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Idaho Arrest Records

Is Idaho an Open Arrest Records State?

Pursuant to Idaho Code § 74-102, Idaho is an open arrest records state. The Idaho Public Records Act establishes that arrest records are considered public documents accessible to all citizens. The Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), operating under the Idaho State Police, serves as the central repository for all criminal history records in the state, including arrest information. This transparency in record-keeping promotes accountability within the criminal justice system and enables citizens to make informed decisions regarding public safety.

The Idaho Public Records Act specifically states that "every person has a right to examine and take a copy of any public record," with certain exemptions that do not typically apply to basic arrest record information. Law enforcement agencies throughout Idaho maintain these records in accordance with state statutes and make them available through various access points to fulfill the state's commitment to governmental transparency.

How to Look Up Idaho Arrest Records in 2025

Members of the public seeking Idaho arrest records in 2025 may utilize several official channels established by state authorities. The Idaho State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification maintains the central repository for all criminal history information in the state. Individuals may request records through the following methods:

  • Online Criminal History Portal: The Idaho Criminal History Portal allows for immediate electronic access to arrest records. Users must create an account and pay the required fee per Idaho Code § 67-3008.

  • In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the Bureau of Criminal Identification in person to submit requests.

    Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification
    700 S. Stratford Drive, Suite 120
    Meridian, ID 83642
    (208) 884-7130
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Mail Requests: Written requests may be submitted with a completed application form, fingerprint card (if applicable), and appropriate fee payment.

  • County Sheriff's Offices: Local arrest records may be obtained directly from the county where the arrest occurred.

    Ada County Sheriff's Office
    7200 Barrister Drive
    Boise, ID 83704
    (208) 577-3000
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fees for record searches are established pursuant to Idaho Code § 67-3008 and are subject to periodic adjustment by the Idaho State Police.

Contents of an Idaho Arrest Record

Idaho arrest records contain standardized information as mandated by Idaho Code § 67-3004. These official documents typically include:

  • Biographical Information:

    • Full legal name and any known aliases
    • Date of birth and age at time of arrest
    • Gender, race, and ethnicity
    • Physical descriptors (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
    • Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
    • Fingerprint classification

  • Arrest Details:

    • Date, time, and location of arrest
    • Arresting agency and officer identification
    • Booking number and facility
    • Arrest circumstances and probable cause statement
    • Whether force was used during apprehension

  • Criminal Charges:

    • Specific Idaho Code violations cited
    • Charge classification (misdemeanor or felony)
    • Case number assigned by the court
    • Disposition information if available

  • Procedural Information:

    • Initial appearance date
    • Bond amount and status
    • Court of jurisdiction
    • Assigned prosecutor and defense counsel

The Idaho Background Check Unit utilizes these records for employment screening purposes in accordance with state regulations governing sensitive positions.

Understanding the Idaho Open Records Act

The Idaho Open Records Act, codified in Idaho Code § 74-101 through § 74-126, establishes the framework for public access to government records, including arrest information. This legislation, enacted to promote transparency in government operations, designates most arrest records as public documents subject to disclosure.

Key provisions of the Idaho Open Records Act include:

  • Presumption of Openness: Idaho Code § 74-102(1) establishes that "every person has a right to examine and take a copy of any public record," creating a presumption that government records, including arrest information, should be accessible.

  • Response Timeframes: Agencies must respond to record requests within three working days. For more complex requests, agencies may take up to ten working days to respond, as specified in Idaho Code § 74-103.

  • Exemptions: While most arrest records are public, certain information may be redacted or withheld under exemptions listed in Idaho Code § 74-104 through § 74-111, including:

    • Ongoing investigation details that would compromise law enforcement
    • Juvenile records (except as provided in Idaho Code § 20-525)
    • Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers

  • Appeals Process: If a request is denied, requestors may file an appeal within 180 days to the district court in the county where the records are located, as outlined in Idaho Code § 74-115.

The Idaho State Police administers these provisions for criminal history records, ensuring compliance with both transparency requirements and privacy protections.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Idaho

Idaho law provides mechanisms for the expungement or sealing of arrest records under specific circumstances as outlined in Idaho Code § 67-3004(10). The expungement process removes eligible arrest records from public access, though they may remain available to law enforcement agencies for official purposes.

Eligibility Criteria for Expungement:

  • Acquittals: Pursuant to Idaho Code § 67-3004(10), individuals acquitted of all charges may petition for expungement.

  • Dismissed Cases: Cases dismissed with prejudice may qualify for expungement under Idaho Code § 67-3004(10).

  • Non-Conviction Dispositions: Arrests not resulting in conviction may be eligible after specified waiting periods.

  • Pardoned Offenses: Offenses for which a pardon has been granted by the Commission of Pardons and Parole may qualify for expungement.

Application Process:

  1. Petition Filing: Eligible individuals must file a petition with the district court in the county where the arrest occurred.

  2. Documentation Requirements: Petitioners must provide certified copies of relevant court documents demonstrating eligibility.

  3. Notification: The prosecuting attorney must be notified and given opportunity to object.

  4. Judicial Review: A judge reviews the petition and may schedule a hearing if necessary.

  5. Court Order: If approved, the court issues an order directing all relevant agencies to seal or expunge the records.

The Idaho Department of Correction maintains records of completed sentences and can provide documentation necessary for expungement petitions. Individuals seeking expungement are advised to consult with legal counsel regarding their specific circumstances.

How to Find Local Arrests in Idaho?

Citizens seeking information about recent local arrests in Idaho may utilize several official resources established by municipal and county law enforcement agencies. These resources provide timely information about arrests within specific jurisdictions:

  • County Sheriff's Office Websites: Most Idaho counties maintain online inmate rosters and recent booking information.

    Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
    5500 N. Government Way
    Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
    (208) 446-1300
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Municipal Police Department Records: City police departments provide arrest logs for incidents within city limits.

    Boise Police Department Records Division
    333 N. Sailfish Place
    Boise, ID 83704
    (208) 570-6250
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Court Records: The Idaho Judiciary maintains the iCourt Portal for searching court cases, including criminal proceedings resulting from arrests.

  • Local Newspaper Police Blotters: Many Idaho newspapers publish regular summaries of local arrests and police activity.

  • County Jail Rosters: Most county detention facilities publish current inmate information online, updated daily.

The Idaho Department of Correction Probation and Parole Division also maintains information about individuals under supervision following release from incarceration. This information may be accessed through district offices located throughout the state.

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