Wake County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Wake County
Arrest records in Wake County, North Carolina are considered public information pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1, which defines public records as "all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business."
The Wake County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records as part of its official duties. Members of the public may access these records through several methods:
- In-person requests at the Wake County Sheriff's Office
- Online through the Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services portal
- Through the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction criminal offender search system
Certain limitations apply to public access of arrest records in accordance with state and federal privacy laws. Juvenile records (under age 18) are generally sealed and not available to the public except by court order. Additionally, some records may be redacted or restricted if they contain sensitive information related to ongoing investigations or protected personal information.
Wake County Sheriff's Office 330 S. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27601 Phone: (919) 856-6900 Wake County Sheriff's Office
What's in Wake County Arrest Records
Wake County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within Wake County jurisdiction. These records typically include the following elements:
- Full legal name of the arrested individual
- Date of birth and demographic information
- Physical description (height, weight, identifying marks)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Charges filed (including statute numbers)
- Case numbers
- Bond information and status
- Court dates
- Disposition of charges (if available)
The Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services maintains these records in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-502, which governs the collection and maintenance of arrest information. The records are created at the time of booking and updated as the case progresses through the judicial system.
It should be noted that arrest records document only the fact that an arrest occurred and do not constitute proof of guilt. Under North Carolina law, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Wake County in 2025
Individuals seeking arrest records in Wake County in 2025 may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The Wake County Sheriff's Office has established the following procedures for public access:
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In-person requests: Citizens may visit the Wake County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours to request arrest record information.
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Required identification: Government-issued photo ID
- Fees: $5.00 per record search (cash, credit card, or money order)
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Online searches: The Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services maintains an online portal where arrest records dating back to April 27, 2007 can be searched.
- Search parameters include name, date of birth, or booking number
- No fee for basic online searches
- Records are updated daily
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Criminal background checks: For comprehensive criminal history information, individuals may request official background checks through the North Carolina Judicial Branch.
- Certified records available through the Wake County Clerk of Superior Court
- Fees vary based on search parameters and certification requirements
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Offender tracking: The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction provides searchable databases for current inmates, probationers, parolees, and registered sex offenders.
Wake County Clerk of Superior Court 316 Fayetteville Street Raleigh, NC 27601 Phone: (919) 792-4000 Wake County Courthouse
How To Find Wake County Arrest Records Online
Wake County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records through official government portals. These online systems have been developed to enhance public access while maintaining data integrity and privacy protections.
The primary online resources for Wake County arrest records include:
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Wake County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search: This database provides real-time information on currently incarcerated individuals at the Wake County Detention Center. The system is updated continuously as bookings and releases occur.
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Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services: This comprehensive database contains arrest records and booking photos for arrests made in Wake County since April 27, 2007. Users must acknowledge a disclaimer regarding proper use of information before accessing records.
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North Carolina Offender Public Information Search: Operated by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, this system allows searches for county jail inmates, state prisoners, probationers, parolees, and registered sex offenders. The system offers notification services for changes in offender status.
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North Carolina Judicial Branch: The state court system provides access to court records related to criminal cases, including case status, scheduled court dates, and disposition information.
When utilizing these online resources, users should note that pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-1.4, certain information may be withheld if it would jeopardize an investigation or a person's safety, or reveal confidential information.
Can You Search Wake County Arrest Records for Free?
Wake County residents and members of the public may access basic arrest record information without charge through several government-provided resources. The availability of free search options is consistent with North Carolina's public records laws, which promote transparency in government operations.
Free search options include:
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Public Access Terminals: Located at the Wake County Courthouse (316 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC 27601), these terminals provide free access to the Automated Criminal/Infractions System (ACIS) during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM).
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Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services: This online portal offers free basic searches of arrest records and booking photos for arrests made in Wake County since 2007.
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North Carolina Department of Adult Correction: The state's offender search system provides free access to information about current inmates, probationers, parolees, and registered sex offenders.
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North Carolina Judicial Branch: The court system's website offers free access to basic case information, including criminal cases in Wake County.
While basic searches are available at no cost, fees may apply for:
- Certified copies of records
- Comprehensive background checks
- Records requiring extensive staff time to compile
- Printed copies exceeding standard page limits
These fee structures are established pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-6.2, which allows agencies to charge reasonable fees for copies of public records.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Wake County
The expungement process in Wake County follows North Carolina state law regarding the removal of arrest records from public access. Expungement (also called expunction) is governed by various statutes under N.C.G.S. Chapter 15A, Article 5.
Individuals seeking to delete arrest records must meet specific eligibility criteria, which generally include:
- Charges that were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts
- First-time nonviolent offenses after specified waiting periods
- Certain offenses committed before age 18 or 22, depending on the offense
- Charges resulting from identity theft or mistaken identity
- Certain drug offenses after completion of drug treatment programs
The expungement process involves the following steps:
- File a petition for expungement with the Wake County Clerk of Superior Court
- Pay the required filing fee ($175 for most petitions)
- Obtain a certificate of verification from the Administrative Office of the Courts
- Submit fingerprints for criminal background check
- Attend a hearing if scheduled by the court
- Receive court order if expungement is granted
If granted, an expungement order directs all state agencies to remove records of the arrest from public databases. However, certain government agencies may retain sealed records for limited purposes, such as law enforcement investigations.
Wake County Clerk of Superior Court 316 Fayetteville Street Raleigh, NC 27601 Phone: (919) 792-4000 Wake County Courthouse
What Happens After Arrest in Wake County?
Following an arrest in Wake County, individuals enter a standardized criminal justice process established by North Carolina state law and local procedures. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the Wake County Sheriff's Office collaborate to ensure proper processing and treatment of all detainees.
The post-arrest procedure typically includes:
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Booking Process: Arrestees are transported to the Wake County Detention Center (3301 Hammond Road, Raleigh, NC 27610) where they undergo:
- Fingerprinting and photographing
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Creation of arrest record
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Initial Appearance: Within 48 hours of arrest, defendants appear before a magistrate who:
- Informs the defendant of charges
- Advises of constitutional rights
- Sets conditions of release or bail
- Schedules first court appearance
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Pretrial Services: Wake County offers pretrial services for eligible defendants, including:
- Risk assessments
- Supervision alternatives to detention
- Capacity restoration services for defendants with mental illness
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Court Proceedings: The case progresses through the judicial system with:
- First appearance in district court
- Probable cause hearings for felonies
- Discovery and pretrial motions
- Trial or plea negotiations
- Sentencing if convicted
Throughout this process, defendants have the right to legal representation. Those unable to afford an attorney may qualify for services from the Wake County Public Defender's Office (919-792-5200).
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Wake County?
Arrest records in Wake County are maintained according to North Carolina's records retention schedules and state law. These records are preserved as permanent historical documents unless legally expunged through court order.
The retention policies for arrest records include:
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Active Records: All arrest records remain in active law enforcement databases indefinitely for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
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Public Access Records: The Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services maintains publicly accessible arrest records dating back to April 27, 2007. Records prior to this date may be available through direct request to the Sheriff's Office.
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Court Records: Related court documents are maintained by the Wake County Clerk of Superior Court in accordance with the Unified Judicial System's retention schedule, typically for a minimum of 20 years for misdemeanors and permanently for felonies.
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Department of Adult Correction Records: The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction maintains records of individuals who have been incarcerated, placed on probation, or paroled. These records are retained permanently.
Exceptions to these retention policies occur when:
- A court orders expungement pursuant to N.C.G.S. Chapter 15A, Article 5
- Records pertain to juvenile offenders (under age 18) and are subject to confidentiality laws
- Special statutory provisions apply to certain offenses
It should be noted that even when records are expunged from public databases, certain law enforcement and judicial agencies may retain sealed versions for specific authorized purposes.
How to Find Mugshots in Wake County
Booking photographs, commonly known as mugshots, are created during the arrest booking process in Wake County and are considered public records under North Carolina law. These photographs serve as official documentation of an individual's appearance at the time of arrest.
Members of the public may access Wake County mugshots through the following official channels:
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Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services: This online portal provides access to booking photographs for arrests made in Wake County since April 27, 2007. Users must acknowledge a disclaimer regarding appropriate use of the information before accessing the database.
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In-Person Requests: Citizens may request copies of booking photographs by visiting the Wake County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours:
Wake County Sheriff's Office 330 S. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27601 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Phone: (919) 856-6900
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Written Requests: Formal written requests for booking photographs may be submitted to the Sheriff's Office Records Division by mail or email. Requests should include the full name of the individual, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest.
Users of mugshot information should be aware that the presence of a booking photograph indicates only that an arrest occurred and does not constitute evidence of guilt. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety and other law enforcement agencies utilize these photographs for legitimate law enforcement purposes, including identification and investigation.
Lookup Arrest Records in Wake County
Search Wake County arrest records online
Find criminal offender information through NC Department of Adult Correction
Request criminal background checks from NC Courts
Access Wake County court information
Learn about capacity restoration services at Wake County Detention Center