Kent County Criminal Records

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If you need to begin a search for Kent County Criminal Records right now, you can visit https://michiganofficialrecords.com/kent-county-criminal-records/. This option lets you start your search fast. It is a useful place to check for records. Use it if you do not want to wait. It provides a way to access information quickly and move forward with your needs today. Find the data you are looking for there.

Accessing Kent County Criminal Records Officially

Finding official criminal records requires knowing where to look. Different agencies hold different types of information. Some hold arrest data. Others hold court case outcomes. It is key to know which place holds the record you need. This helps save time and effort. Always try to use the official source for the most current facts.

Understanding Types of Criminal Records in Kent County

Many types of records exist. Each tells a part of the story. Knowing the type helps you ask the right place.

• Arrest Records: Show when police took a person into custody. Made by the arresting police agency. The Sheriff's Office may also hold booking data.

• Warrants: Orders from a judge to arrest someone. Active warrants mean police are looking for the person. Courts or the Sheriff may have warrant data. Access can be limited for safety.

• Court Records: These are files from court cases. They show charges filed by the prosecutor. They include pleas entered (guilty, not guilty). They list court dates and actions (dockets). They show the final result (conviction, acquittal, dismissal). They list the sentence if found guilty. These are kept by the court clerk where the case was heard (District or Circuit). This is often the best source for case outcomes.

• Inmate Information: Shows who is currently in the Kent County Jail. The Kent County Sheriff's Office runs the jail. They have an online tool to look up inmates. This shows booking date and possible charges. It does not show past jail time.

Who Maintains Kent County Criminal Records?

Several government bodies create and keep these records. You may need to check with more than one.

• Kent County Sheriff's Office: Handles county-wide law work. Manages the county jail. Keeps records of arrests made by deputies. Keeps incident reports they take. They run the inmate lookup system. They also process requests for their own reports via FOIA. Their main office is at 701 Ball Avenue NE in Grand Rapids.

• Local Police Departments: Cities like Grand Rapids have their own police. Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) handles crime in the city. They make their own arrest reports. They write their own incident reports. You must ask GRPD for their specific records. Other cities (Wyoming, Kentwood, Walker, etc.) also have local police.

• Kent County Courts: This is where criminal cases are decided. The 17th Circuit Court handles serious crimes (felonies). The District Courts (61st, 63rd, and others) handle less serious crimes (misdemeanors). They also handle the first steps of felony cases. Court clerks keep the official case files. These files show charges, pleas, verdicts, and sentences. This is the prime source for conviction data.

• Michigan State Police (MSP): MSP keeps a statewide database called ICHAT. This system holds public records of convictions from all Michigan counties. It is useful for a broad check. It does not show arrests that did not lead to a conviction. It relies on courts sending data, so there can be delays.

Requesting Records from the Kent County Sheriff's Office

The Kent County Sheriff's Office provides certain public records. They handle law enforcement in areas without local police. They also run the county jail. You can ask them for specific reports or information they hold. Their main goal is public safety. They offer various services to the public at their offices. Be sure to check their website for any service changes or closures. These can happen due to training or staffing issues. Some services require appointments.

Records Handled by the Sheriff

The Sheriff's Office Information Services Unit keeps department records. They handle many public requests.

• Incident Reports: Reports written by deputies about events they respond to. This includes traffic crash reports. It includes reports about alleged crimes. You usually need a case number or date and location.

• Arrest Information: Basic details about who was arrested by deputies. This might include booking photos (mug shots). Availability can depend on rules and the case status. They maintain a shared database with Grand Rapids PD and Kentwood PD on inmates.

• Jail Inmate Lookup: An online tool lets you search for people currently in the Kent County Jail. Find it on the Sheriff's page on the Kent County website. It shows basic booking info and charges.

• Fingerprinting Services: They offer fingerprinting for licenses or jobs. This service often needs an appointment. Fees apply for this service. Check their site for details and to schedule.

• Gun Permits: They process handgun purchase permits and registrations.

How to Request Sheriff Records

Most requests for Sheriff's Office records use FOIA. This law guides how public bodies release information.

• Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests: You must submit a written request. Describe the record you need clearly. Include names, dates, and locations if you know them. The Sheriff's Office has a form or process. Find details on their Records page online. They aim to respond within five business days. Some requests might take longer.

• Contact Information:

  • Main Office Address: 701 Ball Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

  • Records Unit Phone: (616) 632-6200

  • Records Unit Fax: (616) 632-6217

  • Records Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Note: The office is open by appointment only every Wednesday from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm. Check the Kent County Sheriff's website for any temporary closures or service limits at the main office or substations.

• Online Request Forms: Check the Kent County Sheriff's Office website. They may have online forms for some requests. This can speed up the process. Look under the 'Records' section.

• Fees: There may be fees for copies or searching. Fees depend on the type of record and work needed. FOIA allows charges for labor, copying, and mailing. Ask about costs when you make your request. Some rates are listed on their site.

Searching Kent County Court Records

Court records are key for finding case outcomes. Kent County has Circuit Court and District Courts. Each handles different types of cases. You must search the correct court. The 17th Circuit Court handles felonies. District Courts handle misdemeanors and traffic cases. They also handle the first steps in felony cases. Court records show the official charges filed. They show how a defendant pleaded. They show if someone was found guilty or not guilty. They show the sentence given by the judge. This information is generally public record. But some records might be sealed or non-public by law.

17th Circuit Court Criminal Records (Felonies)

The 17th Circuit Court serves all of Kent County. It hears the most serious criminal cases. These include all felony charges. Felonies are crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. The court also hears serious misdemeanors. Appeals from District Courts may also go here. The Clerk of the Circuit Court keeps all case files. You can search these records in several ways. Access methods may change, so verify with the court. Note: An update on their website states that from Jan 1, 2025, the online search may only show criminal cases from 2019 onward due to work on automatic expungements. Older records may require ICHAT or direct contact.

• Jurisdiction: Handles felony cases arising anywhere in Kent County. Also handles some serious misdemeanors and appeals.

• Location: Kent County Courthouse, 180 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. The Clerk's office is within the courthouse.

• Clerk's Office Phone: (616) 632-5220. Call for questions about records access.

• Clerk's Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Closed on court holidays.

• Online Case Search: Kent County provides an online name search portal for Circuit Court cases. Access it via the Kent County website under the 17th Circuit Court section. You may need an account. Search results are not official records. They are for information only. Be aware of the date limitations mentioned above. The MiCOURT Case Search might also cover some cases statewide, but Kent County's portal is specific.

• In-Person Requests: You can visit the Circuit Court Clerk's office. Public terminals may be available to search records. You can ask clerk staff for help finding files. You can view files in person.

• Mail Requests: You can request records by mail. You will need to provide case details. Include names, case numbers if known, and dates. Contact the clerk's office first. Ask about their mail request procedure and fees.

• Copy Fees: Fees apply for copies of documents. There are extra fees for certified copies. The clerk's office can provide a fee schedule. Payment methods vary.

District Court Criminal Records (Misdemeanors, Traffic)

Kent County has multiple District Courts. Each court serves a specific geographic area. They handle less serious crimes called misdemeanors. Misdemeanors carry jail time up to one year. They handle civil cases under $25,000. They handle traffic tickets and small claims. They also handle the first stages of felony cases. This includes arraignments and preliminary exams. You must find the right District Court for your search. It depends on where the crime or traffic stop happened. Or where the defendant lives for some civil matters. Like the Circuit Court, District Courts keep case files. These show charges, pleas, outcomes, and sentences.

• Identifying the Correct District Court:

  • 61st District Court: Serves the City of Grand Rapids. Located in the Kent County Courthouse.

  • 63rd District Court: Serves Kent County areas outside the cities of Grand Rapids, Walker, Grandville, Wyoming, and Kentwood. Located on E Beltline Ave NE.

  • 59th District Court: Has two locations. One serves Grandville (3161 Wilson Ave SW). One serves Walker (4343 Remembrance Rd NW).

  • 62A District Court: Serves the City of Wyoming (2650 DeHoop Ave SW).

  • 62B District Court: Serves the City of Kentwood (4740 Walma Ave SE).

• 61st District Court (Grand Rapids) Details:

  • Location: Kent County Courthouse, 180 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

  • Phone: (616) 632-5700.

  • Email: contact@grcourt.org

  • Hours: Assume Mon-Fri, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Verify on their website grcourt.org.

  • Record Search: Use the MiCOURT Case Search online platform. Select the 61st District Court. In-person searches are also possible at the courthouse.

• 63rd District Court Details:

  • Location: 1950 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525.

  • Phone: (616) 632-7770.

  • Hours: Assume Mon-Fri, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Verify with the court.

  • Record Search: Use the MiCOURT Case Search online platform. Select the 63rd District Court. You can search by name or case number. In-person searches are also an option.

• Accessing Records from Other District Courts: For the 59th, 62A, and 62B District Courts, check their specific websites. They may use the MiCOURT system as well. Or you may need to contact their clerk's offices directly for record requests. Phone numbers and addresses are listed above.

• General Forms and Fees: Each District Court has its own forms and fee schedules. Check the specific court's website or contact the clerk. Fees apply for copies and certified documents.

Using the Michigan State Police ICHAT System

The Michigan State Police offer a tool for statewide checks. It is called ICHAT. This system provides access to public criminal history information. It pulls data from records submitted by courts across Michigan. It is a common tool used for background checks. It is important to know what ICHAT shows and what it does not show. It is not a complete record of all police contact. It focuses on convictions.

What is ICHAT?

ICHAT means Internet Criminal History Access Tool. It is managed by the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center (CJIC).

• Statewide Public Conviction Records: ICHAT searches the official Michigan criminal history record database. It shows adult conviction information reported to the state. This includes felonies and misdemeanors resulting in a conviction.

• Limitations: ICHAT generally does not show:

  • Arrests that did not lead to a conviction.

  • Juvenile records.

  • Federal criminal records.

  • Records from other states.

  • Sealed or expunged records (set asides).

  • Traffic offenses reported only to the Secretary of State.

  • Information on warrants.

• Accuracy depends on timely reporting from courts. There can be delays or errors. Michigan Legal Help has guides on fixing errors found on ICHAT.

How to Use ICHAT

Accessing ICHAT requires using their website. You need specific details about the person you search.

• Website Access: Go to the official ICHAT website:https://apps.michigan.gov/ICHAT/Home.aspx. You will likely need to register or log in.

• Information Needed for Search: You must provide the person's full name (first, middle, last) and their date of birth. Accurate spelling and date of birth are crucial for correct results. Common names might return multiple results.

• Fee Per Search: There is a fee for each search performed using ICHAT. Currently, the fee is $10. Payment is typically made online using a credit or debit card. Fee waivers might be possible in limited cases using a FOIA request with proof of low income.

• Interpreting Results: The search will show any matching public conviction records in the state database. It will list the offense, court, case number, and conviction date. A result of "no record found" means no public convictions match the search details in the state database.

Understanding Michigan Laws on Criminal Records Access

Michigan laws control who can access criminal records. They also define what information is public. Two key laws are the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and expungement laws (Clean Slate). FOIA gives you the right to ask for public records. Clean Slate laws allow some records to be hidden from public view. Knowing these laws helps you understand what you can get. It also explains why some records might not be available.

Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

Michigan's FOIA gives people the right to see government records. This includes many criminal records held by police and courts. The law promotes openness. It allows citizens to see how public bodies work. You do not need to state a reason for your request. The law applies to state and local government agencies in Michigan. This includes the Kent County Sheriff's Office and the courts.

• Overview: The law states that public records are open to inspection and copying. A "public record" is writing prepared or used by a public body in its official functions.

• Application to Criminal Records: You can use FOIA to request police incident reports. You can ask for arrest logs. You can request specific court case documents not easily found online. Agencies must respond to FOIA requests within a set time (usually 5 business days). They can extend this time if needed.

• Exemptions: FOIA does not make all records public. Some information can be kept private (exempt). Common exemptions for criminal records include:

  • Information that invades personal privacy.

  • Records part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

  • Information that could endanger someone's safety.

  • Records sealed by court order or other laws (like expungements).

  • If an agency denies your request, they must explain why using a specific FOIA exemption.

• Link to Michigan FOIA Statute: Read the full law here: http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?mcl-act-442-of-1976

Record Expungement (Set Asides) in Michigan

Michigan passed "Clean Slate" laws. These laws allow people to clear past convictions from their public record. This process is called expungement or setting aside a conviction. This helps people get jobs and housing. It means some Kent County criminal records may not appear in public searches. Even if a conviction occurred, it might be hidden now. This affects searches done through court portals and ICHAT.

• Brief Overview: Clean Slate expanded eligibility for expungement. It also created an automatic process for some offenses. This means some records get cleared without the person even asking. Other records still need a person to file a petition with the court.

• Impact on Availability: Once a record is expunged or set aside, it is removed from public view. Landlords and most employers cannot see it in background checks. Law enforcement and courts still have access for certain purposes. Public searches (like ICHAT) will not show expunged convictions. Online court dockets might also hide these cases.

• Automatic vs. Petitioned:

  • Automatic: Happens automatically for eligible felonies (after 10 crime-free years) and misdemeanors (after 7 crime-free years). Many serious crimes and assault crimes do not qualify for automatic expungement.

  • Petitioned: A person must apply to the court where they were convicted. More types of offenses might qualify this way. Waiting periods can be shorter (e.g., 3-5 years).

• Link to State Resources: Learn more from the Michigan Attorney General: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/initiatives/expungement-assistance. Safe & Just Michigan also has useful guides.

Quick Contact Information for Kent County Records

Here are key contacts for finding Kent County criminal records. Hours are usually Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, unless noted. Always call or check websites first. Hours and services can change.

Kent County Courthouse (Circuit & 61st District)

• Address: 180 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

• 17th Circuit Court Clerk Phone: (616) 632-5220

• 61st District Court Phone: (616) 632-5700

• Typical Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

63rd District Court

• Address: 1950 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

• Phone: (616) 632-7770

• Typical Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Verify)

Kent County Sheriff's Office (Records)

• Address: 701 Ball Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

• Records Phone: (616) 632-6200

• Records Hours: Mon-Fri, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Note Wed appointment slot 12-12:30 pm and check website for closures)

Michigan State Police (ICHAT)

• Website:https://apps.michigan.gov/ICHAT/Home.aspx

• Phone (CJIC for record questions/challenges): (517) 241-0606