Are Police Records Available to the Public Online?
Police records are public documents and the public has the full right to view these records at any given time. In order to obtain access to these records you have the option of visiting the police department or there any many databases available online, which give you access to worldwide police documents.
The search criteria required to access police files; is the personal details of the person in question. Before you start searching online it is advisable to check out the credentials of the websites that offer these record search services. Those sites that state they are free, this is not the case, as once you have found the records, you will only get the record verification, the minute you try and download you will be directed to another page asking for payment.
If you are looking for a specified incident only, you will need to submit an application to the police department where the incident took place in order to obtain the records. You will need to state why you require the report and for what purpose. These types of police records can be obtained from your local police department of online. Many people question how far back police records are kept for.
Police files are retained indefinitely as they are loaded onto electronic databases and can be accessed by a person even if they date back to the 1800’s. The best way to find old police files is through online sources; that will give you comprehensive and accurate details. Once a person has been convicted of a criminal offense; this will remain on the person records until it is cleared. These records have invaluable information concerning a person and can be used as a source when doing a background check.
In order to locate police files of any individual, you will need the first and last name as well as the location of the incident. However, you need to bear in mind that police files are not criminal records; you will not be able to obtain any previous convictions in police files. The same applies to jail records. You have full right to request these files separately, as long as you have a valid reason.
In addition to police records, you have the right to submit an application to the FBI for a fingerprint check. Online websites will afford you the advantages of finding any felony charges as well as arrest records and other convictions that have been carried out by an individual.
