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Hillsboro Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Hillsboro, Ohio?

Arrest records are public documents in Hillsboro, Ohio, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43, commonly known as the Ohio Public Records Act. This statute establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are accessible to members of the public unless specifically exempted by law. The Highland County Sheriff's Office and Hillsboro Police Department maintain these records as part of their official documentation of law enforcement activities. Public access to arrest records serves multiple governmental purposes, including ensuring transparency in the criminal justice system, facilitating public safety awareness, and upholding constitutional principles regarding open government operations.

Requesters should note that while arrest records are generally public, certain information within these records may be redacted in accordance with Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(A)(1), which identifies specific categories of protected information. Such protected information typically includes Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and certain medical information that may appear in arrest documentation.

How to Look Up Hillsboro Arrest Records in 2025

Multiple methods exist for members of the public to access arrest records in Hillsboro, Ohio. The Highland County Sheriff's Office and Hillsboro Police Department maintain systems for public record retrieval in compliance with state statutes. Interested parties may utilize any of the following official channels:

  • In-person requests at the Highland County Sheriff's Office located at 130 Homestead Avenue, Hillsboro, OH 45133. Public counter hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

  • Written requests submitted via U.S. mail to the Records Division, Hillsboro Police Department, 125 North High Street, Hillsboro, OH 45133.

  • Electronic requests through the Highland County Sheriff's Office online portal, where available records may be accessed 24 hours per day.

  • Telephone inquiries directed to the Records Division at (937) 393-3411, though such requests may require follow-up documentation.

Requesters should be prepared to provide specific information to facilitate record location, including the full name of the subject, approximate date of arrest, and case number if available. Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(1), public offices must promptly prepare records for inspection during regular business hours and make copies available within a reasonable period of time.

Contents of a Hillsboro Arrest Record

Hillsboro arrest records contain standardized information as prescribed by Ohio law enforcement protocols and judicial requirements. These official documents typically include the following elements:

  • Demographic information of the arrested individual, including full legal name, date of birth, physical description, and residential address.

  • Arrest details, including date, time, and location of apprehension.

  • Statutory charges filed at the time of arrest, with reference to applicable Ohio Revised Code sections.

  • Arresting agency information, including officer identification and badge numbers.

  • Booking data, including fingerprints, photographs, and processing location.

  • Case disposition information, where applicable, indicating whether charges were filed, dismissed, or otherwise resolved.

  • Bail or bond information, including amount set and conditions of release.

  • Detention facility assignment, if the individual was remanded to custody.

The Highland County Sheriff's Office and Hillsboro Municipal Court maintain these records in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 5120:1-1, which establishes standards for record creation and retention. Authorized personnel enter this information into the Highland County Criminal Justice Information System, ensuring standardization and accessibility for legitimate public and governmental use.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Hillsboro

The expungement process in Hillsboro operates under the authority of Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2953, which provides mechanisms for sealing criminal records under specific circumstances. Individuals seeking expungement must file a petition with the Highland County Court of Common Pleas or Hillsboro Municipal Court, depending on the jurisdiction of the original case.

Eligibility criteria for expungement in Hillsboro include:

  • Completion of all terms of sentencing, including probation, community service, and payment of fines.

  • Satisfaction of statutory waiting periods, which vary based on offense classification:

    • For minor misdemeanors: One year from the date of conviction
    • For most misdemeanors: One year from final discharge
    • For eligible felonies: Three years from final discharge
  • Absence of pending criminal charges against the petitioner.

  • Demonstration that the petitioner's interest in sealing the records outweighs the government's interest in maintaining them.

The expungement procedure requires submission of Form 2953.32, Application for Sealing of Record, to the appropriate court. Filing fees apply and are established by local court rule. Upon receipt of a properly filed petition, the court schedules a hearing and notifies the Highland County Prosecutor's Office, which may object to the expungement request.

If granted, the expungement order directs all governmental agencies, including the Hillsboro Police Department, Highland County Sheriff's Office, and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, to seal the specified records. Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32(D), sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies, licensing boards, and certain employers as specified by statute, but are removed from public access.

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