New Jersey Arrest Records

New Jersey Public Records /New Jersey Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in New Jersey?

Yes. Arrest records in New Jersey are generally considered public records under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA), N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq., which provides citizens the right to access government records. Basic arrest and booking information—such as arrest reports, police blotters, and related court filings—may be obtained from local police departments, county sheriff’s offices, and the New Jersey Judiciary. The New Jersey State Police – Criminal Information Unit maintains the central statewide repository of criminal history record information.

However, access to full criminal history reports is restricted. Under N.J.S.A. 53:1-20.6, detailed arrest and criminal history records may only be released to the individual named in the record, law enforcement, or statutorily authorized entities. Juvenile arrest records are confidential under N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60, and arrests that have been sealed or expunged pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:52-1 et seq. are not available to the public. Additionally, records relating to ongoing investigations or containing sensitive personal information may be withheld to protect privacy and the integrity of law enforcement activities.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in New Jersey?

Access to arrest records in New Jersey is primarily governed by the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq. This comprehensive legislation, enacted in 2002, establishes the framework for public access to government records, including those related to arrests and criminal proceedings.

OPRA operates under the fundamental principle that government records should be readily accessible to the public for inspection, copying, or examination. The law defines "government record" broadly to include all information maintained or kept on file by public agencies in the course of their official business.

In addition to OPRA, several other laws and regulations impact access to arrest records:

The Criminal History Record Information Act regulates the dissemination of criminal history information.
Executive Order No. 69 (Whitman, 1997) provides additional guidance on the confidentiality of certain criminal investigatory records.
The Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) Security Policy establishes standards for the security of criminal justice information.
N.J.S.A. 2C:52-1 through 2C:52-32 governs the expungement of criminal records.

The Government Records Council (GRC) was established under OPRA to adjudicate disputes regarding access to government records and to provide guidance on the implementation of the law. The GRC offers resources to help both requestors and custodians understand their rights and responsibilities under OPRA.

It's worth noting that while OPRA creates a presumption of access to government records, it also recognizes numerous exceptions where access may be denied to protect privacy, safety, and other important interests. These exceptions are particularly relevant to arrest records, which often contain sensitive personal information.

What Information Is Included in a New Jersey Arrest Record?

A typical New Jersey arrest record contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records serve as official documentation of an arrest and typically include:

Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Address at time of arrest
- Social Security Number (often partially redacted in public versions)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Booking information
- Detention facility information
Criminal Charges:
- Specific charges filed
- Statutory citations for alleged violations
- Classification of offenses (indictable offenses, disorderly persons offenses, etc.)
- Description of the alleged criminal activity
Case Processing Information:
- Court docket numbers
- Bail or detention determinations
- Court appearance dates
- Case disposition (if available)
- Sentencing information (if applicable)
Criminal History:
- Prior arrests and convictions (in comprehensive records)
- Probation or parole status

It's important to understand that the level of detail available in publicly accessible arrest records may be less comprehensive than what is contained in the full law enforcement or court records. Certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted when records are released to the general public, in accordance with privacy protections under New Jersey law.

Law enforcement agencies maintain more detailed internal records that may include additional information such as witness statements, investigative notes, and other evidence. These more comprehensive records are generally not available through standard public records requests and may require court orders or specific authorization for access.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in New Jersey in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in New Jersey involves several potential methods, depending on the specific information needed and your relationship to the case. The following procedures are current as of 2025:

In-Person Requests

For local arrest records, you can visit the police department or law enforcement agency where the arrest occurred. Most agencies require:

A completed records request form
Valid photo identification
Payment of applicable fees
Specific information about the record being requested (name, date of arrest, case number if available)

For state-level criminal history information, you can visit:

New Jersey State Police Records and Identification Section
P.O. Box 7068
West Trenton, NJ 08628
(609) 882-2000
New Jersey State Police

Public counter hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

By Mail

To request arrest records by mail:

Download and complete the appropriate request form from the agency's website
Include a copy of your identification
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope
Include payment for applicable fees
Mail to the appropriate agency

Through OPRA Requests

The Open Public Records Act (OPRA) provides a formal process for requesting government records:

Submit an OPRA request form to the records custodian of the relevant agency
Be specific about the records you're seeking
Pay any applicable fees
Agencies must respond within seven business days

For Court Records Related to Arrests

Visit the courthouse where the case was processed or use the New Jersey Courts' online systems:

New Jersey Judiciary
Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex
25 Market Street
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 421-6100
New Jersey Courts

Public counter hours vary by courthouse; most operate Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

How to Find Arrest Records Online in New Jersey

New Jersey offers several online resources for accessing arrest records and related information digitally. These platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though they may have limitations regarding the scope and detail of available information.

Official Government Portals

New Jersey Courts Public Access System
The New Jersey Courts Public Access system allows searches of court records, including criminal cases resulting from arrests. Users can search by name or case number to find information about charges, court dates, and case dispositions.
New Jersey Department of Corrections Offender Search
The NJDOC Offender Search provides information about individuals currently incarcerated or under supervision. While not an arrest record database per se, it can confirm if an arrest led to incarceration.
New Jersey State Police Sex Offender Registry
The NJ Sex Offender Registry provides information about registered sex offenders, including arrest and conviction details for qualifying offenses.

Important Considerations for Online Searches

When searching for arrest records online in New Jersey:

Most systems require basic information such as full name and date of birth
Some records may be restricted or redacted online
Recent arrests may not appear immediately in online databases
Court records may be more readily available online than police arrest records
Commercial background check services may not distinguish between arrests and convictions

For the most comprehensive and accurate information, combining online searches with formal records requests is often the best approach. Remember that online systems typically do not provide certified copies of records, which may be required for official purposes.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in New Jersey?

Access to arrest records in New Jersey varies depending on the requester's identity and purpose. The state's laws create a tiered system of access that balances public transparency with privacy protections.

General Public Access

Under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), members of the general public can access basic arrest information, including:

The arrestee's name
Date and location of arrest
Charges filed
Arresting agency
Court case numbers

However, certain personal identifying information is typically redacted, and access may be limited for ongoing investigations or juvenile cases.

Enhanced Access Categories

Certain individuals and organizations have broader access rights:

The Record Subject
Individuals have the right to access their own complete arrest records, including information that might be redacted in public versions.
Legal Representatives
Attorneys representing the record subject or parties to related legal proceedings can access more comprehensive records with proper authorization.
Criminal Justice Agencies
Law enforcement, courts, corrections, and other criminal justice agencies have full access to arrest records for official purposes.
Authorized Government Agencies
Certain government agencies may access arrest records for specific statutory purposes, such as licensing, employment screening for sensitive positions, or child protection investigations.
Researchers
Academic and policy researchers may access anonymized arrest data or, with proper protocols and approvals, more detailed records for legitimate research purposes.

Special Circumstances

Some situations create unique access considerations:

Employers: Under the Opportunity to Compete Act (N.J.S.A. 34:6B-11 to 19), employers are restricted from inquiring about arrest records during initial employment applications.
Housing Providers: Landlords and housing authorities may have limited access to arrest records for screening purposes, subject to fair housing laws.
Media Organizations: Journalists often have the same access rights as the general public but may receive expedited processing of records requests for matters of public interest.

The Government Records Council provides guidance on access rights and can mediate disputes about record availability. Their decisions help establish consistent practices across New Jersey's various records custodians.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in New Jersey?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in New Jersey typically involves fees that vary depending on the type of record requested, the agency providing the record, and the method of access. These fees are authorized under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and other relevant statutes.

Standard OPRA Request Fees

For basic arrest record requests under OPRA, the fee structure is as follows:

Paper copies: $0.05 per letter-size page or smaller
Legal-size pages: $0.07 per page
Electronic records: Generally provided free of charge when records exist in electronic format
Special service charges: May apply for extraordinary requests requiring extensive use of technology or staff time

Criminal History Record Checks

For comprehensive criminal history information from the New Jersey State Police:

Name-based criminal history check: $41.00
Fingerprint-based criminal history check: $42.80 for state check only
Combined state and FBI check: $65.25 (required for certain employment and licensing purposes)

Court Records Fees

The New Jersey Judiciary charges separate fees for court records related to arrests:

Regular copies: $0.10 per page
Certified copies: $25.00 for first five pages, $1.00 each additional page
Electronic access: Some records available online through PROMIS/Gavel Public Access at no charge

Fee Waivers

Fee waivers may be available in certain circumstances:

Indigent individuals: May request fee waivers with proof of financial hardship
Public interest: Fees may be waived when the information primarily benefits the general public
Government agencies: Often exempt from fees when requesting records for official purposes

Payment Methods

Most agencies accept:

Cash (in-person only)
Personal checks
Money orders
Credit cards (varies by agency)
Electronic payments (for online systems)

It's advisable to confirm the exact fees and accepted payment methods with the specific agency before submitting a request. Fees are subject to change and may be updated periodically through administrative rules or legislative action.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in New Jersey

New Jersey maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record, the outcome of the case, and the agency maintaining the information. These retention policies are governed by state law and administrative regulations.

Standard Retention Periods

The New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, Records Management Services establishes retention schedules for government records, including arrest records:

Arrest reports: Generally maintained for at least 75 years from the date of arrest
Fingerprint records: Retained permanently by the State Bureau of Identification
Booking photographs: Typically kept for the same duration as the corresponding arrest report
Investigation reports: Usually retained for at least 75 years for serious offenses; shorter periods may apply for minor offenses

Retention Based on Case Outcome

The disposition of a case affects how long records are maintained:

Convictions: Records of arrests resulting in convictions are typically maintained permanently
Dismissals: Records may be eligible for earlier destruction or expungement, but are often maintained for extended periods unless expunged
Diversionary programs: Records of arrests resolved through programs like Pre-Trial Intervention may be eligible for expungement after successful completion and waiting periods

Digital vs. Physical Records

With the transition to digital record-keeping, retention practices have evolved:

Digital records: May be maintained indefinitely due to lower storage costs
Physical records: Often digitized after certain periods, with original documents destroyed according to retention schedules
Microfilm/microfiche: Older records may be stored in these formats with extended retention periods

Records Maintained by Different Agencies

Different agencies maintain separate copies of arrest records with their own retention schedules:

Local police departments: Follow municipal records retention schedules
New Jersey State Police: Maintain central repository records according to state schedules
County prosecutors: Retain case files according to prosecutorial retention schedules
Courts: Maintain case records according to judicial retention policies

It's important to note that even when official retention periods expire, information about arrests may persist in secondary sources such as news archives, commercial background check databases, and other non-governmental repositories that are not subject to the same retention limitations.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in New Jersey Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released in New Jersey, certain types of information are routinely redacted or restricted to protect privacy, safety, and the integrity of the criminal justice process. These redactions are mandated by various provisions of state law, including OPRA exemptions and court rules.

Personally Identifiable Information

The following personal information is typically redacted from publicly available arrest records:

Social Security numbers
Driver's license numbers
Complete dates of birth (often limited to year of birth only)
Home addresses of arrestees (may be partially redacted)
Telephone numbers
Email addresses
Financial account information

Sensitive Case Information

Certain case-specific information may be restricted:

Information that would jeopardize ongoing investigations
Names and identifying information of confidential informants
Undercover officer identities
Grand jury materials
Details that would compromise security measures or procedures
Information that would create a risk to public safety if disclosed

Protected Populations

Records involving certain populations receive enhanced protection:

Juvenile records: Arrests of individuals under 18 are generally confidential under N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60
Domestic violence victims: Identifying information is often redacted
Sexual assault victims: Names and identifying details are protected under the Sexual Assault Victim's Bill of Rights
Human trafficking victims: Special confidentiality protections apply

Medical and Treatment Information

Health-related information is typically redacted, including:

Medical conditions and history
Mental health information
Substance abuse treatment records
HIV/AIDS status
Other protected health information under HIPAA and state medical privacy laws

Expunged or Sealed Records

Information about arrests that have been legally expunged or sealed is restricted from public disclosure. Law enforcement agencies and courts are prohibited from acknowledging the existence of expunged records except in limited circumstances authorized by law.

Redaction Process

When processing record requests, custodians review documents to identify restricted information. Redaction methods include:

Blacking out text in paper copies
Electronic redaction in digital documents
Providing summary information rather than complete records
Creating public versions of documents with restricted information removed

Requestors who believe information has been improperly redacted can appeal to the Government Records Council or file an action in Superior Court to challenge the redactions.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in New Jersey

New Jersey law provides several mechanisms for sealing or destroying arrest records under specific circumstances. The primary method is through the expungement process, which effectively removes arrests and related proceedings from public access.

Expungement Eligibility

Under N.J.S.A. 2C:52-1 et seq., expungement may be available for:

Arrests that did not lead to conviction
- Dismissals: Eligible immediately
- Acquittals: Eligible immediately
- Diversion program completions: Waiting periods may apply
Convictions for eligible offenses
- Disorderly persons offenses: 5-year waiting period (reducible to 3 years)
- Petty disorderly persons offenses: 5-year waiting period (reducible to 3 years)
- Indictable offenses (felonies): 10-year waiting period (reducible to 5 years)
- Young drug offenders: Special provisions under N.J.S.A. 2C:52-5
Clean Slate Expungement
- Automatic process for eligible records after 10 years without new convictions

Ineligible Offenses

Certain serious offenses cannot be expunged, including:

Homicide
Kidnapping
Sexual assault
Robbery
Arson
Perjury
Distribution of controlled dangerous substances (with exceptions)
Motor vehicle offenses (handled separately under motor vehicle laws)

Expungement Process

Petition Preparation
- Complete expungement petition forms (available from the New Jersey Courts website)
- Gather supporting documentation (disposition records, criminal history)
- Pay filing fees (approximately $75, waivable for indigent applicants)
Filing the Petition
- File with the Superior Court in the county where the arrest/prosecution occurred
- Serve copies on all relevant agencies (prosecutor, police, etc.)
Court Review
- Court reviews eligibility and objections
- Hearing may be scheduled if objections are filed
- Judge issues expungement order if petition is granted
Distribution of Order
- Court or petitioner distributes signed order to all agencies
- Agencies must comply within 30 days

Effect of Expungement

Once an expungement order is granted:

Records are removed from public access
The arrest is treated as if it never occurred for most purposes
The individual may legally deny the arrest in most circumstances

Legal Assistance

Due to the complexity of expungement law, seeking legal assistance is advisable. Resources include:

Legal Services of New Jersey
County bar association referral services
Law school clinical programs
Pro bono legal services

Recent reforms have expanded eligibility and streamlined the expungement process in New Jersey, making relief more accessible to those with eligible records.

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in New Jersey?

New Jersey law imposes significant restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These limitations aim to prevent discrimination against individuals with arrest histories and promote rehabilitation and reintegration.

Employment Restrictions

The Opportunity to Compete Act (N.J.S.A. 34:6B-11 to 19), commonly known as the "Ban the Box" law, restricts employers from:

Inquiring about criminal records on initial employment applications
Advertising that individuals with arrest records will not be considered for employment
Considering expunged records in employment decisions

Employers may conduct background checks only after the initial interview or conditional offer of employment. When using arrest information, employers must consider:

The nature and gravity of the offense
The time elapsed since the arrest or conviction
The nature of the job sought
Evidence of rehabilitation

Housing Limitations

While no specific state law addresses the use of arrest records in housing decisions, landlords and housing providers are subject to:

Fair housing laws prohibiting discriminatory practices
Limitations on considering expunged records
Requirements to provide specific reasons for denial based on criminal history

Public housing authorities follow federal HUD guidelines regarding the consideration of arrest records, which generally require individualized assessments rather than blanket bans.

Licensing Restrictions

Professional licensing boards in New Jersey are governed by the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts, which:

Prohibits denial of licenses based solely on arrest records without convictions
Requires consideration of rehabilitation and fitness for the profession
Mandates that licensing decisions based on criminal history be related to the specific occupation

Credit and Financial Services

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state consumer protection laws limit how arrest information can be used in credit decisions:

Arrests that did not lead to conviction generally cannot be reported after seven years
Users of consumer reports must notify individuals when adverse actions are taken based on report information
Individuals have the right to dispute inaccurate information

Education Limitations

Educational institutions in New Jersey face restrictions on considering arrest records:

Public K-12 schools generally cannot consider student arrest records in educational decisions
Higher education institutions must follow specific protocols when using criminal history in admissions
The Community College Opportunity Grant Program prohibits consideration of certain criminal histories

Penalties for Misuse

Improper use of arrest records can result in:

Civil liability under anti-discrimination laws
Administrative penalties from regulatory agencies
Potential criminal charges for willful violations of privacy laws

These limitations reflect New Jersey's policy of balancing public safety concerns with the recognition that arrest records, particularly those not resulting in conviction, should not create permanent barriers to opportunity.

Lookup Arrest Records in New Jersey

State Repository for Criminal History Records

New Jersey State Bureau of Identification (SBI)
New Jersey State Police Division Headquarters
P.O. Box 7068
West Trenton, NJ 08628
(609) 882-2000 ext. 2918
New Jersey State Police - Criminal History Records

State Police

New Jersey State Police
Division Headquarters
P.O. Box 7068
West Trenton, NJ 08628
(609) 882-2000
New Jersey State Police

State Department of Corrections

New Jersey Department of Corrections
Whittlesey Road
P.O. Box 863
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 292-4036
New Jersey Department of Corrections

State Court System

New Jersey Judiciary
Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex
25 Market Street
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 421-6100
New Jersey Courts

State Supreme Court

Supreme Court of New Jersey
Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex
25 Market Street
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 815-2900
New Jersey Supreme Court

Attorney General's Office

New Jersey Office of the Attorney General
Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex
25 Market Street
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 292-4925
New Jersey Office of the Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Bergen County Sheriff's Office
Justice Center, 10 Main Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 336-3500
Bergen County Sheriff's Office
Essex County Sheriff's Office
50 West Market Street
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 621-4111
Essex County Sheriff's Office
Middlesex County Sheriff's Office
701 Livingston Avenue
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 745-3271
Middlesex County Sheriff's Office
Hudson County Sheriff's Office
257 Cornelison Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 915-1300
Hudson County Sheriff's Office
Monmouth County Sheriff's Office
2500 Kozloski Road
Freehold, NJ 07728
(732) 431-7139
Monmouth County Sheriff's Office
Ocean County Sheriff's Office
120 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ 08753
(732) 929-2044
Ocean County Sheriff's Office
Camden County Sheriff's Office
520 Market Street
Camden, NJ 08102
(856) 225-5470
Camden County Sheriff's Office
Burlington County Sheriff's Office
49 Rancocas Road
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
(609) 265-5127
Burlington County Sheriff's Office
Passaic County Sheriff's Office
435 Hamburg Turnpike
Wayne, NJ 07470
(973) 389-5900
Passaic County Sheriff's Office
Morris County Sheriff's Office
Administration & Records Building
10 Court Street
Morristown, NJ 07960
(973) 285-6600
Morris County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments

Newark Police Department
311 Washington Street
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 733-6000
Newark Police Department
Jersey City Police Department
1 Journal Square Plaza
Jersey City, NJ 07306
(201) 547-5477
Jersey City Police Department
Paterson Police Department
111 Broadway
Paterson, NJ 07505
(973) 321-1111
Paterson Police Department
Elizabeth Police Department
1 Police Plaza
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
(908) 558-2000
Elizabeth Police Department
Trenton Police Department
225 North Clinton Avenue
Trenton, NJ 08609
(609) 989-4170
Trenton Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in New Jersey

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Newark Field Office
11 Centre Place
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 792-3000
FBI Newark

U.S. Marshals Service - District of New Jersey
Peter W. Rodino Federal Building
970 Broad Street, Suite 1700
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 645-2404
U.S. Marshals Service - District of New Jersey

U.S. District Court - District of New Jersey
Martin Luther King Building & U.S. Courthouse
50 Walnut Street
Newark, NJ 07101
(973) 645-3730
U.S. District Court - District of New Jersey