Yes, arrest records are public in Baltimore, Maryland. This accessibility is in accordance with the Maryland Public Information Act, which mandates that government records, unless otherwise exempted, should be available to the public. This act ensures transparency and accountability in law enforcement by allowing citizens to access arrest records.
To get information on how to look up Baltimore arrest records in 2024, individuals have several options available. While specific methods can vary, generally, the following approaches are utilized:
A Baltimore arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Baltimore, individuals may have the opportunity to expunge their arrest records, which effectively removes the record from public access. Expungement is eligible under certain conditions, such as a nolle prosequi (charges dropped), dismissal of charges, acquittal, or completion of a probation before judgment. The individual must file a petition for expungement in the court where the arrest or prosecution occurred. The process involves submitting the required forms and sometimes attending a hearing, after which a judge will decide whether the expungement can be granted.