official Request Forms

Many agencies provide standardized forms for requesting records:

BCI's Civilian Background Check Request Form
Local police departments often have their own request forms available on their websites

When requesting records, you'll need to provide proper identification, complete the required forms, and pay any applicable fees. Processing times vary by agency but typically range from 3-30 days depending on the complexity of the request and the agency's workload.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Ohio

Ohio offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally. These platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests.

Official State Resources

Ohio Courts Network (OCN)
The Ohio Courts Network provides a centralized repository of court case information, including cases resulting from arrests. While not directly accessible to the public, authorized users can access this comprehensive database.
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Offender Search
The ODRC Offender Search allows you to search for individuals currently incarcerated or under supervision in Ohio's prison system.
County Sheriff's Office Websites
Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup tools and arrest logs:
Municipal Court Records
Many Ohio municipal courts offer online case access:

When searching online, you'll typically need:

Full name of the individual
Date of birth or approximate age
County of arrest (if known)

Remember that online records may not be comprehensive, as some older records may not be digitized, and certain records may be restricted from online access even if they're available through in-person requests.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Ohio?

Under Ohio's Public Records Act, arrest records are generally available to anyone who requests them, with certain exceptions. However, access levels vary depending on who is requesting the information and for what purpose.

General Public Access

Members of the general public can access basic arrest record information, including:

Name of the arrested individual
Charges filed
Date and location of arrest
Booking information
Case disposition (if available)

Enhanced Access for Authorized Entities

Certain organizations and individuals may have access to more comprehensive records:

Law Enforcement Agencies
Police departments, sheriff's offices, and other law enforcement agencies have complete access to arrest records for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
Criminal Justice Agencies
Courts, prosecutors, public defenders, and corrections departments have access to full records for case processing.
Licensed Professionals
Attorneys, licensed private investigators, and certain other professionals may have enhanced access when acting in their professional capacity.
Government Agencies
State licensing boards, regulatory agencies, and other government entities may access records for official purposes.
Employers for Specific Positions
Employers hiring for positions involving vulnerable populations (children, elderly, disabled) have access to more detailed records under ORC 109.572.

Self-Access

Individuals have the right to access their own arrest records, including information that might be redacted in versions provided to the general public.

While records may be technically accessible, how they can be used is governed by various laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act for employment purposes and other Ohio laws restricting discrimination based on arrest records.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Ohio?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in Ohio typically involves fees that vary depending on the agency providing the records and the type of search being conducted.

Standard Fee Structure

Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)
- WebCheck (electronic fingerprint) background check: $30
- National WebCheck (includes FBI check): $60
- Civilian background check by mail: $35
County Sheriff's Offices
- Local arrest record check: $5-$25 (varies by county)
- Certified copies: Additional $1-$5 per page
Municipal Police Departments
- Local arrest record check: $5-$20 (varies by department)
- Incident/arrest reports: $0.05-$0.25 per page
County Clerk of Courts
- Case record search: $5-$25
- Certified copies: $1-$5 per page
- Uncertified copies: $0.10-$0.25 per page

Payment Methods

Most agencies accept:

Cash (in-person only)
Money orders
Certified checks
Credit/debit cards (in-person and online)
Personal checks (some agencies)

Fee Waivers

Some agencies may waive fees under certain circumstances:

For indigent individuals who demonstrate financial hardship
For certain governmental or non-profit organizations
For victims of crime seeking their own case information

Online Access Fees

Court records online portals: Some are free, others charge subscription fees
Third-party background check services: $15-$50 per search

According to Ohio Revised Code Section 149.43(B)(6), public offices may charge only the actual cost of making copies, not including labor costs, unless the request is voluminous or requires extensive redaction.

It's advisable to contact the specific agency before requesting records to confirm current fees and accepted payment methods, as these can change over time.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Ohio

Ohio maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record and the maintaining agency. There is no universal expiration date for arrest records in the state.

Standard Retention Periods

Law Enforcement Agencies
- Arrest reports: Permanently maintained
- Booking information: Minimum of 25 years
- Fingerprint cards: Permanently maintained
- Photographs/mugshots: Minimum of 25 years
Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation
- Criminal history records: Maintained for the lifetime of the individual, plus 7 years after death
- Fingerprint records: Permanently maintained
County Clerk of Courts
- Felony case files: Permanently maintained
- Misdemeanor case files: Minimum of 50 years
- Minor misdemeanor case files: Minimum of 25 years
Municipal Courts
- Criminal case records: Minimum of 50 years
- Traffic case records: Minimum of 25 years

These retention periods are established under the Ohio Records Retention Schedules administered by the Ohio History Connection (formerly the Ohio Historical Society) in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Administrative Services.

Even when physical records might be destroyed according to retention schedules, digital records and database entries may be maintained indefinitely, especially for serious offenses.

The only way to effectively remove arrest records from public access before these retention periods expire is through the legal process of sealing or expungement, which is available under specific circumstances outlined in Ohio law.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Ohio Arrest Records?

While arrest records in Ohio are generally public, certain information is routinely redacted or restricted to protect privacy, safety, and the integrity of the criminal justice system.

Commonly Redacted Information

Personal Identifiers
- Social Security Numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Financial account information
- Personal telephone numbers
- Home addresses of victims and witnesses
Sensitive Information
- Medical and mental health information
- Information about minors (under 18)
- Sexual assault victim identities
- Confidential informant information
- Undercover officer identities
Protected Case Information
- Grand jury proceedings
- Information sealed by court order
- Adoption records
- Juvenile records (with exceptions)
- Mental health commitment proceedings

Legal Basis for Redactions

Redactions are made based on several Ohio laws:

Ohio Revised Code 149.43(A)(1) - Defines exceptions to public records
Ohio Revised Code 2151.14 - Protects juvenile records
Ohio Revised Code 2953.32 - Governs sealed records
Ohio Revised Code 2930.07 - Protects victim information

Special Categories of Protected Records

Juvenile Records Most juvenile arrest records are not public records in Ohio. Access is restricted to the juvenile, parents/guardians, attorneys, and certain authorized agencies.
Sealed and Expunged Records Records that have been legally sealed or expunged through court proceedings are removed from public access.
Ongoing Investigations Information related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld under the "confidential law enforcement investigatory records" exception.
Domestic Violence Cases Certain information in domestic violence cases may be restricted to protect victims.

When requesting arrest records, you may receive documents with certain information blacked out or removed. The agency must cite the specific legal exemption that justifies each redaction.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Ohio

Ohio law provides mechanisms for eligible individuals to seal (expunge) their arrest records, effectively removing them from public view. This process is governed by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2953.

Eligibility Requirements

For Cases Resulting in Conviction
- Misdemeanors: Eligible 1 year after final discharge
- Felonies: Eligible 3 years after final discharge
- Limited to "eligible offenders" as defined in ORC 2953.31
- Certain offenses are ineligible, including most violent offenses, sex offenses, and offenses against minors
For Cases Not Resulting in Conviction
- Dismissals: Eligible immediately after dismissal
- Not guilty verdicts: Eligible immediately after acquittal
- No bills (grand jury declines to indict): Eligible immediately
Special Circumstances
- Victims of human trafficking: Special provisions under ORC 2953.38
- Marijuana offenses: May be eligible under new provisions
- Intervention in lieu of conviction: Special provisions apply

Application Process

File an Application
- Complete and file a Motion to Seal Record with the court where the case was handled
- Pay filing fee (typically $50-$100, varies by court)
- Include all relevant case information
Background Check
- The court will order a background check to verify eligibility
Prosecutor Review
- The prosecutor's office reviews the application and may object
Court Hearing
- The court schedules a hearing (may be waived in some cases)
- Judge considers factors including:
  - Rehabilitation evidence
  - Public interest in maintaining the record
  - Applicant's need for sealing
Court Order
- If approved, the court issues an order to seal records
- Order is sent to all agencies with records (police, BCI, FBI, etc.)

After Sealing

Once records are sealed:

The arrest is treated as if it never occurred for most purposes
You can legally answer "no" to questions about the arrest on most job applications
Records remain accessible to law enforcement and certain employers (healthcare, education, etc.)
Records can be used in future court proceedings

Record Destruction

Ohio generally does not physically destroy arrest records but rather seals them from public view. However, in limited circumstances involving factual innocence, a court may order actual destruction of records.

For assistance with the sealing process, consider consulting with an attorney or contacting the Ohio Justice & Policy Center which offers resources for record sealing.

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

Ohio law places significant restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and licensing contexts. These limitations aim to balance public safety with fair opportunities for individuals with criminal histories.

Employment Limitations

Ban the Box Provisions
- Several Ohio cities, including Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Dayton, have "ban the box" ordinances prohibiting employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications.
- Ohio Executive Order 2015-13K removed criminal history questions from state employment applications.
Fair Hiring Standards
- Employers must consider:
  - The nature and gravity of the offense
  - Time elapsed since the offense
  - The nature of the job sought
- This "individualized assessment" is required under EEOC guidance.
Occupation-Specific Restrictions
- Ohio Revised Code 4776 governs criminal records checks for licensed occupations.
- Different standards apply to healthcare, education, childcare, and other sensitive fields.

Housing Limitations

Public Housing
- Public housing authorities must follow HUD guidance on considering criminal records.
- Blanket bans based on arrest records (without convictions) are generally prohibited.
Private Housing
- While private landlords have more discretion, discriminatory application of criminal history policies may violate fair housing laws.

Consumer Reporting Limitations

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
- Background check companies must:
  - Obtain consent before conducting checks
  - Provide notice before taking adverse action
  - Ensure accuracy of reported information
  - Generally not report arrests older than 7 years
Ohio Consumer Protection Laws
- Complement federal protections with additional state-level safeguards.

Legal Consequences for Misuse

Improper use of arrest records can lead to:

Employment discrimination claims
Fair housing complaints
Consumer protection violations
Civil liability

Sealed Records Protection

Records that have been legally sealed under Ohio law cannot be used against an individual in most circumstances. Using sealed record information can result in legal penalties under ORC 2953.35.

Individuals who believe their arrest records have been improperly used may seek assistance from the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or the Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati.

Lookup Arrest Records in Ohio

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)
1560 State Route 56 SW
London, OH 43140
(740) 845-2000
Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation

State Department of Public Safety

Ohio Department of Public Safety
1970 West Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43223
(614) 466-3383
Ohio Department of Public Safety

State Department of Corrections

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
4545 Fisher Road, Suite D
Columbus, OH 43228
(614) 752-1159
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

State Court System

Supreme Court of Ohio
65 South Front Street
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 387-9000
Supreme Court of Ohio

Ohio Courts of Appeals
Various locations across 12 appellate districts
Ohio Courts of Appeals

Ohio County/District Courts
Located in each of Ohio's 88 counties
Ohio Common Pleas Courts

Attorney General's Office

Ohio Attorney General's Office
30 East Broad Street, 14th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215
(800) 282-0515
Ohio Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Franklin County Sheriff's Office
369 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 525-3333
Franklin County Sheriff's Office
Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Department
1215 West 3rd Street
Cleveland, OH 44113
(216) 443-6000
Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Department
Hamilton County Sheriff's Office
1000 Sycamore Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 946-6400
Hamilton County Sheriff's Office
Montgomery County Sheriff's Office
345 West Second Street
Dayton, OH 45422
(937) 225-4357
Montgomery County Sheriff's Office
Summit County Sheriff's Office
53 University Avenue
Akron, OH 44308
(330) 643-2181
Summit County Sheriff's Office
Lucas County Sheriff's Office
1622 Spielbusch Avenue
Toledo, OH 43604
(419) 213-4900
Lucas County Sheriff's Office
Butler County Sheriff's Office
705 Hanover Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
(513) 785-1000
Butler County Sheriff's Office
Stark County Sheriff's Office
4500 Atlantic Boulevard NE
Canton, OH 44705
(330) 430-3800
Stark County Sheriff's Office
Lorain County Sheriff's Office
9896 Murray Ridge Road
Elyria, OH 44035
(440) 329-3709
Lorain County Sheriff's Office
Warren County Sheriff's Office
822 Memorial Drive
Lebanon, OH 45036
(513) 695-1280
Warren County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments

Columbus Division of Police
120 Marconi Boulevard
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 645-4545
Columbus Division of Police
Cleveland Division of Police
1300 Ontario Street
Cleveland, OH 44113
(216) 623-5000
Cleveland Division of Police
Cincinnati Police Department
310 Ezzard Charles Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45214
(513) 352-3505
Cincinnati Police Department
Toledo Police Department
525 North Erie Street
Toledo, OH 43604
(419) 245-3340
Toledo Police Department
Akron Police Department
217 South High Street
Akron, OH 44308
(330) 375-2552
Akron Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Ohio

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Cincinnati Field Office
2012 Ronald Reagan Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45236
(513) 421-4310
FBI Cincinnati

U.S. Marshals Service - Northern District of Ohio
Carl B. Stokes U.S. Court House
801 West Superior Avenue, Suite 1144
Cleveland, OH 44113
(216) 522-2150
U.S. Marshals Service - Northern District of Ohio

Federal Bureau of Prisons - Northeast Regional Office
U.S. Custom House, 7th Floor
2nd and Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 521-7301
Federal Bureau of Prisons

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