Georgia Arrest Records

Georgia Public Records /Georgia Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Georgia?

Yes. Arrest records in Georgia are generally considered public records under the Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.), which gives citizens the right to inspect public records held by state and local agencies. This means arrest and booking information maintained by sheriff’s offices, police departments, and courts is typically accessible to the public. The Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC), a division of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), serves as the state’s central repository for criminal history information.

However, access is limited in certain situations. Complete criminal history reports, including non-conviction data, are restricted and may only be released to the individual named in the record, authorized employers, or law enforcement agencies. Juvenile arrest records are confidential under O.C.G.A. § 15-11-701, and arrests that have been restricted (formerly known as expunged) under O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37 are not available to the public. Additionally, records tied to ongoing investigations or containing sensitive victim information may be withheld to protect privacy and law enforcement integrity.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Georgia?

The primary legislation governing access to arrest records in Georgia is the Georgia Open Records Act, also known as the Georgia Open Government Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.). This law establishes the framework for public access to government records, including arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies throughout the state.

Under the Georgia Open Records Act, public records are defined broadly to include documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, computer-based or computer-generated information, or similar material prepared, maintained, or received by an agency in the course of its operations. This definition encompasses arrest records created and maintained by law enforcement agencies.

The Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) Act (O.C.G.A. § 35-3-30 et seq.) also plays a significant role in regulating access to criminal history information, including arrest records. This legislation established the GCIC as the central repository for criminal history record information in Georgia and outlines specific procedures for accessing these records.

Additionally, the Georgia Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) Network regulations provide guidelines for the electronic sharing and access of criminal justice information, including arrest records, among authorized agencies and individuals.

What Information Is Included in a Georgia Arrest Record?

Georgia arrest records typically contain comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records generally include:

Personal identifying information of the arrested individual:
- 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)
- Charges filed
- Booking information
- Case or docket number
Procedural information:
- Court appearance dates
- Bail or bond information
- Detention facility information
- Disposition of the case (if available)
- Sentencing information (if applicable)

Arrest records document the fact that an arrest occurred but do not necessarily indicate guilt. The disposition information, when included, provides details about the outcome of the case, such as whether charges were dismissed, the individual was acquitted, or a conviction was obtained.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Georgia in 2025

There are several methods to obtain arrest records in Georgia in 2025, depending on your needs and the specific information you're seeking:

In-person requests: You can visit the law enforcement agency that made the arrest or the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) to request arrest records. For statewide criminal history information:

Georgia Bureau of Investigation
3121 Panthersville Road
Decatur, GA 30034
(404) 244-2600
Georgia Bureau of Investigation

Public counter hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
Mail requests: You can submit a written request to the appropriate agency, including the required identification, forms, and fees.
County Sheriff's Offices: Local arrest records can be obtained from the county sheriff's office where the arrest occurred.
Court records: If the arrest led to court proceedings, records may be available through the clerk of the court where the case was heard.
Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC): For official criminal history records, you can request information from the GCIC, which is operated by the GBI.

When requesting arrest records, you will typically need to provide:

The full name of the person whose records you're seeking
Date of birth or approximate age
Approximate date of the arrest
Location of the arrest (if known)
Your identification and, in some cases, notarized authorization forms

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Georgia

Georgia offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally:

Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) GCIC Online Services: The GBI provides an online portal for requesting criminal history information at GBI GCIC Online Services. This service requires registration and payment of applicable fees.
Georgia Department of Corrections Offender Search: For individuals who were convicted and sentenced to state custody, the Georgia Department of Corrections Offender Database provides information about current and former inmates.
County Sheriff's Office Websites: Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup tools or arrest record databases. For example:
Georgia Courts Automated Information System: The Georgia Courts Automated Information System provides access to court records, which may include information about arrests that led to court proceedings.
Third-party background check services: Various commercial services aggregate public records, including arrest information. However, these services may charge fees and the information may not always be complete or up-to-date.

When using online resources, it's important to verify the accuracy of the information obtained, as digital records may sometimes contain errors or may not be updated to reflect the final disposition of cases.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Georgia?

Under Georgia law, arrest records are generally available to the following individuals and entities:

General public: Most arrest records are considered public information and can be accessed by any Georgia resident or organization, with certain exceptions for sealed or expunged records.
The arrested individual: Persons can always request their own criminal history information from the GCIC or the arresting agency.
Law enforcement agencies: Police departments, sheriff's offices, and other law enforcement agencies have full access to arrest records for official purposes.
Courts and prosecutors: The judicial system has access to arrest records for case processing and decision-making.
Licensed attorneys: Lawyers may access arrest records for case preparation and client representation.
Employers for certain positions: Some employers, particularly those in sensitive industries like education, healthcare, finance, and security, may have enhanced access to conduct background checks as required by law.
Government agencies: Various government entities may access arrest records for licensing, certification, or employment purposes.
Research institutions: With proper protocols and anonymization, research organizations may access arrest data for statistical analysis.

While many people can access arrest records, there are legal restrictions on how this information can be used, particularly in employment and housing decisions.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Georgia?

Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining arrest records in Georgia. The fee structure varies depending on the agency providing the records and the method of request:

Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC): The standard fee for a criminal history record is $25.00 per name search as of 2025. Additional fees may apply for fingerprint-based searches.
County Sheriff's Offices: Fees vary by county, typically ranging from $15 to $30 per record.
Municipal Police Departments: Local police departments may charge administrative fees for copying and processing record requests, usually between $10 and $25.
Court Records: Court clerks typically charge copying fees, often $1-5 per page, with additional certification fees if required.
Online Access: Some online systems require subscription fees or per-record charges, typically ranging from $5 to $30 depending on the level of detail provided.

Fee waivers or reductions may be available in certain circumstances, such as for indigent individuals or for governmental or non-profit organizations conducting research in the public interest. It's advisable to contact the specific agency from which you're requesting records to confirm current fee schedules.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Georgia

Georgia maintains arrest records for extended periods, often for the lifetime of the individual. The retention policies are as follows:

Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC): Criminal history records, including arrests, are generally maintained indefinitely unless specifically ordered to be expunged or sealed by a court.
Law Enforcement Agencies: Local police departments and sheriff's offices typically retain arrest records for the duration of an individual's life, though policies may vary by jurisdiction.
Court Records: Court records related to arrests and subsequent proceedings are generally maintained permanently, though access may be restricted for sealed or expunged cases.
Department of Corrections: Records of individuals who were incarcerated following conviction are maintained indefinitely.

The Georgia Records Act governs the retention of government records, including arrest records, and establishes minimum retention periods. However, many agencies maintain these records well beyond the minimum requirements, particularly in digital format where storage constraints are less significant.

It's worth noting that even when records are officially expunged or sealed, certain government agencies may still maintain access to this information for law enforcement or national security purposes, though such access is strictly regulated.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Georgia Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Georgia, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted to protect privacy and prevent identity theft:

Personal identifying information:
- Social Security Numbers are typically redacted or limited to the last four digits
- Driver's license numbers
- Financial account information
- Medical information
- Dates of birth may be partially redacted in some public-facing systems
Juvenile records: Arrest records for individuals under 17 years of age are generally not available to the public unless the juvenile was charged as an adult.
Sealed or expunged records: Information about arrests that have been legally sealed or expunged should not appear in public records.
Victim information: Details that could identify victims, particularly in sensitive cases like sexual assault or domestic violence, may be redacted.
Ongoing investigations: Information related to pending investigations may be temporarily restricted.
National security information: Details that could compromise national security or ongoing law enforcement operations.
First offender and conditional discharge cases: Records of cases successfully completed under Georgia's First Offender Act or conditional discharge provisions may be restricted from public view.
Mental health information: Details about an individual's mental health status or treatment are typically redacted.

The specific information redacted may vary depending on the agency providing the records and the purpose for which they are being released. Law enforcement agencies and courts have access to complete, unredacted records for official purposes.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Georgia

Georgia law provides several mechanisms for sealing or destroying arrest records under specific circumstances:

Record Restriction (Expungement): Under O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37, individuals may be eligible to have their arrest records restricted from public view if:
- The case was dismissed or nolle prossed
- The individual was found not guilty
- The case was resolved through a dead docket for at least 12 months
- The individual successfully completed a pre-trial diversion program
- The conviction was vacated or reversed
First Offender Act: Under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60, first-time offenders who successfully complete their sentence without any violations can have their records sealed from public view.
Conditional Discharge: Similar to the First Offender Act, certain drug offenses may qualify for conditional discharge under O.C.G.A. § 16-13-2, which can result in record restriction upon successful completion.
Retroactive First Offender Treatment: Individuals who were eligible for first offender treatment but did not receive it at sentencing may petition the court for retroactive first offender status.
Pardons: The Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles can issue pardons, though this does not automatically seal records.

The process typically involves:

Filing a petition with the appropriate court
Paying applicable filing fees
Attending a hearing (in some cases)
Notifying the prosecuting attorney's office
Waiting for judicial review and decision

Even when records are restricted from public view, they remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and may be considered in subsequent criminal proceedings.

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

Georgia law imposes several limitations on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment and housing contexts:

Employment Decisions: Under the Fair Business Practices Act and federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers must:
- Obtain written consent before conducting background checks
- Provide notice before taking adverse action based on arrest records
- Consider the nature and gravity of the offense, time passed since the offense, and relevance to the specific job
Housing Decisions: Landlords and property managers must follow fair housing laws when using arrest records in tenant screening, avoiding practices that have a disparate impact on protected classes.
Licensing and Certification: While professional licensing boards may consider criminal history, they are generally required to have clear policies about how arrests (as opposed to convictions) factor into decisions.
Restricted Records: It is unlawful to discriminate against individuals based on arrest records that have been legally restricted or expunged.
Ban the Box Provisions: Some jurisdictions in Georgia have adopted "ban the box" policies that prohibit employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications.
Private Use Restrictions: Georgia law prohibits using arrest record information to intimidate, harass, or blackmail individuals.
Commercial Limitations: Companies that compile and sell criminal history information must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act, ensuring accuracy and providing dispute mechanisms.

Violations of these limitations can result in civil liability, administrative penalties, and in some cases, criminal charges. Individuals who believe their arrest records have been improperly used may have recourse through various state and federal laws.

Lookup Arrest Records in Georgia

Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI)
3121 Panthersville Road
Decatur, GA 30034
(404) 244-2600
Georgia Bureau of Investigation

Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC)
3121 Panthersville Road
Decatur, GA 30034
(404) 244-2639
Georgia Crime Information Center

Georgia Department of Public Safety
959 East Confederate Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30316
(404) 624-7000
Georgia Department of Public Safety

Georgia Department of Corrections
300 Patrol Road
Forsyth, GA 31029
(478) 992-5101
Georgia Department of Corrections

Georgia Court System
244 Washington Street SW, Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-5171
Georgia Courts

Supreme Court of Georgia
330 Capitol Avenue SE
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-3470
Supreme Court of Georgia

Georgia Court of Appeals
47 Trinity Avenue SW, Suite 501
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-3450
Georgia Court of Appeals

Georgia Attorney General's Office
40 Capitol Square SW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-3300
Georgia Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices:

Fulton County Sheriff's Office
185 Central Avenue SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 612-5100
Fulton County Sheriff's Office

DeKalb County Sheriff's Office
4415 Memorial Drive
Decatur, GA 30032
(404) 298-8100
DeKalb County Sheriff's Office

Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office
2900 University Parkway
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
(770) 619-6500
Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office

Cobb County Sheriff's Office
185 Roswell Street
Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 499-4600
Cobb County Sheriff's Office

Clayton County Sheriff's Office
9157 Tara Boulevard
Jonesboro, GA 30236
(770) 477-4400
Clayton County Sheriff's Office

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office
498 Chattin Drive
Canton, GA 30115
(678) 493-4200
Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Forsyth County Sheriff's Office
202 Veterans Memorial Boulevard
Cumming, GA 30040
(770) 781-2222
Forsyth County Sheriff's Office

Hall County Sheriff's Office
2859 Browns Bridge Road
Gainesville, GA 30504
(770) 531-6900
Hall County Sheriff's Office

Richmond County Sheriff's Office
400 Walton Way
Augusta, GA 30901
(706) 821-1000
Richmond County Sheriff's Office

Chatham County Sheriff's Office
1050 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
(912) 652-7600
Chatham County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments:

Atlanta Police Department
226 Peachtree Street SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 614-6544
Atlanta Police Department

Savannah Police Department
201 Habersham Street
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 651-6675
Savannah Police Department

Columbus Police Department
510 10th Street
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 653-3100
Columbus Police Department

Macon-Bibb County Police Department
668 Oglethorpe Street
Macon, GA 31201
(478) 751-7500
Macon-Bibb County Sheriff's Office

Federal Agencies Operating in Georgia:

FBI Atlanta Field Office
3000 Flowers Road South
Atlanta, GA 30341
(770) 216-3000
FBI Atlanta

U.S. Marshals Service - Northern District of Georgia
Richard B. Russell Federal Building
75 Ted Turner Drive SW, Suite 1600
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 331-6833
U.S. Marshals Service

Federal Bureau of Prisons - Atlanta Regional Office
3800 Camp Creek Parkway SW
Building 2000
Atlanta, GA 30331
(678) 686-1200
Federal Bureau of Prisons

U.S. District Court - Northern District of Georgia
Richard B. Russell Federal Building
2211 United States Courthouse
75 Ted Turner Drive SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 215-1600
U.S. District Court - Northern District of Georgia