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Franklin Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Franklin, Ohio?

Arrest records are public documents in Franklin, Ohio, pursuant to the Ohio Public Records Act (Ohio Revised Code § 149.43). This legislation establishes that government records, including those documenting arrests made by law enforcement agencies, shall be accessible to members of the public upon request. The statute serves to promote transparency in governmental operations and accountability within the criminal justice system. Citizens of Franklin and other jurisdictions maintain the legal right to access these records as part of Ohio's commitment to open government principles.

The Franklin County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with state law. Records may be requested in person, by mail, or through designated electronic platforms. Certain information within arrest records may be redacted in compliance with privacy provisions outlined in Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(A)(1), which protects specific categories of confidential information.

How to Look Up Franklin Arrest Records in 2025

Multiple methods exist for obtaining arrest records in Franklin, Ohio as of 2025. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of these documents. Interested parties may utilize the following procedures to access arrest information:

  • Visit the Franklin County Sheriff's Office Records Division in person at 373 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Public counter hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • Submit a written request via postal mail to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Public Records Division, 373 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Requests must include the subject's full legal name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest.

  • Access the Franklin County Sheriff's public records portal for electronic submission of requests. The online system operates 24 hours per day, with processing occurring during regular business hours.

  • Utilize public access terminals located at the Franklin County Municipal Court, 375 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. These terminals are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(1), public offices must promptly prepare records and make them available for inspection at all reasonable times during regular business hours. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office typically processes record requests within 3-5 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.

Contents of a Franklin Arrest Record

Franklin County arrest records contain standardized information as mandated by Ohio Administrative Code 4501:2-10. These official documents typically include the following elements:

  • Subject's complete legal name and any documented aliases or known pseudonyms
  • Demographic information including date of birth, gender, race, and physical descriptors
  • Date, time, and specific location of the arrest
  • Statutory charges filed at the time of arrest, including Ohio Revised Code citations
  • Name and badge number of the arresting officer(s)
  • Arresting agency identification
  • Booking information including fingerprint classification and booking photograph
  • Case number and incident report reference numbers
  • Detention facility information if the subject was remanded to custody
  • Bond amount and conditions, when applicable
  • Preliminary hearing date, if scheduled at the time of processing

The Franklin County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in compliance with Ohio public records retention schedules. Pursuant to Ohio Administrative Code 4501:2-10-06, certain information may be redacted from public copies, including Social Security numbers, medical information, and information pertaining to minors.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Franklin

The expungement process in Franklin County provides a legal mechanism for the sealing of arrest records under specific circumstances as authorized by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2953. Individuals seeking expungement must meet statutory eligibility requirements and follow prescribed procedures.

Eligibility criteria for expungement in Franklin County include:

  • For non-conviction records: Individuals may apply immediately after case dismissal or acquittal under Ohio Revised Code § 2953.52.
  • For misdemeanor convictions: Applicants must wait one year after final discharge pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32.
  • For certain felony convictions: A three-year waiting period applies after final discharge as specified in Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32.
  • For first-time offenders: Special provisions exist under Ohio Revised Code § 2953.31.

The expungement procedure requires:

  1. Filing a petition with the Franklin County Municipal Court (for misdemeanors) or the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas (for felonies) at 375 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
  2. Payment of the filing fee ($50 for misdemeanors, $100 for felonies) unless granted a fee waiver.
  3. Completion of a criminal background check through the Franklin County Sheriff's Office.
  4. Attendance at a judicial hearing where the court will evaluate the petition.

The court evaluates expungement petitions based on statutory criteria including the applicant's rehabilitation, the nature of the offense, and the public interest in maintaining the record. If granted, the expungement order directs all relevant agencies to seal the records pertaining to the arrest and subsequent proceedings.

Search Arrest Records in Franklin

Franklin County Sheriff's Office
373 South High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Phone: (614) 525-3333
Official Website

Franklin County Municipal Court
375 South High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Phone: (614) 645-8186
Official Website