Arapahoe County criminal records contain official documentation of arrests, warrants, charges, convictions, and sentences dating back to 1978. These records are maintained by three primary agencies: the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, the County Police Department, and the Arapahoe County Criminal Courts. Residents, employers, legal professionals, and researchers can access these records through multiple channels including online portals, in-person visits, fax requests, and certified mail. Each request must include the subject’s full legal name, date of birth, and a signed release form to comply with Colorado state privacy laws. The county updates its database daily, ensuring current information on active cases, recent bookings, and closed dispositions.
How to Request Arapahoe County Criminal Records
Individuals seeking Arapahoe County criminal records have three main options: online via the Colorado State Judicial Branch portal, by fax to (303) 777-1212, or in person at the clerk’s office located at 7325 S. Potomac Street in Centennial. Online requests are processed fastest, typically within 24–48 hours. Faxed and mailed requests may take up to five business days. All requests must include the subject’s full legal name, date of birth, and a notarized signature authorizing disclosure. Minors’ records require additional documentation, such as parental consent or court order. Certified copies cost $12 per document and include an official seal for use in legal proceedings.
Required Information for Record Requests
- Full legal name of the subject (including middle name or initial)
- Date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY format)
- Last known address in Arapahoe County
- Case number (if known)
- Signed and dated release form
- Valid government-issued photo ID of requester
Online Access to Arapahoe County Criminal Records
The Colorado Judicial Branch provides a free online portal for searching Arapahoe County criminal records. Users can search by name, case number, or attorney identifier. Results show docket entries, hearing dates, charge descriptions, and final dispositions. The system allows filtering by date range, court division, and case status (pending, closed, appealed). PDF copies of filed motions, sentencing documents, and arrest reports are available for download. For bulk searches or commercial use, users must register for a premium account with usage tracking and audit logs.
Steps to Search Records Online
- Visit the Colorado Courts Docket Search page
- Select “Arapahoe County” from the dropdown menu
- Choose “Criminal” under Court Type
- Enter the defendant’s last name and first name
- Click “Search” and review results
- Click on a case number to view full docket
- Download PDFs or export data to CSV
In-Person and Phone Assistance
For those who prefer face-to-face help, the Arapahoe County Administration Building at 5334 S. Prince Street in Littleton offers walk-in services Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff assist with record searches, form completion, and document certification. The public help desk also provides access to public Wi-Fi, printing stations, and reference materials. Call (303) 795-4400 during business hours for phone support. Urgent inquiries about inmate status or court dates can be directed to the 24-hour hotline at (720) 874-3875.
Types of Records Available
Arapahoe County criminal records cover a wide range of legal events. Arrest records include booking photos, charges filed, bond amounts, and release dates. Warrant listings show active bench warrants, fugitive alerts, and extradition requests. Conviction records detail sentencing outcomes, probation terms, and restitution orders. Expungement and sealing records are also accessible, though restricted to eligible individuals or authorized attorneys. Juvenile records are confidential and require a court order for release.
Common Record Categories
| Record Type | Availability | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest Reports | Public (last 90 days) | Free |
| Conviction Records | Public (since 1978) | $12 |
| Warrant Listings | Public (active only) | Free |
| Expungement Orders | Restricted | $15 |
| Body Camera Footage | By request only | $10 |
Fees and Payment Methods
Most basic criminal record searches are free through the online portal. Certified copies cost $12 per document, payable by cash, check, money order, or credit card (in person only). The Open Records Portal charges a $10 processing fee for incident reports, crash reports, and video footage. Payment must accompany the request. Refunds are not issued for fulfilled requests. Low-income individuals may apply for fee waivers with proof of public assistance or income below 150% of the federal poverty level.
Record Accuracy and Disputes
While Arapahoe County strives for accuracy, errors can occur due to data entry mistakes or delayed court updates. If you find incorrect information—such as a misspelled name, wrong charge, or outdated status—you may file a correction request. Submit a written explanation with supporting documents (e.g., court dismissal order, pardon certificate) to the Records Unit at 13101 E. Broncos Parkway, Centennial, CO 80112. The office reviews disputes within 10 business days and notifies you of any changes.
Privacy and Legal Restrictions
Colorado law limits access to certain criminal records. Sealed or expunged records cannot be viewed by the public. Juvenile records are protected under state statute and require a court order. Employers conducting background checks must follow Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines and obtain written consent. Landlords and licensing boards may access conviction histories but cannot discriminate based on arrest-only records. Violations of these rules may result in civil penalties.
Third-Party vs. Official Sources
Many websites claim to offer free Arapahoe County criminal records, but most are third-party aggregators that charge fees or sell personal data. Only the official Colorado Judicial Branch portal and Arapahoe County government sites provide verified, up-to-date records. Third-party sites often display outdated mugshots, incomplete case details, or misleading summaries. For legal, employment, or housing purposes, always use certified records from official sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I search for someone else’s criminal record? Yes, if you have their full name, date of birth, and a signed release. Some records are public by law. How long does it take to get a record? Online searches are instant; certified copies take 1–5 business days. Are juvenile records available? No, unless you have a court order. Can I remove my record? Possibly, through expungement—contact the court clerk for eligibility. Is there a fee to view records online? No, basic searches are free.
Contact Information
For questions about Arapahoe County criminal records, call (303) 720-1234 or email records@arapahoegov.com. Visit the Records Unit at 13101 E. Broncos Parkway, Centennial, CO 80112, weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Clerk and Recorder’s Office is located at 1790 West Littleton Blvd, Littleton, CO 80120, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Court records are housed at 7325 S. Potomac Street, Centennial, CO 80112, with help desk hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Additional Resources
The Arapahoe County website offers more than 150 public record categories beyond criminal files. These include property deeds since 1902, marriage licenses from 1972, voter registration logs, building permits, and board meeting minutes dating back to 1994. All are searchable online or available for in-person review. The Open Records Portal also provides motor vehicle crash reports, body camera footage (with redactions), and disciplinary logs from the detention facility.
Tips for Employers and Landlords
When screening applicants, always verify criminal records through official channels. Never rely solely on third-party reports. Inform candidates in writing if adverse action is taken based on a record. Allow them 10 days to dispute inaccuracies. Follow EEOC guidelines to avoid discrimination claims. For housing, check local ordinances—some cities in Arapahoe County restrict rental denials based on non-violent offenses older than seven years.
Recent Updates (2024–2025)
In 2024, Arapahoe County launched a new digital case management system that syncs real-time updates from police, courts, and jails. This means arrest records appear within hours, not days. The system also added Spanish-language support and mobile-friendly forms. Starting January 2025, all certified record requests must include a transaction ID for tracking. Paper forms are being phased out in favor of online submissions.
Understanding Record Terminology
Knowing key terms helps when reviewing Arapahoe County criminal records. “Arrest” means taken into custody. “Charge” indicates formal accusation. “Conviction” means found guilty. “Dismissed” means charges dropped. “Sealed” means hidden from public view. “Expunged” means legally erased. “Probation” is supervised release. “Parole” is early prison release. Always read dispositions carefully—an arrest doesn’t mean guilt.
Appealing or Correcting Records
If your record contains errors, start by contacting the agency that created it—Sheriff’s Office for arrests, Courts for convictions. Provide proof like a dismissal letter or pardon. If unresolved, file a formal appeal with the Arapahoe County Clerk. For statewide issues, contact the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. Keep copies of all correspondence. Most corrections are made within 30 days.
Mobile Access and Apps
While Arapahoe County doesn’t have a dedicated app, the Colorado Courts mobile site works well on phones and tablets. Users can search dockets, view PDFs, and save results offline. The Sheriff’s Office offers a text alert system for inmate status changes—text “INMATE” to (720) 874-3875 with the booking number. Bookmark official sites to avoid fake portals.
Historical Records and Archives
Records before 1978 are stored offsite and require special retrieval. Contact the Colorado State Archives for pre-1978 Arapahoe County criminal files. Some older documents have been digitized and are available through the county’s historical portal. Allow 2–3 weeks for archive requests. Microfilm copies may be viewed at the Littleton Public Library’s genealogy section.
Legal Aid and Support Services
Low-income residents can get free help with record requests through the Arapahoe County Legal Aid Society. They assist with expungement applications, correction forms, and court filings. Call (303) 322-3343 for appointments. The Colorado Legal Services hotline at (855) 855-1337 offers multilingual support. Self-help centers are available at both the Littleton and Centennial courthouses.
Final Notes
Arapahoe County criminal records are a vital tool for safety, employment, and legal clarity. Always use official sources for accuracy. Keep personal records updated and dispute errors promptly. Remember that an arrest is not a conviction—context matters. Stay informed about policy changes through the county’s news alerts and public notices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if someone has a warrant in Arapahoe County? Use the free online docket search or call the Sheriff’s Office hotline. Can I get a record sealed? Yes, if eligible—common for first-time misdemeanors after completion of probation. How much does a background check cost? Basic searches are free; certified reports cost $12. Are mugshots public? Yes, for arrests in the last 90 days. Can I visit the jail to see an inmate? Yes, with approved visitation—check the Sheriff’s website for schedules and rules.
Contact Details
Official Website: https://www.arapahoegov.com/191/Public-Records
Phone: (303) 720-1234
Email: records@arapahoegov.com
Address: 1790 West Littleton Blvd, Littleton, CO 80120
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.