Idaho Arrest Records

Idaho Public Records /Idaho Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Idaho?

Yes. Under the Idaho Public Records Law (Idaho Code § 74‑102), all records maintained by state and local government agencies—including arrest reports and booking details—are presumed open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. The law clearly lists categories of “investigatory records” that may be withheld, such as ongoing investigation materials or law enforcement techniques, while basic arrest information (e.g. name, date, location, offense charged) is typically considered public criminal justice information and must be released on request.

However, access is limited in certain cases. Investigatory records—which Idaho defines as records compiled for law enforcement purposes—may be withheld when disclosure would compromise privacy, interfere with proceedings, or endanger justice. Additionally, as recently highlighted by the Idaho Department of Corrections, inmate records may be denied or heavily redacted when their release poses safety or security risks to inmates or staf.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Idaho?

Access to arrest records in Idaho is primarily governed by the Idaho Public Records Act (IPRA), codified in Title 74, Chapter 1 of the Idaho Code. This comprehensive legislation establishes the framework for public access to government records, including arrest records, while also defining certain exemptions and limitations.

Key provisions of the Idaho Public Records Act include:

Idaho Code § 74-102: Establishes the right of every person to examine and take a copy of any public record, with certain exceptions.
Idaho Code § 74-104 through § 74-111: Outlines specific exemptions to disclosure, including records that would interfere with law enforcement proceedings or constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy.
Idaho Code § 74-113: Provides for a person's right to examine records containing information about themselves.

Additionally, access to criminal history information is further regulated by:

Idaho Criminal History Records and Crime Information Act (Idaho Code Title 67, Chapter 30): Governs the collection, storage, and dissemination of criminal history record information.
Idaho Court Administrative Rules: Rule 32 specifically addresses public access to court records, including arrest information that becomes part of court files.

The Idaho Criminal Justice Information System (ILETS) also operates under specific regulations that control how criminal justice information, including arrest data, is shared among authorized agencies and with the public.

These laws collectively establish a presumption of openness while providing necessary protections for sensitive information and individual privacy rights.

What Information Is Included in a Idaho Arrest Record?

An Idaho arrest record typically contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement resulting in an arrest. These records serve as official documentation of the arrest event and generally include the following information:

Personal Identification Information:

Full legal name of the arrested individual
Date of birth
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints
Address at time of arrest
Social Security Number (often partially redacted in public versions)

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
Booking number
Detention facility information

Offense Information:

Criminal charges filed
Idaho statute violations cited
Description of the alleged offense
Case number
Warrant information (if applicable)

Case Processing Information:

Court appearance dates
Bail or bond amount
Plea information
Case disposition (if available)
Sentencing information (if convicted)

Additional Information:

Prior arrest history (may be included in comprehensive criminal history reports)
Vehicle information (if relevant to the arrest)
Property seized during arrest
Witness information (often redacted in public versions)

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Idaho in 2025

In 2025, Idaho residents and other authorized individuals can obtain arrest records through several official channels. The process varies depending on the type of record needed and the agency that maintains it.

Through the Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification

The Idaho State Police (ISP) Bureau of Criminal Identification is the central repository for criminal history information in the state.

Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification
700 S. Stratford Drive, Suite 120
Meridian, ID 83642
(208) 884-7130
Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification

To obtain records:

Complete a Criminal History Request Form
Provide proper identification
Submit the required fee
Submit the request in person, by mail, or through the online portal

The Bureau is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays.

Through County Sheriff's Offices

Local arrest records can often be obtained directly from the county sheriff's office where the arrest occurred.

For example:

Visit the sheriff's office in person
Complete a public records request form
Provide identification and any required information about the record being sought
Pay applicable fees

Through Local Police Departments

Municipal police departments maintain records of arrests made within their jurisdiction.

Process typically involves:

Visiting the records division of the police department
Completing a records request form
Providing identification
Paying any applicable fees

Through Idaho Courts

Court records related to arrests and subsequent proceedings can be accessed through the Idaho Court Records Portal.

Additionally, you can visit the courthouse where the case was filed:

Go to the clerk's office
Request the specific case file
Provide the case number if available, or name and date of birth
Pay any applicable copy fees

By Mail

Most agencies accept written requests for arrest records. A typical mail request should include:

A completed records request form (available on agency websites)
A copy of valid government-issued photo ID
Specific information about the record being sought
A self-addressed stamped envelope
Payment for applicable fees (check or money order)

In Person

For immediate service, visiting the appropriate agency in person is often the most efficient method:

Bring valid government-issued photo ID
Be prepared to complete request forms on site
Bring payment for applicable fees
Be specific about the records you're seeking

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Idaho

Idaho offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally, providing convenient alternatives to in-person requests. These online systems vary in the scope of information they provide and their accessibility to the general public.

Idaho iCourt Portal

The Idaho iCourt Portal is the state's primary online system for accessing court records, including information related to arrests that resulted in court proceedings.

To use this system:

Visit the iCourt Portal website
Create a user account or continue as a guest
Select "Smart Search" for name-based searches
Enter the individual's name and any additional information
Review the list of matching cases
Pay applicable fees to view detailed documents

The portal provides case summaries, hearing dates, charges, and disposition information. Some documents may be available for download, while others may require in-person requests.

Idaho Department of Correction Offender Search

The Idaho Department of Correction Offender Search allows users to find information about individuals currently incarcerated or under supervision.

This database includes:

Current custody status
Physical description
Facility location
Sentence information
Parole eligibility dates
Conviction information

County Sheriff's Office Websites

Many Idaho county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate rosters or arrest logs that provide recent arrest information:

These sites typically include:

Recent bookings
Names of arrested individuals
Charges
Booking photos
Bond information

Third-Party Background Check Services

While not official government sources, several commercial websites aggregate public record information, including arrest records. When using these services:

Verify the legitimacy of the service
Be aware that information may not be current or complete
Understand that fees are typically required
Ensure compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act if using for employment purposes

Important Considerations for Online Searches

When searching for arrest records online in Idaho:

Information may be limited compared to official record requests
Some records may require additional verification
Older records may not be digitized or available online
Privacy restrictions may limit what information is accessible
Always verify information obtained online through official channels before making important decisions

For the most comprehensive and accurate arrest record information, combining online searches with formal requests to the appropriate agencies is recommended.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Idaho?

In Idaho, access to arrest records varies based on the requester's identity, the purpose of the request, and the specific information being sought. While the Idaho Public Records Act establishes a presumption of openness, certain restrictions apply to protect privacy and ensure appropriate use of criminal history information.

General Public Access

Members of the general public can access:

Basic arrest information (name, date, charges)
Court records related to arrests
Booking photos from many agencies
Conviction information
Current inmate status

However, access may be limited for:

Juvenile records (with exceptions)
Sealed or expunged records
Records related to ongoing investigations
Records where disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy

Criminal Justice Agencies

Law enforcement and criminal justice agencies have broader access to arrest records for official purposes:

Police departments
Sheriff's offices
Prosecutors' offices
Courts
Probation and parole departments
Correctional facilities
Federal law enforcement agencies

These agencies can access complete criminal history information through the Idaho Criminal Justice Information System (ILETS) and the FBI's National Crime Information Center (NCIC).

Government Agencies

Certain government agencies may access arrest records for specific authorized purposes:

Licensing boards
Child protection services
Public housing authorities
Military recruitment
Immigration authorities

Access is typically limited to information necessary for their statutory responsibilities.

Employers and Licensing Bodies

Employers and licensing bodies may access arrest records with limitations:

Many can access conviction records
Access to non-conviction data may be restricted
Written consent from the subject is typically required
Use must comply with the Idaho Private Employer Criminal History Check Act

Individuals Requesting Their Own Records

Individuals have the right to access their own criminal history information:

Complete access to their own records
Right to challenge inaccurate information
May obtain identity history summary checks

Researchers and Media

Researchers and media organizations may access arrest records:

Often limited to statistical or anonymized data for researchers
Media access similar to general public, with First Amendment considerations
May require special arrangements for bulk data

Attorneys

Attorneys may access arrest records:

Defense attorneys have broad access to client-related records
Prosecutors have access through official channels
Civil attorneys may access through normal public channels or discovery

Restrictions Based on Record Type

Access varies by record type:

Conviction records: Most accessible
Non-conviction records: More restricted
Expunged/sealed records: Highly restricted
Juvenile records: Significant restrictions with exceptions for serious offenses

All access to arrest records must comply with applicable state and federal laws, including the Idaho Public Records Act and the Idaho Criminal History Records and Crime Information Act.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Idaho?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in Idaho typically involves fees that vary depending on the type of record requested, the agency providing the record, and the method of access. These fees are authorized under Idaho Code § 74-102(10), which allows agencies to charge for the direct costs of copying records, as well as fees for any necessary administrative tasks.

Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification Fees

The Idaho State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) charges the following fees for criminal history record checks:

Name-based criminal history check - $20.00
Fingerprint-based criminal history check - $25.00
Certified copy of criminal history record - $10.00 additional
Expedited processing - $20.00 additional

Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification
700 S. Stratford Drive, Suite 120
Meridian, ID 83642
(208) 884-7130
Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification

Court Record Fees

The Idaho Court system charges fees for accessing court records related to arrests:

Electronic access to court records (iCourt Portal) - $0.10 per page
Printed copies at courthouse -$0.25 per page
Certified court documents - $1.00 per document plus copy fees
Record search by court staff (if date/case number unknown) - $10.00 per name/record

County Sheriff's Office Fees

Fees vary by county, but typical charges include:

Local arrest record - $5.00 - $15.00
Booking photo - $5.00 - $10.00
Incident/arrest report - $5.00 - $25.00 depending on length
Research fee (if extensive search required) - $20.00 - $30.00 per hour

Municipal Police Department Fees

City police departments typically charge:

Local arrest record - $5.00 - $15.00
Incident report - $5.00 - $20.00
Research fee - $15.00 - $25.00 per hour

Fee Waivers

Under Idaho Code § 74-102(10)(f), fees may be waived if:

The requester demonstrates indigency
The request is deemed in the public interest
The requesting party is a victim of a crime seeking records related to their case

To request a fee waiver, submit a written request explaining the basis for the waiver along with your records request.

Payment Methods

Most agencies accept the following payment methods:

Cash (in-person only)
Personal checks
Money orders
Credit/debit cards (in-person and online)
Electronic payment through online portals

Always verify the current fee schedule and accepted payment methods with the specific agency before submitting your request, as fees may change and vary between jurisdictions.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Idaho

In Idaho, arrest records are maintained according to a structured retention schedule that varies based on the type of record, the outcome of the case, and the agency maintaining the information. These retention periods are governed by state law, agency policies, and administrative rules.

State Repository Records

The Idaho State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), which serves as the central repository for criminal history information, maintains arrest records according to the following general guidelines:

Felony arrests: Maintained permanently in the state repository
Misdemeanor arrests: Typically maintained for at least 10 years from the date of arrest
Arrests resulting in conviction: Maintained permanently unless expunged by court order
Arrests not resulting in conviction: May be eligible for removal after specific time periods, typically 5 years for misdemeanors and 10 years for felonies, if no subsequent arrests occur

Law Enforcement Agency Records

Local law enforcement agencies, including sheriff's offices and police departments, typically follow these retention schedules:

Arrest reports: Maintained for a minimum of 10 years
Booking photos and fingerprints: Retained for the same duration as the corresponding arrest record
Investigation reports leading to arrest: Typically kept for 10 years to permanently, depending on the severity of the crime
Juvenile arrest records: Subject to different retention schedules, often sealed or destroyed when the individual reaches age 18, except for serious offenses

Court Records

The Idaho Judiciary maintains court records related to arrests according to the following general guidelines:

Felony case records: Maintained permanently
Misdemeanor case records: Typically maintained for at least 10 years after case closure
Traffic violations: Generally maintained for 5 years after case closure
Juvenile court records: Often sealed when the juvenile reaches age 18, with exceptions for serious offenses

Department of Correction Records

The Idaho Department of Correction maintains records according to these general timeframes:

Incarceration records: Maintained permanently
Probation and parole records: Typically kept for 10 years after supervision ends
Pre-sentence investigation reports: Maintained permanently as part of the case file

Exceptions and Special Circumstances

Several factors can affect how long arrest records are maintained:

Court-ordered expungement: Records may be destroyed or sealed earlier than scheduled if ordered by a court
Serious violent offenses: Records for serious violent crimes are typically maintained permanently
Sex offenses: Records related to sex offenses are generally maintained permanently
DNA records: DNA profiles collected during arrests for qualifying offenses are maintained in the state DNA database indefinitely, unless expungement is ordered

Even when physical or primary database records are purged according to retention schedules, information about arrests may persist in backup systems, archived media, or secondary databases. Additionally, once information has entered the public domain, it may be preserved by third-party data aggregators beyond the state's retention periods.

The specific retention periods may be subject to change based on updates to Idaho law, administrative rules, or agency policies.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Idaho Arrest Records?

In Idaho, certain information is routinely redacted or restricted from publicly accessible arrest records to protect privacy rights, maintain the integrity of investigations, and comply with state and federal laws. Understanding these restrictions is important for anyone seeking arrest records in the state.

Personal Identifying Information

The following personal information is typically redacted from public versions of arrest records:

Social Security Numbers
Driver's license numbers
Personal telephone numbers
Personal email addresses
Home addresses (in some circumstances)
Financial account numbers
Medical information
Date of birth (may be partially redacted, showing only year)

Victim Information

Information about victims is often redacted, particularly in cases involving:

Sexual assault or domestic violence
Crimes against children
Human trafficking
Cases where victim safety could be compromised
Victim statements and personal details

Witness Information

Protected witness information typically includes:

Names and identifying information of confidential informants
Contact information for witnesses
Witness statements (in some circumstances)
Information that could endanger witness safety

Juvenile Information

Records involving juveniles have significant restrictions:

Names and identifying information of juvenile offenders (with exceptions for serious offenses)
School records and information
Juvenile court proceedings
Juvenile probation records
Family information related to juvenile cases

Ongoing Investigations

Information related to active investigations may be restricted:

Investigative techniques and procedures
Information that could compromise an ongoing investigation
Undercover officer identities
Details about pending arrests or searches
Grand jury proceedings

Legal Restrictions

Certain information is restricted by specific legal provisions:

Information protected by attorney-client privilege
Information subject to court-ordered sealing
Records sealed under Idaho's expungement laws
Information protected by federal laws such as HIPAA
Information restricted by court protective orders

Law Enforcement Sensitive Information

Operational details may be redacted, including:

Tactical information
Security procedures
Law enforcement techniques
Officer safety information
Critical infrastructure details

Other Protected Information

Additional categories of restricted information include:

Mental health evaluations
Substance abuse treatment information
Immigration status (in some circumstances)
Information about minors not charged with crimes
DNA profiles and raw biometric data
Information that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy

These redactions are authorized under various provisions of Idaho law, including exemptions in the Idaho Public Records Act (Idaho Code § 74-104 through § 74-111), the Idaho Criminal History Records and Crime Information Act, and various court rules.

The extent of redaction may vary depending on who is requesting the records, the purpose of the request, and the specific agency providing the information. Law enforcement agencies and other authorized criminal justice entities typically have access to unredacted versions of these records for official purposes.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Idaho

In Idaho, individuals may have options to seal, expunge, or otherwise limit access to their arrest records under certain circumstances. The process varies depending on the type of record, the outcome of the case, and the individual's criminal history.

Expungement of Arrest Records

Idaho law provides limited opportunities for expungement of arrest records:

Arrests Without Charges (Idaho Code § 67-3004(10)):
- If an arrest did not lead to formal charges within one year
- Process:
  - File a petition with the district court in the county where the arrest occurred
  - Provide notice to the prosecuting attorney
  - Attend a hearing where the court will determine if expungement is appropriate
  - If granted, the court will order all criminal justice agencies to remove references to the arrest
Acquittals and Dismissed Cases:
- For cases resulting in acquittal or dismissal
- Process similar to arrests without charges
- Court has discretion based on the circumstances of the case

Sealing Juvenile Records

Idaho provides more extensive relief for juvenile records:

Automatic Sealing (Idaho Code § 20-525A):
- Juvenile records may be automatically sealed when:
  - Five years have passed since the end of the case
  - The person has no adult felony or misdemeanor convictions
  - No pending criminal proceedings exist
  - The juvenile has been discharged from the jurisdiction of the court
Petition for Early Sealing:
- Juveniles may petition for early sealing if:
  - At least one year has passed since the termination of the court's jurisdiction
  - The juvenile has no adult criminal record
  - The court finds sealing is in the juvenile's best interest

Withheld Judgments

For cases where judgment was withheld under Idaho Code § 19-2604:

Misdemeanors with Withheld Judgment:
- After successfully completing probation
- No violations of terms and conditions
- Process:
  - File a motion with the court that handled the case
  - If granted, the guilty plea is set aside and case dismissed
  - Records remain but show the dismissal
Felonies with Withheld Judgment:
- Similar process to misdemeanors
- Court has discretion to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor in some cases
- More stringent requirements for serious offenses

Pardons

The Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole can grant pardons that may provide relief:

Regular Pardons:
- Available five years after discharge for non-violent offenses
- Available ten years after discharge for violent offenses
- Process:
  - Submit application to the Commission
  - Commission reviews and makes recommendation to the Governor
  - Governor makes final decision
Exceptional Pardons:
- Available in extraordinary circumstances before standard waiting periods
- Requires compelling justification

Limitations on Relief

Certain records are generally ineligible for expungement or sealing:

Convictions for violent felonies
Sex offenses requiring registration
Crimes against children
Multiple felony convictions
DUI offenses (in most circumstances)

Process for Seeking Relief

The general process includes:

Obtain a complete copy of your criminal history from the Idaho State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification
Gather court documents related to the arrest and case disposition
Determine which form of relief you may be eligible for
Prepare and file appropriate petition or application with the court
Notify required parties (typically the prosecuting attorney)
Attend scheduled hearing
If relief is granted, ensure all agencies comply with the order

Legal assistance is strongly recommended for navigating this complex process. The Idaho State Bar can provide referrals to attorneys who specialize in criminal record relief.

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

Idaho law places several important restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These limitations are designed to protect individuals from unfair discrimination while balancing public safety concerns and the public's right to information.

Employment Limitations

Idaho employers face several restrictions when using arrest records:

Idaho Private Employer Criminal History Check Act (Idaho Code § 44-901 et seq.):
- Requires employers to notify applicants if a criminal history check will be conducted
- Mandates that employers consider:
  - The nature and gravity of the offense
  - The time elapsed since the offense
  - The nature of the job sought
Ban-the-Box Policies:
- While Idaho does not have a statewide ban-the-box law, some municipalities have adopted policies limiting when employers can ask about criminal history
- Public employers in these jurisdictions typically cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) Compliance:
- Employers using third-party background check companies must:
  - Obtain written consent before conducting the check
  - Provide pre-adverse action notice if considering adverse action
  - Provide adverse action notice if denying employment based on the record
  - Provide a copy of the report and summary of rights

Housing Limitations

Landlords and housing providers face restrictions:

Fair Housing Act Considerations:
- While criminal history screening is permitted, policies that create disparate impact on protected classes may violate fair housing laws
- Housing providers should:
  - Consider the nature and severity of the offense
  - Time since criminal conduct occurred
  - Evidence of rehabilitation
Public Housing Authorities:
- Have specific guidelines for considering criminal history
- Must provide notice and opportunity to dispute accuracy of records
- Cannot implement blanket bans on all individuals with criminal records

Licensing Limitations

Professional licensing boards in Idaho:

Must comply with Idaho Code § 67-9408:
- Prohibits denial of occupational licenses based solely on criminal convictions unless:
  - The conviction is relevant to the occupation
  - Denial is necessary to protect public safety
  - Less than five years have passed since completion of sentence for felonies
  - Less than three years have passed for misdemeanors
Must provide written explanation:
- If denying a license based on criminal history
- Including the specific relevance of the conviction to the occupation

General Use Limitations

Additional restrictions apply to all users of arrest records:

Non-Conviction Records:
- Arrests not leading to conviction generally cannot be used as the sole basis for adverse decisions
- Users should consider the presumption of innocence
Expunged or Sealed Records:
- Cannot be used for any purpose if properly expunged or sealed
- Individuals may legally deny the existence of expunged arrests
Juvenile Records:
- Subject to stricter confidentiality requirements
- Generally cannot be used except in limited circumstances
Accuracy Requirements:
- Users must ensure records are accurate and complete
- Should provide opportunity to explain or correct information
Privacy Considerations:
- Information obtained from arrest records cannot be used for harassment or intimidation
- Republishing arrest information for commercial purposes may be restricted

Penalties for Misuse

Misuse of arrest records can result in:

Civil liability under various state and federal laws
Administrative penalties from licensing authorities
Potential criminal penalties for intentional misuse
Damages in civil lawsuits for discrimination or invasion of privacy

Organizations and individuals who regularly use arrest records should develop clear policies that comply with these limitations and ensure all staff are properly trained on legal requirements and best practices.

Lookup Arrest Records in Idaho

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification
700 S. Stratford Drive, Suite 120
Meridian, ID 83642
(208) 884-7130
Idaho State Police - Bureau of Criminal Identification

State Police

Idaho State Police Headquarters
700 S. Stratford Drive
Meridian, ID 83642
(208) 884-7000
Idaho State Police

State Department of Corrections

Idaho Department of Correction
1299 N. Orchard Street, Suite 110
Boise, ID 83706
(208) 658-2000
Idaho Department of Correction

State Court System

Idaho Supreme Court
451 W. State Street
Boise, ID 83702
(208) 334-2210
Idaho Courts

Idaho iCourt Portal
Online access to court records
Idaho iCourt Portal

Attorney General's Office

Idaho Office of the Attorney General
700 W. Jefferson Street, Suite 210
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0010
(208) 334-2400
Idaho Office of the Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Ada County Sheriff's Office
7200 Barrister Drive
Boise, ID 83704
(208) 577-3000
Ada County Sheriff's Office

Kootenai County Sheriff's Office
5500 N. Government Way
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
(208) 446-1300
Kootenai County Sheriff's Office

Bonneville County Sheriff's Office
605 N. Capital Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
(208) 529-1200
Bonneville County Sheriff's Office

Canyon County Sheriff's Office
1115 Albany Street
Caldwell, ID 83605
(208) 454-7510
Canyon County Sheriff's Office

Twin Falls County Sheriff's Office
425 Shoshone Street North
Twin Falls, ID 83301
(208) 736-4040
Twin Falls County Sheriff's Office

Bannock County Sheriff's Office
5800 South 5th Avenue
Pocatello, ID 83204
(208) 236-7111
Bannock County Sheriff's Office

Bingham County Sheriff's Office
501 North Maple Street #405
Blackfoot, ID 83221
(208) 785-1234
Bingham County Sheriff's Office

Bonner County Sheriff's Office
4001 North Boyer Road
Sandpoint, ID 83864
(208) 263-8417
Bonner County Sheriff's Office