Arrest records are public documents in Coosa County, Alabama, pursuant to the Alabama Public Records Law (Code of Alabama § 36-12-40). This statute establishes that records maintained by government entities, including law enforcement agencies, are accessible to the public with certain exceptions. The law states that "every citizen has a right to inspect and take a copy of any public writing of this state, except as otherwise expressly provided by statute." This provision ensures transparency in governmental operations and allows citizens to access information regarding arrests made within the county jurisdiction.
The Coosa County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of their official duties. Public access to arrest records serves multiple purposes, including promoting accountability within the criminal justice system and providing citizens with information about law enforcement activities in their communities. However, certain information may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or sensitive personal information as provided under Alabama law.
Arrest records in Coosa County can be accessed online through several official channels. The Fortieth Circuit Court of Alabama - Coosa County provides digital access to court records, which may include information related to arrests. The Circuit Clerk's Office maintains a public access computer terminal where members of the public may search court record information during regular business hours.
The Alabama Judicial System's Alacourt.gov portal also provides limited online access to court records, though complete access requires registration and may involve service fees. For the most comprehensive online access, the following resources are available:
Coosa County Circuit Clerk's Office
10 Court Square
Rockford, AL 35136
Phone: (256) 377-4988
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Members of the public seeking Coosa County arrest records have multiple methods available for conducting searches. Each method varies in terms of comprehensiveness, convenience, and associated costs:
In-person requests at the Coosa County Sheriff's Office provide the most direct access to arrest records. Requestors must complete a public records request form and may be required to present identification. Fees for copies typically apply in accordance with Alabama Code § 36-12-41, which permits reasonable charges for reproduction costs.
The Fortieth Circuit Court of Alabama - Coosa County maintains records related to arrest warrants and subsequent court proceedings. Court magistrates, as part of the judicial branch, exercise independent judgment in the issuance of arrest warrants, and these records become part of the public court file unless sealed by judicial order.
Online searches through the Alabama Judicial System's electronic portal provide remote access to court records, though complete access requires registration and payment of subscription fees.
Coosa County Sheriff's Office
142 Coosa County Road 336
Rockford, AL 35136
Phone: (256) 377-4922
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Arrest records maintained by Coosa County law enforcement agencies typically contain standardized information as required by Alabama state law. These records serve as official documentation of an individual's encounter with law enforcement resulting in arrest. Standard components of a Coosa County arrest record include:
Pursuant to Alabama law, certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of arrest records, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and information related to juvenile offenders (except in cases where juveniles are charged as adults under Alabama Code § 12-15-204).
The State of Alabama provides legal mechanisms for the expungement of certain arrest records under specific circumstances. In Coosa County, expungement proceedings are governed by Alabama Code § 15-27-1 through § 15-27-19, which outlines eligibility criteria and procedures.
Individuals may petition for expungement of arrest records in Coosa County under the following circumstances:
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the Coosa County Circuit Court where the case was adjudicated. Petitioners must pay filing fees as established by Alabama law, though fee waivers may be available for indigent applicants. Upon granting of an expungement order, all records related to the arrest are sealed from public view, though certain government agencies may retain access for limited purposes.
Coosa County Circuit Court
10 Court Square
Rockford, AL 35136
Phone: (256) 377-4988
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
While arrest records are generally public in Coosa County, Alabama law imposes certain restrictions on access to protect privacy interests and the integrity of the criminal justice system. These restrictions include:
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency maintains guidelines for the proper handling and dissemination of criminal justice information. Law enforcement agencies in Coosa County must adhere to these guidelines when responding to public records requests.
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency - Coosa County Office
309 Jackson Street
Rockford, AL 35136
Phone: (334) 274-0306
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Arrest records from Coosa County may be utilized for background check purposes, subject to compliance with applicable federal and state laws. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs the use of arrest records for employment purposes, requiring employers to follow specific procedures when using such information in hiring decisions.
Alabama law permits the use of arrest records for background screening with the following considerations:
The Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles provides resources for individuals seeking to understand how their criminal records may impact employment opportunities. The Ashland Field Office serves Coosa County residents and can provide guidance on record review and potential remedies.
Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles - Ashland Field Office
41771 Highway 77 North, Suite 1
Ashland, AL 36251
Phone: (256) 354-7834
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM