Michigan Arrest Records

Michigan Public Records /Michigan Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Michigan?

Yes. Arrest records in Michigan are generally considered public records under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231 et seq.. Members of the public may request access to arrest reports, booking information, and court case records maintained by local police departments, county sheriff’s offices, and the courts. The Michigan State Police (MSP) Criminal Justice Information Center serves as the state’s central repository for criminal history data, and the Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) allows the public to search conviction records online.

However, there are important restrictions. Michigan law prohibits the public release of certain arrest data that did not result in conviction, except to the person named in the record, authorized employers, or law enforcement. Juvenile arrest records are confidential under MCL 712A.28, and records that have been expunged or set aside pursuant to the Clean Slate laws (MCL 780.621 et seq.) are not available for public inspection. Sensitive information, such as details from ongoing investigations or victim identities, is also exempt from disclosure.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Michigan?

Access to arrest records in Michigan is primarily governed by the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Public Act 442 of 1976, MCL 15.231 to 15.246. This comprehensive law establishes the public's right to access government records, including arrest records, with certain exceptions.

Additional laws that impact access to arrest records in Michigan include:

Michigan Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) Policy - Establishes standards for the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal justice information.
Michigan Criminal Procedure Code - Contains provisions related to arrest procedures and records.
Michigan Court Rules - Govern access to court records, including those related to arrests and subsequent proceedings.
Michigan Criminal History Records - Regulates the maintenance and dissemination of criminal history information.
Michigan Set Aside Law (MCL 780.621) - Provides for the expungement of certain arrest records under specific circumstances.
Michigan Clean Slate Law - Enacted in 2020, this law expanded eligibility for expungement of criminal records, including certain arrest records.

These laws collectively establish a framework that balances the public's right to information with individual privacy concerns and the integrity of the criminal justice system.

What Information Is Included in a Michigan Arrest Record?

A typical Michigan arrest record contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records generally include:

Personal Identification Information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Names and badge numbers of arresting officers
- Booking number
- Charges filed at the time of arrest
Case Information:
- Case/docket number
- Court jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Bail/bond information
- Detention facility information
Offense Information:
- Nature of alleged offense
- Statutory citation of violated laws
- Classification of offense (misdemeanor or felony)
- Brief description of the alleged criminal activity
Disposition Information (if available):
- Current status of the case
- Court decisions
- Sentencing information (if convicted)
- Case dismissal information (if applicable)

Arrest records are distinct from criminal history records, which provide a more comprehensive overview of an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system, including convictions. Arrest records specifically document the instance of being taken into custody by law enforcement authorities.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Michigan in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Michigan involves several methods depending on the specific information needed and the agency that maintains the records. Here are the primary ways to access arrest records in Michigan:

1. Direct Request from Law Enforcement Agencies

Contact the specific police department or sheriff's office that made the arrest. Most agencies require a written request form that can be submitted in person, by mail, or sometimes online.

2. Michigan State Police Criminal Records

The Michigan State Police (MSP) maintains the state's central repository for criminal history information through the Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT).

Michigan State Police
7150 Harris Drive
Dimondale, MI 48821
Phone: (517) 241-0606
Michigan State Police

For criminal history records, you can use the ICHAT system online.

3. County Clerk's Offices

Court records related to arrests can be obtained from the clerk of the court where the case was processed.

4. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request

Submit a formal FOIA request to the relevant law enforcement agency or government entity. Your request should:

Be in writing
Clearly identify the records sought
Include your contact information
Specify the format in which you wish to receive the records

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Michigan

Michigan offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally:

Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) The primary online system for accessing criminal history information in Michigan is ICHAT, operated by the Michigan State Police. ICHAT provides access to public criminal history records for a fee of $10 per search. Users must create an account to access the system.
Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS) The OTIS database provides information about offenders who are currently incarcerated, on parole, or on probation with the Michigan Department of Corrections. This free resource includes booking photos and offense information.
Michigan Courts The Michigan Courts Case Search allows users to search for court cases, which may include information related to arrests. Access and fees vary by court.
County Sheriff's Office Websites Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup tools or arrest logs:
Municipal Police Department Websites Larger city police departments often provide online access to recent arrest information or booking logs.

When using online resources, be aware that:

Information may not be comprehensive or completely up-to-date
Some systems require registration or payment
Not all arrest records are available online
Records may contain errors or omissions
Some information may be redacted for privacy or security reasons

For the most accurate and complete information, it's often best to combine online searches with direct requests to the relevant agencies.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Michigan?

Access to arrest records in Michigan varies based on the requester's identity and purpose. Here's a breakdown of who can access these records:

General Public

Under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), members of the general public can request and access most arrest records. However, certain information may be redacted, and some records may be exempt from disclosure.

The Arrested Individual

Individuals have the right to access their own arrest records. They typically have greater access to their personal information than the general public would.

Law Enforcement Agencies

Police departments, sheriff's offices, and other law enforcement agencies have comprehensive access to arrest records for legitimate law enforcement purposes.

Court Officials

Judges, prosecutors, and court staff have access to arrest records relevant to cases within their jurisdiction.

Government Agencies

Various government agencies may access arrest records for official purposes, including:

Licensing boards
Regulatory agencies
Social service agencies

Employers

Employers may access certain arrest record information for background checks, though Michigan law places restrictions on how this information can be used in employment decisions.

Attorneys

Defense attorneys have access to their clients' arrest records, while prosecutors have access to records relevant to cases they're handling.

Researchers and Journalists

May access arrest records for research or reporting purposes, though personal identifying information may be redacted.

Background Check Companies

Licensed companies can access arrest records to conduct background checks, subject to legal restrictions.

While many parties can legally access arrest records, the Michigan FOIA contains exemptions that protect certain information from disclosure, particularly when disclosure would:

Interfere with law enforcement proceedings
Deprive a person of the right to a fair trial
Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
Disclose the identity of a confidential source
Endanger the life or physical safety of an individual

Additionally, the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act places restrictions on how arrest record information can be used, particularly in employment contexts.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Michigan?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in Michigan typically involves fees that vary depending on the agency providing the records and the method of access. Here's a comprehensive overview of the fee structure:

State-Level Fees

Michigan State Police ICHAT System
- $10.00 per name-based search
- Additional fees may apply for certified records
- ICHAT Fee Information
Michigan State Police - Fingerprint-Based Criminal History
- $30.00 for a personal identification criminal history check
- $43.25 for employment/licensing criminal history check
- Additional fees for rush service

County and Local Agency Fees

Fees vary by jurisdiction but typically include:

County Sheriff's Offices
- $5-20 for basic arrest record information
- Additional fees for certified copies
- Some counties charge per-page copying fees
Municipal Police Departments
- $5-25 for local arrest records
- Additional fees may apply for research time or certified copies
County Clerk's Offices (Court Records)
- $10-30 for court case information related to arrests
- Per-page copying fees typically range from $0.25-$2.00
- Certification fees of $5-10 may apply

FOIA Request Fees

When obtaining records through a Freedom of Information Act request, agencies may charge:

Labor Costs
- Actual cost of the lowest-paid employee capable of retrieving the information
- First 15 minutes of search time is often free
- Fees for redaction time may be charged
Material Costs
- $0.10-$0.25 per page for photocopies
- Actual cost for electronic media (CDs, DVDs, flash drives)
- Postage costs for mailing records

Fee Waivers

Under Michigan FOIA, fee waivers or reductions may be available if:

The request is made by a nonprofit organization
The information will primarily benefit the general public
The requester demonstrates indigence

According to MCL 15.234(2), a public body may waive or reduce fees if it determines that doing so is in the public interest because furnishing the information primarily benefits the general public.

Payment Methods

Most agencies accept:

Cash (in person only)
Personal checks
Money orders
Credit/debit cards (varies by agency)
Online payments for some services

Always verify the current fee structure with the specific agency from which you're requesting records, as fees are subject to change and may vary significantly between jurisdictions.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Michigan

Michigan maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on several factors. Here's a detailed overview of how long different types of arrest records are kept in the state:

State Police Records Retention

The Michigan State Police maintains criminal history records, including arrests, according to the following general guidelines:

Felony Arrests
- Retained for the lifetime of the individual
- May be eligible for expungement under specific circumstances
Misdemeanor Arrests
- Generally maintained for at least 7 years
- May be retained longer if the individual has subsequent arrests
- Some minor misdemeanors may be removed after 5 years if no subsequent arrests occur
Arrests Without Charges/Convictions
- Records of arrests where no charges were filed may be retained for 5 years
- Records where charges were dismissed may be retained for 7 years
- Individuals may petition for earlier removal in some circumstances

Local Law Enforcement Retention

Local police departments and sheriff's offices typically follow these retention schedules:

Arrest Reports and Booking Information
- Generally maintained for 7-10 years for misdemeanors
- Felony arrest records typically kept for 20 years to lifetime
- Varies by jurisdiction and severity of alleged offense
Fingerprints and Photographs
- Digital records often maintained indefinitely
- Physical records may be destroyed after digitization
- Retention periods align with the underlying arrest record

Court Records Retention

The Michigan Supreme Court Administrative Order 1999-4 establishes retention schedules for court records related to arrests:

Felony Cases
- Case files retained for 20-75 years depending on offense severity
- Capital offense records kept permanently
- Register of actions maintained permanently
Misdemeanor Cases
- Generally retained for 10 years after case closure
- Certain traffic offenses may be retained for shorter periods
- Domestic violence cases often kept longer
Juvenile Records
- Typically sealed when the individual reaches age 17
- May be destroyed when the individual reaches age 30 if no subsequent offenses
- Some serious juvenile offenses may be retained longer

Digital Records

With the transition to digital record-keeping, many arrest records are now maintained in electronic databases indefinitely, even when physical records might have been destroyed under previous policies.

The Michigan Records Management Administration oversees the development and implementation of records retention schedules for state agencies, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while balancing administrative needs and privacy concerns.

Even when records are scheduled for destruction, they may be retained longer if they are subject to ongoing litigation, investigation, or other legal holds.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Michigan Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Michigan, certain types of information are commonly redacted or restricted to protect privacy, safety, and the integrity of the criminal justice system. Here's a comprehensive overview of what information is typically redacted or restricted:

Personal Identifying Information

Social Security Numbers
- Completely redacted in all public records
- Protected under both state and federal privacy laws
Driver's License Numbers
- Redacted from public arrest records
- May be visible to authorized agencies only
Financial Information
- Bank account numbers
- Credit card information
- Any financial identifiers
Biometric Data
- Fingerprint minutiae and analysis
- DNA profiles
- Retinal scan data

Protected Individual Information

Victim Information
- Names and identifying details of victims, particularly in sensitive cases
- Contact information for victims
- Medical information related to victims
Witness Information
- Names and identifying details of confidential informants
- Contact information for witnesses
- Information that could endanger witnesses
Juvenile Information
- Records of arrests for individuals under 17 years old
- Information identifying minors involved in cases
- School records or juvenile history
Medical and Mental Health Information
- Medical conditions of the arrested individual
- Mental health evaluations or history
- Substance abuse treatment information
- Protected under HIPAA and state medical privacy laws

Case-Sensitive Information

Active Investigation Details
- Information that could compromise ongoing investigations
- Investigative techniques or procedures
- Information about undercover operations
Grand Jury Information
- Testimony before grand juries
- Grand jury deliberations
- Grand jury subpoenas
National Security Information
- Information classified by federal agencies
- Homeland security-related information
- Counter-terrorism investigation details

Legal Basis for Redactions

Redactions in Michigan arrest records are primarily authorized under:

Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Exemptions
- MCL 15.243 provides specific exemptions from disclosure
- Includes exemptions for privacy, security, and investigative integrity
Michigan Court Rules
- MCR 8.119 governs access to court records
- Provides for sealing or redacting sensitive information
Federal Laws
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
- Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The extent of redactions may vary depending on who is requesting the records, the purpose of the request, and the specific agency providing the records. Law enforcement agencies and courts have discretion in determining what information should be redacted based on applicable laws and regulations.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Michigan

Michigan law provides several pathways for individuals to seal or expunge arrest records under specific circumstances. Here's a comprehensive guide to the process:

Eligibility for Expungement (Setting Aside a Conviction)

Michigan's Clean Slate legislation, which expanded in April 2023, allows for both automatic and petition-based expungement:

Automatic Expungement

As of April 2023, certain convictions are automatically expunged after specified waiting periods without requiring a petition:

Up to two felonies after 10 years
Up to four misdemeanors after 7 years

Not all offenses qualify for automatic expungement. Serious offenses such as assaultive crimes, crimes involving minors, and offenses carrying potential life sentences are excluded.

Petition-Based Expungement

For records not eligible for automatic expungement, individuals may petition the court:

Conviction Records:
- Up to three felonies (with limitations)
- Unlimited misdemeanors (with certain exceptions)
- Waiting periods range from 3-7 years depending on offense severity
Marijuana Convictions: Special provisions exist for marijuana-related convictions that would not be illegal under current law.
First-Time Drug Offenses: Special provisions under MCL 333.7411 for first-time drug offenders.
Human Trafficking Victims: Convictions resulting from being a victim of human trafficking may be set aside without waiting periods.

Sealing Arrest Records Without Conviction

If you were arrested but not convicted (charges were dismissed or you were found not guilty), you may be eligible to have these records sealed immediately without a waiting period under MCL 780.621.

The Expungement Process

Obtain Criminal Records: Request a certified copy of your criminal record from the Michigan State Police through ICHAT or by submitting a fingerprint card.
File a Petition: Complete and file an "Application to Set Aside Conviction" (MC 227) with the court where the conviction occurred. Include:
- Certified record of conviction
- Certified criminal history
- $50 filing fee (may be waived for indigent applicants)
Fingerprinting: Get fingerprinted at a local law enforcement agency using the Michigan State Police fingerprint card.
Service and Notification: Serve copies of the application on:
- Michigan Attorney General
- Local prosecutor's office
- Michigan State Police
Court Hearing: Attend the scheduled hearing where a judge will consider factors including:
- Nature of the offense
- Your criminal history
- Your rehabilitation and behavior since conviction
- The public interest in keeping the record public versus your interest in having it set aside
Judge's Decision: If approved, the judge will sign an order setting aside the conviction. This order must be served on all relevant agencies.

After Expungement

Once a record is expunged:

It will not appear in public background checks
You can legally state you have not been convicted of that offense
The record remains available to law enforcement agencies and courts
The record may still be considered for sentencing in future cases

Legal Assistance

The expungement process can be complex. Consider seeking assistance from:

Michigan Legal Help
Local legal aid organizations
Private attorneys specializing in expungement

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

Michigan law imposes significant restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and licensing contexts. These limitations are designed to protect individuals from discrimination while balancing public safety concerns.

Employment Limitations

Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act The Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based solely on arrest records that did not result in conviction. Employers cannot:
- Ask about arrests that did not lead to conviction
- Make employment decisions based solely on arrest records without convictions
- Use arrest information in a manner that has a disparate impact on protected classes
Ban the Box Policies Several Michigan municipalities have adopted "Ban the Box" ordinances that restrict when employers can inquire about criminal history:
- Detroit: Ordinance No. 31-13 prohibits employers from inquiring about criminal history until after a conditional offer of employment
- Kalamazoo: Similar restrictions on early criminal history inquiries
- Grand Rapids: Ordinance limiting criminal background checks until later in the hiring process
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) When employers use third-party background check companies to access arrest records, they must comply with the federal FCRA, which requires:
- Written consent before conducting background checks
- Pre-adverse action notices
- Opportunity to dispute inaccurate information

Housing Limitations

Fair Housing Laws Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act and federal Fair Housing Act restrict how housing providers can use arrest records:
- Blanket bans on applicants with arrest records may violate fair housing laws
- Housing providers must consider the nature, severity, and recency of criminal conduct
- Policies must be necessary to achieve a substantial, legitimate, nondiscriminatory interest
Public Housing Authorities Michigan public housing authorities have specific policies regarding criminal history:
- Must distinguish between arrests and convictions
- Cannot deny housing based solely on arrest records without convictions
- Must provide opportunity to dispute accuracy of records

Licensing Limitations

Good Moral Character Requirements Michigan's Occupational Code and Public Health Code govern how licensing boards can consider criminal history:
- Licensing boards cannot consider arrests that did not result in conviction
- Must consider relationship between criminal record and specific occupation
- Must consider evidence of rehabilitation
Workforce Development The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) has implemented policies to reduce barriers to licensure for individuals with criminal records.

Educational Limitations

Higher Education Admissions Michigan colleges and universities have varying policies on considering arrest records:
- Many institutions have moved toward more inclusive admissions policies
- Some only consider convictions, not arrests without convictions
- Must provide due process when making adverse decisions

Legal Remedies for Misuse

Individuals who believe their arrest records have been improperly used may seek remedies through:

Michigan Department of Civil Rights
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Civil litigation under applicable state and federal laws

These limitations generally apply to arrest records that did not result in conviction. Records of convictions may be used more broadly, though still subject to various legal restrictions.

Lookup Arrest Records in Michigan

Various agencies in Michigan maintain and provide access to arrest records. Below is a comprehensive list of the primary agencies where you can lookup arrest records in the state:

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center
7150 Harris Drive
Dimondale, MI 48821
(517) 241-0606
Michigan State Police

State Police

Michigan State Police Headquarters
7150 Harris Drive
Dimondale, MI 48821
(517) 332-2521
Michigan State Police

State Department of Corrections

Michigan Department of Corrections
206 E. Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
(517) 335-1426
Michigan Department of Corrections

State Court System

State Court Administrative Office
Michigan Hall of Justice
925 W. Ottawa Street
Lansing, MI 48915
(517) 373-0130
Michigan Courts

Michigan Supreme Court
Michigan Hall of Justice
925 W. Ottawa Street
Lansing, MI 48915
(517) 373-0120
Michigan Supreme Court

Attorney General's Office

Michigan Attorney General's Office
G. Mennen Williams Building
525 W. Ottawa Street
Lansing, MI 48933
(517) 335-7622
Michigan Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Wayne County Sheriff's Office
4747 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 224-2222
Wayne County Sheriff
Oakland County Sheriff's Office
1200 N. Telegraph Road
Pontiac, MI 48341
(248) 858-5000
Oakland County Sheriff
Macomb County Sheriff's Office
43565 Elizabeth Road
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
(586) 469-5151
Macomb County Sheriff
Kent County Sheriff's Office
701 Ball Avenue NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 632-6100
Kent County Sheriff
Genesee County Sheriff's Office
1002 S. Saginaw Street
Flint, MI 48502
(810) 257-3407
Genesee County Sheriff
Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office
2201 Hogback Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
(734) 971-8400
Washtenaw County Sheriff
Ingham County Sheriff's Office
630 N. Cedar Street
Mason, MI 48854
(517) 676-2431
Ingham County Sheriff
Ottawa County Sheriff's Office
12220 Fillmore Street
West Olive, MI 49460
(616) 738-4000
Ottawa County Sheriff
Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office
1500 Lamont Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49048
(269) 383-8821
Kalamazoo County Sheriff
Saginaw County Sheriff's Office
618 Cass Street
Saginaw, MI 48602
(989) 790-5456
Saginaw County Sheriff

Municipal Police Departments

Detroit Police Department
1301 Third Street
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 267-4600
Detroit Police Department
Grand Rapids Police Department
1 Monroe Center NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 456-3400
Grand Rapids Police Department
Warren Police Department
29900 Civic Center Boulevard
Warren, MI 48093
(586) 574-4700
Warren Police Department
Sterling Heights Police Department
40333 Dodge Park Road
Sterling Heights, MI 48313
(586) 446-2800
Sterling Heights Police Department
Lansing Police Department
120 W. Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
(517) 483-4600
Lansing Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Michigan

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Detroit Field Office
477 Michigan Avenue, 26th Floor
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 965-2323
FBI Detroit

U.S. Marshals Service - Eastern District of Michigan
231 W. Lafayette Boulevard, Suite 1144
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 234-5600
U.S. Marshals Service

U.S. Marshals Service - Western District of Michigan
110 Michigan Street NW, Room 601
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 456-2438
U.S. Marshals Service