Yes, arrest records are public in Arlington, Massachusetts. This accessibility is in accordance with the Massachusetts Public Records Law which mandates that all government-generated records in the Commonwealth, including those pertaining to arrests, are accessible to the public. This law ensures transparency and accountability in governance, allowing citizens to obtain records unless they are specifically exempt by law.
To get Arlington arrest records, individuals can utilize several methods available in 2024. While online access provides a convenient option, there are other methods to consider as well:
An Arlington arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Arlington, the expungement of arrest records is possible under certain conditions. Individuals who wish to have their arrest records expunged must meet eligibility criteria set forth by Massachusetts law, which often includes considerations such as the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the arrest, and the individual's criminal history. The process typically involves filing a petition with the court that originally handled the case. The court then reviews the petition, and if the individual is deemed eligible, the records can be sealed or expunged, effectively removing them from public access.