Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records are official documents that show when someone was taken into custody by law enforcement. These records include names, dates, charges, booking details, and sometimes mugshots. People request them for background checks, legal cases, employment screening, or personal research. The city and county provide several ways to get these records, including online databases, in-person visits, and mailed requests. Each method has specific rules, fees, and processing times. Knowing how to access these records correctly saves time and avoids mistakes. This page explains every step, source, and cost so you can get the information you need quickly and legally.
How to Request Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records Officially
To get official Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records, you must follow the Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA). Start by downloading the GRAMA Request for Records form from the Salt Lake City Police Department website. Fill it out completely, print it, and sign it in front of a notary public. Attach a certified check or money order for $10 made payable to the Unified Police Department. Mail the entire packet to 3365 South 900 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84119. The department processes requests Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and typically sends records within 15 business days. If your report is over 50 pages, add $0.25 per extra page. Photocopies cost $0.10 each. Always keep a copy of your request for your records.
In-Person Access at the Records Division
You can also get Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records in person at the Records Division, located at 237 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84101. Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Complete the same GRAMA form used for mail requests. Staff will help you locate the files you need. In-person visits are best for urgent requests or when you want to review documents before copying. The office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. No appointment is needed, but lines may be long during peak hours. Ask for a receipt after payment to confirm your transaction.
Online Databases for Recent Arrests and Mugshots
The Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office runs a public online database that lists recent arrests, traffic citations, warrants, and mugshots from the past 30 days. This site updates every night and links each entry to a downloadable PDF report. You can search by name, date range, or case number. The portal also shows booking details like charge descriptions, bond amounts, and thumbnail mugshots. While helpful for quick checks, this database does not replace an official background check. For legal or employment use, always request certified copies from the Records Division. The site refreshes every four hours, so new arrests appear fast.
Understanding Fees and Payment Options
Fees for Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records follow city code § 2.64.130. The base cost is $10 for reports up to 50 pages. Each additional page costs $0.25. Traffic accident reports use the same fee schedule. Standard photocopies are $0.10 per page. Payments can be made by check, money order, or electronic transfer. Cash is not accepted by mail. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want documents returned by post. The department provides an itemized receipt for every payment. Processing takes up to ten business days after they receive your request. Delays happen if forms are incomplete or fees are missing.
Types of Records Available Through the System
Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records include more than just arrest logs. You can access misdemeanor convictions, felony arrests, sex offender registry information (when applicable), traffic citations, and both resolved and pending court charges. The system also holds search warrants, incident narratives, officer action reports, and daily arrest entries. Each file is indexed by case number, date, and involved parties. Researchers can request original paper files or certified digital copies. Some records, like juvenile arrests, may be sealed or restricted by law. Always specify the type of record you need on your request form to avoid delays.
Historical Arrest Registers from 1871 to 1894
Historic Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records from 1871–1878 and 1891–1894 are preserved in the Utah State Archives. These ledgers take up about 2 cubic feet of space and are stored in a climate-controlled room. Each book lists the defendant’s name, age, alleged offense, arresting officer, and case outcome. Researchers must schedule an appointment to view them in the public reading room. Staff can provide microfilm copies or high-resolution scans for academic or genealogical work. These records offer rare insight into early law enforcement in Utah. They are not available online and require advance planning to access.
Crime Statistics and Public Safety Data
In 2017, the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office recorded 54,617 criminal incidents. Of those, 31,274 were property crimes, 18,903 were violent offenses, and 4,440 involved drugs. These numbers help track crime trends and guide police resource allocation. While older than five years, this data still serves as a benchmark for researchers and policymakers. More recent stats may be available through the Utah Department of Public Safety or local news reports. Always check the date of any statistic to ensure accuracy. Crime data does not include arrest records but helps explain why certain records exist.
Common Reasons People Request Arrest Records
People ask for Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records for many reasons. Employers use them for background checks before hiring. Lawyers need them for court cases or client defense. Landlords check tenants for safety. Individuals review their own history or help family members. Journalists and researchers study crime patterns. Each use requires the same official process. Never rely on third-party websites for legal decisions. Only government-issued records are valid for employment, housing, or court. Always verify the source and certification status before using any document.
What’s Not Included in Public Arrest Records
Not all police information is public. Juvenile arrest records are usually sealed by law. Ongoing investigations may be withheld to protect evidence. Medical information, social security numbers, and home addresses are redacted. Some sex offender details are restricted to prevent harassment. Federal crimes handled by agencies like the FBI are not in local databases. If a record is missing or incomplete, contact the Records Division for clarification. Never assume a lack of record means no arrest occurred. Always follow up with official channels for confirmation.
How to Correct Errors in Your Arrest Record
If you find a mistake in your Salt Lake City Police Arrest Record, contact the Records Division immediately. Bring valid ID and any proof that shows the error, such as a court dismissal notice or expungement order. The department will review your case and update files if needed. Corrections can take several weeks. If the error affects your background check, ask for a corrected certified copy. Keep all communication in writing. If the issue isn’t resolved, you may need to file a formal appeal or seek legal help. Accurate records protect your rights and reputation.
Third-Party Websites vs. Official Sources
Many websites claim to offer free Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records, but most are not official. They often charge hidden fees, show outdated data, or sell your information. Only the Unified Police Department, Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and Utah State Archives provide verified records. Third-party sites may link to public databases but cannot certify documents. For legal, employment, or housing purposes, always use government sources. Bookmark the official GRAMA request page and avoid clicking on ads or pop-ups. Trust only .gov or .org domains ending in utah.gov.
Emergency Access and Urgent Requests
In emergencies, such as custody disputes or active warrants, you can request expedited processing. Call the Records Division at (801) 743-7000 and explain the situation. Bring proof of urgency, like a court order or lawyer letter. The department may prioritize your request but cannot guarantee same-day service. For life-threatening cases, contact the on-duty supervisor. Never lie about urgency—it can delay future requests. Most urgent needs still require a completed GRAMA form and proper ID. Plan ahead whenever possible.
Privacy Laws and Your Rights
Utah law protects your privacy while allowing public access to arrest records. GRAMA balances transparency with personal rights. You have the right to request your own records without explanation. Others can request them too, but sensitive details may be hidden. If you believe a record is being misused, file a complaint with the Utah State Records Committee. You can also request redaction of certain details if they pose a safety risk. Know your rights under Utah Code § 63G-2. Always read the fine print on request forms to understand what you’re agreeing to.
How Long Records Stay Public
Most Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records remain public indefinitely unless sealed by a judge. Expunged records are removed from public view but may still exist in secure archives. Misdemeanors can be expunged after three to seven years, depending on the crime. Felonies take longer. Traffic citations stay on file for five to ten years. Check with the Utah Courts for expungement eligibility. Once cleared, request a new background check to confirm removal. Old records don’t disappear automatically—you must apply for clearance.
Visiting the Utah State Archives
To view historic Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records, visit the Utah State Archives at 300 S. Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84119. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (801) 531-3848 to schedule an appointment. Bring photo ID and a list of specific records you want to see. Staff will retrieve materials from storage. Photography is allowed in most cases. Scans and copies cost extra. Plan for at least one hour per visit. The archives do not mail original documents. Use this resource for research, not legal proof.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records, contact the Unified Police Department Records Division at 237 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84101. Phone: (801) 743-7000. Email: records@slc.gov. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Utah State Archives is at 300 S. Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84119. Phone: (801) 531-3848. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Always call ahead to confirm hours, especially during holidays. Staff are trained to help with GRAMA requests and record searches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records
People often ask how to get arrest records, how much they cost, and where to find them. Below are answers to the most common questions. Each response is based on current Utah law and department policy. If your question isn’t listed, call the Records Division for help. Never guess—wrong steps can delay your request or cost extra money. Use this FAQ as a quick reference before submitting any forms.
Can I get someone else’s arrest record?
Yes, but with limits. Utah law allows anyone to request public arrest records, including those of other people. However, sensitive details like addresses, phone numbers, and medical info will be removed. Juvenile records are usually not available. If the person is a victim or involved in an active case, access may be denied. Always provide a valid reason if asked. Third-party sites often sell this data, but only official sources give certified copies. Never use arrest records to harass or discriminate. Misuse can lead to legal trouble.
How long does it take to receive records by mail?
Mail requests take up to 15 business days after the department receives your packet. Processing starts only after they confirm your form is complete, notarized, and paid. Delays happen if the check bounces or the envelope lacks postage. During busy periods, like after major events, wait times may increase. You’ll get documents by mail unless you ask for pickup. Track your request by saving the receipt. If you don’t hear back in three weeks, call (801) 743-7000. Expedited service is not available by mail.
Are mugshots part of public arrest records?
Yes, mugshots taken during booking are public in Salt Lake City. They appear in the county’s online database and can be requested via GRAMA. However, posting them online does not mean the person is guilty. Many mugshots show people before trial or charges are dropped. Some states restrict mugshot use, but Utah allows broad access. Employers and landlords should not judge based on photos alone. Always verify charges and outcomes through court records. Mugshots are for identification, not character assessment.
Can I search arrest records for free online?
You can view recent arrests for free on the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s public database. It shows names, charges, dates, and mugshots from the last 30 days. However, downloading full reports or getting certified copies costs money. Free searches are good for quick checks but not for legal use. For employment, housing, or court, you need an official document with a seal. Never pay third-party sites that promise “free” full records—they often steal your data or charge later. Stick to .gov websites for safety.
What if my arrest was expunged?
If your arrest was expunged by a judge, it should no longer appear in public searches. Contact the Records Division to confirm removal. Bring your expungement order and ID. They will update their system and provide a clean background letter. Note that some databases, like mugshot sites, may still show old photos. Report these to the website owner or file a complaint with the Utah Attorney General. Expungement protects your future—use it to clear your name with employers and landlords.
Do I need a lawyer to request records?
No, you don’t need a lawyer to get Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records. Anyone can submit a GRAMA request. Lawyers often help with complex cases, like sealed records or appeals, but it’s not required. The process is designed for public use. Fill out the form, pay the fee, and wait. If you’re unsure, call the Records Division for guidance. They can’t give legal advice but will explain steps. Save money by doing it yourself unless your case involves court or privacy issues.
Are traffic tickets included in arrest records?
Yes, traffic citations that lead to arrest are part of Salt Lake City Police Arrest Records. Minor tickets paid by mail without arrest are not. Only when you’re taken into custody does it become an arrest record. These files include the officer’s report, your statement, and court outcomes. Request them the same way as other police reports. Keep in mind that traffic arrests stay on file longer than parking tickets. Always check your record before applying for jobs that require driving.
For official requests, visit the Unified Police Department at 237 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84101. Phone: (801) 743-7000. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Utah State Archives is located at 300 S. Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84119. Phone: (801) 531-3848. Both offices follow GRAMA guidelines and provide certified records upon request.