Arrest records in York County, Virginia are public documents pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA), Code of Virginia § 2.2-3700 et seq. This legislation establishes the public's right to access government records maintained by public bodies, including those related to arrests and criminal proceedings. The York County Sheriff's Office and court system maintain these records as part of their official duties to ensure transparency in law enforcement operations.
Members of the public may access arrest records through various authorized channels established by York County governmental agencies. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act specifically designates criminal records as public information, with certain limited exceptions for ongoing investigations, juvenile records, and cases where disclosure might compromise public safety or individual privacy rights as outlined in § 2.2-3706 of the Code of Virginia.
The York County Sheriff's Office serves as the primary custodian of arrest records within the county jurisdiction. These records document law enforcement activities and provide essential information regarding criminal incidents within the community.
York County Sheriff's Office
P.O. Box 99
301 Goodwin Neck Road
Yorktown, VA 23690
(757) 890-3621
Official Website
York County arrest records are accessible through several online platforms maintained by county and state agencies. The York County General District Court provides digital access to case information through the Virginia Judiciary Online Case Information System. This system allows users to search for criminal cases, including arrest information, by name or case number.
The Virginia Court Case Information system offers a centralized database where arrest records and subsequent court proceedings can be accessed. This system is maintained pursuant to the Virginia Code § 17.1-293, which governs the posting of certain records on court-controlled websites.
Online accessibility is subject to specific limitations established by Virginia Code § 2.2-3706(B), which restricts the release of certain sensitive information. These restrictions may include:
York County Circuit Court
300 Ballard Street
P.O. Box 371
Yorktown, VA 23690
(757) 890-3350
Official Website
Individuals seeking York County arrest records in 2025 may utilize multiple authorized channels established by county agencies. The York County Clerk's Office maintains official court records, including those related to arrests and criminal proceedings. Access methods include:
In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the York County Courthouse during regular business hours (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday) to request arrest record information. Proper identification is required, and standard copying fees apply pursuant to Virginia Code § 17.1-275.
Online Case Information System: The Virginia Judiciary's Online Case Information System provides 24-hour access to case status information, including arrest details. This system is accessible through the Virginia Court System website.
Written Requests: Formal written requests may be submitted to the York County Sheriff's Office Records Division. Requests must include the subject's full name, date of birth, and specific information sought. Processing times typically range from 5-10 business days.
Criminal History Reports: Official criminal history reports, which include arrest information, may be obtained through the Virginia State Police Criminal Records Exchange as authorized by Virginia Code § 19.2-389.
York County General District Court
300 Ballard Street
Yorktown, VA 23690
(757) 890-3450
Official Website
York County arrest records contain standardized information as prescribed by Virginia Code § 19.2-390. These official documents typically include the following elements:
Biographical Information: Full legal name, date of birth, physical description, and address of the arrested individual
Arrest Details: Date, time, and location of the arrest; name and badge number of the arresting officer; and the law enforcement agency involved
Criminal Charges: Specific statutory violations alleged, including Virginia Code references and charge classification (felony or misdemeanor)
Case Processing Information: Booking details, fingerprint records, and photograph (mugshot) taken during processing
Court Information: Case numbers, scheduled court appearances, and preliminary hearing outcomes
Disposition Status: Current status of the case, including bail or bond information, if applicable
Warrant Information: Details of any arrest warrants or summonses issued in connection with the case
The York County Courts maintain these records in accordance with Virginia record retention schedules established by the Library of Virginia under the authority of Virginia Code § 42.1-85.
Under Virginia law, certain individuals may petition for expungement of arrest records in York County. The process is governed by Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2, which establishes specific eligibility criteria and procedures. Expungement may be available in cases where:
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the York County Circuit Court. Petitioners must submit fingerprints to the Central Criminal Records Exchange for verification purposes. The Commonwealth's Attorney has the right to respond to expungement petitions, and a hearing may be scheduled to determine eligibility.
If granted, an expungement order directs all agencies possessing arrest records to remove them from public access and seal them from view. However, certain government agencies may retain limited access to expunged records under specific circumstances outlined in § 19.2-392.3.
Individuals seeking expungement are advised that the process involves legal complexities and may require legal representation. Filing fees and associated costs apply to expungement petitions as established by Virginia Code § 17.1-275.
York-Poquoson Circuit Court Clerk's Office
300 Ballard Street
P.O. Box 371
Yorktown, VA 23690
(757) 890-3350
Official Website