Arrest records in Jackson, Mississippi are classified as public documents pursuant to the Mississippi Public Records Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 25-61-1 et seq.). Members of the public may access these records unless specifically restricted by state law, court order, or other legal provisions. The Mississippi Legislature has determined that public access to arrest records serves several governmental interests, including transparency in law enforcement operations, public safety awareness, and accountability of public officials.
The Hinds County Sheriff's Office and Jackson Police Department maintain these records in accordance with state regulations. Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public arrest records, including Social Security numbers, medical information, and details pertaining to ongoing investigations. Juvenile arrest records are generally not available to the public under Miss. Code Ann. § 43-21-261, which provides confidentiality protections for minors involved in the juvenile justice system.
Multiple methods exist for accessing arrest records in Jackson, Mississippi. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies have established procedures for record requests in compliance with the Mississippi Public Records Act. Individuals seeking arrest information may utilize the following official channels:
Online Database Access: The Jackson Police Department maintains a digital records system accessible through their official portal. Users must register for an account and may be required to pay processing fees as established by Miss. Code Ann. § 25-61-7. The system allows searches by name, date of arrest, or case number.
In-Person Requests: Citizens may submit requests in person at the Records Division of the Jackson Police Department. Jackson Police Department Records Division 327 East Pascagoula Street Jackson, MS 39201 601-960-1217 Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Written Requests: Standard mail requests must include the required identification information and applicable fees. Requests should be directed to: Hinds County Sheriff's Office Records Department 407 East Pascagoula Street Jackson, MS 39201 601-974-2900 Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Third-Party Vendors: The Mississippi Department of Public Safety has authorized certain private companies to provide background check services that may include arrest record information. These vendors must comply with state regulations regarding data security and privacy.
Jackson arrest records contain standardized information as mandated by Mississippi law enforcement protocols. These official documents typically include the following elements:
The Jackson Police Department maintains these records in accordance with Mississippi Department of Public Safety standards and federal reporting requirements.
The State of Mississippi provides legal mechanisms for the expungement of certain arrest records under specific circumstances. Pursuant to Miss. Code Ann. § 99-19-71, individuals may petition for expungement when:
The expungement process requires filing a formal petition with the Circuit Court of Hinds County. Petitioners must submit the following:
Upon approval, the court issues an order directing all relevant agencies to seal the specified records. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Jackson Police Department, and Hinds County Sheriff's Office must comply with expungement orders within 60 days of receipt. Expunged records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies for specific purposes as outlined in Miss. Code Ann. § 99-19-71(4).
The City of Jackson provides resources for citizens seeking information about the expungement process through the City Clerk's office. Individuals with complex cases are advised that statutory requirements must be strictly followed, as expungement is considered a legal privilege rather than a right under Mississippi law.