Virginia Beach VA Arrest Records

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Understanding Virginia Beach VA Arrest Records

What Constitutes an Arrest Record in Virginia Beach?

An arrest record in Virginia Beach is an official log. Law enforcement creates it when a person is detained. These files note the details of the arrest. They are key parts of the legal process.

The record will often show:

• The full name of the person arrested.

• Their date of birth or age.

• A short physical description (race, height, eye and hair color).

• The date, time, and location of the arrest.

• The alleged charge or reason for arrest.

• The name of the arresting officer or agency.

• A booking photograph, known as a mugshot.

• A booking number for jail records.

• Bail or bond information, if set.

• Court dates, if known.

This information is logged by the police department or sheriff's office. It is a serious document. It marks the start of a legal case. These files are kept with care. They must be accurate and complete. Each part of the record has a role. It helps track the case. It also protects the rights of the person detained. The details assist all parts of the justice system.

Public Access to Virginia Beach VA Arrest Records

In most cases, arrest records in Virginia Beach are open to the public. This is due to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA). You can find the full text of this law at https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title2.2/chapter37/. This act states that Virginia residents have a right to see public records. This helps ensure transparency. It makes public agencies accountable for their actions. So, you can request to view these records.

An arrest record is a public record under VFOIA. Law enforcement agencies create these records during official duties. However, not all arrest information is accessible to everyone. The VFOIA has specific exemptions. These are found in Virginia Code § 2.2-3706. This section lists records that are restricted. Juvenile records are generally confidential. If a case is under active investigation, some files might be withheld. This allows police to conduct their work properly. Records sealed or expunged by a court are not public. Sensitive personal details like Social Security numbers or bank information are also protected. These rules balance public access with privacy rights and law enforcement needs.

How to Obtain Virginia Beach VA Arrest Records

Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD)

The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) maintains local arrest records. You can request these records in several ways. You may go in person or request them by mail. Each method has specific steps to follow.

Requesting Records In Person

To request records in person, visit the VBPD Records Unit.

• Address: Virginia Beach Municipal Center, Building 11, 2405 Courthouse Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.

• Hours of Operation: The unit is open Monday through Friday. Hours are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Services needing more processing time may not be accepted after 4:00 PM. It is best to arrive earlier if possible.

• Requirements: You must present a valid government-issued photo ID. A second form of identification is also needed. This confirms your identity.

• Fees: A $15 fee applies for a local criminal record check. Payment can be cash or personal check. Credit cards (MasterCard, VISA, Discover) are accepted with a small service charge. Make checks payable to the "City of Virginia Beach."

Visiting in person is a good option if you are nearby. You can speak with staff. You can ask questions if needed. Ensure you have all necessary documents. This will make your visit smooth and efficient. The staff are there to assist you. They can guide you through the process.

Requesting Records By Mail

If you cannot go in person, you can request records by mail.

• Required Form: You must complete form PD-150. This is the "Criminal Record Information Request" form. Your signature on the form must be notarized. This form is available on the City of Virginia Beach website, typically on the police department's page.

• Mailing Address: Send the completed form and other items to: City of Virginia Beach Police Department Police Records Unit 2405 Courthouse Dr. Virginia Beach, VA 23456

• Information to Include: The form requires your full name. Include any previous names or aliases. Provide your date of birth. Your Social Security Number is optional but can help expedite processing. State the reason for your request. Include your current address and phone number. You must also send a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of documents.

• Payment: Enclose the $15 fee. Use a check or money order. Make it payable to the "City of Virginia Beach." Do not send cash through the mail.

Mail requests typically take longer to process. Ensure all parts of the form are complete. Missing information can cause further delays. A notarized signature is crucial for mail requests. It verifies your identity. This helps maintain the security of the records.

Online Police Offense Reports

The VBPD provides some crime reports online. This is primarily for recent incidents.

• Accessing the Portal: You can find these reports on the City of Virginia Beach Open Data site: https://data.virginiabeach.gov/datasets/67bc708103e746f18e216c32ba39febe_0/explore. This site allows you to search and view crime data.

• Information Available: The site shows data like incident numbers. It includes when and where the offense occurred. It lists offense descriptions and case statuses (e.g., pending, cleared by arrest). It does not provide full arrest records with all names for all cases. However, it offers a good overview of crime trends and locations. This tool is useful for those interested in local crime statistics.

This online tool is free to use. It is updated periodically. It serves as a good starting point for general crime information. For detailed arrest records on specific individuals, you will still need to submit a formal request in person or by mail. The online data focuses more on city-wide crime incidents.

Contact Information

Here are some key contact points for the VBPD.

• Non-Emergency Line: For non-urgent matters, call (757) 385-5000. Use this number to report non-emergency crimes. Or use it for general inquiries not related to records requests.

• VBPD FOIA Office: For police reports dated December 2022 or later, contact the VBPD Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Office. The best way to reach them is through the official VBPD website. Their site is https://police.virginiabeach.gov/. Look for information on submitting FOIA requests.

It is advisable to check the website first. It may contain updated information or necessary forms. Phone lines can be busy. The website offers information at any time.

Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office (VBSO)

The Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office (VBSO) also plays a role in arrest and jail records. They operate the city jail. Thus, they possess information about individuals incarcerated there.

Role in Arrest and Jail Records

The VBSO manages the Virginia Beach Correctional Center. When someone is arrested by VBPD or other local law enforcement, they are often taken to this jail. The VBSO then creates a record. This record includes the person's identity, mugshot, charges, and bail status. These records are essential for jail operations and legal proceedings. The VBSO's careful record-keeping ensures proper management of inmates. It also supports the broader justice system in the city.

Inmate Lookup Information

The VBSO may provide public access to inmate information. Many sheriff's offices offer online inmate lookup tools.

• General VBSO Contact: For precise details on obtaining records or looking up inmates, check the VBSO website. Start with the main City of Virginia Beach site (virginiabeach.gov) or search for "Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office." The phone number for the Virginia Beach Correctional Center is (757) 385-4555. You can call to inquire about inmate status.

• Virginia Beach Correctional Center Address: 2501 James Madison Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. While you might not visit for records requests, this is where inmates are housed.

Some sheriff's websites allow you to search by name. This can show if an individual is currently in their jail. This service is often free. It provides basic information like charges and bail amounts. It is not a full arrest record. However, it confirms if a person is incarcerated. This is useful for family and friends.

How to Request Records (FOIA to VBSO)

To obtain comprehensive arrest records from the VBSO, you likely need to submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. This process is similar to requesting records from the VBPD.

• Write a letter to the VBSO. Clearly state the records you seek. Be as specific as possible. Include the person's name and dates if known.

• The VBSO will have a designated FOIA officer or office. They handle these requests. Check their website for the correct mailing address or email submission process.

• Fees may apply for copies. The VBSO will inform you of any costs.

The VBSO and VBPD work closely but are distinct agencies. The police often make the arrest. The sheriff runs the jail. For records on current inmates, the VBSO is the key contact. For records of past arrests not immediately leading to jail, or general arrest history, the VBPD is the primary source.

Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) - For State-Level Incarceration

If an individual is sentenced to a longer term of imprisonment, they might be in a state prison. The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) manages these state facilities.

VADOC Inmate Locator

The VADOC offers an online tool to find individuals in state prisons.

• Website: You can access this tool at https://vadoc.virginia.gov/general-public/inmate-locator/. This is the official state portal.

• This tool is for individuals under VADOC custody. If someone is in a city or county jail, they will not appear in this database. It is for state prisons only.

Information Required for Search

To use the VADOC Inmate Locator, you need some specific information:

• You must enter at least the first letter of the inmate's first name AND their full last name.

• Alternatively, you can use the inmate's seven-digit Inmate ID number if known.

• You can add optional details like race or sex. This helps narrow the search if there are common names.

This tool will show the facility where the person is held within the state system. It may also provide a projected release date. It does not provide the full arrest record. However, it confirms if someone is in a state prison. This tool is useful for family and friends seeking an inmate. It is free to use.

Virginia State Police (VSP) - For Statewide Criminal History

The Virginia State Police (VSP) maintains a statewide database of criminal history records. This is more comprehensive than a single arrest record. It can show all arrests and their dispositions within Virginia.

Requesting Criminal History Records Check

You can request a criminal history record check from the VSP.

• Form: A specific form is required. For the general public, this is Form SP-167 ("Criminal History Records Check Request Form"). Certain agencies or employers must use Form SP-230. These forms are available on the VSP website: https://www.vsp.virginia.gov/services/criminal-records/. Ensure you use the correct form.

• Mailing Address: Send the completed form to the VSP. The address is typically: Virginia State Police Criminal Justice Information Services Division P.O. Box 85076 Richmond, VA 23285-5076 Always verify the current mailing address on the VSP website, as it can change.

• Fees and Processing Time: A fee is required for this service. The VSP website will list the current fee. Processing usually takes about 15 business days. The VSP does not offer expedited service. Same-day service is not available.

This type of check is often used for employment screening. It is also used for housing applications or court purposes. It provides a full view of a person's known criminal history in Virginia. In most cases, you must have the person's consent to request their record. The form includes a section for their signature. This protects their privacy rights.

Arrest Records in the Virginia Court System

When an arrest leads to formal charges, a case proceeds to court. Therefore, court records can also contain information related to arrests.

Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk's Office

The Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk's Office maintains records for more serious criminal cases (felonies). It also handles some civil matters.

Accessing Court-Related Arrest Information

You can obtain some court records from the Clerk's Office.

• Address: 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA. This is located within the Virginia Beach Municipal Center complex.

• Public Hours: The office is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on state holidays.

• Phone: (757) 385-4181. You can call to ask about record availability or request procedures.

• Website: https://courts.virginiabeach.gov/circuit-court-clerks-office. The website offers extensive information about the clerk's services and how to request records.

The Clerk's Office holds files detailing charges, court orders, and hearing dates. These pertain to cases heard in the Circuit Court. Not all arrests proceed to this court. Less serious offenses are often handled by the General District Court.

Copying and Certification Fees

If you need personal copies of court documents:

• Copy Fee: The cost is $0.50 per page.

• Certification Fee: If a document needs to be certified (officially sealed as a true copy), an additional $2.00 fee per document applies.

• You must pay these fees. The office can provide a total cost estimate upon request.

It is wise to call ahead or check their website. This ensures you know the requirements and costs. Court records are generally public. They follow similar access rules as arrest records, including restrictions for juvenile cases.

Online Court Case Information (Statewide Systems)

Virginia provides online access to court case information from across the state. This can be a convenient way to determine if an arrest led to a court case.

Virginia Judicial System Online Portal

• Website: The main portal for Virginia courts online is https://www.vacourts.gov/caseinfo/home.html. This site links to search tools for various courts.

• You can find case information for the Supreme Court of Virginia. It also covers the Court of Appeals, Circuit Courts, and General District Courts.

General District Court Online Case Information

For misdemeanors and traffic violations, the General District Court is key.

• Website: You can search these cases at https://eapps.courts.state.va.us/gdcourts/.

• This site allows searches by name, case number, or hearing date. You can select the specific court (e.g., Virginia Beach General District Court) and then search.

Information Searchable

Using these online court search tools, you can often find:

• The defendant's name.

• The case number.

• The charges filed.

• Court dates (past and upcoming).

• Case dispositions (e.g., guilty, not guilty, dismissed).

These online tools are usually free to search. They are a good way to track a case. Or see if an arrest resulted in court action. However, they do not display all documents in a case file. For complete files, you must still contact the clerk of the court where the case was heard. The online information is a good starting point. It gives an overview of court proceedings.

Important Considerations for Virginia Beach VA Arrest Records

When seeking or using Virginia Beach VA arrest records, several factors are important. Understanding these points can help you use the information responsibly and effectively.

Accuracy and Updates

How Often Are Records Updated?

Record update frequencies vary by agency. Police departments might input new arrest data daily. Court files change as cases progress. Online databases may not be current to the minute. Some agencies update public data weekly or monthly. For the most current information, contact the record-holding agency directly. Jail inmate lists are usually updated frequently. Broader crime statistics might be older.

Verifying Information

Information found should be verified if crucial. Names can be misspelled. Dates can be incorrect. If using an arrest record for significant decisions, like employment, confirm its accuracy. Obtain records from official sources whenever possible. Do not rely solely on one unverified source. This ensures you act on reliable information. Minor errors in records can cause major problems. So, exercise caution.

Juvenile Arrest Records in Virginia Beach

Confidentiality and Access Restrictions

Arrest records for juveniles (usually those under 18) are not public like adult records. Virginia law protects these records from general disclosure. The goal is to give young offenders a chance to rehabilitate. It helps prevent youthful mistakes from negatively impacting their entire lives. Strict rules govern who can access these files. Typically, access is limited to the juvenile, their parents, legal counsel, and court personnel. The public cannot simply request them.

Relevant Virginia Code

Laws concerning juvenile records are in Title 16.1 of the Code of Virginia. For instance, Va. Code § 16.1-305 directly addresses the confidentiality of juvenile court and law enforcement records. There are limited exceptions for sharing this information. Unauthorized disclosure is a serious matter. This strong protection supports youth rehabilitation and development.

Mugshots in Virginia Beach Arrest Records

Are Mugshots Always Public?

Mugshots are photographs taken during jail booking. They are part of the arrest record. In Virginia, since arrest records are generally public, mugshots can also be public. However, there is ongoing debate about the widespread dissemination of mugshots. Some argue it is unfair if the person is not convicted. Currently, they are often part of the accessible record.

Where to Potentially Find Them

If a mugshot is part of the public arrest file from the VBPD or VBSO, you might see it upon requesting the full record. Some news outlets or other websites may publish mugshots. The most reliable source for an authentic mugshot is the arresting agency or jail. Not all online databases will display them. Police or sheriff websites may not post all mugshots publicly due to privacy concerns.

Duration of Arrest Records on File

Record Retention Schedules

How long an arrest record is kept is determined by state regulations. The Library of Virginia establishes these rules, known as Retention and Disposition Schedules. For adult arrests, records are often kept for 100 years from the individual's birth date. If the person dies and the agency is notified, the record might be removed one year after notification. These long retention periods mean an arrest can remain on file for a very long time.

Impact of No Conviction

If a person is arrested but not convicted, the arrest still remains on their record. The record will show the arrest. It should also indicate that the case was dismissed or they were found not guilty. However, the record of the arrest itself does not automatically disappear. This is why individuals sometimes seek to have their arrest records expunged.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Virginia

What is Expungement?

Expungement is a legal process to seal an arrest record from public view. If a judge grants an expungement, it is as if the arrest did not occur for most legal purposes. The record is not destroyed. But it is removed from public access. This can help an individual move forward with their life. This is especially true if they were not convicted or if charges were dismissed.

Eligibility Criteria

Not all arrests can be expunged. Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2 (https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title19.2/chapter23.1/section19.2-392.2/) outlines who is eligible. Generally, you can petition if:

• You were found not guilty (acquitted).

• The charge was dismissed (nolle prosequi or otherwise dismissed).

• Someone used your identity without authorization and was arrested.

• You received an absolute pardon. If you were convicted, you generally cannot get that arrest expunged. There are very limited exceptions for some misdemeanors if a pardon is granted.

Process for Petitioning for Expungement

To request expungement, you must file a petition in the Circuit Court where you were charged. You will need to be fingerprinted. A copy of your petition is sent to the Commonwealth's Attorney. They can state their position on your request. A judge then decides. It is highly advisable to consult an attorney if you wish to pursue expungement. The process can be complex. An attorney can help determine eligibility. They can also assist with court procedures. This provides the best chance for a successful petition.