Nash County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Nash County

Arrest records in Nash County are considered public records under North Carolina law. Pursuant to the North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C.G.S. § 132-1), public records include "all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business by any agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions."

The distinction between arrest records and conviction records is significant. Arrest records document the apprehension and booking of an individual suspected of committing a crime, while conviction records indicate that a court has found the individual guilty of the charged offense. Under North Carolina law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.

The Nash County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county and makes them available in accordance with state law. However, pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-1.4, certain law enforcement records may be withheld if their release would jeopardize an investigation or reveal confidential informants.

It is important to note that juvenile arrest records (for individuals under 18 years of age) are generally not public information under North Carolina law, as specified in N.C.G.S. § 7B-3000, which protects the confidentiality of juvenile records.

What's in Nash County Arrest Records

Nash County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

• Full legal name (first, middle, last)
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Height and weight
• Address at time of arrest
• Identifying marks (tattoos, scars)
• Fingerprints
• Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

• Date and time of arrest
• Location of arrest
• Arresting agency (Nash County Sheriff's Office or municipal police departments)
• Arresting officer's name and badge number
• Circumstances leading to arrest

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges filed
• Statute or ordinance numbers violated
• Classification of offense (misdemeanor or felony)
• Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

• Warrant number
• Date warrant was issued
• Issuing authority
• Probable cause statement

Booking Information:

• Booking number
• Date and time of booking
• Processing officer information
• Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond amount set
• Bond type (secured, unsecured, cash)
• Whether bond was posted
• Conditions of release

Court Information:

• Court case number
• Scheduled court appearance dates
• Court location
• Assigned judge (if known)

Custody Status:

• Current detention status
• Expected release date (if applicable)
• Facility where detained

Additional Information May Include:

• Prior arrest history
• Probation/parole status
• Known aliases
• Emergency contact information
• Medical alerts or special needs

The Nash County Detention Center maintains these records as part of their inmate management system, while court-related information is maintained by the Nash County Clerk of Superior Court.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Nash County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Nash County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining arrest records:

1. In-Person Requests at the Sheriff's Office

   Individuals may visit the Nash County Sheriff's Office to request arrest records in person. Staff will assist with locating the requested information.

   Nash County Sheriff's Office
   222 W. Washington Street
   Nashville, NC 27856
   (252) 459-4121
   Nash County Sheriff's Office

   Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

2. Court Records Request

   For arrest records that have proceeded to court, individuals may contact the Nash County Clerk of Superior Court.

   Nash County Clerk of Superior Court
   234 W. Washington Street
   Nashville, NC 27856
   (252) 459-4022
   North Carolina Judicial Branch

   Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

3. Written Requests

   Submit a written request for arrest records to the Nash County Sheriff's Office Records Division. Include:

   • Full name of the person in the record
   • Date of birth or approximate age
   • Date of arrest (if known)
   • Your contact information
   • Purpose of request
   • Notarized signature (for certain requests)

4. Records Request Form

   Complete the official Nash County Sheriff's Office Records Request Form, which can be obtained in person or downloaded from the Sheriff's Office website.

When requesting arrest records, requestors must provide proper identification. Fees may apply for copies of records, typically $2.00 for the first page and $0.25 for each additional page, as authorized under N.C.G.S. § 132-6.2.

How To Find Nash County Arrest Records Online

Nash County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. The following online methods are available to the public:

1. Nash County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search

   The Nash County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides information about currently detained individuals and recent arrests.

   To use this service:

   • Visit the Nash County Sheriff's Office website
   • Navigate to the "Inmate Search" or "Current Inmates" section
   • Enter search criteria (name, booking number, or date range)
   • Review the results, which typically include booking information and charges

2. North Carolina Court System Records Search

   The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts provides an online portal for searching court records, which often contain information related to arrests.

   To access this system:

   • Visit the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
   • Select "Search Court Records"
   • Choose the appropriate search option (criminal, civil, traffic)
   • Enter the individual's name or case number
   • Review the results for case information, including associated arrests

3. North Carolina Department of Adult Correction Offender Search

   For individuals who have been convicted and sentenced to state custody, the NC Department of Adult Correction maintains an offender database.

   To use this resource:

   • Visit the NC Department of Adult Correction website
   • Select "Offender Public Information Search"
   • Enter the individual's name or offender ID
   • Review the results for current custody status and related information

When using online resources, users should be aware that the information may not be comprehensive or completely up-to-date. Additionally, pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-1.7, certain sensitive information may be redacted from online records for security purposes.

How To Search Nash County Arrest Records for Free?

Nash County residents and other interested parties can access arrest records without cost through several free resources. The following methods provide no-cost access to arrest information:

1. Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse

   The Nash County Courthouse provides public access terminals where individuals can search court records, including those related to arrests, at no charge.

   Nash County Courthouse
   234 W. Washington Street
   Nashville, NC 27856
   (252) 459-4022

   Terminal Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

2. Nash County Sheriff's Office Website

   The Nash County Sheriff's Office website offers a free inmate lookup service that provides basic information about recent arrests and current inmates.

3. North Carolina Offender Public Information

   The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction maintains a free online database of offender information, which includes individuals who have been arrested and processed into the state correctional system.

4. North Carolina Court System Public Records Search

   The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides a free online search tool for accessing court records, which often contain information about arrests that have led to court proceedings.

5. Public Records Request

   Under the North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C.G.S. § 132-6), individuals may inspect public records, including arrest records, at no cost during regular business hours. While copying fees may apply, viewing the records is free.

When using these free resources, requestors should note that:

• Some records may not be immediately available online
• Certain information may be redacted for privacy or security reasons
• Staff assistance may be limited due to workload
• More detailed records may require a formal request and possibly fees

How To Delete Arrest Records in Nash County

In North Carolina, including Nash County, arrest records cannot be "deleted" in the conventional sense, but they may be eligible for expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access) under specific circumstances. The distinction is important: expungement removes the record from public view and, in many cases, from government databases, while sealing restricts access but preserves the record for certain official purposes.

Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 15A, Article 5, the following situations may qualify for expungement in Nash County:

1. Charges Resulting in Dismissal or Not Guilty Verdict

   Under N.C.G.S. § 15A-146, individuals may petition for expungement if:

   • Charges were dismissed
   • A not guilty verdict was returned
   • The case was disposed of "without leave" (meaning the prosecutor cannot reinstate it)

2. First-Time Nonviolent Offenses

   Under N.C.G.S. § 15A-145, first-time nonviolent misdemeanor convictions may be eligible for expungement after a waiting period (typically 5 years) if:

   • The individual was under 21 at the time of the offense
   • They have no other convictions
   • They have completed all terms of their sentence

3. Drug-Related Offenses

   Under N.C.G.S. § 15A-145.2, certain drug offenses may be eligible for expungement, particularly for first-time offenders and those who were under 21 at the time of the offense.

The process for seeking expungement in Nash County includes:

1. Obtain the appropriate petition form from the North Carolina Judicial Branch website or the Nash County Clerk of Superior Court
2. Complete the petition with accurate information about the case
3. Obtain a certified copy of your criminal record from the Clerk of Court
4. Have the petition notarized
5. File the petition with the Nash County Clerk of Superior Court
6. Pay the filing fee (currently $175, though fee waivers may be available)
7. The petition will be reviewed by a judge, who will determine eligibility
8. If approved, an order of expungement will be issued

Nash County Clerk of Superior Court
234 W. Washington Street
Nashville, NC 27856
(252) 459-4022

It is important to note that expungement is not automatic and the process can take several months to complete. Additionally, certain serious offenses and repeat offenders may not be eligible for expungement under current North Carolina law.

What Happens After Arrest in Nash County?

The criminal justice process in Nash County follows a structured sequence from arrest through final disposition. Understanding this process helps individuals navigate the system effectively:

1. Arrest and Booking

   Following arrest by the Nash County Sheriff's Office or local police departments, individuals are transported to the Nash County Detention Center for booking. This process includes:

   • Photographing and fingerprinting
   • Personal property inventory
   • Medical screening
   • Background check
   • Entry into the jail management system

2. Initial Appearance

   Within 48 hours of arrest (typically within 24 hours), the arrestee appears before a magistrate who:

   • Informs the individual of charges
   • Advises of constitutional rights
   • Sets initial bail conditions
   • Determines if probable cause exists for warrantless arrests

3. Bail Determination

   The magistrate sets bail based on:

   • Severity of the alleged offense
   • Criminal history
   • Flight risk
   • Community ties
   • Public safety considerations

   Individuals may be released on:

   • Personal recognizance (promise to appear)
   • Unsecured bond (promise to pay if fail to appear)
   • Secured bond (requires payment or collateral)
   • Cash bond (full payment required)

4. First Appearance

   For felony charges, defendants must appear before a District Court judge within 96 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays). At this hearing:

   • Formal charges are read
   • Right to counsel is addressed
   • Bail may be reconsidered
   • Future court dates are scheduled

5. Appointment of Counsel

   Defendants who cannot afford an attorney may request court-appointed counsel. The Nash County Public Defender's Office or private attorneys on the court-appointed list may be assigned.

6. Probable Cause Hearing (Felonies)

   Within 15-30 days of the first appearance, a probable cause hearing may be held to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed with felony charges. Many defendants waive this hearing.

7. Grand Jury Indictment (Felonies)

   Felony cases proceed to the Nash County Grand Jury, which meets in closed session to determine if probable cause exists to issue an indictment.

8. Arraignment

   At arraignment, the defendant:

   • Is formally presented with charges
   • Enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
   • May have trial date set

9. Pre-Trial Proceedings

   Before trial, various hearings may occur:

   • Discovery exchanges
   • Motion hearings
   • Plea negotiations
   • Status conferences

10. Trial

    Defendants have the right to:

    • Jury trial (12 jurors for felonies, 6 for misdemeanors)
    • Bench trial (judge decides)

    The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

11. Sentencing

    If convicted, sentencing follows based on:

    • North Carolina Structured Sentencing guidelines
    • Criminal history
    • Aggravating or mitigating factors
    • Victim impact statements

12. Appeal

    Defendants have the right to appeal convictions within 14 days. Appeals from District Court go to Superior Court for a new trial. Appeals from Superior Court go to the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

Throughout this process, case information is maintained in the North Carolina Judicial Branch court management system and is generally accessible as public record.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Nash County?

Arrest records in Nash County are maintained according to the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' Records Retention and Disposition Schedule, which governs record-keeping practices for all law enforcement agencies in the state. This schedule is authorized under N.C.G.S. § 121-5 and N.C.G.S. § 132-8, which establish requirements for public records management.

The retention periods for arrest records vary based on the type of record and the outcome of the case:

1. Arrest Reports and Supporting Documentation

   Basic arrest reports are typically retained for a minimum of 20 years. However, for certain serious felonies (such as homicide, sexual assault, and arson), these records may be maintained permanently.

2. Booking Records

   Booking information, including photographs and fingerprints, is generally retained for a minimum of 10 years after the individual is released from custody or the case is disposed of, whichever is later.

3. Criminal History Records

   Cumulative criminal history information is maintained permanently by the Nash County Sheriff's Office and the State Bureau of Investigation.

4. Investigative Records

   Records related to investigations that led to arrests are typically retained for 20 years after case closure for felonies and 5 years for misdemeanors.

5. Juvenile Arrest Records

   Records pertaining to juvenile arrests are subject to different retention requirements under N.C.G.S. § 7B-3000 and are generally sealed or expunged when the individual reaches adulthood, unless the case was transferred to adult court.

6. Expunged Records

   When a court orders expungement under N.C.G.S. § 15A-145 through § 15A-146, the physical records must be destroyed, and electronic records must be deleted or made inaccessible. However, the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts maintains a confidential record of expungements that is not available to the public.

Different agencies within Nash County may have varying retention requirements:

• The Nash County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records according to the law enforcement schedule
• The Nash County Detention Center keeps inmate records according to detention facility guidelines
• The Nash County Clerk of Court preserves court records related to arrests according to the judicial records schedule

The retention of these records serves several important purposes:

• Preserves evidence for ongoing or future investigations
• Maintains accountability in the criminal justice system
• Provides historical documentation for statistical and research purposes
• Ensures compliance with state and federal reporting requirements

How to Find Mugshots in Nash County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, or booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. In Nash County, these photographs serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system. Typically, mugshots include front-facing and profile (side) views of the arrestee, often with identifying information such as a booking number or date.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Nash County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

Nash County Sheriff's Office
222 W. Washington Street
Nashville, NC 27856
(252) 459-4121
Nash County Sheriff's Office

Nash County Detention Center
222 W. Washington Street
Nashville, NC 27856
(252) 459-4121
Nash County Detention Center

These photographs are stored in the agency's records management system and are linked to the individual's arrest record and booking information.

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Nash County have several options:

1. In-Person Request

   Individuals may visit the Nash County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM) to request mugshots. A specific form may need to be completed, and proper identification must be provided.

2. Written Request

   Submit a written public records request to the Nash County Sheriff's Office specifying:

   • The full name of the individual
   • Date of birth (if known)
   • Approximate date of arrest
   • Purpose of the request
   • Your contact information

3. Online Resources

   The Nash County Sheriff's Office website may provide limited access to recent booking information, including mugshots, through their inmate search function.

Can Mugshots Be Found Online?

While some mugshots may be available through the Nash County Sheriff's Office website, the availability of online mugshots is limited. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-1.4, law enforcement agencies have discretion regarding the online publication of certain records.

It is important to note that North Carolina has enacted legislation (N.C.G.S. § 15A-152) that prohibits commercial websites from charging fees to remove mugshots of individuals whose cases have been dismissed or who have been found not guilty.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

To officially obtain mugshots from Nash County authorities:

1. Complete a public records request form (available at the Sheriff's Office or sometimes downloadable from their website)
2. Submit the form in person, by mail, or by email to the Records Division
3. Pay any applicable fees (typically $2.00 for the first page and $0.25 for each additional page)
4. Allow time for processing (usually 3-10 business days)

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted in certain circumstances:

1. Juvenile Records: Mugshots of individuals under 18 years of age are generally not public records under N.C.G.S. § 7B-3000
2. Ongoing Investigations: Photographs related to active investigations may be temporarily withheld
3. Expunged Records: If a case has been expunged pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 15A-145 through § 15A-146, the associated mugshot should no longer be accessible
4. Privacy Concerns: In rare cases, mugshots may be withheld if release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy that outweighs the public interest

When requesting mugshots, individuals should be aware that these images are obtained for legitimate purposes such as research, background checks, or news reporting, and their use is subject to applicable laws regarding privacy and defamation.

Lookup Arrest Records in Nash County

Sheriff's Office | Nash County, NC - Official Website

Detention Center | Nash County, NC - Official Website

Court Records | North Carolina Judicial Branch

Public records online | NC DAC

Offender Search