Yes, arrest records are public in Pontiac, Michigan. This accessibility is governed by the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which mandates that all government records, unless specifically exempted, must be accessible to the public. This act ensures transparency and accountability in government, allowing citizens to obtain records concerning law enforcement activities and arrests.
To get information on arrest records in Pontiac, several resources are available. Despite the digital age, not all processes are online, and some may require in-person visits or written requests. Here are the available options for searching arrest records in Pontiac:
A Pontiac arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Pontiac, the expungement of arrest records is possible under specific conditions. Individuals may petition to have their arrest records sealed or expunged if they meet certain criteria, such as the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the arrest, and their criminal history. The process typically involves filing a petition with the court, and in some cases, a hearing may be required. The court then decides whether the benefits to the individual outweigh the public interest in keeping the record accessible. If approved, the arrest record is either sealed, making it inaccessible to the public, or destroyed.