Arrest records are public documents in Cherokee County, Alabama, pursuant to the Alabama Public Records Law (Code of Alabama § 36-12-40). This statute establishes that every citizen has a right to inspect and take a copy of any public writing of the state, except as expressly provided by statute. The law ensures transparency in governmental operations and accountability of law enforcement agencies operating within Cherokee County.
Public access to arrest records serves multiple purposes:
The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of their official duties. While the records are public, certain information may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or sensitive personal information in accordance with Alabama law.
Cherokee County arrest records are accessible online through several official platforms maintained by county agencies. Pursuant to Alabama Code § 41-13-1, which addresses the management of public records, government entities are authorized to maintain electronic versions of public records.
The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office provides an online inmate roster that is updated regularly. This digital resource includes information about current detainees and recent arrests. Additionally, the Ninth Circuit Court of Alabama, which serves Cherokee County, maintains an electronic database of court records that may include information related to arrests.
Online access is subject to the following conditions:
Users should note that while online access provides convenience, the most comprehensive records are often available through direct requests to the appropriate agencies.
Members of the public seeking Cherokee County arrest records may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following methods are available for conducting arrest record searches:
In-Person Requests:
Online Resources:
Written Requests:
Pursuant to Alabama Code § 36-12-41, agencies must respond to records requests within a reasonable time, not to exceed 10 business days. Requestors should be prepared to pay applicable fees for document reproduction as established by county ordinance.
Cherokee County arrest records contain standardized information as mandated by Alabama Code § 15-4-1 through § 15-4-9, which governs arrest procedures and documentation. These records serve as official documentation of an individual's interaction with law enforcement and typically include:
Biographical Information:
Arrest Details:
Case Processing Information:
Additional Documentation:
The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Alabama's records retention schedule, which requires arrest records to be preserved for a minimum of 25 years.
Under Alabama law, specifically the Alabama Expungement Act (Code of Alabama § 15-27-1 through § 15-27-16), certain arrest records in Cherokee County may be eligible for expungement. Expungement is the legal process by which arrest records are removed from public access and, in some cases, physically destroyed.
Eligibility criteria for expungement in Cherokee County include:
The expungement process requires petitioners to:
If granted, an Order of Expungement directs all agencies to seal or destroy records related to the arrest. However, pursuant to Alabama Code § 15-27-16, certain government agencies may retain access to expunged records for law enforcement and judicial purposes.
The Cherokee County Circuit Court, located at 100 Main Street, Centre, AL 35960, processes all expungement petitions for arrests occurring within the county jurisdiction.