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Louisiana Arrest Records

Is Louisiana an Open Arrest Records State?

Yes, Louisiana is an open arrest records state. This designation means that arrest records, which are considered public records, are accessible to the general public under the state's transparency laws. In Louisiana, the public's right to access arrest records is grounded in the principle of promoting transparency and accountability within the judicial and law enforcement systems. These records help maintain a system where public oversight can ensure that justice is administered fairly and lawfully.

The availability of arrest records to the public in Louisiana is governed by the Louisiana Public Records Law, which establishes the framework for public access to government records. Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:1 et seq., government agencies are required to make public records available for inspection and copying, with certain exceptions for confidential or sensitive information.

The Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections maintains and provides access to various criminal records, including arrest records, through established procedures. These procedures are designed to balance the public's right to information with the protection of individual privacy rights and the integrity of ongoing investigations.

How to Look Up Louisiana Arrest Records in 2025

To obtain Louisiana arrest records, individuals have multiple options available. As of 2025, arrest records in Louisiana can be accessed through various means, ensuring that the process is straightforward and accommodating to different needs:

  • Visit local law enforcement agencies: Individuals may visit the records division of the relevant police department or sheriff's office where the arrest occurred. Many agencies maintain public terminals for record searches.

  • Check with the Louisiana State Police: The Louisiana State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information provides statewide criminal history information, including arrest records.

    Louisiana State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information
    7919 Independence Blvd.
    Baton Rouge, LA 70806
    Phone: (225) 925-6095
    Louisiana State Police Background Checks
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Access records through parish courthouse offices: Court records related to arrests can be obtained from the clerk of court in the parish where the case was processed.

  • Utilize online platforms: The Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections provides online access to certain records, and third-party websites may aggregate public records for easier searching.

Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 15:587, requestors must provide proper identification and may be required to pay a fee for record searches. The standard fee for a criminal history check is $26, with an additional $5 technology fee as mandated by § 15:587D.(1).

Contents of a Louisiana Arrest Record

Louisiana arrest records typically include a variety of information pertinent to the arrest and the individual involved:

  • Full name and any aliases
  • Date of birth
  • Physical description (height, weight, eye and hair color)
  • Details of the arrest (date, time, location)
  • Charges filed
  • Booking agency
  • Photograph or mugshot
  • Fingerprint data
  • Arresting officer information
  • Case disposition (if available)
  • Court docket number
  • Bond information

The comprehensiveness of arrest records may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the stage of the criminal justice process. Records maintained by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections are subject to specific retention schedules as established by state archival regulations.

Understanding the Louisiana Open Records Act

The Louisiana Open Records Act is a critical piece of legislation that governs the accessibility of public records to the general public. This law ensures that anyone has the right to view and obtain copies of public records, including arrest records, held by state and local government entities. The Act is designed to promote openness and transparency in government, allowing citizens to stay informed about governmental activities and misconduct.

Under Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:31, any person of the age of majority may inspect, copy, or reproduce any public record. The custodian of such records shall make them available during regular office hours or shall provide a copy upon request. However, certain exceptions exist to protect sensitive information, ongoing investigations, and individual privacy rights.

The Louisiana State Legislature has established specific procedures for requesting public records. Agencies must respond to requests promptly, typically within three business days. If a request is denied, the agency must provide written reasons for the denial, and the requestor has the right to appeal the decision.

Violations of the Open Records Act can result in civil penalties, including attorney fees and court costs for successful plaintiffs in enforcement actions. The Act serves as a cornerstone of democratic governance in Louisiana by ensuring that government operations remain transparent and accountable to the public.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Louisiana

In Louisiana, the expungement of arrest records can be pursued under specific conditions as outlined in the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure:

  • Eligibility Criteria: Not all arrest records are eligible for expungement. Eligibility often depends on the nature of the crime, the outcome of the case, and the time elapsed since the arrest. Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 971 et seq., individuals may be eligible for expungement if:

    • The arrest did not lead to a conviction
    • The case was dismissed or the charges were refused
    • The individual was acquitted at trial
    • The conviction was for certain misdemeanors or felonies after specified waiting periods
    • The individual received a first-offender pardon

  • Legal Process: Individuals must file a formal request with the court system to have their arrest records expunged. This process involves:

    • Filing a Motion for Expungement in the court where the case was handled
    • Paying the required filing fees (approximately $550 for most expungements)
    • Serving copies of the motion to all relevant agencies, including the arresting agency, the district attorney, and the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification

  • Required Documentation: Submitting the correct documents and evidence supporting the expungement plea is crucial. These may include:

    • Certified copies of court minutes or disposition
    • Background check from the Louisiana State Police
    • Affidavit of No Opposition (if applicable)
    • Verification of no pending charges

  • Judicial Review: The final decision rests with a judge, who will review the case details and make a ruling based on the provided information. If granted, an Order of Expungement will be issued directing all relevant agencies to seal the records.

The Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections maintains information regarding the expungement process and can provide guidance to individuals seeking to have their records expunged.

How to Find Local Arrests in Louisiana?

Finding local arrests in Louisiana involves several approaches that residents can use to stay informed about community safety and legal activities:

  • Contact or visit local police departments: Many law enforcement agencies maintain daily arrest logs that are available to the public. These logs typically include basic information about recent arrests, such as the name of the arrestee, charges, and date of arrest.

    Baton Rouge Police Department
    9000 Airline Highway
    Baton Rouge, LA 70815
    Phone: (225) 389-2000
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Attend public meetings or court sessions: Court arraignments and preliminary hearings are generally open to the public and provide information about recent arrests and charges.

    19th Judicial District Court
    300 North Boulevard
    Baton Rouge, LA 70801
    Phone: (225) 389-4737
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Review local newspapers and media outlets: Many local news sources regularly report on police activities and significant arrests in the community.

  • Parish sheriff's websites: Many parish sheriff's offices maintain online inmate rosters or arrest reports that are updated regularly.

    Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office
    316 W. Main Street
    Lafayette, LA 70501
    Phone: (337) 232-9211
    Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:3, while arrest records are generally public, certain information may be withheld if its release would compromise an ongoing investigation or endanger individuals involved in the case.

Search Arrest Records in Louisiana

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