Northampton County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Northampton County

Arrest records in Northampton County are considered public information pursuant to the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law, 65 P.S. § 67.101 et seq. This statute establishes the presumption that government records are public unless specifically exempted by law, court order, or privilege. Members of the public may access arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies, the county sheriff's department, and the criminal court division.

It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. A conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through legal proceedings. Under Pennsylvania law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions apply.

The Criminal History Record Information Act (18 Pa.C.S. § 9101 et seq.) governs the collection, maintenance, dissemination, and use of criminal history record information in Pennsylvania. This law establishes guidelines for how criminal justice agencies handle arrest records and other criminal history information.

Certain arrest records may be subject to limited access or sealing under specific circumstances as provided by Pennsylvania law, particularly for cases resulting in non-conviction or through court-ordered expungement processes.

What's in Northampton County Arrest Records

Northampton County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

• Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
• Date of birth
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Home address
• Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
• Fingerprints
• Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

• Date and time of arrest
• Location of arrest
• Arresting agency
• Arresting officer's name and badge number
• Reason for arrest
• Use of force information (if applicable)

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges filed
• Statute/code violations
• Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor, summary offense)
• Charge description
• Charge severity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

• Warrant number
• Issuing authority
• Date issued
• Type of warrant

Booking Information:

• Booking date and time
• Booking number
• Processing location
• Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount
• Bail conditions
• Bail status (posted, denied, etc.)
• Bail hearing date

Court Information:

• Court case number
• Assigned court
• Scheduled court appearances
• Judge assigned to case

Custody Status:

• Current detention status
• Facility of incarceration (if applicable)
• Release date (if applicable)

Additional Information May Include:

• Prior criminal history
• Probation/parole status
• Protection orders
• Known associates
• Vehicle information

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. These records are maintained by the Northampton County Criminal Court Division and the Northampton County Sheriff's Department.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Northampton County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Northampton County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains systems for both in-person and remote access to these public records.

In-Person Requests:

1. Visit the Northampton County Criminal Records Office located at the county courthouse:

Northampton County Criminal Records Office
669 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
(610) 829-6500
Northampton County Criminal Court Division

2. Complete a public records request form, which requires:

   • Full name of the individual whose records are being requested
   • Date of birth (if known)
   • Approximate date of arrest (if known)
   • Case number (if known)
   • Requestor's contact information

3. Present valid government-issued photo identification.

4. Pay applicable fees for record searches and copies. Fees are established pursuant to Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law § 67.1307.

5. Records may be provided immediately for simple requests or within 5 business days for more complex searches as required by law.

Mail Requests:

1. Download and complete the Criminal Record Request Form from the Northampton County website.

2. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

3. Enclose a check or money order for the appropriate fee made payable to "Northampton County Clerk of Courts."

4. Mail the completed form, payment, and return envelope to:

Northampton County Clerk of Courts
669 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
(610) 829-6500
Northampton County Criminal Court Division

Phone Requests:

Limited information may be available by telephone by contacting the Criminal Records Office at (610) 829-6500. However, written requests are typically required for comprehensive record searches.

The county processes requests in accordance with the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law, which establishes a presumption of openness for government records while protecting certain information from disclosure.

How To Find Northampton County Arrest Records Online

Northampton County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records electronically. These digital platforms offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests.

Northampton County Court Records Portal:

1. Visit the Northampton County Court Records Portal.

2. Create a user account if you don't already have one.

3. Select "Northampton County" from the jurisdiction dropdown menu.

4. Choose the appropriate search type:

   • Criminal Court Case Information
   • Court Calendar
   • Case Participant

5. Enter search criteria such as:

   • Defendant name (last name, first name)
   • Date of birth
   • Case number
   • Date range

6. Review search results, which typically include:

   • Case number
   • Filing date
   • Defendant name
   • Charges
   • Case status
   • Next court date

7. Select a specific case to view detailed information, including arrest data if available.

Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal:

The Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal provides access to court records across the Commonwealth, including Northampton County. This system allows users to search for criminal cases that would include arrest information.

Northampton County Sheriff's Department Inmate Lookup:

The Northampton County Sheriff's Department maintains an online database of current inmates, which includes individuals who have been arrested and are in custody. This resource provides basic arrest information and current custody status.

Pennsylvania Inmate Locator:

For individuals who have been arrested and transferred to state custody, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator provides information about current inmates in the state prison system.

When using online systems, users should be aware that:

• Some records may not be immediately available online
• Certain sensitive information may be redacted
• Older records may not be digitized
• Technical limitations may affect search functionality
• Official copies of records typically require formal requests

Online access to arrest records is governed by the same laws and regulations that apply to physical records, including the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law and the Criminal History Record Information Act.

How To Search Northampton County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public may access Northampton County arrest records without cost through several available resources. These free options provide alternatives to fee-based record searches.

Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse:

The Northampton County Courthouse provides public access computer terminals where individuals may search court records at no charge:

Northampton County Courthouse
669 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
(610) 829-6500
Northampton County Criminal Court Division

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays

Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal:

The Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal offers free access to basic case information, including:

• Docket sheets
• Court calendars
• Case status information
• Defendant information
• Charges filed
• Court dates

This resource is available 24/7 and requires no registration for basic searches.

Northampton County Prison Inmate Lookup:

The Northampton County Jail maintains a free online inmate lookup system that provides information about currently incarcerated individuals, including:

• Inmate name
• Booking date
• Charges
• Custody status
• Next court date

Public Library Resources:

Local public libraries in Northampton County offer free internet access where individuals can utilize the online resources mentioned above. Library staff may also provide assistance with navigating these systems.

Limitations of Free Record Searches:

When utilizing free resources to search for arrest records, users should be aware of certain limitations:

• Records may not be comprehensive
• Historical records may not be available
• Detailed case documents typically require formal requests
• Some information may be redacted
• System maintenance may temporarily affect availability

While basic arrest record information is available at no cost, fees may apply for:

• Certified copies of records
• Extensive record searches
• Copies of supporting documents
• Records requiring special processing

Pursuant to Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law § 67.1307, agencies may charge reasonable fees for duplication of records, but viewing public records at an agency's office must be permitted at no charge.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Northampton County

Under Pennsylvania law, individuals may petition for the expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access) of arrest records under specific circumstances. These processes are governed by 18 Pa.C.S. § 9122 and 18 Pa.C.S. § 9122.1.

Expungement vs. Sealing:

Expungement results in the physical destruction of arrest records, while sealing (also called "limited access") restricts who can view the records. Sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies but are not visible to the general public or in standard background checks.

Eligibility for Expungement:

Arrest records may be eligible for expungement in Northampton County under the following circumstances:

• The arrest did not lead to a conviction
• The case was dismissed or withdrawn
• The individual completed an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program
• The individual was acquitted (found not guilty)
• The individual has reached 70 years of age and has been free from arrest for 10 years
• The individual has been deceased for 3 years
• The conviction was for certain summary offenses and the individual has been free from arrest for 5 years
• The conviction was for certain misdemeanors and the individual has completed all terms of the sentence

Eligibility for Record Sealing:

Under Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law, certain records may be eligible for sealing if:

• The conviction was for a misdemeanor of the second or third degree
• At least 10 years have passed since completion of the sentence
• The individual has no subsequent arrests or prosecutions
• The offense was non-violent and did not involve sexual crimes, firearms, or other specified serious offenses

Expungement Process in Northampton County:

1. File a Petition for Expungement with the Northampton County Clerk of Courts:

Northampton County Clerk of Courts
669 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
(610) 829-6500
Northampton County Criminal Court Division

2. The petition must include:

   • Complete criminal history information
   • Certified copies of dispositions
   • Filing fee (approximately $100-$200)
   • Proper legal format as required by local rules

3. The petition is reviewed by the District Attorney's Office, which may consent to or oppose the expungement.

4. If unopposed, the court may grant the expungement without a hearing. If opposed, a hearing will be scheduled.

5. If granted, the court issues an Expungement Order directing all relevant agencies to expunge the records.

6. The individual must serve copies of the Expungement Order to all agencies that maintain the records.

Automatic Sealing Under Clean Slate:

As of June 2019, Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law provides for automatic sealing of certain records without requiring a petition. Eligible records include:

• Non-conviction records
• Summary offense convictions after 10 years without subsequent convictions
• Certain misdemeanor convictions after 10 years without subsequent convictions

The automatic sealing process is conducted by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts in conjunction with the Pennsylvania State Police.

Legal assistance is strongly recommended for individuals seeking expungement or sealing of arrest records, as the process can be complex and requirements may change based on legislative updates.

What Happens After Arrest in Northampton County?

Following an arrest in Northampton County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Pennsylvania law and local court procedures. This process typically follows these sequential steps:

1. Arrest and Booking:

When law enforcement officers take an individual into custody, they transport the arrestee to a local police station or the Northampton County Jail for processing. During booking, officials:

• Take fingerprints and photographs
• Collect personal information
• Inventory and secure personal property
• Conduct a search
• Check for outstanding warrants
• Record the alleged offense
• Place the individual in a holding cell

2. Preliminary Arraignment:

Within 72 hours of arrest (typically much sooner), the arrestee appears before a Magisterial District Judge for preliminary arraignment, where:

• Charges are formally presented
• Constitutional rights are explained
• Bail is set or denied
• A preliminary hearing date is scheduled
• Public defender may be appointed if the defendant qualifies

3. Preliminary Hearing:

Typically held within 3-10 days of the preliminary arraignment (unless waived), this hearing determines if sufficient evidence exists to proceed with the case. The Magisterial District Judge decides if there is prima facie evidence that:

• A crime was committed
• The defendant likely committed the crime

If sufficient evidence exists, the case is "bound over" to the Court of Common Pleas.

4. Formal Arraignment:

Approximately 30-60 days after the preliminary hearing, defendants appear for formal arraignment at the Northampton County Courthouse, where:

• Official charges are read
• Defendants enter an initial plea
• Pretrial conference dates are set
• Discovery process begins

5. Pretrial Proceedings:

During this phase, several activities occur:

• Exchange of evidence through discovery
• Filing of pretrial motions
• Plea negotiations
• Pretrial conferences
• Case status hearings

6. Trial or Plea:

Most cases are resolved through plea agreements, but if no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Defendants may choose:

• Bench trial (judge decides)
• Jury trial (guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment)

Trials follow established procedures including:

• Jury selection (for jury trials)
• Opening statements
• Presentation of evidence
• Witness testimony
• Closing arguments
• Jury instructions (for jury trials)
• Deliberation and verdict

7. Sentencing:

If convicted, sentencing typically occurs 60-90 days after the verdict, allowing time for:

• Pre-sentence investigation
• Victim impact statements
• Sentencing guidelines review

Sentences may include:

• Incarceration in Northampton County Jail or state prison
• Probation
• Fines and costs
• Restitution
• Community service
• Treatment programs

8. Post-Conviction:

Following conviction and sentencing, defendants have several options:

• File post-sentence motions
• Appeal to Superior Court (within 30 days)
• Seek post-conviction relief
• Apply for parole when eligible

Throughout this process, cases may be diverted to specialized programs such as:

• Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)
• Drug Treatment Court
• Veterans Court
• Mental Health Court

These programs offer alternatives to traditional prosecution for eligible defendants.

The criminal justice process in Northampton County operates under the supervision of the Northampton County Criminal Court Division and follows procedures established by the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Northampton County?

Arrest records in Northampton County are maintained according to retention schedules established by Pennsylvania law, specifically the County Records Act (16 P.S. § 13001-13006) and the Criminal History Record Information Act (18 Pa.C.S. § 9101 et seq.). These statutes govern how long different agencies must preserve criminal justice records.

Standard Retention Periods:

Different types of arrest records are subject to varying retention requirements:

• Arrest Reports and Booking Information: Maintained permanently by the arresting agency and the Northampton County Sheriff's Department.

• Criminal Complaint Documents: Retained for 7 years after final disposition of the case by the Magisterial District Courts.

• Court Case Files: Maintained permanently by the Northampton County Criminal Court Division for felony cases and for 7 years after final disposition for misdemeanor cases.

• Summary Offense Records: Retained for 3 years after final disposition.

• Fingerprint Records: Maintained permanently by the Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository.

• Photographs/Mugshots: Retained permanently unless expunged by court order.

• DNA Samples: Maintained permanently in the state DNA database for qualifying offenses.

Agency-Specific Retention Requirements:

Different agencies maintain arrest records for varying periods:

• Law Enforcement Agencies: Local police departments typically retain arrest records for 7 years to permanently, depending on the severity of the offense and departmental policies.

• Northampton County Jail: Inmate records are maintained for at least 7 years after release from custody, with certain information retained permanently.

• Northampton County Clerk of Courts: Felony case files are maintained permanently; misdemeanor case files for 7 years after case closure.

• Pennsylvania State Police: Criminal history information is maintained permanently in the central repository unless expunged by court order.

• Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts: Electronic court records are maintained according to the Unified Judicial System's records retention schedule, with most criminal case information preserved permanently in digital format.

Factors Affecting Retention:

Several factors may influence how long arrest records are maintained:

• Severity of the offense (felonies are kept longer than misdemeanors)
• Case disposition (convictions are typically kept longer than non-convictions)
• Court orders for expungement or sealing
• Special statutory provisions for juvenile records
• Administrative policies of individual agencies

Records retention serves several important purposes in the criminal justice system:

• Preserves evidence for potential appeals or post-conviction proceedings
• Maintains historical documentation for statistical and research purposes
• Ensures accountability of the criminal justice system
• Provides information for future criminal investigations
• Supports public safety through access to criminal history information

The retention of arrest records balances the public's right to information with individuals' interests in moving beyond past encounters with the criminal justice system. Pennsylvania law provides mechanisms for expungement or sealing of records in appropriate circumstances, as discussed in previous sections.

How to Find Mugshots in Northampton County

What Mugshots Are:

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images typically include:

• Front-facing (frontal) view of the arrestee
• Side profile (lateral) view of the arrestee
• Identifying information board showing name and booking number
• Date of arrest

These photographs serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained:

In Northampton County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

1. Arresting Law Enforcement Agencies: Local police departments that make arrests maintain booking photographs as part of their arrest records.

2. Northampton County Sheriff's Department: As the agency responsible for operating the county jail, the Northampton County Sheriff's Department maintains mugshots of individuals processed through their booking system.

3. Northampton County Jail: The Northampton County Jail maintains photographs of all inmates as part of their incarceration records.

4. Pennsylvania State Police: Copies of mugshots may be forwarded to the state's central repository of criminal history information.

Finding Mugshots:

Members of the public seeking access to mugshots in Northampton County have several options:

1. Submit a Right-to-Know Request: File a formal public records request with the appropriate agency:

Northampton County Sheriff's Department
669 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
(610) 829-6500
Northampton County Sheriff's Department

2. Visit the Records Division: Request mugshots in person at the records division of the arresting police department or sheriff's office.

3. Check Court Records: In some cases, mugshots may be included in court case files accessible through the Northampton County Criminal Court Division.

Can Mugshots Be Found Online:

Unlike some jurisdictions, Northampton County government agencies do not maintain a public-facing online database of mugshots. However, mugshots may appear online through:

1. Media Websites: Local news organizations may publish mugshots related to newsworthy arrests.

2. Third-Party Websites: Commercial websites that aggregate and publish mugshots from various sources may include Northampton County arrests.

3. Pennsylvania Inmate Locator: The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator provides information about state inmates but typically does not include photographs.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially:

To officially obtain a mugshot from Northampton County authorities:

1. Complete a public records request form specifying:

   • Full name of the individual
   • Date of birth (if known)
   • Date of arrest (if known)
   • Case number (if known)
   • Specific request for booking photograph

2. Submit the request to the appropriate agency along with any required fees.

3. Provide identification and complete any required forms attesting to the purpose of the request.

Restrictions on Mugshot Access:

Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:

1. Expunged Records: If a case has been expunged by court order, the mugshot should no longer be accessible.

2. Sealed Records: Records that have been sealed under Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law or by court order have limited accessibility.

3. Juvenile Records: Photographs of juvenile arrestees are generally not public records.

4. Active Investigations: Mugshots related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld.

5. Privacy Considerations: Agencies may redact or withhold mugshots if release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy under specific circumstances outlined in the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law.

When seeking mugshots, requestors should be aware that these images are created for law enforcement purposes, and their publication or use may have significant impacts on the individuals depicted, particularly in cases that did not result in conviction.

Lookup Arrest Records in Northampton County

Northampton County Criminal Court Division

Northampton County Sheriff's Department

Northampton County Jail

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