Broome County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Broome County

Arrest records in Broome County are considered public information pursuant to the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), codified under New York Public Officers Law § 87. This statute establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are presumptively available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.

The New York State Committee on Open Government has determined that basic arrest information must be disclosed to the public, including the name of the person arrested, the charges filed, and other fundamental details of the arrest. However, it is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through legal proceedings.

Under New York Criminal Procedure Law § 160.50, records of arrests that did not result in convictions may be sealed under certain circumstances. When records are sealed, they are no longer accessible to the general public, though they remain available to law enforcement agencies and certain authorized entities.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division maintains and processes requests for arrest records in accordance with state law. Members of the public seeking access to arrest records must follow established procedures for submitting FOIL requests to the appropriate agency.

What's in Broome County Arrest Records

Broome County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Home address
• Identifying marks such as scars or tattoos
• Fingerprints
• Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

• Date and time of arrest
• Location of arrest
• Arresting agency
• Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
• Circumstances leading to arrest

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges filed
• Statute numbers of alleged violations
• Classification of charges (felony, misdemeanor, violation)
• Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

• Warrant number
• Issuing court
• Date of issuance
• Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)

Booking Information:

• Booking number
• Date and time of booking
• Processing officer information
• Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount set
• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Whether bail was posted
• Conditions of release

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Docket or case number
• Scheduled court appearances
• Name of assigned judge

Custody Status:

• Current detention status
• Facility where detained
• Release date (if applicable)

Additional Information May Include:

• Prior arrest history
• Known aliases
• Immigration status
• Probation or parole status
• Risk assessment scores
• Medical or mental health alerts

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. The New York Division of Criminal Justice Services establishes standards for record-keeping that all law enforcement agencies in the state, including those in Broome County, must follow.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Broome County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Broome County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing arrest records:

1. Submit a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request:

   • Complete a FOIL request form, which can be obtained from the Broome County Sheriff's Office or downloaded from their website.
   • Specify the exact records being requested, including the name of the individual, approximate date of arrest, and any other identifying information.
   • Submit the completed form to the Records Access Officer at the appropriate agency.

2. Visit the Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division in person:

Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Public Safety Facility
155 Lt. VanWinkle Drive
Binghamton, NY 13905
(607) 778-1911
Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

3. Contact the Arresting Agency:

   • If the arrest was made by a municipal police department within Broome County, contact that specific department's records division.
   • Each agency may have different procedures for requesting records.

4. Check Court Records:

   • Visit the Broome County Clerk's Office to search for court records related to arrests.

Broome County Clerk's Office
Broome County Office Building
60 Hawley Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-2451
Broome County Clerk

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

5. Request Criminal History Information:
   • For a complete criminal history record, individuals may request their own record from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.
   • Third parties cannot obtain complete criminal history records without proper authorization.

When requesting arrest records, requestors should be prepared to provide identification and pay any applicable fees. Pursuant to New York Public Officers Law § 87(1)(b)(iii), agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying records, not exceeding 25 cents per page for photocopies.

How To Find Broome County Arrest Records Online

Broome County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. The following methods are available for conducting electronic searches:

1. Broome County Sheriff's Office Website:

   • The Sheriff's Office News Releases section contains information about recent arrests and booking activities.
   • This resource is updated regularly with information about significant arrests and law enforcement activities.
   • Users can browse chronologically or search for specific information.

2. New York State WebCrims System:

   • The New York State Unified Court System maintains the WebCrims database, which provides public access to criminal case information.
   • Visit the WebCrims portal to search for cases by name or case number.
   • Registration may be required for access to certain features.

3. Broome County Jail Inmate Lookup:

   • The Broome County Correctional Facility maintains an online inmate lookup system.
   • This database provides information about individuals currently in custody, including arrest date and charges.
   • Search by name to determine if someone is currently incarcerated.

4. New York State Sex Offender Registry:

   • For sex offense-related arrests and convictions, the public can search the New York State Sex Offender Registry.
   • This database is maintained by the Division of Criminal Justice Services and includes information about registered sex offenders residing in Broome County.

When using online resources to access arrest records, users should note that:

• Information may be limited compared to official records obtained directly from the Sheriff's Office.
• Online records may not be updated in real-time and could contain delays in reporting.
• Some arrest information may be excluded from online databases due to legal restrictions or ongoing investigations.
• Verification of information found online should be conducted through official channels.

Pursuant to New York Public Officers Law § 89, electronic access to government records must be provided when feasible, but agencies may implement reasonable safeguards to protect against unauthorized access or disclosure of sensitive information.

How To Search Broome County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public have several options for accessing Broome County arrest records without incurring fees. The following methods provide free access to arrest information:

1. Online Public Resources:

   • The Broome County Sheriff's Office website publishes press releases about significant arrests and law enforcement activities at no cost to the public.
   • These releases typically include basic information about recent arrests, including names, charges, and circumstances.

2. Public Access Terminals:

   • The Broome County Clerk's Office provides public access terminals where visitors can search court records related to arrests and criminal cases free of charge.
   • These terminals are available during regular business hours at the County Clerk's Office.

Broome County Clerk's Office
Broome County Office Building
60 Hawley Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-2451
Broome County Clerk

3. Public Library Resources:
   • The Broome County Public Library offers free internet access where patrons can search public records databases.
   • Library staff may provide assistance in navigating public records resources.

Broome County Public Library
185 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-6400
Broome County Public Library

4. FOIL Inspection Requests:

   • Under the New York Freedom of Information Law, individuals have the right to inspect public records without charge.
   • While copying fees may apply for obtaining physical copies, in-person inspection of records is free.
   • Submit a FOIL request specifying the desire to inspect records rather than receive copies.

5. Court Calendar Information:

   • Daily court calendars listing scheduled appearances for individuals with pending criminal cases are publicly available at the courthouse.
   • These calendars include defendant names and charges, providing a source of arrest information.

Broome County Courthouse
92 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 240-5800
New York State Unified Court System

When utilizing free resources to access arrest records, requestors should be aware that:

• Information may be less comprehensive than official records obtained through formal channels.
• Some records may be subject to restrictions or redactions in accordance with New York Public Officers Law § 87(2).
• Verification of information obtained through free resources may be necessary for official purposes.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Broome County

In New York State, including Broome County, individuals cannot "delete" arrest records in the literal sense, but they may be eligible to have records sealed or expunged under specific circumstances. The distinction between these processes is important:

Record Sealing: Restricts public access to criminal records but does not completely destroy them. Sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and certain authorized entities.

Record Expungement: A more complete removal of records that generally makes them inaccessible to all parties, though this process is limited in New York State.

The following procedures apply to individuals seeking to limit access to their arrest records:

1. Sealing Under CPL § 160.50:

   • Pursuant to New York Criminal Procedure Law § 160.50, records of arrests that did not result in convictions are eligible for sealing.
   • This applies to cases resulting in acquittal, dismissal, or other favorable dispositions.
   • The sealing process typically occurs automatically when a case concludes with a favorable disposition.
   • If records were not automatically sealed, individuals may file a motion with the court that handled the case.

2. Sealing Under CPL § 160.59:

   • Under New York Criminal Procedure Law § 160.59, individuals with certain criminal convictions may apply to have their records sealed after a 10-year waiting period.
   • Not all convictions are eligible; violent felonies, sex offenses, and certain other serious crimes are excluded.
   • Eligible individuals may file an application with the court where the conviction occurred.
   • A maximum of two convictions (only one of which may be a felony) can be sealed under this provision.

3. Youthful Offender Adjudication:

   • Records of cases where the defendant received youthful offender status are automatically sealed pursuant to New York Criminal Procedure Law § 720.35.
   • This applies to eligible defendants who were at least 16 but less than 19 years old at the time of the alleged offense.

4. Marijuana Conviction Expungement:

   • Under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, certain marijuana-related convictions are automatically expunged.
   • This process applies to convictions for activities that are no longer criminalized under current law.

To initiate the sealing process for eligible records, individuals should:

1. Consult with an attorney specializing in criminal record sealing.
2. Obtain a copy of their criminal history record from the New York Division of Criminal Justice Services.
3. File the appropriate motion or application with the court of conviction.
4. Attend any scheduled hearings regarding the sealing application.

Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York
168 Water Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(877) 777-6152
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York

Individuals should be aware that even sealed records may remain accessible to certain government agencies and may be considered in specific circumstances, such as applications for law enforcement positions or firearms licenses.

What Happens After Arrest in Broome County?

Following an arrest in Broome County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by New York State law. This process typically progresses through the following stages:

1. Booking and Processing:

   • Upon arrest, individuals are transported to a law enforcement facility for booking.
   • This process includes fingerprinting, photographing, recording personal information, and documenting the alleged offense.
   • Personal property is inventoried and secured.
   • The Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division processes and maintains these booking records.

2. Custody Determination:

   • Depending on the severity of the charges and other factors, the arrestee may be:
     • Released with an appearance ticket directing them to appear in court at a later date
     • Held for arraignment before a judge
   • For those held in custody, detention typically occurs at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

3. Arraignment:

   • The first court appearance, typically occurring within 24 hours of arrest.
   • The judge informs the defendant of the charges and their legal rights.
   • Bail or release decisions are made in accordance with New York's bail reform laws.
   • A plea of guilty or not guilty is entered.
   • For misdemeanors, arraignments occur in the local court with jurisdiction.
   • For felonies, initial arraignments occur in local courts, with subsequent proceedings in Broome County Court.

4. Bail Consideration:

   • Pursuant to New York Criminal Procedure Law § 510.10, judges must impose the least restrictive conditions necessary to ensure the defendant's return to court.
   • For many misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies, release without bail is presumptive.
   • For bail-eligible offenses, the court may set bail or order pretrial detention.

5. Preliminary Hearing (Felonies Only):

   • For felony cases where the defendant is in custody, a preliminary hearing must be held within 144 hours of arrest unless waived or an indictment is obtained.
   • The prosecution must demonstrate reasonable cause to believe the defendant committed a felony.

6. Grand Jury Proceedings (Felonies Only):

   • Felony cases proceed to a grand jury, which determines whether sufficient evidence exists to issue an indictment.
   • Grand jury proceedings are confidential and conducted without the defendant or defense counsel present, though defendants may testify if they choose.

7. Discovery Process:

   • The prosecution must provide evidence to the defense, including police reports, witness statements, and other relevant materials.
   • This exchange occurs pursuant to New York Criminal Procedure Law § 245.20.

8. Plea Negotiations:

   • Discussions between prosecution and defense may result in a plea agreement.
   • Agreements typically involve pleading guilty to reduced charges or with sentencing recommendations.

9. Trial:

   • If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial.
   • Misdemeanor trials occur in local courts, while felony trials take place in Broome County Court.
   • Defendants have the right to a jury trial or, in some cases, may opt for a bench trial before a judge.

10. Sentencing:

    • Following a guilty plea or conviction at trial, the court imposes a sentence.
    • Sentences may include incarceration, probation, fines, community service, or other penalties.
    • The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision oversees state prison sentences, while the Broome County Probation Department supervises probationers.

11. Appeals:

    • Defendants have the right to appeal convictions or sentences to higher courts.
    • Appeals from local courts go to the Broome County Court; appeals from County Court go to the Appellate Division, Third Department.

Throughout this process, individuals have constitutional rights, including the right to counsel. Those unable to afford an attorney may receive representation from the Broome County Public Defender's Office.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Broome County?

Arrest records in Broome County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the New York State Archives under the authority of Arts and Cultural Affairs Law § 57.25. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods for various types of law enforcement records, including those pertaining to arrests.

The following retention periods apply to arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies in Broome County:

1. Arrest Reports and Blotters:

   • Basic arrest information must be retained permanently.
   • This includes the arrest blotter, which contains the name, address, physical description, date of birth, alleged offense, and time and place of arrest.

2. Case Files:

   • For felony cases: Records must be retained for 25 years after completion of investigation or date of last entry.
   • For misdemeanor cases: Records must be retained for 5 years after completion of investigation or date of last entry.
   • For violation cases: Records must be retained for 1 year after completion of investigation or date of last entry.

3. Fingerprint Records:

   • Fingerprints for individuals charged with crimes must be submitted to the New York Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).
   • DCJS maintains these records indefinitely unless they are sealed or expunged pursuant to statutory authority.
   • Local copies of fingerprint cards may be destroyed when no longer needed for administrative purposes.

4. Photographs (Mugshots):

   • Photographs of arrested individuals are typically retained for the same duration as the corresponding case files.
   • If the case results in a conviction, the photographs may be maintained indefinitely as part of the individual's criminal history record.

5. Booking Records:

   • Information collected during the booking process is generally retained for the same period as the corresponding case files.
   • This includes personal information, property inventories, and medical screening data.

6. Sealed Records:

   • When records are sealed pursuant to New York Criminal Procedure Law § 160.50 or other statutory provisions, they are not physically destroyed.
   • Sealed records are segregated from publicly accessible files and can only be accessed by authorized personnel under specific circumstances.
   • Law enforcement agencies and courts may maintain sealed records indefinitely, though they are not available for public inspection.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division is responsible for ensuring compliance with these retention requirements for records under their jurisdiction. Municipal police departments within Broome County must also adhere to these state-mandated retention schedules.

It is important to note that different agencies may maintain separate copies of arrest-related records, each subject to their own retention requirements. For example, court records related to an arrest are maintained according to the Unified Court System's retention schedule, which may differ from law enforcement retention periods.

How to Find Mugshots in Broome County

Mugshots, or booking photographs, are created as part of the arrest and booking process in Broome County. These photographs serve as official documentation of an individual's appearance at the time of arrest and are maintained as part of the arrest record.

What Mugshots Are: Mugshots typically consist of front-facing and profile (side-view) photographs of arrested individuals. These images are taken during the booking process and become part of the official arrest record. They serve both administrative and identification purposes within the criminal justice system.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained: In Broome County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

1. The Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division, which processes and stores booking photographs for arrests made by the Sheriff's Office.

2. Municipal police departments within Broome County, which maintain mugshots for arrests made within their jurisdictions.

3. The Broome County Correctional Facility, which creates and maintains booking photographs for individuals processed into the jail.

Finding Mugshots: Members of the public seeking access to mugshots in Broome County have several potential avenues:

1. Submit a FOIL Request:

   • File a Freedom of Information Law request with the law enforcement agency that made the arrest.
   • Specify that you are seeking the booking photograph from a specific arrest.
   • Provide identifying information such as the individual's name and date of arrest.
   • Be prepared to pay any applicable fees for reproduction of records.

2. Contact the Broome County Sheriff's Office:

Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division
Public Safety Facility
155 Lt. VanWinkle Drive
Binghamton, NY 13905
(607) 778-1911
Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division

3. Check Law Enforcement Websites:
   • Some law enforcement agencies in Broome County may publish mugshots of recently arrested individuals on their official websites or social media pages.
   • The Broome County Sheriff's Office News Releases section occasionally includes mugshots with press releases about significant arrests.

Can Mugshots Be Found Online: While some mugshots may be available online, comprehensive access to all booking photographs is limited. Points to consider include:

1. Law enforcement agencies in Broome County do not maintain a public, searchable database of all mugshots.

2. Some third-party websites collect and publish mugshots obtained from public records, but these sites:

   • May not have complete or current information
   • Often charge fees for removal of photographs
   • May continue to display mugshots even after cases have been dismissed or records sealed

3. New York State has enacted legislation (New York General Business Law § 518-a) regulating websites that charge fees to remove mugshots.

Restrictions on Mugshot Access: Access to mugshots in Broome County is subject to several important limitations:

1. Mugshots associated with sealed cases are not publicly available. Pursuant to New York Criminal Procedure Law § 160.50, records (including photographs) of arrests that did not result in convictions are sealed and exempt from public disclosure.

2. Mugshots of youthful offenders (individuals adjudicated under New York Criminal Procedure Law § 720.35) are confidential and not subject to public disclosure.

3. Law enforcement agencies may withhold mugshots if their release would:

   • Interfere with an ongoing investigation
   • Deprive a person of the right to a fair trial
   • Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy

When requesting mugshots, individuals should be aware that these photographs are created for law enforcement purposes, and their public release is subject to applicable laws and regulations governing criminal records.

Lookup Arrest Records in Broome County

News Releases from Broome County Sheriff

Broome County Sheriff's Office Records Division

Broome County Correctional Facility Information

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services