Nevada Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Nevada?

Yes. Arrest records in Nevada are generally considered public records under the Nevada Public Records Act (NRS Chapter 239), which mandates transparency for records prepared, used, or maintained by public law enforcement agencies. This includes arrest reports, incident crime reports, mugshots, and booking logs, which are accessible via agencies such as county sheriff’s departments or municipal police departments—unless a specific law exempts them.

However, access is not unconditional. Certain information—such as juvenile arrest records, records tied to active investigations, or those deemed sensitive to law enforcement operations—can be restricted. When disclosure could compromise ongoing investigations or privacy, records may be redacted or withheld.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Nevada?

Access to arrest records in Nevada is primarily governed by the Nevada Public Records Act (NRS Chapter 239), which establishes the framework for public access to government records. This law operates under the presumption that government records are open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.

Several key legal provisions affect access to arrest records in Nevada:

1. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 239: The foundational law establishing that public records, including arrest records, are generally accessible to the public.

2. NRS 179A: The Nevada Criminal History Record Information Act, which governs the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history information.

3. NRS 179.245 to 179.301: Laws governing the sealing of criminal records, including arrest records under certain circumstances.

4. Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 179A: Regulations implementing the Criminal History Record Information Act.

5. Federal Regulations (28 CFR Part 20): Federal regulations concerning criminal justice information systems that impact how Nevada handles certain records.

The Nevada Public Records Act requires government agencies to provide reasonable access to public records and to respond to requests within five business days. Agencies must either provide the records, explain why more time is needed, or cite legal authority for denying access.

It's worth noting that the law balances public access with privacy concerns. For example, NRS 239.0105 requires agencies to redact personal identifying information from records before releasing them to the public in certain circumstances.

What Information Is Included in a Nevada Arrest Record?

A typical Nevada arrest record contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records serve as official documentation of an arrest and typically include:

• Biographical Information: Full legal name, aliases or nicknames, date of birth, gender, race/ethnicity, and physical descriptors (height, weight, eye color, hair color, distinguishing marks like tattoos or scars)

• Arrest Details: Date and time of arrest, location of arrest, arresting agency, name and badge number of arresting officer(s), and booking number

• Criminal Charges: Specific charges filed, including statute numbers and descriptions, charge severity (misdemeanor or felony), and charge classification

• Booking Information: Fingerprints, mugshot photographs, personal property inventory, and detention facility information

• Case Processing: Court case numbers, arraignment date, bail or bond information, court appearances, and case disposition (if available)

• Agency Information: Records of which law enforcement agencies were involved in the arrest and investigation

Some arrest records may also include:

• Incident reports describing the circumstances of the arrest
• Statements from officers, witnesses, or the arrested individual
• Preliminary breath test results or other field sobriety test information in DUI cases
• Information about any search warrants executed
• Notation of Miranda rights being read

It's important to understand that an arrest record documents an arrest but does not necessarily indicate guilt. The record may be updated later to reflect the final disposition of the case, such as dismissal, acquittal, or conviction.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Nevada in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Nevada involves contacting the appropriate agency that maintains the records you seek. The process varies depending on which agency holds the records and your relationship to the case. Here are the primary methods for obtaining arrest records in Nevada:

From Law Enforcement Agencies

1. Local Police Department or Sheriff's Office: Contact the agency that made the arrest directly. Most agencies require a written request form, identification, and payment of applicable fees.

2. Nevada Department of Public Safety (DPS): For statewide criminal history information, you can request records from the Nevada Criminal History Repository.

   Nevada Department of Public Safety - Records, Communications and Compliance Division
   333 West Nye Lane, Suite 100
   Carson City, NV 89706
   (775) 684-6262
   Nevada Department of Public Safety

   They offer several options:

   • In-person requests (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
   • Mail-in requests with a completed Civil Applicant Waiver form
   • Online requests through the Nevada Criminal History Repository portal

From Court Records

1. District Courts: Arrest records associated with court cases can be obtained from the district court where the case was processed.

2. Justice Courts: For misdemeanor cases, contact the appropriate justice court.

Required Information for Requests

When requesting arrest records, be prepared to provide:

• Full name of the person in the record
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number (for your own records only)
• Approximate date of arrest
• Case number (if known)
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Notarized authorization (if requesting someone else's records)

Processing Times

Processing times vary by agency and request method:

• In-person requests may be processed the same day
• Mail requests typically take 7-15 business days
• Online requests through the Repository may be processed within 1-3 business days

For the most current information on obtaining arrest records, it's advisable to contact the specific agency directly, as procedures and fees may change.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Nevada

Nevada offers several online resources for accessing arrest records, though the availability and comprehensiveness of information vary by platform. Here are the primary online methods for finding arrest records in Nevada:

Official Government Websites

1. Nevada Criminal History Repository Online Portal: The Nevada State Police Records, Communications and Compliance Division offers an online portal for requesting criminal history information, including arrest records. This service requires registration and payment of fees.

2. County Sheriff's Office Websites: Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate search tools that provide information about recent arrests and current inmates.

   • Clark County Detention Center Inmate Search
   • Washoe County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search

3. Nevada Court Records: The Nevada Courts website provides access to court case information, which may include arrest details for cases that have been filed with the court.

   • Nevada Supreme Court Case Search
   • Eighth Judicial District Court (Clark County) Case Search

Steps for Online Searches

1. Identify the appropriate database: Determine which agency would have the records you need based on the jurisdiction of the arrest.

2. Register or create an account: Some systems require user registration before allowing searches.

3. Provide search criteria: Typically, you'll need to enter the individual's name, date of birth, or case number.

4. Pay any required fees: Many online systems charge for record searches or document retrieval.

5. Review and download records: Once located, you may be able to view basic information online and/or download official documents.

Limitations of Online Searches

When searching for arrest records online in Nevada, be aware of these limitations:

• Not all records are available online, particularly older records
• Some online systems only show basic information, requiring additional steps to obtain complete records
• Information may be limited for privacy or security reasons
• Records that have been sealed or expunged will not appear in public searches
• Different agencies maintain separate databases, so you may need to search multiple systems

For the most comprehensive results, combining online searches with formal record requests to the appropriate agencies is often the most effective approach.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Nevada?

Access to arrest records in Nevada varies depending on the requester's identity and purpose. While arrest records are generally considered public information, certain restrictions apply to who can access complete records and how they can be used.

Public Access

Members of the general public can access basic arrest record information, including:

• Name of the arrested individual
• Date and location of arrest
• Charges filed
• Case status and court information

However, the public may not have access to complete criminal history information or records that have been sealed by court order.

Enhanced Access

Certain individuals and organizations have broader access to arrest records:

1. The Individual in the Record: People have the right to access their own criminal history information, including complete arrest records.

2. Criminal Justice Agencies: Law enforcement, courts, prosecutors, and corrections departments have full access to arrest records for official purposes.

3. Licensed Attorneys: Attorneys representing clients may access their clients' arrest records with proper authorization.

4. Government Agencies: Various government agencies may access arrest records for licensing, employment, or regulatory purposes as authorized by law.

5. Employers for Specific Positions: Employers in certain fields (education, healthcare, financial services, gaming, childcare) may have statutory authority to access arrest records for background checks.

Restricted Access

Access is limited or prohibited in these situations:

• Records that have been sealed pursuant to NRS 179.245-179.301
• Juvenile records (with certain exceptions)
• Records where disclosure would compromise an ongoing investigation
• Information specifically protected by other state or federal laws

Legal Framework for Access

Access to arrest records is governed by:

• Nevada Public Records Act (NRS Chapter 239)
• Nevada Criminal History Record Information Act (NRS Chapter 179A)
• Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) for employment purposes
• Various professional licensing laws

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Nevada?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in Nevada typically involves fees that vary depending on the agency providing the records and the type of request. These fees are authorized under Nevada law to cover the costs of processing requests, retrieving records, and providing copies.

Standard Fee Structure

1. Nevada Department of Public Safety (Criminal History Repository):

   • Nevada Criminal History Record: $27.00
   • Fingerprint-based background check: $36.75
   • Name-based records check: $15.00

2. County Sheriff's Offices:

   • Local arrest record search: $5-15 (varies by county)
   • Certified copies: Additional $2-5 per page
   • Research fees for older records: May be charged at hourly rates

3. Court Records:

   • Case search: $0-5
   • Copies of court documents: $0.25-1.00 per page
   • Certified court documents: $3-5 per document

Fee Waivers

Some agencies may waive fees under certain circumstances:

• For indigent individuals who demonstrate financial hardship
• For certain governmental or nonprofit organizations
• When records are requested for scholarly or journalistic purposes that serve the public interest

To request a fee waiver, submit a written request explaining the basis for the waiver along with your records request. Decisions on fee waivers are made on a case-by-case basis.

Payment Methods

Most agencies accept the following payment methods:

• Cash (in-person requests only)
• Personal checks
• Money orders
• Credit/debit cards (in-person and online requests)
• Electronic payment systems for online requests

Always verify the current fee schedule and accepted payment methods with the specific agency before submitting your request, as fees are subject to change.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Nevada

Nevada maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record, the severity of the alleged offense, and the final disposition of the case. Understanding these retention periods is important for individuals seeking records or considering record sealing options.

Standard Retention Periods

1. Law Enforcement Agencies:

   • Felony arrest records: Typically maintained for 75 years from the date of arrest
   • Misdemeanor arrest records: Generally kept for 10-15 years
   • Arrests with no charges filed: Usually retained for 5 years

2. Nevada Criminal History Repository:

   • Criminal history records are maintained indefinitely unless sealed by court order
   • Fingerprint records are retained permanently

3. Court Records:

   • Felony case records: Permanently maintained
   • Gross misdemeanor records: Maintained for 10 years after case closure
   • Misdemeanor records: Kept for 5-10 years after case closure
   • Traffic violations: Generally maintained for 3-5 years

Factors Affecting Retention

Several factors can influence how long arrest records are maintained:

• Case Disposition: Records for cases resulting in conviction are typically kept longer than those resulting in dismissal or acquittal.

• Record Sealing: If a record is sealed pursuant to NRS 179.245-179.301, it is removed from public access but may still be maintained for limited purposes.

• Offense Severity: Records for more serious offenses are kept longer than those for minor offenses.

• Statutory Requirements: Specific laws may mandate minimum retention periods for certain types of records.

Digital vs. Physical Records

With the transition to digital record-keeping, many Nevada agencies now maintain electronic arrest records indefinitely, even when physical copies might have been destroyed according to retention schedules. This digital preservation means that older records may still be accessible even decades after an arrest.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Nevada Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Nevada, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted to protect privacy, safety, and the integrity of the criminal justice system. Understanding these redactions helps requesters know what information they can expect to receive.

Commonly Redacted Information

1. Personal Identifying Information:

   • Social Security Numbers
   • Driver's license numbers
   • Financial account information
   • Date of birth (may be partially redacted)
   • Home addresses of private individuals
   • Personal phone numbers and email addresses

2. Sensitive Case Information:

   • Names and identifying information of victims, especially in sexual assault cases
   • Names of confidential informants
   • Information that could compromise ongoing investigations
   • Juvenile information (unless specifically authorized by court order)
   • Medical and mental health information
   • Details about child abuse or domestic violence victims

3. Law Enforcement Sensitive Information:

   • Undercover officer identities
   • Tactical information about law enforcement methods
   • Information that could compromise officer safety
   • Details about security systems or vulnerabilities

Legal Basis for Redactions

Redactions in Nevada arrest records are based on several legal authorities:

• NRS 239.0105: Requires redaction of personal identifying information
• NRS 179A.100: Restricts dissemination of certain criminal history information
• NRS 200.3771-200.3774: Protects the identity of sexual assault victims
• NRS 62H.010-62H.170: Governs confidentiality of juvenile records
• Federal laws including HIPAA for medical information

Challenging Redactions

If you believe information has been improperly redacted from an arrest record, you may:

1. Submit a written request to the agency explaining why you believe the redaction is improper
2. Provide legal justification for why the information should be disclosed
3. If denied, file an appeal according to the agency's procedures
4. Consider legal action under the Nevada Public Records Act if administrative remedies are exhausted

Agencies must cite specific legal authority when redacting information from public records, allowing requesters to understand the basis for withholding information.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Nevada

Nevada law provides mechanisms for eligible individuals to seal or destroy arrest records under certain circumstances. Record sealing removes records from public access, while destruction (which is less common) physically eliminates the records.

Eligibility for Record Sealing

Under NRS 179.245-179.301, you may be eligible to seal records if:

1. Charges were dismissed or you were acquitted: You can petition immediately after the case ends.

2. You completed a diversion program: You can petition after successful completion.

3. You were convicted but have completed your sentence: Waiting periods apply based on offense severity:

   • Misdemeanors: 1 year after case closure
   • Gross misdemeanors: 2 years after case closure
   • Category E felonies: 2 years after case closure
   • Category D or C felonies: 5 years after case closure
   • Category B felonies: 10 years after case closure
   • Category A felonies: 10+ years (if eligible at all)

4. Decriminalized offenses: Records related to offenses that have been decriminalized (such as certain marijuana offenses) may be eligible for immediate sealing.

Record Sealing Process

1. Obtain criminal history report: Request your Nevada Criminal History Record from the Nevada Department of Public Safety.

2. Gather case documents: Collect court documents showing case dispositions from each court where you had cases.

3. Prepare petition: Complete a Petition and Order to Seal Records for each jurisdiction where records exist. Forms are available from district court websites or clerk's offices.

4. File petition: Submit your petition to the district court in the county where the arrest/conviction occurred. Pay the filing fee (approximately $50-270 depending on the court).

5. Serve the petition: Provide copies to the prosecuting attorney and all agencies with records.

6. Attend hearing: If scheduled, attend the court hearing to address any objections.

7. Distribute the order: If granted, send the signed order to all agencies holding records.

Record Destruction

Record destruction is limited to specific circumstances:

1. DNA records: May be destroyed if conviction is reversed and dismissed.

2. Arrest records with no charges: If you were arrested but never charged, you may petition for destruction after the statute of limitations expires.

3. Juvenile records: May be eligible for destruction under specific provisions of NRS 62H.100-62H.170.

Important Considerations

• Certain serious offenses (sexual offenses, crimes against children, domestic violence) may be ineligible for sealing.
• Federal agencies and certain employers may still access sealed records for specific purposes.
• The process can take 3-9 months to complete.
• Legal assistance is recommended but not required.

For assistance with record sealing, consider contacting:

Clark County Legal Self-Help Center
Regional Justice Center
200 Lewis Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 671-3970
Clark County Self-Help Center

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

Nevada law places significant restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and licensing contexts. These limitations aim to balance public safety with fairness toward individuals with criminal histories.

Employment Limitations

1. Ban the Box Provisions: Under Nevada Assembly Bill 384 (effective January 1, 2020), public employers cannot:

   • Ask about criminal history on initial job applications
   • Consider arrests that did not result in convictions
   • Consider sealed or expunged records

2. Private Employer Restrictions: While private employers have more flexibility, they must:

   • Comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when conducting background checks
   • Provide notice before taking adverse action based on criminal history
   • Consider the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the position

3. Occupation-Specific Laws: Certain professions have specific laws governing the use of criminal history:

   • Gaming industry (NRS 463.335)
   • Healthcare (NRS 449.123)
   • Education (NRS 391.033)
   • Financial services (various federal regulations)

Housing Limitations

1. Public Housing: Public housing authorities must follow HUD guidelines regarding criminal history consideration, which generally prohibit blanket bans based on arrest records without convictions.

2. Private Housing: While Nevada doesn't have specific state laws limiting private landlords' use of arrest records, landlords must:

   • Follow FCRA requirements for background checks
   • Avoid practices that could constitute discrimination under fair housing laws

Licensing Limitations

Under NRS 622.085, Nevada licensing boards:

• Cannot deny licenses based solely on criminal history without considering:
  • Age at time of offense
  • Nature and severity of the offense
  • Time elapsed since the offense
  • Evidence of rehabilitation
• Must provide written explanations when denying licenses based on criminal history

Penalties for Misuse

Misuse of arrest records can result in:

• Civil liability under Nevada privacy laws
• Administrative penalties from regulatory agencies
• Potential discrimination claims under state and federal law

Legal Protections

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

• Nevada Equal Rights Commission
• Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• Civil lawsuits for discrimination or privacy violations
• Complaints to professional licensing boards

It's important to note that sealed records should not be used for any purpose, and doing so may constitute contempt of court under Nevada law.

Lookup Arrest Records in Nevada

Nevada Department of Public Safety

Nevada Department of Public Safety
333 West Nye Lane, Suite 100
Carson City, NV 89706
(775) 684-6262
Nevada Department of Public Safety

State Department of Corrections

Nevada Department of Corrections
5500 Snyder Avenue, Building 17
Carson City, NV 89701
(775) 887-3285
Nevada Department of Corrections

State Court System

Administrative Office of the Courts
Supreme Court Building
201 South Carson Street, Suite 250
Carson City, NV 89701
(775) 684-1700
Nevada Courts

Nevada Supreme Court
408 East Clark Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 486-9300
Nevada Supreme Court

Nevada Court of Appeals
408 East Clark Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 486-9300
Nevada Court of Appeals

Attorney General's Office

Nevada Attorney General's Office
100 North Carson Street
Carson City, NV 89701
(775) 684-1100
Nevada Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Clark County Sheriff's Office
330 South Casino Center Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 455-5400
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

Washoe County Sheriff's Office
911 Parr Boulevard
Reno, NV 89512
(775) 328-3001
Washoe County Sheriff

Elko County Sheriff's Office
775 West Silver Street
Elko, NV 89801
(775) 738-3421
Elko County Sheriff

Carson City Sheriff's Office
911 East Musser Street
Carson City, NV 89701
(775) 887-2500
Carson City Sheriff

Lyon County Sheriff's Office
911 Harvey Way
Yerington, NV 89447
(775) 463-6600
Lyon County Sheriff

Nye County Sheriff's Office
1520 East Basin Avenue
Pahrump, NV 89060
(775) 751-7000
Nye County Sheriff

Douglas County Sheriff's Office
1038 Buckeye Road
Minden, NV 89423
(775) 782-9935
Douglas County Sheriff

Churchill County Sheriff's Office
73 North Maine Street
Fallon, NV 89406
(775) 423-3116
Churchill County Sheriff

Humboldt County Sheriff's Office
50 West Fifth Street
Winnemucca, NV 89445
(775) 623-6429
Humboldt County Sheriff

White Pine County Sheriff's Office
1785 Great Basin Boulevard
Ely, NV 89301
(775) 289-8808
White Pine County Sheriff

Municipal Police Departments

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
400 South Martin Luther King Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89106
(702) 828-3111
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

Reno Police Department
455 East Second Street
Reno, NV 89502
(775) 334-2121
Reno Police Department

Henderson Police Department
223 Lead Street
Henderson, NV 89015
(702) 267-5000
Henderson Police Department

North Las Vegas Police Department
2332 North Las Vegas Boulevard
North Las Vegas, NV 89030
(702) 633-9111
North Las Vegas Police Department

Sparks Police Department
1701 East Prater Way
Sparks, NV 89434
(775) 353-2231
Sparks Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Nevada

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Las Vegas Field Office
1787 West Lake Mead Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89106
(702) 385-1281
FBI Las Vegas

U.S. Marshals Service - District of Nevada
Lloyd D. George Federal Courthouse
333 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Suite 2058
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 388-6355
U.S. Marshals Service

Federal Bureau of Prisons - Nevada
Contact through the national office:
(202) 307-3198
Federal Bureau of Prisons

U.S. Courts – PACER
Online access to federal court records:
(800) 676-6856
PACER

• City of Carson Crime Maps
• Henderson Municipal Court Records
• Henderson Police Department Crime Reports
• Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Crime Map
• Mineral County Sheriff Community Alerts
• Nevada Supreme Court Records
• North Las Vegas Municipal Court Records
• Pahrump Justice Court Records
• The Supreme Court of Nevada Court Records
• Unlicensed Contractors In Northern Nevada