Yes, arrest records are public in Scarborough, Maine. This accessibility is in accordance with the Maine Freedom of Access Act, which mandates the availability of public records to ensure transparency and accountability in government. Arrest records, as part of these public documents, provide information on individuals who have been detained by law enforcement agencies, and they play a crucial role in maintaining public safety and justice.
To get Scarborough arrest records, several methods are available. These records can be accessed online, providing a convenient option for individuals seeking information. The following are the primary ways to search for arrest records in Scarborough:
A Scarborough arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Scarborough, the expungement of arrest records is permitted under specific conditions. Individuals who have been arrested but not convicted, or who have met the criteria set forth by the court, may apply for expungement. The process involves filing a petition with the court that originally handled the case. The court then reviews the petition, considering factors such as the nature of the crime, the petitioner's criminal history, and the time elapsed since the arrest. If approved, the arrest record is sealed, making it inaccessible through public records searches and generally restoring the individual's privacy.