Missouri Arrest Records

Missouri Public Records /Missouri Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Missouri?

Yes. Arrest records in Missouri are generally considered public under the Missouri Sunshine Law (Chapter 610, RSMo), which ensures public access to government records. This includes certain arrest and booking information maintained by local police departments, county sheriff’s offices, and the courts. The Missouri State Highway Patrol, Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division is the central repository for statewide criminal history records, and members of the public may request open records through its Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS).

However, public access is not unlimited. Under RSMo § 610.105, records of arrests that did not lead to charges, were dismissed, or resulted in acquittal are closed to the public, though they remain available to law enforcement and certain authorized agencies. Juvenile arrest records are confidential under RSMo § 211.321, and records ordered expunged pursuant to RSMo § 610.140 are not accessible to the public. Additionally, sensitive personal identifiers and information tied to active investigations may be withheld to protect individual privacy and the integrity of law enforcement operations.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Missouri?

Access to arrest records in Missouri is primarily governed by the Missouri Sunshine Law, Chapter 610 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. This law, officially known as the Missouri Open Records Law, establishes the state's policy on public access to government records, including arrest records.

Key provisions of the Missouri Sunshine Law include:

Section 610.010-610.035: Defines public records and establishes the general right of access to government records.
Section 610.100-610.150: Specifically addresses access to arrest records, incident reports, and other law enforcement records.

Additionally, several other laws impact access to arrest records in Missouri:

Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 43: Governs the Missouri State Highway Patrol and its role in maintaining criminal history information.
Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 610.120-610.140: Addresses closed records and the process for expungement.
Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 211: Governs juvenile records, which are subject to different rules regarding public access.

The Criminal Records and Justice Information Advisory Committee also provides guidance on the implementation of these laws and regulations regarding criminal justice information.

What Information Is Included in a Missouri Arrest Record?

A typical Missouri arrest record contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records generally include:

Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Address at time of arrest
- Social Security Number (may be partially redacted in public versions)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Booking number
- Charges filed at the time of arrest
Case Information:
- Case number
- Court jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Disposition of the case (if available)
- Sentence information (if convicted)
Additional Information:
- Prior arrest history
- Warrant information (if applicable)
- Bond or bail information
- Detention facility information

The information available in publicly accessible versions of arrest records may be more limited than what is contained in the full law enforcement records. Certain sensitive information may be redacted or restricted based on privacy laws and investigative needs.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Missouri in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Missouri can be accomplished through several official channels. The process varies depending on whether you're seeking your own records or those of another individual.

For Personal Records:

Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Criminal Justice Information Services Division
1510 East Elm Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Phone: (573) 526-6153
Missouri State Highway Patrol

The MSHP is the central repository for criminal history information in Missouri. You can request your own complete criminal history record by submitting:
- A completed Request for Criminal Record Check form (SHP-158)
- Proper identification
- Required fee payment
Local Law Enforcement Agencies
Contact the specific police department or sheriff's office that made the arrest. Most agencies have procedures for requesting arrest records.
Missouri Courts
Office of State Courts Administrator
2112 Industrial Drive
P.O. Box 104480
Jefferson City, MO 65110
Phone: (573) 751-4377
Missouri Courts

Court records related to arrests can be obtained through the appropriate circuit court where the case was processed.

For Third-Party Requests:

For non-personal records, you may need to:

Submit a formal request under the Missouri Sunshine Law
Provide specific information about the record you're seeking
Pay applicable fees
Demonstrate legal authority to access the records (if required)

Required Documentation:

To obtain arrest records, you typically need to provide:

A completed request form (varies by agency)
Valid government-issued photo ID
Payment for applicable fees
Notarized authorization (if requesting someone else's records)
Legal documentation showing authority to access records (if applicable)

Processing times vary by agency but typically range from a few days to several weeks depending on the complexity of the request and the agency's workload.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Missouri

Missouri offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally, making the process more convenient than traditional in-person requests.

Official Online Resources:

Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS)
MACHS Website

MACHS allows authorized users to request and receive criminal history record information electronically. The system provides:
- Name-based criminal history checks
- Access to open records
- Immediate results for many searches
Missouri Case.net
Missouri Case.net

This online portal provides access to the Missouri State Courts Automated Case Management System, allowing users to search for:
- Court cases
- Charges
- Court dates
- Case outcomes
- Judgment information
Missouri Department of Corrections Offender Search
Missouri DOC Offender Search

This database allows searches for:
- Current inmates
- Individuals on probation or parole
- Basic offense information
County Sheriff's Office Websites
Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup tools or arrest logs. These typically include recent arrests and current jail populations.

Search Tips:

Use exact spelling of names when possible
Include middle names or initials if known
Try variations of names if initial searches are unsuccessful
Use date of birth information when available to narrow results
Be aware that some online systems may have a delay in updating recent arrests

Limitations:

Online records may not include complete arrest history
Some sensitive cases may be excluded from online databases
Older records may not be digitized
Expunged or sealed records will not appear in public searches
Juvenile records are generally not available online

For the most comprehensive search results, combining online searches with formal record requests to the appropriate agencies is recommended.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Missouri?

Access to arrest records in Missouri varies based on the requester's identity and purpose. The Missouri Sunshine Law establishes different levels of access for different categories of requesters.

Public Access:

Under Missouri law, the general public can access:

Arrest records for closed cases
Incident reports
Jail rosters
Court records of cases that have been filed
Conviction records

Enhanced Access:

Certain entities have broader access to arrest records, including:

Criminal Justice Agencies:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Courts
- Prosecutors
- Corrections departments
- Probation and parole offices
Government Agencies:
- Licensing boards
- Child protection services
- Elder care regulators
- Other agencies with statutory authority
Authorized Non-Governmental Entities:
- Employers required by law to conduct background checks
- Schools and childcare facilities
- Healthcare facilities
- Financial institutions (for certain positions)
The Individual Subject of the Record:
- Individuals have the right to access their own complete criminal history information

Restricted Access:

Access is limited or prohibited for:

Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Sealed or expunged records
Records related to ongoing investigations
Records where disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
Records where disclosure is prohibited by other state or federal laws

Legal Framework:

The Missouri Revised Statutes Section 610.100-610.150 specifically outlines who may access different types of arrest records and under what circumstances. Additionally, the Federal Privacy Act of 1974 and other federal regulations may impact access to certain records, particularly those that contain federally protected information.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Missouri?

Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining arrest records in Missouri. These fees vary depending on the agency providing the records and the type of search being conducted.

Standard Fee Schedule:

Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP):
- Name-based criminal history check: $14.00-$20.00
- Fingerprint-based criminal history check: $20.00-$44.80 (includes FBI fee when applicable)
- Notary fee (if required): $2.00
Missouri Courts:
- Case.net online searches: Free for basic searches
- Certified copies of court records: $0.50 per page plus $1.00 certification fee
- Authentication fee: $1.00 per document
County Sheriff's Offices:
- Fees vary by county, typically $5.00-$25.00 per record
- Some counties offer free online jail/arrest logs
Municipal Police Departments:
- Local arrest record: $5.00-$20.00 (varies by department)
- Incident/accident reports: $5.00-$15.00 (varies by department)

Fee Waivers and Reductions:

Under certain circumstances, fees may be reduced or waived:

For indigent individuals (proof of financial hardship required)
For certain governmental agencies
For non-profit organizations in some cases (with proper documentation)
For victims of crime seeking their own case information

Payment Methods:

Most agencies accept:

Credit/debit cards (online requests)
Money orders
Cashier's checks
Personal checks (some agencies)
Cash (in-person requests only)

Legal Basis for Fees:

The authority to charge fees for arrest records is established in Missouri Revised Statutes Section 610.026, which allows agencies to charge reasonable fees for document search, duplication, and research time. The law specifies that fees should reflect the actual cost of providing the records and not be used as a deterrent to access.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Missouri

Missouri maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record and the maintaining agency. There is no universal automatic expiration date for arrest records in the state.

Standard Retention Periods:

Missouri State Highway Patrol (Central Repository):
- Felony arrest records: Maintained indefinitely unless expunged
- Misdemeanor arrest records: Maintained indefinitely unless expunged
- Arrest records with no charges filed: Generally maintained for 7 years
- Arrest records resulting in acquittal: Maintained unless expunged
Local Law Enforcement Agencies:
- Follow agency-specific retention schedules
- Generally maintain records for a minimum of 5-7 years
- Records of serious offenses may be kept permanently
Missouri Court System:
- Court case records: Maintained permanently in most cases
- Disposed misdemeanor cases: Minimum 10 years
- Disposed felony cases: Maintained permanently
- Traffic violations: Typically 3-10 years depending on severity
Missouri Department of Corrections:
- Inmate records: 5 years after final discharge
- Records of serious offenders: Maintained permanently

Special Considerations:

Juvenile Records: Generally sealed when the individual reaches 17 years of age, with exceptions for certain serious offenses
Sex Offender Records: Maintained for extended periods based on offense level, potentially for life
DNA Records: Maintained indefinitely in the state DNA database unless expunged by court order

Legal Framework:

Record retention is governed by:

Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 109.200-310 (State and Local Records Law)
Missouri Secretary of State Records Management Guidelines
Agency-specific retention schedules approved by the Missouri Secretary of State

Even when physical records may be destroyed according to retention schedules, digital records or database entries may be maintained for longer periods.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Missouri Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Missouri, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted to protect privacy rights and maintain the integrity of the criminal justice system.

Commonly Redacted Information:

Personal Identifiers:
- Social Security Numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Full dates of birth (often limited to year of birth only)
- Personal telephone numbers
- Home addresses of private individuals
- Financial account numbers
Sensitive Case Information:
- Names of juvenile suspects
- Information about juvenile victims
- Sexual assault victim identities
- Domestic violence victim information
- Child abuse victim details
- Confidential informant information
- Details that could compromise ongoing investigations
Medical Information:
- Medical conditions or diagnoses
- Mental health information
- Treatment information
- Drug test results (unless directly relevant to charges)
Other Protected Information:
- Information protected by state or federal law
- Information subject to court-ordered sealing
- Grand jury proceedings
- Information that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy

Legal Basis for Redactions:

Redactions are authorized under several legal provisions:

Missouri Revised Statutes Section 610.021 (Exceptions to the Sunshine Law)
Missouri Revised Statutes Section 610.100 (Law enforcement records)
Federal Privacy Act of 1974
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Various court decisions interpreting privacy rights

Agency Discretion:

Law enforcement agencies and courts have some discretion in determining what information should be redacted based on:

Public safety concerns
Privacy interests
Investigative needs
Applicable exemptions under the Sunshine Law

When requesting records, be aware that the version provided to the public may contain significant redactions compared to the complete records maintained by the agency.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Missouri

Missouri law provides mechanisms for eligible individuals to seal or expunge arrest records under certain circumstances. The process was significantly expanded with the passage of Senate Bill 588 in 2018, which broadened expungement eligibility.

Expungement Eligibility:

To qualify for expungement in Missouri, generally:

For misdemeanors:
- At least 3 years must have passed since completion of sentence
- No new misdemeanor or felony charges during that period
For felonies:
- At least 7 years must have passed since completion of sentence
- No new misdemeanor or felony charges during that period
Ineligible offenses include:
- Class A felonies
- Dangerous felonies as defined in Section 556.061
- Sex offenses requiring registration
- Felony assault offenses
- Domestic violence felonies
- Certain other serious offenses listed in Section 610.140 RSMo

Expungement Process:

File a Petition: Submit a petition for expungement in the circuit court where the arrest or charges occurred. The petition must include:
- All names used by the petitioner
- All addresses since the arrest
- The case number and charge sought to be expunged
- The names of all agencies with records to be expunged
- A sworn statement that the petitioner meets all requirements
Pay Filing Fee: The filing fee is approximately $250, though it may vary by county. Fee waivers may be available for indigent petitioners.
Serve Notice: Serve copies of the petition to all agencies holding records to be expunged.
Attend Hearing: The court will schedule a hearing, typically within 30-60 days of filing.
Court Decision: If approved, the court will issue an order of expungement.

Effect of Expungement:

Once records are expunged:

The arrest is deemed never to have occurred
Agencies must remove all public records of the arrest
The individual may legally answer "no" to questions about the arrest on most applications
Records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and for certain licensing purposes

Legal Assistance:

Due to the complexity of the expungement process, many individuals seek legal assistance from:

Private attorneys
Legal aid organizations
Missouri Bar Association referral services

The Missouri courts provide standardized forms for expungement petitions on their website to assist individuals who wish to file without an attorney.

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Missouri?

Missouri law places several important restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These limitations are designed to protect individuals from unfair discrimination based on arrest history.

Employment Restrictions:

Ban the Box Provisions:
- Executive Order 16-04 prohibits state agencies from asking about criminal history on initial job applications
- Some Missouri cities, including St. Louis and Kansas City, have local "ban the box" ordinances that extend to private employers
Fair Consideration Requirements:
- Employers must consider:
  - The relationship between the offense and the job duties
  - The time elapsed since the offense
  - Evidence of rehabilitation
  - The nature and gravity of the offense
Notification Requirements:
- Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), employers must:
  - Notify applicants if they will be subject to a background check
  - Get written permission before conducting the check
  - Provide pre-adverse action notice if considering denial based on the check
  - Provide adverse action notice if denying employment based on the check

Housing Limitations:

Public housing authorities must follow HUD guidelines on consideration of criminal records
Private landlords must ensure screening policies do not have a disparate impact on protected classes

Licensing Restrictions:

Missouri Revised Statutes Section 324.012 limits the use of criminal records in occupational licensing
Licensing boards must consider:
- Whether the offense is directly related to the duties of the occupation
- The time elapsed since the offense
- Evidence of rehabilitation

Commercial Use Limitations:

Companies that compile and sell criminal history information must:
- Comply with the FCRA
- Ensure accuracy of information
- Update records to reflect expungements or corrections
- Provide consumers access to their own information

Legal Consequences for Misuse:

Improper use of arrest records may result in:

Civil liability
Regulatory penalties
Administrative sanctions
Potential discrimination claims under state and federal law

Arrest records without convictions have limited predictive value regarding an individual's character or fitness, and Missouri law increasingly recognizes this distinction in how such records can be used.

Lookup Arrest Records in Missouri

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Missouri State Highway Patrol - Criminal Justice Information Services Division
1510 East Elm Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102
(573) 526-6153
Missouri State Highway Patrol

State Department of Public Safety

Missouri Department of Public Safety
301 West High Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102
(573) 751-4905
Missouri Department of Public Safety

State Department of Corrections

Missouri Department of Corrections
2729 Plaza Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65109
(573) 751-2389
Missouri Department of Corrections

State Court System

Office of State Courts Administrator
2112 Industrial Drive
P.O. Box 104480
Jefferson City, MO 65110
(573) 751-4377
Missouri Courts

Attorney General's Office

Missouri Attorney General's Office
Supreme Court Building
207 W. High Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102
(573) 751-3321
Missouri Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

St. Louis County Sheriff's Office
105 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-5000
St. Louis County Sheriff
Jackson County Sheriff's Office
4001 NE Lakewood Court
Lee's Summit, MO 64064
(816) 541-8017
Jackson County Sheriff
Greene County Sheriff's Office
1010 N. Boonville Avenue
Springfield, MO 65802
(417) 868-4040
Greene County Sheriff
St. Charles County Sheriff's Department
101 Sheriff Dierker Court
O'Fallon, MO 63366
(636) 949-3000
St. Charles County Sheriff
Clay County Sheriff's Office
12 S. Water Street
Liberty, MO 64068
(816) 407-3700
Clay County Sheriff
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
400 First Street
Hillsboro, MO 63050
(636) 797-5000
Jefferson County Sheriff
Boone County Sheriff's Department
2121 County Drive
Columbia, MO 65202
(573) 875-1111
Boone County Sheriff
Franklin County Sheriff's Office
1 Bruns Drive
Union, MO 63084
(636) 583-2560
Franklin County Sheriff
Jasper County Sheriff's Office
231 S. Main Street
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-8177
Jasper County Sheriff
Cass County Sheriff's Office
2501 W. Mechanic Street
Harrisonville, MO 64701
(816) 380-5200
Cass County Sheriff

Municipal Police Departments

St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department
1915 Olive Street
St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 231-1212
St. Louis Metropolitan Police
Kansas City Police Department
1125 Locust Street
Kansas City, MO 64106
(816) 234-5000
Kansas City Police
Springfield Police Department
321 E. Chestnut Expressway
Springfield, MO 65802
(417) 864-1810
Springfield Police
Columbia Police Department
600 E. Walnut Street
Columbia, MO 65201
(573) 874-7652
Columbia Police
Independence Police Department
223 N. Memorial Drive
Independence, MO 64050
(816) 325-7300
Independence Police

State Archives

Missouri State Archives
600 West Main Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
(573) 751-3280
Missouri State Archives

Federal Agencies Operating in Missouri

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - St. Louis Field Office
2222 Market Street
St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 589-2500
FBI St. Louis

U.S. Marshals Service - Eastern District of Missouri
Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse
111 South 10th Street, Suite 4.102
St. Louis, MO 63102
(314) 539-2212
U.S. Marshals Eastern District

Federal Bureau of Prisons - North Central Regional Office
Gateway Complex Tower II, 8th Floor
400 State Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
(913) 621-3939
Federal Bureau of Prisons

U.S. District Court - Eastern District of Missouri
Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse
111 South 10th Street
St. Louis, MO 63102
(314) 244-7900
U.S. District Court Eastern District