Yes, arrest records are public in Virginia Beach, Virginia. This accessibility is mandated by the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, which ensures that the public has the right to access records held by local and state agencies. The act stipulates that transparency in governmental operations is essential for promoting an informed citizenry, thereby making arrest records available to the public.
To get Virginia Beach arrest records, several methods are available, especially with advancements in digital accessibility. Here are the primary ways to search for these records:
A Virginia Beach arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Virginia Beach, individuals may have their arrest records expunged under specific circumstances. Expungement is possible if the person was acquitted, if the charges were dismissed, or if there was a finding of "nolle prosequi," meaning the prosecutor has decided not to pursue the case. The process involves filing a petition for expungement with the court where the arrest occurred. The court then evaluates the petition and, if deemed appropriate, orders the expungement of the arrest record, effectively sealing it from public view. This process ensures that under certain conditions, individuals can remove their arrest records, thus protecting their privacy and facilitating better opportunities for employment and other civil rights.