Arrest records are public documents in Hazel Park, Michigan, accessible to all citizens under state transparency laws. The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231-15.246, establishes the legal framework for public access to government records, including those related to arrests. This legislation ensures that residents can obtain information about law enforcement activities within their community, promoting accountability and transparency in governmental operations.
The Hazel Park Police Department maintains these records as part of their official documentation of law enforcement activities. Members of the public seeking arrest information should note that while most arrest data is publicly available, certain exceptions may apply to protect ongoing investigations, juvenile records, or cases involving specific privacy concerns as outlined in § 15.243 of the Michigan FOIA.
Public access to arrest records serves multiple civic purposes, including:
Multiple official channels exist for members of the public to access arrest records in Hazel Park as of 2025. The City of Hazel Park maintains several methods for record retrieval to accommodate various public needs. Individuals seeking arrest information may utilize any of the following official procedures:
In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the Hazel Park Police Department Records Division during regular business hours to submit a request for arrest records. Staff will assist with completing the necessary FOIA request forms. Proper identification must be presented at the time of request.
Hazel Park Police Department 111 E. Nine Mile Road Hazel Park, MI 48030 Phone: (248) 542-6161 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Mail Requests: Written requests may be submitted via postal mail to the Records Division. All mail requests must include:
Online Access: The Hazel Park Police Department provides digital access to certain arrest records through the city's official records portal. Users must register for an account and may be required to pay processing fees for document retrieval. The online system allows for searches by name, date, or case number when available.
43rd District Court Records: For cases that have proceeded to court, arrest information may be accessed through the 43rd District Court records system. Court records often contain more comprehensive information about the disposition of cases following arrest.
43rd District Court - Hazel Park Division 111 E. Nine Mile Road Hazel Park, MI 48030 Phone: (248) 547-3170 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Standard arrest records maintained by the Hazel Park Police Department contain specific categories of information as mandated by Michigan law enforcement protocols. These records are created at the time of booking and updated as the case progresses through the justice system. Typical arrest records include the following elements:
Biographical Information:
Arrest Details:
Processing Information:
Case Disposition:
Pursuant to Michigan law, certain sensitive information may be redacted from public arrest records, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and medical information protected under HIPAA regulations.
The State of Michigan provides legal mechanisms for the expungement of certain arrest records under MCL 780.621, commonly known as the "Set Aside" statute. Hazel Park residents with arrest records may petition for expungement if they meet specific statutory criteria. The expungement process effectively seals records from public view, though law enforcement agencies retain access for official purposes.
Eligibility Requirements: Michigan's Clean Slate legislation, which took full effect in April 2023, expanded eligibility for expungement. Under current law, individuals may qualify for expungement if:
Automatic Expungement: As of April 2023, certain non-violent misdemeanors and felonies may qualify for automatic expungement after the applicable waiting period without requiring a petition. The Michigan Department of State Police manages this automated system.
Petition Process: For cases requiring manual petition, applicants must:
Excluded Offenses: Certain offenses remain ineligible for expungement under Michigan law, including:
The Oakland County Clerk's Office provides assistance with expungement applications for Hazel Park residents at:
Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds 1200 N. Telegraph Road Department 413 Pontiac, MI 48341 Phone: (248) 858-0561 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM