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Oklahoma Arrest Records

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Are Arrest Records Public in Oklahoma?

Yes. In Oklahoma, arrest records are generally considered public under the Oklahoma Open Records Act (Title 51 O.S. § 24A.1 et seq.), which requires law enforcement agencies to make arrest information—including arrestee descriptions, dates, causes of arrest, incident summaries, and warrant dispositions—available to the public unless specific statutory exemptions apply.

However, access is not absolute. Exemptions under 51 O.S. § 24A.8 allow withholding or redaction of information in certain cases—such as footage or descriptions involving minors, victims, or personal medical data, or recordings of law enforcement officers under internal investigation—until legal proceedings are complete. Investigative reports, records involving internal disciplinary matters, and sensitive law enforcement materials may also be exempt from public disclosure.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Oklahoma?

Access to arrest records in Oklahoma is primarily governed by the Oklahoma Open Records Act (ORA), codified in Title 51, Sections 24A.1 through 24A.31 of the Oklahoma Statutes. This comprehensive legislation establishes the framework for public access to government records, including those related to arrests and criminal proceedings.

The Oklahoma Open Records Act explicitly states that its purpose is "to ensure and facilitate the public's right of access to and review of government records so they may efficiently and intelligently exercise their inherent political power." This foundational principle underscores Oklahoma's commitment to governmental transparency and public oversight.

Additional laws that impact access to arrest records include:

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) is the primary agency responsible for maintaining and disseminating criminal history information in accordance with these laws. The OSBI operates under statutory authority to establish procedures for record access while ensuring compliance with state and federal privacy protections.

What Information Is Included in a Oklahoma Arrest Record?

Oklahoma arrest records typically contain comprehensive information about the arrest event and the individual arrested. The specific content may vary slightly depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest, but generally includes:

Personal Identification Information:

  • Full legal name (including aliases or maiden names)
  • Date of birth
  • Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
  • Photograph (mugshot)
  • Fingerprints
  • Address at time of arrest
  • Social Security Number (may be partially redacted in public records)

Arrest Details:

  • Date and time of arrest
  • Location of arrest
  • Arresting agency
  • Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
  • Booking number
  • Charges filed (including statute numbers and charge descriptions)
  • Arrest circumstances
  • Weapon information (if applicable)

Case Processing Information:

  • Court case number
  • Court of jurisdiction
  • Arraignment date
  • Bail or bond amount
  • Detention facility information
  • Court appearances and dates
  • Case disposition (if available)

Additional Information:

  • Prior arrest history (if applicable)
  • Probation or parole status at time of arrest (if applicable)
  • Vehicle information (if relevant to the arrest)
  • Property seized during arrest

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Oklahoma in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Oklahoma can be accomplished through several official channels. The process varies depending on whether you're seeking your own records or those of another individual. Here are the primary methods for obtaining arrest records in Oklahoma in 2025:

1. Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI)

The OSBI is the central repository for criminal history information in Oklahoma and provides the most comprehensive arrest records.

Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
6600 N. Harvey Place
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
(405) 848-6724
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation

To request records from OSBI:

  • Complete a Criminal History Request Form (available on the OSBI website)
  • Provide required identification
  • Submit the appropriate fee
  • Records can be requested in person, by mail, or online through the OSBI's CHIRP (Criminal History Information Request Portal)

Public counter hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

2. Local Law Enforcement Agencies

The arresting agency (sheriff's office or police department) maintains records of arrests they have conducted.

For example:

  • Visit the agency in person
  • Complete a records request form
  • Provide identification
  • Pay any applicable fees

3. Oklahoma Court Records

If the arrest led to court proceedings, records may be available through the court system.

Oklahoma State Courts Network
2100 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 3
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 556-9300
Oklahoma State Courts Network

  • Records can be searched online through OSCN for many counties
  • In-person requests can be made at the court clerk's office in the county where the case was filed
  • Court records typically include arrest information as part of the case file

4. Oklahoma Department of Corrections

For individuals who were incarcerated following an arrest and conviction:

Oklahoma Department of Corrections
3400 N. Martin Luther King Avenue
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 425-2500
Oklahoma Department of Corrections

  • The DOC maintains an online offender lookup system
  • Records include arrest information for individuals who entered the state prison system

Processing times for arrest record requests typically range from 1-15 business days, depending on the agency and method of request. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally. These platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though the scope and depth of information may vary by source.

1. OSBI Criminal History Information Request Portal (CHIRP)

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation offers an online portal for requesting criminal history information, including arrest records:

  • Visit OSBI's CHIRP Portal
  • Create an account or log in
  • Complete the online request form
  • Pay the required fee via credit card
  • Records are typically delivered electronically within 1-3 business days

2. Oklahoma State Courts Network (OSCN)

The Oklahoma State Courts Network provides free public access to court records for many Oklahoma counties:

  • Select the county of interest
  • Search by name or case number
  • View case information, including arrest details
  • No account or fee is required for basic searches
  • Coverage includes 13 counties (primarily larger counties)

3. Oklahoma District Court Records (ODCR)

For counties not covered by OSCN, the Oklahoma District Court Records system provides similar access:

  • Select the county of interest
  • Search by name or case number
  • View basic case information
  • Some features may require registration
  • Coverage includes 64 counties

4. County Sheriff's Office Websites

Many Oklahoma county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup systems that include recent arrest information:

  • Visit the specific county sheriff's website
  • Navigate to the inmate or jail roster section
  • Search by name
  • Information typically includes arrest date, charges, and booking photos
  • These records usually only cover recent arrests and current inmates

5. Municipal Police Department Portals

Larger city police departments may offer online access to local arrest records:

  • Visit the city police department website
  • Look for sections labeled "Records," "Arrest Reports," or "Police Reports"
  • Follow the specific instructions for that jurisdiction
  • Some departments use third-party systems for public access

When searching for arrest records online, it's important to note that:

  • Information may be limited compared to official record requests
  • Multiple databases may need to be checked for complete information
  • Recent arrests may not appear immediately in online systems
  • Some online systems may charge access fees
  • Positive identification cannot always be guaranteed with name-based searches

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Oklahoma?

Under Oklahoma law, arrest records are generally available to the public with certain limitations. Different categories of requestors may have varying levels of access to arrest record information:

General Public Access:

  • Any individual may request non-confidential arrest records
  • Name-based searches are available to the general public
  • Court records related to arrests are publicly accessible
  • Booking photos and basic arrest information are typically public
  • No stated purpose is required for standard public record requests

Enhanced Access for Specific Entities:

  1. Law Enforcement Agencies

    • Complete access to all arrest records
    • Access to confidential information not available to the public
    • Ability to view sealed or restricted records with proper authorization
    • Access through secure law enforcement networks
  2. Government Agencies

    • Access for official purposes such as employment screening
    • May receive more detailed information than general public
    • Subject to interagency agreements and protocols
  3. Licensed Professionals

    • Attorneys representing clients
    • Licensed private investigators
    • May have enhanced access with proper credentials and authorization
  4. Employers and Licensing Boards

    • May access records for background checks as permitted by law
    • Subject to restrictions under the Oklahoma Security Guard and Private Investigator Act
    • Must comply with Fair Credit Reporting Act for certain uses
  5. Research and Statistical Organizations

    • May access anonymized data for research purposes
    • Subject to data use agreements
    • Personal identifiers typically removed

Self-Request Access:

  • Individuals have the right to request their own arrest records
  • Must provide proper identification
  • Receive complete, unredacted personal records
  • May challenge inaccurate information

The Oklahoma Open Records Act establishes the presumption of openness while balancing privacy concerns. Access may be restricted for records that are:

  • Sealed by court order
  • Expunged under statutory authority
  • Related to juvenile offenders
  • Part of an ongoing investigation
  • Protected by specific statutory exemptions

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are established fees for obtaining arrest records in Oklahoma. These fees vary depending on the agency providing the records, the type of search conducted, and the delivery method requested. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the fee structure as of 2025:

Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) Fees:

  • Standard name-based criminal history search: $15.00
  • Fingerprint-based criminal history search: $19.00
  • Certified records (additional): $5.00
  • Expedited service (same-day processing): $25.00 additional
  • Sex offender registration information: $2.00
  • Violent offender registration information: $2.00

County Sheriff's Offices: Fees vary by county, but typically range from:

  • Incident/arrest reports: $5.00-$15.00
  • Booking photos: $5.00-$10.00
  • Complete arrest record: $15.00-$25.00
  • Certified copies (additional): $2.00-$5.00

Municipal Police Departments: Fees vary by municipality, but generally include:

  • Incident/arrest reports: $5.00-$20.00
  • Accident reports: $10.00-$15.00
  • Booking photos: $5.00-$10.00
  • Research fee (for older records): $10.00-$25.00 per hour

Oklahoma Court System:

  • Basic court record search (OSCN online): Free
  • Printed court records: $0.25-$1.00 per page
  • Certified court documents: $5.00-$10.00
  • Record search by court clerk: $5.00-$15.00

Payment Methods: Most agencies accept:

  • Cash (in-person only)
  • Credit/debit cards (in-person and online)
  • Money orders
  • Cashier's checks
  • Personal checks (some agencies)

Fee Waivers and Reductions:

  • Some agencies offer fee waivers for indigent individuals
  • Government agencies may be exempt from fees for official purposes
  • Non-profit research organizations may qualify for reduced fees
  • Veterans may receive discounted rates at some agencies

According to Oklahoma Statute Title 51, Section 24A.5, agencies are permitted to charge reasonable fees to recover the direct cost of record searches and copying. However, the law specifies that fees should not be used to discourage requests or create a profit for the agency.

For the most current fee information, it is advisable to contact the specific agency from which you are requesting records, as fees are subject to periodic adjustment.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Oklahoma

Oklahoma maintains arrest records for extensive periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record, the severity of the alleged offense, and the outcome of the case. The state follows specific guidelines for record retention as established by state law and agency policies.

Standard Retention Periods:

  1. Law Enforcement Agencies:

    • Felony arrest records: Permanent retention
    • Misdemeanor arrest records: Minimum of 10 years
    • Traffic-related arrests: 5-10 years
    • Arrest records resulting in no charges: 5 years
  2. Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation:

    • Criminal history records: Permanent retention
    • Fingerprint cards: Permanent retention
    • Arrest photographs: Permanent retention
  3. Court Records:

    • Felony case records: Permanent retention
    • Misdemeanor case records: 10 years after case closure
    • Traffic case records: 5 years after case closure
    • Juvenile records: Typically sealed at age 18 or 21, depending on circumstances
  4. Department of Corrections:

    • Inmate records: 75 years after release or death
    • Probation records: 10 years after completion

These retention periods are governed by the Oklahoma Records Management Act (Title 67, Sections 201-215) and the records schedules approved by the Oklahoma Archives and Records Commission.

Factors Affecting Retention:

Several factors can influence how long arrest records are maintained:

  • Case Disposition: Records of arrests resulting in convictions are typically kept longer than those resulting in dismissals or acquittals.

  • Record Sealing or Expungement: If a record is legally sealed or expunged, it may be removed from public access but often remains in restricted law enforcement databases.

  • Severity of Offense: Records related to violent crimes, sex offenses, and other serious felonies are maintained longer than those for minor offenses.

  • Juvenile Status: Records for juvenile arrests have special protections and different retention schedules.

  • Digital Conversion: As agencies transition to digital record-keeping, older paper records are being digitized, potentially extending their practical retention period.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Oklahoma Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Oklahoma, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted to balance transparency with privacy and security concerns. The following categories of information are commonly redacted or restricted in publicly available arrest records:

Personal Identifiers:

  • Social Security Numbers (typically redacted entirely or limited to last four digits)
  • Driver's license numbers
  • State identification numbers
  • Financial account numbers
  • Dates of birth (may be limited to year of birth only)
  • Home addresses of certain protected individuals
  • Personal telephone numbers
  • Personal email addresses

Sensitive Information:

  • Medical and mental health information
  • Substance abuse treatment records
  • Information about sexual assault victims
  • Child abuse details
  • Domestic violence victim information
  • HIV/AIDS status and other protected health information
  • Genetic information

Security-Related Information:

  • Information that would compromise ongoing investigations
  • Undercover officer identities
  • Confidential informant information
  • Details that would reveal law enforcement techniques
  • Information that could jeopardize public safety
  • Critical infrastructure details

Juvenile Information:

  • Records pertaining to juvenile offenders (under 18)
  • Information that would identify juvenile victims
  • School records included in arrest documentation

Legal Protections:

  • Information protected by court order
  • Records sealed by statutory authority
  • Expunged arrest information
  • Information protected by attorney-client privilege
  • Grand jury proceedings

The redaction of this information is governed by various Oklahoma statutes, including:

Government agencies in Oklahoma use various redaction methods, including blacking out information on paper records, applying electronic redaction to digital documents, and creating public versions of records that omit restricted information entirely.

The level of redaction may vary depending on who is requesting the records. Law enforcement agencies, for example, may have access to unredacted information for official purposes, while the general public receives more heavily redacted versions.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Oklahoma

Oklahoma law provides several pathways for eligible individuals to seal or expunge arrest records. This process can help mitigate the negative impacts of past arrests on employment, housing, and other opportunities. The procedures and eligibility requirements are primarily governed by Oklahoma Statutes Title 22, Sections 18 and 19.

Eligibility for Expungement:

Oklahoma law recognizes two categories of expungement:

  1. Section 18(A) Expungement (partial expungement):

    • Seals court records but leaves OSBI records intact
    • Generally easier to obtain
    • Available for less serious offenses and non-conviction records
  2. Section 18(B) Expungement (full expungement):

    • Seals both court records and OSBI records
    • More difficult to obtain
    • Available for specific situations meeting stricter criteria

Common eligibility scenarios include:

  • Arrests that did not result in charges
  • Charges that were dismissed
  • Cases resulting in acquittal
  • Pardoned offenses
  • Certain misdemeanor and non-violent felony convictions after waiting periods
  • Juvenile offenses

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Determine Eligibility

    • Review your criminal record to determine if you qualify
    • Consult with an attorney if necessary
    • Ensure all required waiting periods have elapsed
  2. Prepare Required Documents

    • Petition for Expungement
    • Affidavit supporting the petition
    • Certified copies of relevant court documents
    • Criminal history report from OSBI
  3. File the Petition

    • Submit documents to the court clerk in the county where the arrest/case occurred
    • Pay the filing fee (approximately $150-$300, varies by county)
    • Request fee waiver if financially unable to pay
  4. Serve Notice

    • Provide copies of the petition to:
      • District Attorney's Office
      • Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
      • Arresting agency
      • Any other agencies with records of the arrest
  5. Attend the Hearing

    • The court will schedule a hearing (typically 30-60 days after filing)
    • Present your case before the judge
    • Address any objections from the District Attorney or other agencies
  6. Obtain the Order

    • If approved, the court will issue an Order of Expungement
    • Distribute certified copies to all agencies with records
  7. Follow Up

    • Verify that all records have been sealed or destroyed
    • Request confirmation from each agency

Important Considerations:

  • Expungement does not completely destroy all records; some remain accessible to law enforcement
  • Federal agencies may still maintain records even after state expungement
  • Some expunged records may still be considered for enhanced sentencing in future cases
  • Certain professions and licensing boards may have access to expunged records
  • Private companies that previously collected record information may not update their databases

For complex cases or individuals with multiple arrests, consulting with an attorney specializing in expungements is highly recommended. The Oklahoma Bar Association offers referral services for qualified attorneys.

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma law establishes important limitations on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These restrictions aim to balance public safety interests with fairness toward individuals with arrest histories. Understanding these limitations is crucial for both record subjects and those accessing arrest information.

Employment Limitations:

  • Under the Oklahoma Security Guard and Private Investigator Act, employers must have a legitimate business necessity to consider arrest records (as opposed to conviction records).
  • Employers cannot use arrest records that did not result in conviction as the sole basis for denying employment.
  • State agencies and licensing boards are generally prohibited from considering expunged arrest records.
  • Public employers must establish that arrests are relevant to job duties before using them in employment decisions.
  • The Oklahoma Fair Employment Practices Act provides additional protections against discrimination.

Housing Limitations:

  • Public housing authorities have specific guidelines limiting consideration of arrest records.
  • Private landlords should establish that arrest information is relevant to tenancy.
  • Housing providers receiving federal funding must follow HUD guidelines regarding arrest record consideration.

Commercial Use Restrictions:

  • Companies that compile and sell arrest record information must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
  • Background check companies must:
    • Ensure accuracy of information
    • Provide notice to individuals
    • Allow for dispute of inaccurate information
    • Follow specific procedures for employment screening

Publication Limitations:

  • Publishing arrest information with malicious intent may constitute defamation.
  • Commercial websites that publish mugshots and arrest information may be subject to restrictions.
  • Information from expunged records cannot be lawfully published.

Additional Protections:

  • Juvenile arrest records have enhanced protections and usage limitations.
  • Records sealed by court order cannot be lawfully accessed or used.
  • Arrests resulting from identity theft or mistaken identity should not be used against the wrongly identified individual.

Penalties for Misuse:

Improper use of arrest records may result in:

  • Civil liability
  • Administrative penalties
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Potential criminal charges for certain violations

While these limitations exist, enforcement often requires the affected individual to take action through complaints or legal proceedings. The Oklahoma Human Rights Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission can provide assistance with discrimination complaints related to improper use of arrest records.

Lookup Arrest Records in Oklahoma

State Repository for Criminal History Records:

Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI)
6600 N. Harvey Place
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
(405) 848-6724
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

State Department of Public Safety:

Oklahoma Department of Public Safety
3600 N. Martin Luther King Avenue
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 425-2424
Oklahoma Department of Public Safety
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:45 PM

State Department of Corrections:

Oklahoma Department of Corrections
3400 N. Martin Luther King Avenue
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 425-2500
Oklahoma Department of Corrections
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

State Court System:

Oklahoma Administrative Office of the Courts
2100 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 3
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 556-9300
Oklahoma State Courts Network
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Attorney General's Office:

Oklahoma Office of the Attorney General
313 NE 21st Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 521-3921
Oklahoma Attorney General
Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

County Sheriff's Offices:

  1. Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office
    201 N. Shartel Avenue
    Oklahoma City, OK 73102
    (405) 713-1000
    Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office

  2. Tulsa County Sheriff's Office
    303 W. 1st Street
    Tulsa, OK 74103
    (918) 596-5601
    Tulsa County Sheriff's Office

  3. Cleveland County Sheriff's Office
    128 S. Peters Avenue
    Norman, OK 73069
    (405) 701-8888
    Cleveland County Sheriff's Office

  4. Comanche County Sheriff's Office
    315 SW 5th Street, Room 102
    Lawton, OK 73501
    (580) 353-4280
    Comanche County Sheriff's Office

  5. Canadian County Sheriff's Office
    208 W. Rogers Street
    El Reno, OK 73036
    (405) 262-3434
    Canadian County Sheriff's Office

  6. Rogers County Sheriff's Office
    114 S. Missouri Avenue
    Claremore, OK 74017
    (918) 341-3535
    Rogers County Sheriff's Office

  7. Payne County Sheriff's Office
    606 S. Husband Street
    Stillwater, OK 74074
    (405) 372-4522
    Payne County Sheriff's Office

  8. Muskogee County Sheriff's Office
    220 State Street
    Muskogee, OK 74401
    (918) 687-0202
    Muskogee County Sheriff's Office

  9. Garfield County Sheriff's Office
    114 W. Broadway
    Enid, OK 73701
    (580) 237-0244
    Garfield County Sheriff's Office

  10. Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office
    325 N. Broadway
    Shawnee, OK 74801
    (405) 273-1727
    Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments:

  1. Oklahoma City Police Department
    700 Colcord Drive
    Oklahoma City, OK 73102
    (405) 297-1000
    Oklahoma City Police Department

  2. Tulsa Police Department
    600 Civic Center
    Tulsa, OK 74103
    (918) 596-9222
    Tulsa Police Department

  3. Norman Police Department
    201 B W. Gray Street
    Norman, OK 73069
    (405) 321-1600
    Norman Police Department

  4. Lawton Police Department
    10 SW 4th Street
    Lawton, OK 73501
    (580) 581-3270
    Lawton Police Department

  5. Edmond Police Department
    100 E. First Street
    Edmond, OK 73034
    (405) 359-4420
    Edmond Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Oklahoma:

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Oklahoma City Field Office
3301 W. Memorial Road
Oklahoma City, OK 73134
(405) 290-7770
FBI Oklahoma City

U.S. Marshals Service - Western District of Oklahoma
200 NW 4th Street, Suite 1210
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
(405) 231-4206
U.S. Marshals Service

Federal Bureau of Prisons - Federal Transfer Center Oklahoma City
7410 S. MacArthur Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
(405) 682-4075
Federal Bureau of Prisons

U.S. Courts – Northern District of Oklahoma
333 W. Fourth Street
Tulsa, OK 74103
(918) 699-4700
U.S. District Court - Northern District of Oklahoma