Arrest records are important public records that detail someone's apprehension and booking by law enforcement. They provide information about the arrest, including the time and location, and nature of the criminal charges, along with booking details and mugshots. While these are not considered official criminal records until that person's guilty conviction in a court of law, they are still bucketed as such and will show up on a person's background check.

We will show you how to look up Arkansas arrest records from county and city law enforcement agencies, how to find someone's mugshots, and what to do if you are arrested. The first step in accessing anyone's police arrest report is to determine where they are apprehended and booked into jail. Then using their name and date of birth, you can quickly track down that person's arrest records, along with any corresponding court records and convictions.

Arrest Records Search

How to Lookup Arkansas Arrest Records for Free

To run a free Arkansas arrest records search, you'll first need to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency, whether it's a county sheriff's office or a city police department. Here's how:

1). County Sheriff’s Offices: Most counties in keep arrest records, mugshots and booking information through their sheriff’s office. Many counties now offer online databases where you can search for recent arrests, outstanding warrants, and inmate information. For instance, Pulaski County Arkansas arrest records are searchable through the Pulaski Sheriff Department online database. Here you can search for Pulaski jail inmates by name, or arrest date for free. If the county does not offer online services, you can request the information directly from the sheriff's office, often via email or in person.

2). City Police Departments: For arrests within city limits, the local police department will also host and mange those records. Major cities such as Little Rock, Fort Smith, and Fayetteville often provide arrest logs online. Smaller cities may require a visit to the police department, or to request records by mail. It is important to note that some departments may not post certain information online, so it's always good to inquire if you cannot find the record you're looking for.

How to Lookup Arkansas Mugshots

Mugshots are usually part of the arrest record and booking information when someone is apprehended and jailed. These images are often made publicly available through various law enforcement databases along with someone's arresting report. Arkansas mugshots offer a means to verify someone's identity as well as their physical contrition at the time of their arrest. To access these publicly available records online, you can either request them directly from the respective law enforcement agency, or use a third party resource. For example, if you want to find Monticello AR mugshots, you can visit the Drew County Sheriff Department website, they post daily arrests and mugshots on their site daily.

The 10 Most Common Criminal Arrest Charges

Arkansas, like other most states, sees a variety of criminal charges leading to arrests. These charges reflect a wide range of criminal behaviors in the state, with drug-related offenses being the most common. Below are ten of the most common criminal arrest charges in the state as of 2023:

1). Drug Possession – Including both controlled substances like methamphetamine and marijuana.

2). Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) – Arrests for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

3). Domestic Battery – Involving violent offenses against a spouse, partner, or family member.

4). Theft of Property – This includes shoplifting, burglary, and other forms of theft.

5). Assault – Various degrees of assault, ranging from simple to aggravated, resulting from physical altercations.

6). Public Intoxication – Often resulting from individuals in public places under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

7). Disorderly Conduct – Charges relating to disturbing the peace or causing public disturbances.

8). Probation Violation – Arrests for individuals failing to comply with the terms of their probation.

9). Failure to Appear – Related to individuals missing court dates.

10). Weapons Charges – Possessing firearms illegally or using them during the commission of a crime.

What You Should l Do If I Get Arrested in Arkansas?

Being arrested is always a very stressful and unsettling experience, but knowing your rights and what to do can help you get through this. Here are some simple steps to remind you of what you can do and how to protect your constitutional rights.

1). Stay Calm and Respectful to Law Enforcement: No matter what the specific circumstances are, it’s always better to remain calm than to get excited and make law enforcement nervous. Avoid physical resistance, as this can lead to additional charges. Be polite and cooperate with law enforcement officers.

2). Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent, which is helpful to remember, means you do not have to answer questions or provide information that could incriminate you. Politely tell the officer that you wish to exercise this right and talk to your attorney.

3). Request an Attorney: Once you’ve been arrested, you should request an attorney immediately, or a public defender if you cannot afford one. Whether you hire a private lawyer or request a public defender, having legal representation is vital for navigating the legal process and protecting your rights.

4). Understand Your Criminal Charges:
It is crucial to understand the charges against you. Once you're informed of the specific charges, your attorney will be able to advise you on possible defenses, plea options, or the next legal steps.

5). Attend Court Hearings
Failing to appear in court for scheduled hearings can lead to further legal complications, including additional charges and jail time. Make sure to attend all court dates or have your lawyer appear on your behalf when appropriate. Follow the guidance of your lawyer and be respectful in court. Make sure to look sharp and use proper court room etiquette.

How Do I Find Out If Someone Was Arrested in Arkansas?

You can find out by contacting the respective city or county law enforcment agency. Many city police departments and count sheriff departments will post recent arrests on their website. If you do now know what county or city to search in, you can use a third-party public records website and search statewide with a first and last name.

Are Arkansas Arrests Considered Public Record?

Yes, everyone's arresting information is considered public record in the state. You can find out a person's criminal charges, arresting law enforcement agency, mugshots, and corresponding criminal convictions. The only exception to these publicly available records are those for juveniles, those are sealed for their protection.

Arrest Records Search