Washington County, Ohio Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Washington County, Ohio?
Arrest records in Washington County, Ohio are considered public documents under Ohio law. The Ohio Public Records Act (Ohio Revised Code § 149.43) establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, shall be made available for public inspection. This legislation ensures transparency in law enforcement operations and upholds the public's right to access information maintained by government agencies. Washington County law enforcement agencies are required to comply with this statute by making arrest records accessible to members of the public upon request, subject to certain statutory exemptions that may apply to ongoing investigations or juvenile matters.
Individuals seeking arrest records may obtain them from the Washington County Sheriff's Office or the Clerk of Courts. These records typically become available shortly after an arrest is processed through the county's booking system. While certain information may be redacted to protect privacy interests as prescribed by law, the fundamental details of an arrest remain accessible to promote accountability in the criminal justice system.
Can Arrest Records be Found Online in Washington County?
Washington County arrest records are available through various online platforms maintained by county agencies. The Washington County Sheriff's Office maintains a digital database that includes current booking information and an active warrant list. Additionally, the Marietta Municipal Court provides online access to case information through their public portal system.
Online accessibility is subject to the following conditions:
- Records may not be immediately available online following an arrest
- Some older records may require in-person requests at the appropriate agency
- Certain sensitive information may be redacted from online versions
- Technical limitations may occasionally affect the completeness of online records
The Washington County Clerk of Courts also maintains an electronic docket that includes information about criminal cases resulting from arrests. This system allows members of the public to search for records using name, case number, or other identifiers. Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(6), agencies may adopt policies governing the manner in which records are made available electronically.
How to Look Up Washington County Arrest Records in 2025
Washington County provides multiple channels through which members of the public may access arrest records. Individuals seeking such information may utilize the following methods:
Washington County Sheriff's Office 205 Putnam Street Marietta, OH 45750 Phone: (740) 376-7070 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Washington County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains booking records and arrest reports. Requestors may submit a public records request in person, by mail, or through the designated online portal. Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(B)(1), the Sheriff's Office must promptly prepare records for inspection during regular business hours.
Washington County Clerk of Courts 205 Putnam Street Marietta, OH 45750 Phone: (740) 373-6623 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Washington County Clerk of Courts
The Clerk's Office maintains court records related to arrests, including case filings and dispositions. Records may be requested in person or through their online case access system. A nominal fee may apply for certified copies of documents in accordance with Ohio Revised Code § 2303.20.
Marietta Municipal Court 301 Putnam Street Marietta, OH 45750 Phone: (740) 373-4474 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Marietta Municipal Court
The Municipal Court maintains records for misdemeanor arrests and cases within its jurisdiction. Their online portal provides access to case information, including scheduled hearings and case dispositions.
Third-Party Background Check Services
Commercial services aggregate public records from multiple sources. While these services may provide convenience, the information they contain may not always be current or complete. Users should verify critical information through official county sources.
Contents of a Washington County Arrest Record
Washington County arrest records contain standardized information as prescribed by Ohio law enforcement protocols. These records typically include the following elements:
- Biographical Information: Full legal name, date of birth, physical description (height, weight, eye and hair color), gender, and race
- Arrest Details: Date, time, and location of arrest; arresting agency; officer identification; and circumstances leading to the arrest
- Offense Information: Charges filed, including Ohio Revised Code citations; classification of offenses (felony or misdemeanor); and weapon involvement if applicable
- Processing Data: Booking number, fingerprint classification, and photographic identification (mugshot)
- Case Disposition: Court of jurisdiction, case number, bond information, and preliminary hearing dates
- Prior Record: Information regarding previous arrests or convictions may be referenced
In accordance with Ohio Revised Code § 149.43(A)(1)(h), certain information may be redacted from public arrest records, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and medical information. Additionally, records pertaining to victims of certain offenses may have identifying information removed prior to public disclosure.
Expungement of Arrest Records in Washington County
Washington County follows Ohio state law regarding the expungement and sealing of criminal records. Under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2953, individuals may petition for the sealing of arrest records under specific circumstances. The process requires filing a formal application with the court that had jurisdiction over the case.
Eligibility criteria for expungement in Washington County include:
- For misdemeanor convictions: Applicants must wait one year after final discharge
- For felony convictions: Applicants must wait three years after final discharge
- For cases resulting in dismissal or acquittal: Applications may be filed immediately
- First-time offenders receive priority consideration under Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32
The expungement process involves:
- Filing an application with the Washington County Clerk of Courts
- Payment of filing fees (approximately $50 for misdemeanors and $100 for felonies)
- Background check conducted by the Washington County Probation Department
- Hearing before a judge who determines whether the applicant meets statutory requirements
- Issuance of a court order directing all relevant agencies to seal records if approved
Upon successful expungement, records are sealed from public view but remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and certain employers as specified in Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32(D). Applicants with questions regarding eligibility should consult with the Washington County Public Defender's Office located at 205 Putnam Street, Marietta, OH 45750, Phone: (740) 373-6623.
Search Arrest Records in Washington County
